Travelling with a toddler can be a challenge, especially on long journeys or flights. The last thing you want is a bored and restless child. To help you out, we have compiled a list of 10 fun and engaging activities to keep your little one entertained during those car or plane rides.
Please note we only reccomend items that we would or have used ourselves, all opions expressed on this blog are our own. This post does however contain affilate links, which means we can earn a small commision on our reccomendation(s) at no extra cost to yourself.
1. Snacks, Snacks and More Snacks!
We all know that a hungry toddler is not a happy one, and on journeys (especially planes) - you can't always control when you are going to eat. Make sure to pack a variety of snacks that your toddler loves. Snacking not only keeps them occupied but can also help with the ear pressure during takeoff and landing.
Our bestselling travel snack boxes are a perfect way to take snacks on the go. Simply fill the compartments with favourite snacks for a stress free journey.
2. Play Interactive Games
Engage your toddler in interactive games like "I Spy" "20 Questions." These games not only keep them entertained but also help develop their cognitive skills.
Bonus tip - if your toddler doesn't understand letters/ sounds fully yet for I spy, change it to I spy something a certain colour to make the game more managable.
3. Colouring
Colouring books are a great and simple way to keep your toddler occupied. Pack one of their favorite colouring books and a set of crayons. Let their imagination run wild as they create thier own colourful masterpieces.
Our favourite for colouring on the go are these Crayola Twistables. Pens can stain, pencils need sharpening and crayons break easily but these colour in vibrantly while also being super practical - and no breakages. This set is our favourite as the thinner packet is perfect for the travel bag.
4. Listen to Audiobooks or Music
Download some toddler-friendly audiobooks or songs on your phone or tablet. Listening to stories or their favorite tunes will keep them entertained and relaxed during the journey. Don't forget some headphones!
5. Use Sticker Books
Sticker books are a fantastic way to keep your toddler engaged. They can stick and re-stick the stickers, creating different scenes and stories. It's a mess-free and creative activity!
We especially love this Galt Sticker book for travelling. The stickers are reusable so they can be used again and again across the 7 scenes. I know my girls would get a kick out of thier pictures matching the screen with the travel information map too.
6. Pack a Surprise Bag
Before the trip, prepare a special bag filled with small toys, books, and items that your toddler has never seen before. The element of surprise will keep them more engaged throughout the journey.
Don't know what to put in a travel bag? We have one in our store already put together - perfect if you want us to do the hard work for you. You can choose colour, age range and personalise the bag <3
7. Screen Time
If ever there is time to allow screen time, it's on a long journey. Add your childs favourite movie to a phone / tablet or download some educational apps if you want your child to get something out of thier screen time. Some of our favourites are:
- Lego Duplo World
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar
- Crayola Create and Play
- Starfall ABCs
- My Town
- ABC Kids
8. Printables
There are so many online printables available for toddlers, we especially love any that are travel themed. From Bingo Cards, to colour in sheets, letter tracing, to spot the difference there are thousands of printables to choose from. These are a great alternative to carrying chunky books as you can just print what you need.
One thing we love is a printable travel interview, just ask your toddler the questions and fill it in to both keep them entertained thinking of the answers and to have a record of thier favourite parts of the trip. This one would be perfect to reflect on the trip on the travel home, their answers can be so funny and cute when they are young.
9. Take a Busy Board
Busy boards are an amazing tool for learning and development and these felt ones are lightweight and perfect for travelling.
This one has lots of pages with different activities and themes - sure to keep little ones entertained.
10. Sleep!
If all else fails - sleep!! Travelling is tiring and an overtired, overstimulated toddler is prime meltdown material. While sleeping isn't really an "activity" it is essential for little ones on longer journeys. Toddlers can have trouble getting to sleep when there is so much going on, so taking a few extra items can help to ground them and make them feel more at home. A special toy, travel pillow or a blanket can help them drift off. Blankets can also come in handy for blocking out the area and creating a little "tent" to stop your little one getting too stimulated.
With these 10 ideas in your arsenal, you're ready to conquer any long journey with your toddler. Remember to be patient and flexible, and most importantly, enjoy the journey together!