Are you a parent who frequently travels with your kids? Another big holiday coming up? Or, simply a long journey to visit relatives. If so, you know that travel can be both fun and challenging. It's often difficult to keep kids entertained on long trips. But don't worry, we've got you covered. Here are 13 essential tips to beat travel boredom. With these tips, you'll be able to keep your little ones occupied and happy all trip long!
1. Fidget Toys
Fidget toys are a great way to keep kids occupied. Help relieve boredom and avoid restlessness. They help keep your hands busy, so you don't have to worry about fidgeting too much.
Did you know are the perfect way to relieve stress and anxiety on journeys? For travellers who are worried or nervous about flying, they can provide a welcome distraction. By engaging their minds in other activities, they can take their focus off of their anxiety and enjoy their flight.
Fidget toys come in many fun, colourful and unique forms. Plus, they're fun to play with! There's sure to be one that your child will love.
Tip: Choose less noisy options if you want to avoid those dagger-like stares from fellow travellers.
Shop our fidget toys range now
2. Snacks
No matter how long the trip is, snacks are always a good idea. They'll help keep your child's energy up and will give them something to do if they start to get bored. Remember to pick small, easy-to-open and mess-free options to avoid unwanted spills and cleanups.
Tip: Include a variety of options, especially as a way to break up long journeys into numerous snack stages. A range of choices can also help avoid picky moods.
3. Colouring and activity books
Colouring and activity books are great for kids of all ages. They'll help your child pass the time while also stimulating their creativity. Plus, they're easy to pack and don't take up too much space.
There's always a need for entertainment and creativity. That’s why we recommend keeping some colouring books in your bag or coat pocket so that you're never bored while waiting around!
They'll help keep little ones entertained with simple tasks like drawing shapes and capturing images onto paper. It won't hurt their developing minds either because studies show Colouring Games improve concentration skills too.
4. Fact or Puzzle books
Fact cards or puzzle books are great options for kids. They're perfect for kids who like to learn and are also great at sparking conversation. These types of books can be a fun way to bond with your child while on the road.
5. Pack of pencils and notepads
You can always rely on a pencil and paper for simple entertainment. A quick doodle to pass the time, a game of Tic-Tac-Toe or Hangman. The simplest option can often be one of the best.
For kids who like to be creative, a pack of
colouring pencils and some notepads are essential. They can spend hours drawing and writing while on the road. A
pencil sharpener is always a sensible accompaniment to sidestep broken or worn down specimens.
Tip: Avoid pens to eliminate the chances of nasty leaks.
Notepads are also a great option for older kids who may want to keep a journal of their trip. More on that later.
6. Simple Craft Sets
If you're looking for something a little more hands-on, simple
kids craft sets are perfect. They'll keep your child busy and help them express their creativity. Just be sure to pick ones that don't need extra supplies, like scissors and glue. Ones that come with stickers to decorate are generally fuss-free. Avoid glitter options.
7 Temporary Tattoos
Kids love
temporary tattoos. They're fun, they're easy to apply and they usually don't make too much of a mess. They'll keep your child occupied for hours and they'll have a lot of fun showing off their new designs to everyone when the trip is over.
8 Audio Books
If you're looking for a way to keep the whole family entertained, audiobooks are perfect. They're great for long car rides and can be enjoyed by everyone. Plus, they'll help your child improve their listening skills. They also don't take up any precious space in your bag. A good story might even lull them into a nap. Ahh, peace at last!
9. Travel Bingo Sheets
For a fun way to pass the time, print out some travel bingo sheets before your trip. They're easy to find online and can be customized to fit any destination. Kids will love trying to spot all the different items on their sheet while you're en route. A little competitive challenge can do a good job of distracting them.
10. A Handy reusable bag to stash everything in
To keep all of these boredom-busting items organized, be sure to pack them in a
handy reusable bag. That way, you can easily grab whatever you need while you're on the go. Plus, it'll help cut down on the amount of waste you create while travelling. Something that's light and folds up small when not needed is an ideal choice. Why not try one of our cute little animal shopping bags.
11. Travel Games
Travel games are another great way to beat travel boredom. There are all sorts of games that can be played in the car or on the plane. And, best of all, they'll help your kids stay engaged and focused during the trip. Try classic games like I Spy or 20 Questions, or opt for travel-themed games like Airport Mania or The License Plate Game.
If you're looking for a screen-free option, try magnetic travel games. They're great for car rides and won't take up too much space in your luggage. Plus, they'll help your child work on their fine motor skills. Games like Tic Tac Toe, Checkers and Hangman are all easy to find and come in a variety of themes.
Card games are always a smart option when travelling with kids. They're easy to pack and can be played in a variety of settings, from the car to the airport terminal. Plus, they'll help your child work on their counting and matching skills. Uno, Go Fish and Old Maid are all great choices. Or, how about a classic 52 playing card set? You could teach them some classic card games. How about Poker? Just be sure to pack snacks, too. All that gaming can make anyone hungry!
12. Travel Journal
A travel journal is another great way to beat travel boredom. It's the perfect way for kids to document their trips and record all their memories. Plus, it'll give them something to look back on in the years to come. Be sure to pack plenty of pencils so they can let their creativity shine.
Encourage them to keep a bullet journal. Doodle, sketch, or scribble their surroundings and experiences. Give them some fun prompts like drawing what they want to do most when they get to the destination. Illustrate their current feelings whether it be boredom, excitement, tiredness, frustration, hunger, aaargh or even meh.
13. A Good Book
There's nothing like a good book to beat travel boredom. It'll help your child escape into another world and forget all about the long car ride or plane trip. it's a great way to encourage them to use their imagination. Sometimes the best way to beat travel boredom is simply to curl up with a good book.
If your child is a reluctant reader, try packing a few graphic novels or easy readers. They'll be more likely to give them a try if they look fun and exciting. And, who knows, they might just get hooked! I recommend the Dog Man series or Diary of a Wimpy Kid. For early readers, try books like Dr Seuss or Biscuit. If you're not sure what to pack, try a classic like The Wonderful Wizard of Oz or Charlotte's Web.
If space is a premium, especially when packing for multiple children, ebooks are a great option.
No matter the choice, the goal is to keep your kids entertained and engaged. Just be sure to pack an extra book in case they finish it before the trip. With a little preparation, you can make even the longest trip Fly by!
Bon Voyage!
And there you have it! 13 essential items that will help you beat travel boredom with your kids. So, the next time you're planning a trip, be sure to pack these along. They'll make the journey more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Do you have any tips for beating travel boredom? Share them in the comments below!
Happy travels!
