Let’s be honest traveling with toddlers can feel like a cross between a military operation and a reality show challenge — especially if you’re going screen-free. But as a longtime nanny who’s logged many miles by car, train, and plane with tiny travelers, I can assure you it can be done and it can even be fun.
Here are my tried-and-true travel tips, sanity-saving toys, and activities that keep toddlers engaged, soothed, and screen-free on the go.
Pack Like a Pro
Use packing cubes and Ziploc bags for organizing toys, clothes, snacks, clean and dirty diapers, and toiletries. When it comes to toys and fun projects think quiet, compact, engaging, and easy to reset. Here is what is in my no-screens, no-screams travel bag:
Toddler-Approved Travel Toys
1. Melissa & Doug Water Wow! Reusable Water Coloring Books
I love these mess-free, reusable books that weigh nothing. They are great for using on a plane or train tray table. Just add a little water to the “paint brush” and screw on the lid. The water makes the pictures come alive with color.
There are many choices of these simple, sensory toys perfect for little hands. No noise, no mess, and they are light weight, compact, and weirdly addictive.
3. Take-Along Magnetic Play Sets (for ages 3 and up)
Magnetic means fewer lost pieces! These magnetic play sets are ideal for flights or long train rides.
A screen — but not that kind. These don’t emit blue light or use apps. There is no internet access on these cool tablets. Kids of any age can doodle endlessly on these writing tablets without making mess.
Busy boards and busy board books are great for fine motor skills and keeping busy fingers occupied. They are perfect for traveling since they are quiet and endlessly fascinating.
6. Sticker Books with Reusable Vinyl Stickers
Reusable sticker books are great for creative play that doesn’t involve crayons on rental car seats. Choose themes like animals, trucks, or farm life.
7. Crayola Mess Free Travel Kit
I absolutely love Mess Free Crayola products. The no-mess ink only appears on the special Color Wonder Paper. The markers will never get on skin, clothing, or seats of cars, trains, or planes.
8. Small Books
Pack the kids’ favorite small or lightweight books to bring on every trip. Consider these suggestions for children when traveling as well: “My Suitcase” by Margie and Jimbo, “Busy Busy Airport” by Richard Scarry, “I Spy Vehicles,” “Terrific Train,” “Cars and Trucks,” and “Going on a Road Trip.”
My Pro Tips: How to Rotate and Reveal
1. Wrap a Few Toys Like Presents: Yes, really. Toddlers love unwrapping and it adds suspense and excitement to getting a new toy while traveling.
2. Divide and Conquer: Pack a few toys per travel leg (car, airport, plane) and don’t reveal them all at once.
3. Create a “Busy Bag” Just for the Child to Carry: Even if it’s mostly symbolic, it helps children feel involved and secure knowing they have their favorite snack, book, toy, and a “lovie” in their own backpack under their own control.
Plane, Train, or Automobile Activity Ideas
✈️ On Planes:
Window Clings: Sit the child by the window and let them play for awhile with removable window clings.
Snack Sorting: Use a snack container with compartments and let them sort tiny snacks by color or shape.
Look Out the Window “I Spy”: Print a simple visual bingo sheet with clouds, trucks, birds, etc. to spot. I use Canva to make bingo sheets, scavenger hunts, and “I Spy” sheets for kids.
Relieve Ear Pressure: Depending on the age of the child use teething rings, bottles for babies, sippy cups, or something to eat or suck on to help relieve painful ear pressure when the flight takes off and lands.
🚗 In Cars:
Give Surprise Bags Every 30–45 Minutes: Small items in paper lunch bags. The mystery keeps them going!
Audio Stories or Sing-Along-Songs: Choose short stories, nursery rhymes, or silly songs to keep the vibe positive.
Play I Spy (toddler edition): “I spy something red… that moves!”
🚆 On Trains:
Window Games: Spot animals, buildings, or colors zooming by.
Snack Necklace: Thread cereal onto yarn to make a wearable snack (double win).
Finger Puppets: Quiet, small, and perfect for imaginative play across a little tray table.
What If Nothing Works?
Let’s be real, meltdowns happen. Here’s how to survive them:
1. Take Breaks:
When driving stop at rest areas and get some snacks and walk around. When on a plane or train, get up and walk up and down the aisles a few times.
2. Have a Familiar Comforting Item:
A blanket, stuffed animal, or even a favorite book can reduce anxiety, being overtired, and frustration for little ones.
3. Practice Beforehand:
Do short “travel play” sessions at home with luggage and snacks.
4. Stay Calm and Smile:
Kids pick up on your vibes. Deep breaths, hydration, and a stash of mini chocolate bars (for you, not them) go a long way.
Final Words from a Nanny Who’s Been There:
You don’t need a screen to survive a long trip with a toddler — you just need a strategy. With the right toys, a touch of creativity, and plenty of snacks, you’ll turn “Are we there yet?” into “Can we do it again?”
Safe travels and remember, the destination is just a bonus. The journey can be the fun part, too.
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Article by Stephanie Felzenberg
bethebestnanny.com 
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