Best Road Trip Toys for Kids

Traveling with kids can be hectic, but if you keep them busy and happy, it doesn't have to be. I have a large family and we travel often, so I learned very quickly what works and what doesn't. Some might ask me if I'm in my right mind to go on a road trip with 5 or more kids. I ask them right back if they're thinking straight for not doing it. The best road trip toys coupled with ample snacks, drinks, and breaks can make for quite an enjoyable time. For the best no-mess, no-issues results, we generally like toys that are one piece. Educational and engaging toys that fit that bill get even more brownie points.

Etch-a-Sketch

Pretty much everyone knows what an Etch-a-Sketch is. Move a few knobs around to create simple or elaborate drawings. Shake to erase and repeat until your bored with it. Of course, many kids never get bored with it. In fact, they often argue over it, so it's a definite must-have. To avoid the arguments, but keep the interest, we pack a small travel Etch-a-Sketch for each child during road trips. You can find them at EtchASketch.com or pretty much any retailer that carries toys.

Tangle Jr

My kids absolutely love the Tangle toys. You can bend them, twist them, take them apart, and more. Some have words, fun textures, and other features that add to the excitement and entertainment. For instance, the Silly Words version is great for storytelling and other related travel and road trip fun. You can even customize your own Tangle Jr. Get them at TangleCreations.com and many toy retailers.

Puzzlemania

Puzzlemania activity books from Highlights for Children make great road trip toys. They are lightweight and packed with fun. This is a subscription that I keep up with because the kids are learning and having fun at the same time. There also are other varieties, such as Mathmania and Which Way USA, to choose from. Which Way USA makes an excellent travel companion, assisting in mapping and other geography skills. Get yours at Puzzlemania.com.

Books

Books are always good for the road. They come in one piece and keep the kids busy - sometimes even quiet. I like to pack each child one or two favorites and one or two new books they haven't yet read. The favorites are good for when the kids need something familiar. The new ones are good for holding their interest when everyone needs some quiet and relaxation time. How many we pack depends on how far we're going.

Rubik's Cube

A Rubik's Cube is small and lightweight enough not to be a big deal to pack. At the same time, it gets kids thinking and can keep them occupied for hours. If you've got more than one child, be sure to get them each their own Rubik's Cube. The main reason is because they are so entertaining, one child may not be easily ready to hand it over to another for their turn. They come in all sizes and now there are many more puzzles than the original. Check out Rubiks.com for the latest innovations. These can also be purchased at many toy retailers.