Looking for the perfect travel gift ideas for children? Whether you’re gearing up for a family vacation or simply want to make travel more fun for the little ones, the right travel gifts for kids can make a huge difference. From creative travel toys to practical vacation gifts, there are plenty of options to keep your children entertained and comfortable on the go. In this guide, we’ve rounded up 16 of the best travel toys and travel gift ideas that are sure to delight children on their next adventure.
1. Play&Go 2-in-1 Play mat/Storage Bag
The Play&Go 2-in-1 play mat/storage bag is a must-have for traveling with young children. This large play mat easily transforms into a convenient storage bag for all their small toys. When you stop, simply open the storage bag and spread it out like a blanket on the ground, giving the children a space to play.
2. Personalized Suitcase or Backpack
A personalized suitcase or backpack is an excellent gift for children who travel often. Adding their name makes it even more special! If a backpack is a better fit, choose a fun and adventurous one personalized with their name for an extra touch.
3. Travel Journal
Looking for a thoughtful gift for older children who can read and write? A travel journal is a perfect choice. It allows them to record their holiday adventures, enhancing their vacation experience and creating lasting memories.
4. JetKids by Stokke BedBox
While on the expensive side, the JetKids by Stokke BedBox is a game-changer for long flights. This innovative suitcase transforms into an extension of the airplane seat, turning it into a bed for greater comfort during those long journeys.
5. Children’s Camera
If you’re an avid photographer, your children will likely be just as fascinated by the camera. A children’s camera would be one of the greatest vacation gifts, allowing them to capture their own memories. When you return home, they’ll proudly show off their photos and share the stories behind each shot.
6. Binoculars
Looking for travel gift ideas for children who always want to discover new things? Binoculars are a fantastic gift for curious children who love to explore. They’ll help spark their interest in nature, animals, and distant sights. Perfect for making any trip feel more adventurous.
7. Inflatable swim rings
Inflatable pool toys are always a hit with children! Whether it’s a flamingo to float on, a mattress shaped like a French fry bag, or even a floating car, there’s no shortage of fun and unique designs to choose from.
8. Headphones
For long car rides or flights, headphones are a practical gift for children who travel frequently. They help keep kids entertained and calm, allowing them to enjoy music, audiobooks, or movies without distractions. This makes long journeys feel much shorter!
9. Diving mask/snorkel
For children who love adventure and underwater exploration, a diving mask or snorkel is an ideal gift. It lets them explore the fascinating world beneath the surface, making it a perfect gift for budding explorers.
10. Portable drawing bag
This portable drawing bag from IKEA is a wonderful gift for creative kids on the go. It’s compact, lightweight, and offers plenty of storage for crayons, papers, and brushes. Plus, its sturdy design makes it perfect for use as a ‘mini desk’ on a child’s lap during car rides or flights.
11. Play tent
If the child loves camping, a play tent is a fantastic gift. They can enjoy their own ‘camping experience’ at home, whether sleeping or playing inside. Playing tents are great gifts, because a tent creates a cozy, adventurous atmosphere in their room or garden, fostering imaginative play even when they’re not on vacation.
12. (Cork board) World map
A world map is an engaging gift for children to use at home. Choose between a poster or a cork board version, which allows them to mark the places they’ve visited. For added fun, pick one with animal illustrations or consider a magnetic map board for an interactive experience.
13. Small reading books
Compact and easy to carry, small reading books are perfect for travel. They offer hours of entertainment while on the go and can be especially enjoyable if related to their vacation destination or the theme of traveling. Bonus: these books can help kids get excited and prepared for their trip.
14. (Beach) Ball
A classic beach ball provides endless fun, whether at the beach or campsite. However, they can take up valuable space in your bag or suitcase. Opt for an inflatable beach ball or a compact version that’s easy to pack and take along.
15. Toy campers
Camper toys make great gifts for kids who enjoy camping and travel. These toys let kids recreate their camping adventures at home. There are many options to choose from, including LEGO sets, or go for something extra charming, the Vintage Campervan by Little Dutch.
16. Mini flashlight
A mini flashlight is a practical and exciting gift for children who love outdoor adventures. It adds a sense of mystery and fun during the darker hours and is perfect for camping, nighttime games, or exploring new places.
Gift wrapping ideas
Creative gift wrapping to make presents extra special
- Use travel-themed stickers (like passports, airplanes, or famous landmarks) to seal the wrapping paper or close the gift box.
- Use maps from destinations the child will visit (or dream of visiting) as gift wrap. Old atlases or world maps can be repurposed as wrapping paper
- Collect or print vintage luggage labels or airport stickers and use them as decorative touches on your gift wrapping.
- Write the recipient’s name or a special message on a luggage label
- Instead of traditional wrapping, use small, suitcase-shaped gift boxes.
The best fitting gifts
Gift guides for different types of travel
- Air travel: Focus on gifts that make flying easier, such as compact travel pillows, headphones, or small travel activity kits.
- Road trips: Consider travel games, snacks, or car-friendly toys to keep kids entertained on the go.
- Camping or outdoor travel: Look for gear like child-sized sleeping bags, camping kits, or mini compasses for budding adventurers.
When to give
The best moments to buy travel gifts for kids
- When you’re searching for a baby gift for a future globetrotter
- When you’re looking for birthday gifts for kids who travel frequently
- When you’re hunting for gift ideas for under the tree
- When the little traveler is about to go on vacation
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