Getting a toddler to acquiesce to a family vacation without a fuss can be a minor miracle in some families. A sobbing, red-faced tot in tow does not exactly spell out r-e-l-a-x-a-t-i-o-n. Even if their favorite “loveys” or “plushies” are all packed and ready to go, it may be wise to bring one or two extra playthings, just in case. Think: something that will provide fun for them, and won’t be a nightmare for you.
Qualities to Look for in Travel-Friendly Toys
We’ve all made the mistake of grabbing a game we think the kiddo loves – or, let’s face it, without really looking – not realizing it has way too many pieces, is too complicated for the road, or can’t comfortably be set up anywhere but home.
Which brings us to an overlooked but important component of trip planning: selecting the most appropriate toys for your kids that they will still enjoy. There’s a lot to sort through online and in stores, and you have enough on your travel-addled mind. Let us help you by suggesting some tried-and-true ideas that can bring peace of mind as well as entertainment to the whole family.
Something Soft for Bedtime
We discussed the allure of plushies above. Do not overlook these small but essential creatures for your littlest ones! A soft, comforting little friend is a must-have for a trip to the grocery store, let alone somewhere far from home.
Suggestion: Our Bundle Baby Doll Cookie (age 0+), a soft cuddly cotton doll, makes the perfect travel companion. Maybe her friends Sweet Pea and Bean would like to join the fun, too. They all come with a knit cap, diaper and swaddle blanket. Doll lovers will also like this soft, cotton doll carrier that gives children a way to take care of their little companion. Bottle and pillow included.
Something Transportable
Instead of a box full of toys that can be lost, bring something that is meant to be transported. Especially if it can easily be packed up with the pieces safely inside and a handle on top for carrying.
Suggestion: Some homes were designed for the road. Believe it or not, our Home Sweet Home Dollhouse (age 3+) is one such item. This little carry-along home comes with a whole bunch of miniature living spaces inside and a family of four to boot.
Something Outdoorsy
Some toys were designed for the open road. If you are planning a camping trip, or are simply planning to spend time in the great outdoors, bring something road trip-themed so your little one can get into the vacation-planning mood along with you!
Suggestion: The Wonder & Wise Mini Road Trip Camper (age 3+) pretty much says it all. You don’t need to be in an actual camper for your child to indulge in the fantasy. It can be assembled on a patch of lawn pretty much anywhere, giving kids a play space all their own.
Something Educational
Something educational will appeal to the kids and the parents alike. After all, family vacations are a great opportunity to bond with your child. Why not help give them a little boost in learning in the process? They’ll be having so much fun, they won’t know that they’re also developing their mind.
Suggestion: Wonder & Wise has countless fun and engaging learning toys that appeal to babies, toddlers and small children. We have a Path to Math for your 2-year-old, as well as a spelling play set that comes in a box with cool compartments built into it. However, what works best for your specific travel circumstances and tastes is entirely up to you.
Find More Travel-Friendly Toys at Wonder & Wise Online
Don’t wait until the last minute to find a plaything for the road. Peruse our countless toy options at Wonder & Wise online so you have time to select something that best meets your family’s vacation needs.
As always, contact us with any questions and we will do our best to answer them. Bon voyage!