Low-Tech & High-Tech Travel Gear for Toddlers

We all want little ones to see, feel and participate in travel experiences, but there are times when purchases help keep them happily distracted. The following items meet some of the challenges of keeping tykes occupied while waiting in lounges or during a long flight or car trip. Sometimes, one of more of these objects are useful during dinners that drag on beyond their attention span.

Headphones

Even tots can wear these animal-faced, super-thin, soft headband earphones with tangle-free braided cords, made by veterans at CozyPhones.

Ride-On Luggage

Pack toys, clothes and snacks in the suitcase, let your child climb up, then fasten the safety belt. Kids love the ride and parents have one less item to push. Ride-on luggage —for sale at a variety of price points — is a win-win for parents and for kids.

Headphones for Two

Headphone adaptors let siblings or pals watch the same show together. Sure, you may have to flip a coin to see which item to watch, first, but, then, they may enjoy some togetherness.

Sharing headphones. Photo: Petro | Dreamstime.com

Organizers

Back seat organizers fit automobile seats and car-seat backs. The installation is worthwhile because they store tablets and iPads, wipes, bottles and snacks, conveniently.

Cameras for Kids

Multiple point-and-shoot cameras are easy to use and durable enough for toddlers. Some include an MP3 player, others are waterproof. I avoid those that pander to pink and blue stereotypes (yes, manufacturers are still doing that almost 20 years into the 21^st century) and prefer the unisex, blue/green model by Discovery Kids.

Activity Kits

A plethora of activity kits — some with bags or trays — lure toddlers to match colors, color and count. Choose practical activities and avoid traveling with multiple minuscule pieces.

Tablets

Choose the Little Scholar Learning Tablet, a different LeapFrog or another brand tablet device. They each come preloaded with games, videos, books and songs.

Storage Bags

Plastic storage bags are indispensable for travel. Though as low-tech as can be, they are perfect for storing toys, activity parts, snacks, wipes, a change of underwear or bathing suitor a “blankie or binky (pacifier).” I used them on sailing trips with my kids and, some years later, as the Ziploc National Spokesperson, I promoted their use for children’s scouts’ to sports’ items.