Travelling with children is easier when a few simple activities are ready before the journey begins. A small activity kit can help children stay curious during airport waits, flights, road trips, train rides and weekends away—without relying on a screen for every moment.
What makes a useful travel activity kit?
The best kit is compact, age-appropriate and easy to reset. Choose items that are lightweight, quiet and simple to pack away. Avoid tiny loose pieces for very young children, and select materials suitable for their age and abilities.
Six easy items to pack
- Colouring pages and pencils: Pack a few sheets and age-appropriate non-toxic supplies.
- Sticker or reusable activity books: A quiet, low-mess activity with pieces children can handle safely.
- Mini notebook: Invite children to draw the journey or keep a travel diary.
- Picture books: A familiar story can be calming during waiting periods.
- Simple puzzles: Choose activities with few pieces so they are less likely to get lost.
- A comfort item: A favourite soft toy can help younger children settle in unfamiliar settings.
Adapt the kit to your child’s age
Toddlers: Keep activities simple and supervised; use board books and age-safe toys without small detachable parts.
Preschoolers: Add colouring, large stickers, picture hunts and easy matching games; rotate activities rather than presenting everything at once.
School-age children: Try travel bingo, drawing prompts, word games, puzzles, journals or a book related to their interests.
Pack a pouch in five steps
- Choose a lightweight pouch that fits inside your day bag.
- Pack two or three activities at a time.
- Use a slim folder to keep paper and drawings together.
- Carry a spare activity for delays, and keep essential care items separate.
- Check airline and transport rules for items such as scissors or liquids.
Keep activities practical and safe
Supervise children and choose materials that suit their developmental stage. Avoid small parts for children who may put objects in their mouths. On flights, keep the aisle clear and store supplies securely during take-off and landing as instructed by the crew. On road trips, hand over activities only when the vehicle is safely stopped; the driver should never be distracted.
Screen-free does not mean no screens ever
A screen-free kit is an option, not a rule. Families can choose a mix of books, games, rest and digital entertainment that works for them. The goal is to have choices ready when plans change.
Build around your child’s interests
For a child who loves drawing, prioritise paper and colouring tools; for a reader, pack a familiar story; for a curious traveller, add an observation checklist. Browse Kids Toys & Games and Kids Stationery & School Supplies for ideas, and confirm age suitability and availability on each live listing.
Before you leave: quick checklist
- Activities are age-appropriate and safe.
- Supplies are lightweight and easy to put away.
- There is a mix of quiet, creative and familiar activities.
- Transport restrictions have been checked.
- Comfort items and essential travel needs are packed separately.
A little preparation can make the journey more manageable. Keep the kit simple, rotate activities when attention fades, and leave room for noticing the world along the way.