Long road trips with kids can be challenging, but there are plenty of ways to keep them entertained and engaged. From toys and games for babies and toddlers to tech gadgets and activities for pre-teens and teens, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
* **Car seat toys:** Toys that attach to the back of car seats provide entertainment and enrichment for babies still learning to play. Amazon offers a set of interactive toys that attach in front of your baby's car seat, while Itzy Ritzy has soft, colorful toys that easily attach to the car seat.
Road Trip Essentials: Keeping Kids Entertained in the Car
* **Suction cup toys:** These toys can be stuck to the car windows, providing hours of fun and enrichment. They help calm fussy babies and offer a distraction during long trips. Find suction cup toys at Amazon or Walmart.
* **Fidget spinners:** Suction cup fidget spinners attach to the car window or car seat tray, entertaining babies with their spinning and rattling motions. They are available at both Amazon and Walmart.
Road Trip Essentials: Keeping Kids Entertained in the Car
* **Kids travel tray:** This handy device fits over a toddler's lap and provides a place to store toys, pencils, books, and snacks. It has pockets for easy organization and is available in different colors and sizes from Walmart and Amazon.
* **Car headrest tablet holder:** A tablet holder attached to the car's headrest can transform it into a television for the kids in the back. ProClip and Amazon offer adjustable holders for under $30.
Road Trip Essentials: Keeping Kids Entertained in the Car
* **Writing tablet:** For kids who love to draw, a writing tablet offers a mess-free alternative to coloring books. Amazon and Walmart offer affordable options.
* **Nintendo Switch:** This gaming console is perfect for on-the-go entertainment. Kids can enjoy hours of gaming during long road trips. Amazon and Walmart offer the Nintendo Switch.
Road Trip Essentials: Keeping Kids Entertained in the Car
* **Car games:** A deck of car games is a great way to keep younger kids entertained and engaged. They include trivia, games, and activities specifically designed for road trips. Amazon and Walmart offer different options.
* **Snack stash cooler:** A snack stash cooler attaches to the driver or passenger's back seat, providing easy access to drinks and food. Amazon and Walmart offer these coolers, helping to prevent hungry kids from making for unpleasant passengers.
Road Trip Essentials: Keeping Kids Entertained in the Car
* **Bluetooth soundproof headphones:** Bluetooth headphones allow teens to listen to their own music or podcasts without bothering others. Soundcore offers discounted headphones from major brands like Beats, while Amazon provides affordable options that still block out noise.
* **Kindle or tablet:** Kindles and tablets provide access to books, movies, and television shows, keeping teens entertained during long road trips. Amazon offers the Kindle Paperwhite and Samsung offers the latest Galaxy tablet.
Road Trip Essentials: Keeping Kids Entertained in the Car
* **Audible subscription:** Audible offers thousands of audiobooks for kids of all ages. With an Audible subscription, listeners get discounts and early access to new releases. Sign up for a 30-day free trial through Amazon.
