Spring break is just around the corner, which means family trips, road adventures, and flights to fun destinations! While traveling with kids can be an exciting experience, it also comes with the challenge of keeping them entertained during long car rides or flights. Instead of hearing the dreaded "Are we there yet?" every five minutes, try these fun and easy activities to keep your little ones engaged and happy on the go.
1. DIY Travel Activity Kits
Create a personalized travel kit filled with small toys, coloring books, stickers, and other mess-free activities. Ziplock bags or small containers work great for keeping everything organized, and you can tailor each kit to your child's age and interests.
2. Printable Road Trip Games & Travel Bingo
Classic games like I Spy, License Plate Bingo, and Would You Rather? are perfect for keeping kids entertained while engaging their minds. Print out travel-themed bingo cards, and give small prizes for each completed card to make it even more exciting!
3. Audiobooks & Kid-Friendly Podcasts
Sometimes, all kids need is a great story to capture their imagination. Download age-appropriate audiobooks or kids’ podcasts to keep them entertained without needing a screen. Bonus: This allows parents to relax and enjoy the ride too!
4. Sticker Books & Reusable Activity Pads
Sticker books and reusable activity pads (like the Melissa & Doug Water Wow! books) are great for keeping little hands busy with minimal mess. They're lightweight and perfect for road trips and flights.
5. Surprise Treat Bags
Pack a few small surprise bags with toys, snacks, or little trinkets and give them out periodically during the trip. This keeps kids excited and gives them something to look forward to along the way.
6. Window Clings & Gel Stickers
For car or airplane windows, bring along removable window clings or gel stickers. Kids will have fun decorating their space while staying engaged in creative play.
7. Magnetic Games & Puzzles
Magnetic puzzles, tic-tac-toe, and travel-size magnetic board games are great options for keeping kids entertained without worrying about losing small pieces.
8. Play “20 Questions” or Storytelling Games
Encourage creativity with storytelling games like “Once Upon a Time”, where each person takes turns adding a sentence to a made-up story. 20 Questions is also a great way to pass the time and spark curiosity.
9. Travel-Friendly Arts & Crafts
Pack some colored pencils, a sketchpad, and mess-free crafts like pipe cleaners, origami paper, or a small Play-Doh container. Kids love creating, and this keeps their hands occupied without making a mess.
10. Screen Time with a Twist
While screen time is sometimes unavoidable, you can make it more interactive by downloading fun travel-related apps, educational games, or interactive storybooks that encourage learning while on the go.
With these easy and engaging activities, your kids will stay entertained, and you’ll have a smoother, more enjoyable trip this spring break. Happy travels!