travel kit for 1 year old

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20+ travel toys for a 1-year-old: entertainment for road trips and long flights.

Keeping your infant entertained on your next vacation

I won’t deny that one-year-olds can be one of the most difficult ages to travel with (ok, for parents!) especially flying! They are still so tiny but wriggly and active and unsure of what is happening around them; they are not quite a toddler but beyond a baby .

How on earth do you entertain your one-year-old while you’re travelling?

There are plenty of great one-year-old toys, but for this age group, they are often large, clunky, interactive (i.e. noisy!) and not particularly luggage friendly!  You really do need to consider a separate set of portable plane and travel toys for 1-year-olds. 

Other than our baby travel essentials , here we’re going to talk you through over 20 great ideas on what you should be packing to entertain a 1-year-old while travelling – our big focus is on being road trip and flying friendly toys.

This post is part of our tried and tested travel gear series – don’t forget to also check out our baby travel advice home page

Buckle buster, finger puppets, classic baby beads, cute character snack cup.

• Lamaze Plush Puzzle Toy

Sensory Fidget Toys

Learn to dress monkey, felt quiet books, stacking cups, tissue pouch toy, board books, soft activity book, chunky crayons, magnetic drawing board, fubbles bubbles, sand toy kit, toy safety straps, what 1-year-old toys should i leave at home, more tips for baby travel.

If your child is slightly older, don’t miss our post best travel toy ideas for a 2-year-old . 

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The Best Travel Toys for a 1-year-olds

The most difficult thing about this age group is their propensity to want to either a) insert everything they find into their mouth or b) throw it on the floor! 

Therefore, finding travel toys for 1-year-olds that are made for chewing is great, but also look for items that are easy to clean and not too small so you can find them if they fall into a small confined space! 

Here’s our selection of the best travel toys that have stood the test of time with our 1-year-olds.

Buckle Toys Buster is ideal for travel as he folds up quite small and is great for those fine motor skills and problem-solving.

There are six different clasps and buckles, allowing for several different activities. Buster also has many colourful pals these days, some bulkier than others, but all offer great opportunities for your tot to work on their hand-eye coordination while keeping them occupied on the move.

An interactive fun way to play along with kids is  finger puppets .  They definitely fit well into the portable category, much smaller than most soft toys but not too tinee tiny that you will lose them under a plane seat!

These are the best toys for one-year-olds in any situation, as there are plenty of imaginative games you can make up—and worst case, if they simply end up in your tot’s mouth, it’s not the end of the world!

Manhattan Toys Classic Baby Beads  are a baby essential from this maker of unique educational toys ( do check out the  full Manhattan toys range   – we ended up with a toy box full of their stuff we loved them so much! )

The beads are solid wood but portable, and the rattle is fun but not an overpowering noise it won’t annoy your neighbours on a plane. It’s great to see young toddlers through the  teething stage , and also perfect for those fine motor skills.

We all know just how important it is to keep little bellies satisfied, whether it’s at home or on the move. And we all know how quickly kids knock these things over?

Cue the latest generation of infant snack cups from Skip Hop that are not only designed with an (almost) spill-proof lid; they come in some cute and fun designs too that will only add to the enjoyment factor of snack time – hence we include in here amongst our favourite travel toys for 1-year-olds as they have definitely been a saviour in the past for quick and easy toddler entertainment – two birds and all that.

Lamaze Activity Spiral

Have we mentioned before how much we love Lamaze products? Their activity spiral is an absolute beauty and the perfect travel toy for a 1-year-old.

With all the sensory pieces that we love above Lamaze, it is easily attached to your tot’s infant seat, ideal for long road trips.

A reluctant inclusion as I truly hate any baby travel toy that makes an irritating sound – if it’s annoying me, it’s got to be annoying others around me too – but car keys really are one of those wonderful reality toys that infants simply can’t get enough of, perfect for long car rides.

No losing your own keys mid-journey, these B.Toys Funky Toy Keys are super easy to fit into any diaper bag and a sure-fire quick win for teething tots – even if just a little noisy, they are the closest to ‘the real thing’!

These simple plastic contraptions have taken the world by storm! Even since my bubs have grown into tweens , they STILL love these sensory toys .

The small but satisfying pops and different textures are a great way to keep fingers busy in a way that’s non-disruptive to other passengers.

Bonus if you can find a fidget toy with a suction cup , too, for on-the-go; they can easily be placed on windows, an airplane tray table, and even bathing; a sensory toy is perfect for a 1 year old when travelling.

Learn to dress mo n key is a wonderfully loveable teddy that comes with 11 different activities for small hands, from ties to zips and buttons. A guaranteed entertainer and perfect for long flights, he’s pretty loveable and cuddly too.

Also comes in Learn to Dres s Kitty if you are after different designs, a great toy for travel and at home.

Felt Quiet Books are a fabulous baby entertainer and make the perfect travel toy for 1-year-olds in any situation.

Young children can independently explore with a variety of different scenes to choose from. All the parts attach to the quiet book, so no missing spare parts, and no problem if it ends up in their mouth as it’s machine washable.

Such a simple but vital travel toy. We never went anywhere without our stacking cups – in fact, I’d argue these were our favourite travel toys!

Because they so stack away so small, they’re an easy grab-and-go item, and most importantly, we have been able to double these up as a portable bath toy and a baby beach toy on the go, too – these should be in every family travel bag!

Hands up whose infant LOVVVVVVES pulling tissues out of the box? OK, any infant worth their grit in cookie crumbs will work out this is a fake next to the real thing, but the My Tissue Pouch Travel Toy is as close as it can get to the real thing for this super fun baby activity!

With 11 brightly coloured, machine washable and totally reusable ’tissues’, plus a fun character packet to play with, this will surely gain you 5 minutes of peace on long road trips with your 1-year-old, right?!

We will always throw in at least one set of board books traveling with babies and toddlers.

They’re great travel toys as they’re small enough to slip a different one in your diaper bag or carry on each time you leave the house and pretty robust against little fingers and searching teeth!

Another great book option for a one-year-old is a soft activity book.

The MAMMA Kiddie soft activity book is a great travel toy for a 12-month-old as it comes with lots of added extras, including sensory touches that are chewable and bead counters. It’s still super light, so an easy carry-on bag inclusion for your one-year-old.

As your baby transitions to the toddler years, colouring games are great, but finding the right sort of product is tough.

We love the chunky crayons by Honeysticks – completely infant safe made from Beeswax and easy to grip in those sweet chubby little hands, an ideal travel tour for 18 month old.

Is your infant ready for a car seat travel tray? As infants progress to toddlers, they may benefit from having a good surface to eat and play on on long car journeys especially – see all our favourite car seat trays here!

Another super portable toy that’s not too chunky for travel is a magnetic drawing board, best from 18 months+. Always best not to go too cheap in design for these products – and not too many ‘extras’ that can go missing.

We like the design of Fly2Sky Magnetic drawing board as it has a sealed back to prevent scratching, and it’s small enough to still slip into a carry-on.

This one is not for you to hand to your one-year-old unsupervised, but more an emergency piece of kit that every travelling parent should have handy!

Be it making a roadside stop and getting your little one to stretch their legs, or when you’re waiting for rides at an amusement park, a quick bubble blow is an INSTANT crowd pleaser! – be warned, though, other kids will always want to join in!!!

We like Little Kids Fubbles No Spill Bubbles , which are much less messy than larger novelty wands if it’s for travel. (NB, obviously this includes liquid, so not a good one for the plane – but it’s one of our favorite camping toys for toddlers )

This was another reluctant inclusion as we know it can be a little bulky for travel – we’re hardly suggesting this will work for the plane – but no beach vacation with the kids is complete without your very own sandcastle!

From activity moulds to a watering can, you’ll want some sort of beach activity kit if you’ll be travelling anywhere with sand; these are the best travel toys for 1-year-olds on a beach vacation.

We share more beach toy ideas for toddlers over here!

Last but not least, we’d be remiss at this point not to introduce you to the sheer genius of Toy safety straps .

No more dropped pacifiers on the plane floor or sippy cups that have fallen in the seat well at your child’s feet. Anything that you can strap on – do! These work great for all types of toys with a loop that can be locked into any of your 1-year-old travel toys.

These are items that we have either had bad experiences with or, for the sake of safety or commonsense, we do not recommend using as a travel toy for one year olds:

Tablets/iPads – I won’t deny that I’ve let my kids use our devices from a pretty young age. But not all the time, and certainly not on the plane. The main reason is the best younger kids’ apps tend to be noisy, and a one-year-old is not for keeping headphones on. Save the screen time and toddler apps for at least 2+.

Playdoh – there, I said it. I’m going to have some haters shouting NOOOOOO!! But sorry, this one is on my banned travel toy list!! Some love it, but it’s icky, messy and ends up everywhere, but where you want it (mashed under fingernails, smushed into the airplane seat), you get the picture. At your peril.

Reusable Stickers – these are still really a bit too small and chewable for the one-year-old age group and they may not yet have the fine motor skills for peeling, leading to frustration. Felt books are the best alternative for this age.

Musical instruments – no matter how much they love these at home, loud, noise-making toys on a plane or transport with others is a big no-no.

Jigsaws – again, these may be favorite toys at home, but too many items have been lost down the side of a seat over the years. I recommend this as a good travel toy.

Shape sorter – for much the same reason as jigsaws. We love the hand-eye coordination aspect and won’t deny that they’re great toys for 1-year-olds, but with small pieces that can easily get lost, they don’t make our best travel toys list.

Novelty Suitcases – sorry folks, one is waaaay too young for these!! When they reach at least 2, you can start introducing their own cute independent toddler backpacks with a harness , but I would wait until at least 3 or 4 before trying ride on or wheeled luggage for kids.

Leave us a comment below if there are any other one-year-old travelling favourites you think we should add to our list! (or something that should definitely be left off!!)

Search Different Age Groups

Toys for 2-year-olds

Toys for 3-year-olds

Toys for 4-year-olds

Toys for 5-year-olds

Are you new to travelling with a baby , or would you like some more pointers and advice to make your first trip run smoothly? We recommend you also pop over to these pages:

• Our very best baby travel advice
• Safety, essential gear and tips & hacks you will want to know road tripping with a baby
• 10 baby travel essentials for every journey
• How to tackle your very first baby flight
• Are you ready for a camping trip with a baby?
• How to fly with a baby once they no longer fit the baby bassinet
• Do I really need a travelling high chair?
• Best pop-up sunshades for babies and toddlers at the beach
• Best lightweight strollers for travel (that can even fit on the plane)
• The best infant sleep solutions on the go

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2 thoughts on “ 20+ Travel Toys For A 1-Year-Old: Entertainment For Road Trips And Long Flights ”

My 1 year old son loves Melissa & Doug Take-Along Shape Sorter. I gave it to him to keep him busy on his first plane ride. The shapes are of good quality and a good variety. I was worried that it would be too difficult for him in such many shapes, but he caught up in no time. It’s easy to move, overall, he loves it! I would definitely recommend it to others. It is made of excellent quality materials and will keep your child entertained.

So glad you enjoyed it, it’s definitely a winner travel toy.

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Jettsetters Travel

Family Adventure Made Easy

Last Updated on 01/01/2024 by jettsetterstravel

25 BEST Travel Toys for 1-Year-Olds (2024)

The best travel toys for 1-year-olds! Ideas for planes, road trips, vacations, and more!

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Are you getting ready to take a trip with your little one? Looking for a way to entertain your toddler in the car?

It can be tough to keep a 1-year-old entertained while traveling because they tend to be very “busy” and have short attention spans!

The good news is you don’t need to go out and buy a million new toys for every trip. Planning ahead and packing a few essential items that will help keep your 1-year-old occupied can make travel easier and less stressful!

We’ve compiled a list of the best travel toys for 1-year-olds, including some classics and new favorites. These toys are easy to take on the go and can help keep your toddler happy and entertained on long flights or long car rides.

So, whether you’re headed across town or around the world, be sure to pack one (or more) of these great toys!

Things to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Travel Toys:

• Sound – selecting toys that don’t require batteries or make too excessive noise will help prevent disruptions in public places
• Size – pick toys that are small, so they don’t take up much room and are easy to pack
• Convenience – avoid toys that are messy or contain small parts that can easily get lost
• Preferences – of course, it’s important to choose toys that your child will actually enjoy playing with (which can honestly depend on the day!), but try to choose fun toys you think your toddler will be interested in

25 Awesome Family Travel Toys for 1-Year-Olds

1. busy cube.

This busy cube is genius. It is basically a bunch of random things that toddlers are always wanting to mess with (keys, light switches, knobs, etc.) attached to a wooden block.

2. Interactive Books

Board books with flaps, animal noises, mirrors, touch-and-feel, and other interactive features help to keep young children occupied for longer. You can read to your child or let them look at books in the car, on plane rides, or in the stroller.

Consider leaving noisy books at home if you will be in public places. 🙂

3. Busy Board

A Busy Board is one of the best toddler travel toys because of its compact design and different activities. A great way for those little minds to work on their problem-solving skills.

It can be frustrating for a one-year-old who can’t quite figure out how to manipulate and maneuver everything on the board, so it may be better to pull out the busy board when you are able to sit and play with your toddler (i.e. on an airplane).

4. Jellyfish Toy

This neat little silicone sensory toy allows toddlers to pull textured ropes in and out of the holes. It also has little buttons on the sides to push in and out. Plus it doubles as a teething toy.

5. Buckle Toy

There are many different versions of buckle toys. This penguin one is a stuffed animal + a buckle toy all in one! Soft toys are safe for using in the car and can be soothing for small children.

Most young toddlers love playing with buckles, but this is another one that might not be a good idea if you aren’t nearby to help.

6. Stacking or Nesting Cups

Stacking cups might be a little trickier to take on the go since they have multiple pieces to keep track of, but still a great activity for 1-year-olds.

This lion stack-n-stow nesting cup set is easy to carry around. Stacking cups are great for the beach or bathtime too – there are so many different ways to use them!

7. Finger Puppets

These cute little finger puppets provide easy on-the-go entertainment & are great for imaginative play and are the perfect size for taking on the go.

8. Montessori Quiet Book for Toddlers

This soft and durable cloth busy book has many interactive features, which are attached with reinforced fabric, making it a great travel toy.

This little book has many different textures, making it great for sensory development, fine motor skills, and other early learning skills.

The book is machine washable, making it easy to keep clean.

9. Car Keys

Keys are a hot commodity for one-year-olds, making a fake key set one of the best toddler toys. This toddler key set is pretty realistic looking, and won’t set off your car alarm. 😉

Take the batteries out if you don’t want them to make noise.

10. Cell Phone

Keep your toddler from stealing your phone by giving them their own toy cell phone . A fun toy for any age group!

We have this phone, remote, and key set . They are all very realistic looking, but they all make noise, so keep that in mind if you’re taking them on a plane or in other public places.

11. Indestructible Books

These little toddler books are called Indestructibles . Indestructibles are chew-proof, rip-proof, washable, and non-toxic, making them a great option for young kids who put everything in their mouths. They are just the right size for little hands.

These small and thin books are easy to bring along in your diaper bag or carry-on bag.

There are more than 40 different Indestructibles books to choose from.

12. Sensory Pop-It Toy

This toddler pop-it is small and inexpensive, making it one of the best sensory toys for on-the-go entertainment.

13. LeapFrog My First Learning Tablet

The Leapfrog Toddler Tablet has many features – 25 pretend apps, lights, songs, words in different languages, animal sounds, colors, numbers, shapes, and more.

14. Shape Sorter

Shape sorters are one of the best toys for one year olds. There are so many different designs to choose from.

This take-along shape sorter set is a great choice for travel. We brought this shape sorter on my son’s first flight, and he spent nearly 30 minutes figuring out the different shapes.

15. Stacking Rings

Stacking rings are great for hand-eye coordination. This stacking ring set is good quality and has occupied our toddler for extended periods of time on numerous long journeys!

16. Toddler Flash Cards

This flashcard set is one of the best car travel toys (great for planes too)! The cards are thick and durable, and the set comes on a ring, making them easy for little ones to look at without dropping them everywhere.

Our one-year-old loves studying the cards and looking at the bright colors and different animals.

17. Plush Car Set with Playmat Carrying Bag

This soft, lightweight car set is easy to transport because it comes with a convenient carrying bag that converts to a playmat with roads for “driving” the little cars around.

The best part is that the cars are friction-powered, so they don’t require any batteries.

18. Magnetic Wood Block Travel Set

This 8-piece magnetic block set is a fun way to let your little one build on the go, even in a small space. The blocks are aesthetically pleasing and come with a convenient carrying case.

The magnets help keep the blocks from falling constantly, making this set a better building option for travel than other block sets. These blocks are a good choice for one-year-olds but can be used for older toddlers and little kids as well.

19. Hedgehog Fidget Friend

Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog is a small fidget toy that will keep toddlers occupied on the go.

Turn the wheel, spin the crank, press the button, twist the knob, push the plunger, and move the switch!

20. Mushie Press Toys

These Mushie press toys are a similar concept to the sensory pop-it toy listed above, but these are so cute and aesthetically pleasing that I had to add them to the list!

21. Clip-On Steering Wheel

This adorable little steering wheel allows your little one to “drive”! It can clip onto the back of a car seat, plane seat, or stroller. It makes noises and plays songs.

A few reviewers said the horn sounds so realistic that they thought someone honking at them from behind, so be aware of that!

22. Toniebox

The Toniebox is one of our favorite travel toys. My kids listen to it in the car, in the stroller, and around the house. We have taken it with us on vacation and used it in our hotel room. We have even taken it on an airplane and used it with headphones.

My older toddler loves listening to stories through the Toniebox, and my one-year-old loves the songs and playing with the Tonie figurines. 

23. Reusable Sticker Books

These Melissa & Doug Puffy Sticker books are recommended for older kids (ages 4+), but my one-year-old likes playing with them.

I usually just let him play with the bigger stickers because the smaller ones end up getting lost or he tries to put them in his mouth.

The reusable stickers are nice and thick, making them easier for little fingers to maneuver.

24. Window Clings

These stickers are not actually sticky, instead, they cling to the book and other surfaces. I think the best way to use them is as window clings.

My kids love taking them on and off windows. We have used them on airplane windows and tray tables and love taking them on vacation. The best thing is that because they are so small, they are easy to pack and fun for the kids to play with in rental houses or hotels.

25. Suction Cup Spinner Toys

This little suction cup fidget spinner has been one of the top travel toys for my toddlers. They absolutely love spinning it and watching the vibrant colors go around and around.

The suction cup keeps it securely attached to any flat surface, including a tray table, windows, and stroller trays, making it a perfect toy for travel.

TRAVEL TIP : Try to have designated travel toys that you save for playing with only in the car or while traveling. It will make them seem more special and will hopefully help keep your toddler entertained for longer!

Other Ways to Entertain Young Toddlers On the Go

Here are a few more options for entertaining 1-year-olds on a plane, in the car, in restaurants, on walks, or anywhere else on the go!

Sing Songs or Play Music

Another way to entertain your 1-year-old (especially during car rides) is by singing songs. If you aren’t sure what to sing, try some classics like “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” or “Wheels on the Bus”, or make up your own songs about things you see out the window! And don’t worry if you’re a bad singer – I guarantee your toddler doesn’t care!

If singing isn’t your thing, you can play songs through the car speakers. You can find a toddler-friendly playlist on any music streaming app. And if you get tired of listening to kids’ songs, many toddlers will be entertained by “grown-up” songs too. 🙂

Give Them Random Objects

Because wallets, sugar packets, and rocks are much more fun to play with than all of the fancy toys you just purchased.

Snacks provide entertainment and keep everyone happy! Bring a variety of travel-friendly snacks – nothing too sticky or messy. The most important thing is to choose snacks that are safe for eating on the go.

These  snack cups  are helpful for containing messes, easy to clean, and they collapse for easy transport.

This snack spinner is so cool! It allows you to offer your toddler a variety of choices for a long haul. They can simply press the center button to open each snack compartment.

On-the-Go Snack Ideas

• Freeze-dried fruit
• Applesauce pouches or other food pouches
• Cheese stick
• Granola Bars
• Veggies – carrots, peppers, celery
• Fruit – apple slices, bananas, grapes, blueberries 

Ask Questions

Ask your toddler to point to their nose or other body parts. What sound does a cow make? What are some other animal noises they know? Can they point to objects that are different colors?

Asking questions can be a simple, quick, and easy way to entertain or distract/redirect a one-year-old!

Watch a Show or Movie

If your one-year-old will sit and watch a show or movie it can be a good way to keep them occupied during a long car ride or flight. Download a preferred show or movie onto an iPad or tablet. This can be one of the best ways to keep your little one entertained while traveling, even if you normally limit screen time at home.

Our toddler watches shows on the TV at home sometimes, but we save the iPad strictly for long road trips and flights so that it seems more special and exciting.

Tips for Keeping Toys Clean On the Go

Here are a few tips for keeping toddler toys clean on the go:

• Pack wipes – great for spills, sticky messes, toys dropped on the dirty floor, etc.
• Bring ziplock bags that you can throw dirty toys in until you have time to clean them
• Use hand sanitizer/wash hands often
• Use toy clips to keep your toddler’s items from falling (or being thrown) in hard-to-reach or dirty places

I hope you got some great ideas from this list of the best baby travel toys and activities for 1-year-olds. Happy travels!

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Best Travel Toys For 1 Year Olds 2024

Posted on Last updated: February 23, 2024

Traveling with a 1 year old internationally by plane or planning a long road trip with a baby will likely mean your little one will need some entertaining on the go? In this post you will find my tried and tested travel toys for 1 year olds for flights and car journeys.

With some epic journeys from the UK to Australia and other long haul flights with toddlers and babies under our belt, we have needed to keep our little ones occupied with a variety of toys and travel activities.

However, we needed some baby travel toys that were were light, portable, quiet, plus easy to clean and not too small that they got got fallen behind a plane seat or car seat! Some big requirements but we found the perfect toys to take on holiday for a 1 year old!

How To Entertain a 1 Year Old on a Plane or in The Car?  

When you are flying with a baby, a variety of baby travel toys help – especially with the short attention span that infants have. Using every day objects helped too – and attaching some smaller items to toy clips for easy recovery if they did fall to the floor. Toys that are suitable for any mode of transport, or have multi ways to entertain, make the best toys for traveling with 1 year old.

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Best Travel Toys For 1 Year Olds

Munchkin® Caterpillar Spillers™ Stacking and Straining Cups Baby and Toddler Bath Toy

Little ones love putting things in them and taking them out again. I particularly liked this caterpillar bath set from  Munchkin.  which is neatly stacked for hand luggage and ideal for in and out of water. We found these cups were great to play with in a bath or a pool at the destination too, making them a great multiple use travel toy for babies.

Melissa & Doug K's Kids Take-Along Shape Sorter

Melissa And Doug's Take Along Shape Sorter. A popular game for little hands and one that is easy to transport whilst traveling. It does have pieces which could drop, but this is useful for little ones to play with in the more secure airplane bassinet or at your destination. Its like a puzzle but the shapes only they drop in.

Includes a padded case with 2 activity sides and a take-along handle, textured blocks in various colours plus 9 shapes including cube, oval, star and etc. For more information on these toddler travel toys see here

Sassy Ring O' Links 2 Pack

Sassy Ring-O-Links Teethers . A firm favourite since she was a tiny baby and she still loved them as a small toddler.  The bright colours engage and provide visual stimulation, whereas the links have different textures on which appeals to babies sense of touch.

All linked together they can be used as a rattle, or separated for teething babies. Another very versatile toy. They work brilliantly on airline bassinets so are ideal to bring along as part of your airplane travel toys and are ideal for travel car seats too, making them versatile and one of the best travel baby toys. For more information see here.

Buckle Toys - Blu Whale

My 1 year old LOVED this buckle toy whale  and it kept her so busy. So many people have sung its praises to me after purchasing it. I firmly believe it's one of the best travel toys for a 1 year old and often buy it as a travel gift for friends with little ones.

The Buckle Toy Whale has several buckles to do up and a zip mouth. The only issue is once they master the buckle, you may get asked a few times to unbuckle it, until they discover that skill.

Nonetheless, it has easily occupied her for over 30 minutes. A firm favourite on all our journeys, car included.  It's one of the best toddler travel toys for airplane use, because it is so quiet.

Busy Board - Toddler Backpack with Buckles and Learning Activity Toys -

If you have an older baby or one who enjoys sensory play; creating an activity mat covered in buttons, different materials and things for them to flick, twist, scrunch and tap can be great travel toy for a 1 year old. Although time consuming to create, this can be something to keep until your little one gets older. Alternatively, a Montessori style travel activity bag like this does the trick.

Busy Board Montessori Toy

Combining busy book and traditional busy board, Features over 18 learning activities that help kids build dexterity and develop learning skills for preschoolers, including zippers, gears, buttons, shoelaces, clocks, alphabet, animals, numbers, calendar learning games and more. This toy is great for airplane activities. It has fun things like zippers and buttons that help kids learn while they play.

Melissa & Doug K’s Kids My First Activity Book

This machine washable soft cloth book is one of the best toddler travel toys for car travel and airplane activities, as it is so light, portable and engaging. With activities such as buttoning, buckling, peek-a-boo, counting, matching and telling time, it helps promote sensory development, fine motor skills, color recognition, and other early learning skills.

Find the Duck

Lots of things to spot on each page and a complete classic. Both have loved this book so much that I had to buy two copies due to over use!

Hide-and-Seek Pig (Tales From Acorn Wood)

Julia Donaldson 'Lift the Flap' series, (the author of the popular Gruffalo) . We love Fox's Socks, Hide and Seek Pig etc.  Again lots of things to spot and fun lifting the flaps to see who is hiding and perfect all the way through from baby to learning to read.

The pictures are by Axl Schelffler and are so engaging. It's easy to see why these books are so popular with young children. Both of mine loved them from an early age and now the older one reads it to my youngest. Win win! 

LEGO DUPLO My First Number Train 10847 Learning and Counting Train Set Building Kit and Educational Toy for 2-5 Year Olds (23 Pieces)

The Duplo number train, with its versatile cube pieces, proved to be a versatile and compact travel toy, perfect for keeping little ones entertained during flights or car rides.

My one-year-old and four-year love Duplo. The number train i s easy to pack and fun too. (We just discarded the box for easier packing). We actually bought this on one of our trips away and then kept bringing it along as it was such a success. I think it has been so popular because yuo can build towers, roll wheels and play with the characters to kind of 3 in 1. For more information and prices see here .

Pieces can obviously drop on the floor of a car or airplane, so we opted to just use a couple of pieces from this set on the plane and saved the rest for playing with at the destination. If you are staying in a hotel room, villa, or Airbnb which doesn't have any toys, bringing a few toys for moments of boredom or quiet time can prove invaluable.

CHEAP TRAVEL TOYS FOR 1 YEAR OLDS

• Post it notes – kids love peeling them off and sticking them anywhere. Same for band aids/plasters or stickers. If they do get stuck on to the plane tray table or elsewhere like my toddler enjoys doing, they are easy to remove!

• You can also make puppets out of the o n-board sick bags or paper cups if you are feeling creative ! It’s amazing what you will do on a 15 hour flight!
• The humble balloon!  Does only fit as airplane activities but we always put a few more in our luggage to inflate in the hotel room for a game of catch.
• Coloured rice in a tic-tac or similar plastic container for a small rattle

• An old spice jar and pipe cleaners can make a great fine motor skill activity, which is quiet too!

• Small pom poms and a plastic tub with a lid with holes in – babies and toddler love ‘posting’ things so posting the pom poms can while away some time.

• Use some old baby wipes lids to make a sensory toy or lift the flap toy like above.

More travel toys, games & activities for kids

For other travel toys and suggestions see our list of travel toys, games and activities for various ages and stages.

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22 Best Travel Toys for 1 Year Olds!

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The best travel toys for 1 year olds to make your trip easier!

Traveling with a one year old is not always the easiest of feats. In fact, in our experience the time between one and two is actually the hardest time to travel with a young child. 

One year olds are mobile, opinionated, and hard to contain. It’s also difficult to keep them entertained because their attention spans aren’t that long yet.

One of the best ways to set yourself up for success is to bring some great travel toys to engage, distract, and pacify your 1 year old during travel.

In this list we’ve included the best toys our there that are compact and easy to pack for road trips or flights. Read on for some of our favorites!

Best travel toys for 1 year olds

In this list you’ll find some of our very favorite travel toys for 1 year olds. We’ve included options for car rides, plane rides, and toys for in your hotel room or  when you’re out and about on your trip. 

The gap between what a newly-turned one-year-old and an almost-two-year-old enjoy can sometimes be quite large, so consider your child’s stage and development level when thinking about what toys will be most suitable. 

Stacking cups

One toy that toddlers always seem to love is stacking cups. Stacking cups can be used for nesting, making towers, holding objects, or hiding objects underneath them. 

The Bright Starts Stacking Cup Set comes with eight brightly colored cups with numbers on the bottom for number recognition and counting.

They can also be used for water play and have holes on the bottom for the water to trickle out.

Suction cup spinner

These cute little suction cup spinners are perfect for all kinds of travel and so entertaining for little ones! They can be suctioned to windows, tray tables, high chairs, and other hard, flat surfaces. 

In addition to the spinning feature, each of the ends has a little pop button for babies to press. 

Unlike some suction toys, these actually stick well and don’t come off easily when your baby spins them. 

Indestructibles

Indestructibles are the perfect books to withstand the rough combination that is travel and toddlers. When these books say indestructible, they really mean it. These books claim to be waterproof, ripproof, and chewproof…and they live up to the claim!

The bright pages and fun illustrations are good at capturing and keeping a toddler’s attention.

Unlike board books, Indestructibles are made of thin, paper like material and take up practically no space, making them perfect for travel!

This buckle toy has been one of our go-to travel toys for years! It’s perfect for kids who love buckling and unbuckling straps. 

On the buckle toy are a variety of different kinds of buckles for children to try. The buckles are fairly easy to fasten and unfasten, although younger toddlers will probably need help with it at first.

Each of the straps is a different color, so your toddler can work on matching the colors. 

There’s also a zippered pocket on the top where you can store some small toys (we always keep a few finger puppets in there). 

On the back are numbered flaps with pictures of sea animals underneath. Each flap is made from a different material with a different texture. 

There are so many fun things going on with this toy, it’s no wonder all of our kids have loved it! And even our older kids have fun fastening the buckles and mixing and matching the straps.

Animal/Character Figures

For some creative and open ended play, some small figures can be a great addition to your travel toys. There are all sorts of ways you can play with these little figures and you’ll likely come up with some creative ideas over the course of your travel.

Cater the figures to what your child is interested in so that they will be excited to play with them. For example, you could get a set of animals , dinosaurs , Bluey characters , Mickey Mouse , Daniel Tiger , etc.

Sorter toy cube

This baby sorter cube creates a fun problem for babies to solve. How do they get the shapes between the elastic bands to fit in the cube? And then how do they get them out again?

The toy comes with six textured blocks of various shapes and colors to place into the cube. 

Both the cube and the blocks are lightweight and easy for a young child to hold and manipulate. 

This is such a fun and engaging travel toy for 1 year olds! Not only does it keep their attention, but it also stimulates their curiosity and helps them develop problem solving skills.

Sensory pull tissue box

What baby doesn’t like pulling all of the tissues out of the tissue paper box or clothes out of drawers? Well this toy recreates that experience in a way that is fun and easy to recreate (unlike with a real box of tissues…). 

This sensory tissue box comes with a soft-sided box and 15 reusable tissues. Twelve of the tissues are colorful scarves and three are crinkle tissues. 

You can choose to just stuff all of the scarves in the box or accordion fold them so that when you pull one out the next pops up and is ready to be pulled next. 

A weighted bottom on the box allows young children to pull out the tissues without the box coming too.

Toy Vehicles

Our boys have loved cars and trucks from a young age, so bringing little vehicles when we travel has always been a big hit. 

This little set has six small vehicles, including trucks and emergency vehicles, that toddlers can zoom around on a tray table, in a hotel room, or on a high chair at a restaurant. These are chunky little cars that are perfect for little hands to hold.

At this young age, trucks are always something that will capture our kids’ attention, so we try to always have a few on hand when we travel.

Poke-a-Dot book

Our babies and toddlers have always loved the bigger Poke-a-Dot books, and this smaller version that is perfect for travel! 

Each page of the book has a button which makes a satisfying “pop!” when you press it. This is endlessly fascinating for little kids who naturally love to push buttons. 

There are a lot of different versions, including first words , first colors , construction vehicles , and animal families .

Fat Brain Dimpl Toy

For all the button pushing toddlers out there, this Dimpl Toy is so much fun! 

Toddlers will love pressing the five brightly colored buttons and hearing the quiet pop sound it makes. This is a great fine motor, sensory activity that toddlers will love doing over and over again.

We’ve loved bringing our fidget popper on flights, on long car rides, and out and about while we’re traveling. This is also a great calming activity for when toddlers are feeling overwhelmed or frustrated.

My babies have always been drawn to keys but aren’t very interested in the fake plastic ones.  However, this set of baby and toddler toy keys is so realistic that your child will think they are playing with the real thing!

These keys come with four sound buttons for toddlers to push as well as a little flashlight. And unlike real keys, they don’t have any jagged or sharp edges to worry about. There’s also a strap that you can use to attach it to a car seat, stroller, or carrier.

This is not a toy that you’ll want to take on the plane, due to the sounds. However, it is perfect for road trips, hotel rooms, or just days when you’re out and about. 

Sassy Wonder Wheel Activity Center

The Sassy Wonder Wheel Activity Center has several different elements that young toddlers will enjoy playing with. The primary feature is the colorful wheel, which has beads around the edges that trickle down as the wheel spins. This wheel is super mesmerizing and fun to play with, even for adults!

Various textures encourage young children to explore the surface of the toy, while clatter rings at the base provide a fun element to hold and rattle.

The toy has a suction cup on the bottom to secure it to a tray table, high chair, or table while your child plays with it.

Soft cloth book

A cloth book can be a great travel activity for a 1 year ol because it’s engaging and hard to destroy. You can easily leave this book with your toddler in their car seat or attach it to their stroller without feeling like you have to supervise when they use it.

This Who Do You See? soft book contains various sea animals whose tails, feet, claws, etc. extend beyond the page. Inside there are fun interactive elements such as crinkle pages, a peek-a-boo flap, a squeaker, and a baby mirror. 

It also comes with a teething ring, which can also be used to attach it to a stroller or car seat, and a teething corner on the front page.

Melissa and Doug Pop Blocs Farm Animals

This set of Pop Blocs by Melissa and Doug contains five mix-and-match farm animals. 

Each animal has two pieces that come apart, so you can separate them and then work on matching them back together. Or you can create your own bizarre animals (head of a horse, behind of a pig, etc.), which little kids usually find pretty funny.

These animals are easy for little kids to hold and even separated are not small enough to be a choking hazard. 

One of our favorite travel toys for 1 year olds has always been the Oball . This simple toy is a classic that babies and toddlers always seem to love. 

It’s brightly colored and the large holes are perfect for little hands. It’s also flexible, which makes it fun for babies to squish and easy to pack away when not in use. It’s also great for attaching to a car seat or stroller with a pacifier clip.

Board books

Another way to keep a toddler entertained during travel is to bring along a couple of books to read with them. 

Some awesome small books include Peek-a Who? and basically any Sandra Boynton book ( Blue Hat, Green Hat and Snuggle Puppy were some others that were well loved at this age).

You can bring new books for novelty or some tried and tested favorites from home. I’m always surprised by how many times my toddlers can read the same books over and over again, so a couple of books can go a long way when traveling.

A teether is a great travel toy for 1 year olds, especially if they actively have new teeth coming in. 

This cute little carrot teether by Infantino has sturdy handles for little hands to hold. You can also use them to attach the teether to a car seat, carrier, or stroller with a pacifier clip (this is a must for me when traveling to prevent the teether from being dropped on the dirty floor.) 

The teether is made from a soft silicone which is easy to clean and the surface has textures for little ones to explore.

Touchy feely book

We love touchy feely books! They are so much fun for kids because they contain so many things to capture their attention! 

Some of our favorite touchy feely books are Usborne books. For travel, we love the Baby’s First Touchy Feely Lift the Flap Books . These books have peep holes, finger trails, textured elements, and flaps on each page.

I’m always amazed at how long my small children can spend looking at these books, especially if we’re pointing things out and talking about it with them.

Finger puppets

For a fun toy you can use to interact with your child, consider bringing along a few finger puppets ! My 1 year olds love it when I use finger puppets to sing nursery rhymes or play tickle games. 

This set comes with ten cute animals and the puppets are the perfect size to fit both adult and child fingers. 

I love that finger puppets take up virtually no room, making them easy to keep on hand if you need something to distract your child.

Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog Fidget Friend

To keep your little mover entertained, Spike the fidget friend is up for the task! This hedgehog toy from Learning Resources has six different ways to play with it, including a wheel to spin, a knob to turn, a button to push, a switch to flip, and a plunger to pull. 

It’s compact size is perfect for little hands to hold and to fit easily into your bag for travel. This is a great activity for kids who love fidget toys and pushing buttons (which, let’s be honest, all toddlers do!).

Skip Hop Jitter Cactus

This adorable little cactus is a perfect novelty toy to capture your toddler’s attention while traveling. When you pull the ring, the plush cactus vibrates and shakes. 

A ring at the top makes it easy to attach this toy to your toddler’s car seat, carrier, or stroller so that they have something to keep them entertained on the go. It’s also great for airplane travel.

I can never make a list of travel activities for young kids and not include snacks. Snacks are an absolute must when traveling with a 1 year old. 

Not only will they prevent your toddler from getting hungry and grumpy, snacks are also a great activity for keeping a young child entertained. 

Snack catchers are perfect for holding a toddler’s attention because they allow them to feel the independence of feeding themselves while also practicing their fine motor skills. And they prevent snacks from spilling all over the floor!

Tips and tricks

Here are a few helpful tips and ideas for making the most of your travel toys for 1 year olds!

• Choose toys that your child will return to over and over again to maximize the use of the few toys you bring.
• Go to the dollar store and pick up a few cheap toys that you can pull out at random when your child starts getting bored.
• For long flights, wrap a couple of toys and bring a new one out every hour or so. Your child will love unwrapping each toy to see what it is! It also makes the toy feel more special to play with.
• Don’t bring any toys that make noise if you’re flying- the other passengers will thank you.
• For road trips, bring a car seat tray for your child to place their snacks and activities on.
• For both drives and flights, get your toddler up and walking around at regular intervals. This is good for their circulation and can also help break up the travel time a bit.
• Bring out your toys one by one instead of pulling the whole bag out. In my experience, my toddler just ends up grabbing the whole bag and rummaging through it, which takes away some of the novelty of introducing new toys.

Final Thoughts

Prepare yourself for an amazing trip with your child by bringing along a few of these amazing travel toys for 1 year olds. You’ll feel so much more confident knowing that you have some great activities you can pull out to keep your child entertained. 

I remember the first time we traveled with a 1 year old, I was so nervous about how it would go! But after many trips with young children, I’ve learned that it’s best to focus on what you can control rather than the things that you can’t. 

Bringing great travel toys is one way you can set yourself up for the best possible outcome when traveling with a young child.

Although travel with a 1 year old isn’t always the easiest, it can be an amazing experience if you’re prepared. We have very fond memories of our trips with our toddlers over the years!

Other posts you might be interested in:

The Best Travel Toys for 2 Year Olds!

25 Best Travel Toys for 3 Year Olds!

The Ultimate List of Toddler Travel Essentials (+Toddler Packing List!)

How to Have a Successful Road Trip with a Toddler

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Best Travel Toys For 1 Year Old

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Last Updated on December 9, 2022 by Ariana Svenson

What are the best travel toys for a 1 year old?  With two older kids who’ve racked up thousands of hours of flying as infants and toddlers, I feel like I should have a handle on this.

I’ll not lie, I am not looking forward to entertaining a 1 year old on a plane!  It will be a total of 12 hours of flying with a one-year-old on a lap and I will definitely need some good travel toys and strategies.   She is an active crawler and climber but not yet walking.  She is also got clear preferences of her likes/ dislikes and if you take a toy off her she will do the cutest little tantrum as she throws her head onto the floor and screams.

Did I say cute?  Yes well, it is cute at home, but I can’t imagine that it will be at 30,000 feet!  So here goes.  Here are my tips for traveling with a 1 year old internationally and the best toys for airplane 1 year old.

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we would earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. More info in my disclaimer .

1 Year Old Travel Toys and Airplane Activities

Who are these airplane activities and toy suggestions intended for?  On the day of our flight, my baby will be one year old and one day.  However, these activities could be used for a 9-month-old right through to 16-18 months.  If you are looking for the best airplane activities for 18 months old and older take a look at our post, Brilliant Toddler Plane Activities .

A Necessary Activity, Eating – Best Travel Food for 1 Year Old Baby

So what is the best travel food for 1 year old baby?  I assume that your bub is now eating a range of solid foods, and the short answer is that you take food that they like from home.

These days there is a wide range of nutritious convenience food available in the supermarket – especially fruit pouches, with mixes of fruits, and also nutritious meals.  These are all marked so that you know that they are age-appropriate.  The same types of pouches are available in yogurt.  You need to supervise carefully that bub doesn’t over squeeze the pouch and the puree or yogurt go everywhere  That is not a good look! What a mess!  However, in general, these are a great way to carry food for one-year-olds!

A 1-year-old baby can eat a wide range of soft fruits, like peaches, bananas,  strawberries.  However given that they need to be cut up into relatively small pieces and you can’t take a knife on the plane, these will need to be eaten sooner rather than later.  Sliced cucumber travels well, as does celery though you need to be careful that the baby doesn’t take a chunk.  There are always choking risks with raw vegetables.

When flying I also feed my 1-year-old from my own airplane meal.  Some rice, pasta or mashed potato would all work well.  I’d also take a little bit of my chicken or fish and give the baby tiny pieces of food to eat.

Most importantly, the baby still is drinking a lot of milk at 1 year old.  Breastfeeding on the plane or road trip is best, as the child gets sustenance and connection/and soothing while traveling.  If you are traveling with formula, make sure you have packed enough for the trip and that you have organized how you are going to heat it up.

So while food is not necessarily a travel toy, it can be a necessary distraction.

One of the key aspects of how flying with a 1-year-old on a plane is understanding that they love new things that they have NEVER seen before.  Make sure you put all these items away for a week or more before travel so that when you pull them out baby says, “oh wow, new”.

For awesome Screen-Free Kids Airplane Activities check here .

Toys That Move/Has Different Textures

Most prams will have a couple of these toys with lots of great parts.  We love the Lamaze Captain Calamari .  It has been hidden for over a week now in preparation for our trip.  Keep in mind that some of the Lamaze toys make noise – you don’t want them on the plane!  However, we think this is one of the best travel toys for babies hands down.

Board Books With Touch and Feel Sections

Not only do you read the books, but run your fingers over the textures again and again.  Books are a bit chunky in your bag, but in my opinion, it is worth packing 2 or 3 of them for your one year old baby to play with.  Books have always been amongst my kid’s favorite activities when traveling.

Some books we would recommend as best travel toys for a 1 year old are the “That’s Not My…” series of books (my kids love them)!  They are relatively inexpensive but provide hours of entertainment.  They are also great for family travel as you can have the older kids explore the book with the baby.  You can check out the current prices on Amazon below.

An Activity Ball

These plastic twisty balls have got bits that move, mirrors, and are designed to grab the attention.  There are also infant specific textured balls sets that you can buy.  However, we use one that was supposed to be for the dog.  Our little one loves playing with it.  It is inexpensive and makes a great 1 year old travel toys idea.

Chew Toy/Teether

This is not exactly an airplane travel toys for 1 year old, but something that every 1 year old has in their care kit!  Chew toys that they can munch their teeth on are great for the plane.

Fidget/Twisty Toys

I have this great cloth fidget toy which I keep in my handbag.  Plus, these little wooden fidget/twisty toys that you can pull out at any time.  This is one of the best travel toys for babies, in my opinion, because you can easily carry it in your purse.  They don’t occupy the one year old for long but its enough to distract them for a couple of minutes and avoid a meltdown.  It can literally buy you some time when you need just a few minutes to focus on something else like paperwork or checking-in with the airline.

There are toys that have buckles and zips that your baby can play with like this one .  I prefer to let them use my backpack and the clips on my travel handbag.

Having a big practical travel handbag with plenty of compartments is seriously the best thing for traveling with a baby – especially if they have lots of clips and buckles they can play with.  Not only is this great to keep a baby occupied when flying with a 1 year old but it is also one of the best road trip toys for a one year old.  Inevitably you will always have your purse with you so this is just an easy way to keep them occupied.

Things Already on the Plane

While it is great to pack lots of 1 year old travel toys, they can get bulky pretty quickly.  There are plenty of things already on the plane that will entertain a 12-month-old baby or toddler for a while.  Think 3 minutes each thing, that really adds up!

• The safety card (small babies love the safety card on flights)
• In-flight magazine
• Cutlery and cups from the in-flight service

Snacks are every parent’s go-to distraction.  While not necessarily one of the best toys for airplane travel for a 1 year old, they are a necessity and serve a dual purpose.

Everyday Items You Don’t Have to Buy

The top-secret best travel toys for 1 year old won’t cost you a CENT.

Look around the house for everyday items that are curious.  They need to be small, light, and easy to carry.  They need to move or rattle, and they need to be fascinating to a one-year-old.

These are some items:

• Clothes peg
• Syringe/medicine plunger
• Old glasses (without lenses)
• Little plastic bottle
• Sticky tape

The Plastic Bottle

Plastic? Yes I know, plastic is rapidly filling up the world’s oceans and is one of the world’s biggest environmental concerns.  However, they are usually given out on the airplane and, for the sake of recycling, are great 1 year old travel toys.  They are really something simple that can help develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination with your baby.

What’s the Best Handbag for Travel With a Baby?

So I bet you didn’t know that theft-proof bags or slash-proof bags could also work as great bags to have when traveling with a one-year-old baby!  They do!  And, after all, you need something to carry all of these best travel toys for 1 year old in!

You will see all sorts of reviews online for bags that are useful for travel with a baby.  I personally use an anti-theft handbag from Travelon .  Honestly, the anti-theft factor is mostly about protecting myself from my little thief (the one-year-old baby) than a thief themselves!  That is, the bag is very durable (being anti slash) and has a range of carabiners to close the zips.  These are useful so that the baby can’t open your bag and pull the passports or purse out.

There is also a range of very useful compartments so that you can put keys in one, lipsticks in another.

You will see diaper bags like backpacks, but in my case, I nearly always travel with my laptop so that the laptop needs to go on my back with baby clothes, nappy change bag, and toys for a one year old in, while my money and valuables are still in my handbag.

Best Bags for Moms with Toddlers and  Best Bags for Moms | Finding the Right Mom Bag for your Busy Life are great resources.

What About Screens?

It is recommended that children under 2 have absolutely no screen time at all.  I have noticed that my one year old loves my phone and will swipe the screen back and forth.  She gets frustrated pretty quickly.

It all depends on your attitude to screens but I’d rather not get my baby addicted to a screen early.  Also, I did experiment on the last flight to see if children’s shows would capture her attention.  They did, for all of 60 seconds! So based on my experience screens aren’t a panacea anyway.  While I know many parents rely on them, I wouldn’t personally recommend them as a best travel toys for a 1 year old.

How to Change a Nappy (Diaper) on a Plane

Having changed many, many nappies on planes, I’ve put together these tips on how to change a diaper in flight.

•  You realize that your baby needs a change – or will soon.  Look out for times when there is not a long line at the toilets.
•  Hopefully, you don’t need to wait too long, or the baby is happy and occupied since they are out of the seating area.
•  When the time comes for the baby to change you realize that there is not too much space!
•  Babies do love mirrors though, so you might want to let them get used to the strange sounds in the airplane toilet by looking at themselves in the mirror!
•  I put down a diaper pad/nappy pad, get out the nappy and wipes, and then lay the baby down.
•  If they are a wriggler you are going to have to keep them still, and hopefully not touching too much stuff.
•  Sing a song, talk about your actions, talk about their body parts, and talk about what you are going to do when you are off the flight!
•  Tidy up baby and put the nappy in a smell proof bag in the toilets.
•  A BIG WORD OF WARNING! The flushing sound of toilets on the airplane is very frightening to babies and children.  It is a loud whoosh and all three of mine have hated it.  So if you need to flush the toilet with the baby – get outside the cubicle and then flush!  Oh yes, if you are traveling solo, managing to go to the toilet on the plane while holding a baby is doable!  But requires some contortions!)

We hope that this gives you some ideas of how to change a diaper or nappy on a flight!

Tips for Road Trips with Babies

We’ve got a lot of experience with having road trips with babies.

We normally have an adult or an older kid sit next to the crying baby and try to entertain them, but sometimes it just doesn’t work.  Believe me a crying baby in a traffic jam when your boobs are leaking is not fun.  However, this is what we do so that our family can experience things together.  Read about it in Travel Hacks and Road Trip Essenti als for Kids .

What is the Best Car Seat When Travelling with Babies?

A baby car seat is one of the most important investments you can make for your child.  There are loads of buying guides and dedicated information about how to buy the best car seat.  And, besides safety, they can be entertaining for your child.  So while it is technically not a travel toy for kids, it can have some useful and entertaining features.

My Tips Are:

•  Buy a new car seat in order to ensure the car seat has not been in a crash.
•  Pay for installation for the seat – apparently, poorly installed children’s car seats are one of the reasons for injuries in accidents.
•  Pick a car seat that will be easy to clean – bright colors look fun but they show the dirt.  We had a red car seat – I know this from experience!
•  If you have multiple kids and they all need to fit in the back seat, you might need to look for narrow fit car seats to ensure all kids get maximum comfort

Bonus – Tips for Flying With a 1 Year Old

Likely your one-year-old is super active – if they are not walking they are crawling – fast.  Also, they are very opinionated as to what they like and dislike.  Our baby tends to sound like a scalded cat when she doesn’t get the toy she wants!

Be Prepared

Have the toys in a small bag easy to reach during take-off and landing.

Have an Easy to Use Baby carrier 

Having a baby carrier on the plane makes it much easier to carry hand luggage and move more freely around the plane.  There are many models on the market.  I’ve always admired the forward-facing baby carriers as the kids can see where they are going!

Accept Help

In my experience, people LOVE helping with babies – both in airports and on the plane.  Yes, you will get the naysayers and the people who look at you in horror – but they are far outweighed by the kind people who know that traveling with a baby is hard.  If you need to go to the restroom – why not ask a hostess or the friendly lady next door?  Flying with a 1 year old can be difficult if you don’t have anyone to help out.

Make Friends

On my last flight with the 1-year-old, she was kept busy for at least 20 minutes by people all around her playing peek a boo, smiling, and more.  She would reward them with big toothy smiles and I think that they were just as happy to pass the time as she was!

Prepare For Contingencies

I pack 2 changes of clothes and extra nappies for a flight.  An extra bottle, and extra snacks (is there a common theme here).   My number one tips for flying with a one-year-old is about OVER planning.  I don’t know why vomits and poonamis always happen on planes, but they do.

Here we have just covered tips for flying with a one-year-old – there are a lot of other tips for travel with a baby, take a look at our Guide to Baby Travel Essentials .

The Verdict – Best Travel Toys for Babies

In short, flying with a moving baby who is yet not verbal is amongst the most difficult times to travel!  Expect to get very little downtime and to spend a lot of time entertaining your 1-year-old on the plane.  However, hopefully, these ideas of the best travel toys for 9-month-old through to about 18 months old will give you some food for thought! Good luck!

Do you have any suggestions for best travel toys for a 1 year old? We would love to hear all your suggestions for best travel toys for babies in the comments below.

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Gift Guide: 11 Top Travel Toys Your Kids Will Take Everywhere

By Author Eileen P. Gunn

Posted on Last updated: November 27, 2023

1. Fortune Tellers for Tweens

2. byo wiki stix, everywhere, 3. a magical magnetic pen & tablet, 4. sensory, crafty fun anywhere, 5. unfold fun with a playhouse book, 6. travel playsets that really can travel, 7. magnetic boards for boys & girls, 8. reusable sticker books never go out of style, 9. animal cars that go where you do, 10. suction kupz that grow with your kids.

• 11. Baby's First Travel Toy

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The best travel toys are compact, easy to pack, incredibly engaging and enough to keep kids entertained more than once or twice.

Here are 11 travel toys that I love and that are popular with my readers are b repeatedly. They’re all fun play items in general, and are particularly ideal for travel.

There are items for babies and toddlers, preschoolers, school-age kids and even tweens

Tip : How many toys you should bring with you when you travel depends on your child’s age, interests and how far you’re traveling. Toddler attention spans max out at 20 or 30 minutes, so variety and novelty are important. School-age kids can engage for an hour or more in an activity they like.

I hope your kids will love one or more of these as they get older.

More Kid Fun on the Go : Here are building sets , arts & crafts and puzzles that travel. Plus, books to make your kids curious about the world

11 Travel Toys To Keep Tweens, Kids & Tots Happy In Cars, Trains & Planes

Make your tween’s day with this Fortune Teller-making kit from Klutz .

This paperback has tear-out sheets tweens can fill in however they wish, and then follow instructions (if they need to) to fold them into fortune-tellers for them and their friends.

A reader found this and I really wish I had come across it a few years ago.

Ages: 10 to 13YO

I discovered Wikki Stix when a waiter in a kid-friendly restaurant handed my kid a 5-pack with the children’s menu.

My readers with school-age kids love them, too, especially this travel kit , which comes with 144 sticks in a wide range of colors, an ideas book and a reusable palate where they can use the sticks to draw. Plus a case to carry it all!

I used to buy 2 dozen 5-piece packs and I’d stash them everywhere: my purse, glove compartment, carry-on, my kid’s backpack.

Just remember that they’re wax. Like crayons, it’s best not to leave them on a window sill or in a hot car.

Age: 7 to 10YO

I was startled by how popular this simple update on the old Etch-a-Sketch is with my readers.

This Playskool Magnatab is fun for school-age kids who like to tinker.

A magnetic pencil pulls metal balls to the surface of the pad to make whatever letters and shapes they want.

And they can lift the pen up, so no weird lines will criss-cross their drawing.

Age: 6 to 10YO

These sticky playfoam dots look like they might get everywhere. But they don’t and are actually a perfect travel toy.

At the toy show where I found them, school-age kids, including my own, were playing with them non-stop.

Kids love the way these moldable dots feel in their hands and they can shape and manipulate them in different ways than they do clay or Play-Doh.

Readers are buying this party pack of 20 because it lets you bring a few colors with you anytime you’re on a plane, in a car, at a restaurant or anywhere away from home.

Age: 5 to 9YO

The eeBoo Koala Cozy Cottage Pop-Up Playhouse Book is another amazing reader find I wish I could take credit for.

Folded up, it’s as thick as your average picture book. Open it up, and you have a four-room cottage where a koala can have adventures with bear, tiger and penguin friends.

Ages: 4 to 7O

Most “travel” dollhouses aren’t actually all that portable. But Playmobil has a line of Take-Along play sets that really are small enough for kids to take with them to a relative’s or a vacation house.

Choose from City Life sets like this classroom that will fit on an airplane tray table. There’s also a compact fire station , grocery store , or pirate island , among others.

Each one comes with two or three play figures and accessories.

Age: 4 to 7YO.

These Mudpuppy Magnetic boards are making a comeback thanks to themes like Good Night, Good Night Construction site .

The metal case comes with four scene boards and 25 magnets boys and girls can use to act out scenes from the book or their own imagination.

The other ten sets include Girl Power , Rockets and Woodland Ballet .

Ages: 3 to 6YO

Sticker books and sticker scenes have gotten me through I don’t know how many long dinners and traffic jams.

These FancyWhoop reusable sticker books come in sets of six; ideal if you have a few kids or just one kid and a very long drive ahead.

Choose this set or one that’s more nature-focused, with dinosaurs , a farm and ocean animals .

Ages: 2 to 4YO

We had a blue hippo on wheels that was one of our best toddler travel toys; it went with us everywhere.

Toddler-aged Tiny Traveler would play with it in the shallow end of a hotel pool, on the floor of the hotel room or even on airplanes.

So I see why readers are buying this Animal Car Team . Every time you fly you can take a different pair, so your toddler never gets bored.

They’re small enough that you can take them all if you’re road-tripping.

Age: 1 to 4YO

Fat Brain’s Suction Kupz are great travel toys because they can be played with in so many different ways as babies turn into toddler and then preschoolers.

Nest them, squash them, stack them, just for starters. My toddler would have spent a good amount of time putting tiny items like Goldfish crackers into the various cups, pouring them out and switching them around.

They can be impromptu bath or beach toys, too, making them one of the best travel toys for preschoolers. And their slim profile fits easily into a travel bag. So you can take them anywhere.

And you’ll want to take them everywhere.

11. Baby’s First Travel Toy

I’m a fan of Fat Brain and these three baby toys are unique and designed well.

Dimpl is small enough to pop into a diaper bag or purse and it gives little fingers brightly colored half-spheres to poke and push around.

It’s getting more popular with my readers every year.

Age: Up to 18 months

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Best Travel Toys for 1 Year Olds: Plane, Road Trip & Hotel Toys for Toddlers

May 12, 2021 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

Keep Your One Year Old Entertained With These Great Toys for Traveling

Traveling with a one-year-old can be a tricky age for a family trip, particularly during the “getting there” phase of travel via a plane or car.

1-year-olds aren’t quite old enough to completely zone out with a tablet, or even if they will watch a show or two, they probably aren’t fans of headphones yet. Plus, they’ve likely just discovered the awe and wonder of walking and don’t like to sit — they want to explore!

I’ve been on many trips with my daughters when they were young toddlers and if there’s one thing I’ve learned about traveling with a 1-year old, it’s that proper preparation is key! This is especially the case when it comes to forms of entertainment while flying or driving. Over the course of many trips, I found some tried and true toys for one year olds that will help to make traveling with the little ones a bit easier.

Below, I’ve listed out my top toy picks for any type of travel with a 1-year-old plus more favorite toys of mine for traveling with a young toddler in a plane, car, or hotel.

My Top 3 Picks for Travel Toys for Young Toddlers

Before I get into specific toys for flying, driving, or staying in a hotel, here are my top three picks for the best toys for travel overall with a 1-year-old. I chose these because they’re easy to pack, they are handy to have on just about any type of trip, and they can provide hours of entertainment for toddlers over the course of the trip.

#1 Indestructible Books

One year olds love books, especially ones they can do what they want with. So I especially love the Indestructibles series of books for travel because they are thin and can be easily shoved in a bag — plus, per the name, they are tear-proof, waterproof, and chew-proof, so they can double as a book to read that you don’t mind turning into a teething toy (or was it just my young toddler that destroyed all her board books by chewing on them??). They’re also ideal for taking to the beach or pool for that reason, too.

This one about things that go is perfect for a trip!

#2 Stuffed Animal with Buckles

Give them a new stuffed animal to hug on the trip and promote sensory skills — while keeping your child entertained — with this adorable penguin stuffie that has buckles for your one year old to practice clasping. There are also numbers and shapes on the penguin’s belly and back to promote more learning opportunities.

#3 Chain Link Toy

Basic round link toys might not seem that special, but it is a hard hitter when it comes to best toys for traveling with a 1-year-old. These toys can be chewed on, they can provide long periods of concentration as your little one tries to link and unlink them, they can be stacked, they can be tossed. But best of all for travel: they can be attached to a carseat or plane tray so you’re not constantly having to pick toys up off the floor!

You can up your chain game by adding something like this into the mix .

Best 1-Year Old Travel Toys for Road Trips

I know a lot of us parents are road tripping these days, and there’s nothing much worse on a road trip (well, besides a car disaster) than a screaming or whining child in the backseat for hours on end. So, here are my favorite toys to bring along on a road trip with a 1-year old to keep them entertained and as quiet as possible (ha!) in the backseat.

Steering Wheel Toy

This Turn and Learn Driver toy has provided our family with endless entertainment. It’s fun on road trips for toddlers because your little one can pretend to be driving, too, plus it has lights and sounds to keep them engaged. This toy goes the distance, too, as they grow. My kids may not be little toddlers anymore, but they still play with this at home when they build car forts and airplanes out of boxes. Well worth the money!

This genius quiet book is soft and easy to hold onto in the car. Plus, it will keep your little one entertained in his or her carseat while figuring out how to navigate each page. This quiet beach helps with sensory skills such as learning how to zip and buckle, and also has activities to teach shapes, numbers, and letters, plus more hands-on activities to keep little ones engaged on long car rides.

Best 1-Year-Old Travel Toys for Airplanes

Oh the joys of flying with a 1-year-old on an airplane. Wait, did I say joy? I mean stress…lots and lots of stress. If you’re like our family, then your one year old little cutie is still a lap baby on the plane. And keeping a child contained on your lap for the duration of a flight is no easy task.

These are the toys and books that I have found most entertained my young toddlers on a plane ride. We even brought my youngest to Italy when she was one! And the flight went about as smoothly as we could hope.

Lift-the-Flap Books

Lift-the-flap books are also great at keeping young toddlers entertained. I recommend them more for airplane rides than road trip since back in a carseat those flaps might be ripped all the way off! This lift-the-flap book about airplanes is perfect for flight entertainment.

My kids also loved this lift-the-flap Pout, Pout, Fish book when they were toddlers.

Sorting Puzzle Toy

This Montessori-style shape sorting puzzle is ideal for plane rides. It fits on the seat tray and the pieces are big enough that (hopefully) you’ll be able to easily find any pieces that fall under the seat. Plus, the carrots are an easy shape for 1-year-olds to grab and easily try to get into each hole on their own, keeping them entertained so you can maybe take a quick mental break from the stress of flying with a toddler ! Also, there aren’t sounds so you don’t have to worry about annoying your neighbor.

Fidget Toy for Toddlers

This is another quiet game that doesn’t take up much space and will keep a one-year-old entertained. It’s a fidget bubble “popper” with large bubbles young toddlers can push and play with.

Best 1-Year-Old Travel Toys for Hotel Stays

Now for the hotel or resort or vacation rental stay after you get to your destination. If you’re not staying with family members who (hopefully) already have toys at their house, then you’re going to want to plan for some room in your luggage for something to keep your kid entertained during the downtime in your accommodation.

Also, I don’t bring a ton for this because I inevitably buy a couple souvenirs while traveling for my kids to play with during (and after) the trip. But here are my faves that always got put in the suitcase when I had a 1-year-old traveling with me.

Take-Along Play Mat with Figures

I loved having this toy for hotel stays when my girls were little because it was easy to pack (it folds up and keeps the characters inside) and the built-in play mat provided a playing surface that wasn’t a gross hotel room floor. (You never think about how disgusting hotel room floors probably are until you have a crawler!)

There’s also this version with cars and trucks.

Shape Sorter Toy

Another great hotel toy is a shape sorter that also serves as a toy. I brought one along with me on an Alaska cruise with my 1-year old, during which we stayed in a very small inside stateroom and this toy was great for her to play with in the room and didn’t take up much space. They don’t make the one I brought anymore, but it was similar to this barnyard shape sorter .

Hope this toy guide for traveling with a 1-year-old helps you on your future travels with your little one. And let me know if you discover another awesome toy for young toddlers on trips! 🙂

I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

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The 20 Best Travel Toys for 1-Year-Olds for Flights and Road Trips

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The Best Travel Toys for 1-Year-Olds

We’ve been traveling with our toddler since he was two months old, and did most of our traveling before the quarantine when he was 1 year old. Based on our experience we compiled a list of the best travel toys for 1-year-olds that helped us make traveling with a baby easier.

Disclosure: Kindly be aware that certain links provided below may be affiliate links. If you decide to purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It’s important to note that I am an Amazon Associate and earn from qualifying purchases. For the comprehensive disclosure statement, please click here .

Many people believe traveling with a baby is too difficult when reality, it’s I think traveling with a baby is much easier than  traveling with a toddler .

Although you need more  baby gear ,  you don’t have to chase them around, and they haven’t started using the word “no” yet.

Babies are the perfect traveling companion because they only need food, a clean diaper, and affection. Plus, they are free almost everywhere, so I recommend traveling with babies.

By the time our son was one year old, he’d been to Oahu , Playa del Carmen (where we lived for nearly two years), Guatemala, Colorado, and B eijing . 

Travel toys helped keep our little guy entertained whether we were traveling on an airplane, train, bus, or car. 

These travel toys will help your baby’s fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem-solving, and exploring their senses.

Here are our favorite travel toys for 1-year-olds.

Related Post: Best Airplane Toys for Toddlers

How To Entertain a 1 Year Old While Traveling

Innybin shape sorting baby toy.

The   InnyBin Shape Sorting Baby Toy  is a fun and unique travel toy for 1-year-olds. Parents rave about this toy in the reviews, which is it is one of our favorite toys for babies. 

This toy has over 1,200 reviews and a 4.8 out of 5-star rating. With rave reviews like this, we had to include it on our list of the best travel toys for babies .

There are several different shape sorters, but this one has elastic bands that challenge them to help build their problem-solving skills. Your baby will work on spatial reasoning, fine motor skills, and tactile exploration. 

What we love most about this travel toy is how your little one can use it as they continue to grow. You and your little one will love this fun travel toy.

InnyBin Shape Sorting Baby Toy Price

Fat Brain Toys for Babies

Last update on 2024-04-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Read More: 20 Travel Toys for 3-Year-Olds

LeapFrog 100 Words and 100 Animals Book Set

We purchased the  LeapFrog 100 Words and 100 Animals Book Set  for our son’s first birthday, and it’s been one of our son’s favorite travel toys ever since.

It’s one of our favorite travel toys for one-year-olds because it encourages speech development, vocabulary expansion, language skills, and object recognition.  

This book helps your baby learn words, animals, opposites, fruit, food, and more. It’s the perfect toy to grow with your baby into their toddler years.

Based on our experience, this is one of the best travel toys for 1-year-olds, especially for   road trips . 

LeapFrog 100 Words Book Set is one of the toys we used to  survive our road trip  from  San Diego  to  Colorado Springs  when we started our  family gap year .

What I love most about this toy is that the volume is loud enough to hear but soft enough so that it isn’t annoying for parents. 

Toys without volume control drive me crazy, so I’m happy Leap Frog got the message and provided volume control to keep us parents sane.

This road trip travel toy for babies is a win/win scenario for everyone. You can keep your little ones entertained while they learn.

LeapFrog 100 Words and 100 Animals Book Sett Price

Soft Stacking Blocks

Soft Stacking Blocks   are one of the best travel toys for 1-year-olds because they are soft enough to chew, have different textures, shapes, animals, and make a whistling sound.

These travel toys are a must for babies as young as 6 months to young toddlers up to 3 years old . The money you spend on these blocks will be worth it. I just purchased these after finding them while researching this article :).

These stacking blocks have letters, numbers, animals, fruit, and a matching game for shapes. Plus, they double as a teether because we know how much 1-year-olds love to put things in their mouth.

Soft Stacking Blocks Price

Read More: 10 Mess-Free Travel Activities for 2-Year-Olds

Stacking & Nesting Rings

We love this  Stacking & Nesting Rings  set because it is soft enough for 1-year-olds to chew on, and they can stack them anyway they want. Each ring has a different texture for them to touch and whistles when they squeeze them.

The rings can be stacked in different ways, so they will not get frustrated trying to stack them properly. These travel toys are great teethers, so it’s a two-in-one combo.

On top of being functional, these stacking rings have attractive colors. They are the perfect size for little hands, and your baby can keep using them well into their toddler years.

Stacking & Nesting Rings Price

Related Post: 25 Travel Toys for Babies

Fisher-Price My First Fidget Cube

If your baby is full of energy (like our son is, he’s such a busybody), you need a travel toy that’ll keep their attention. Our son likes to figure out how things work, so the Fisher-Price My First Fidget Cube was a win.

We purchased it when he was 10 months old for a flight to Mexico, and he played with it. Now that he is 2 years old, he still likes to mess with it and try to take it apart.

There are six different sides for your little one to play. You don’t think about their finger development, but this toy helps strengthen your baby’s fingers. They have to grasp, spin, toggle, and push different textures, colors, and shapes.

Your 1-year-old will love this travel toy on a road trip or an airplane. It’s fun, inexpensive, and educational.

Fisher-Price My First Fidget Cube Price

Read More: Best Travel Toys for 3-Year-Old

Buckle Toy – Blu Whale

Buckle toys are fun developmental toys for 1-year-olds. We wish we would have used this as our son’s comfort toy instead of the large blanket (bigger than a throw blanket) he uses to comfort himself.

This fun plush toy has six buckles that help babies develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, colored clasps, shapes, and numbers. It’s soft and cuddly, so your little one can take it for bedtime.

There are different designs to choose from, so your baby can play with their favorite character during long car rides or on an airplane. These are the ultimate baby toys for airplanes , especially for kids 18 months to 2 years old.

Buckle Toy Price

Last update on 2024-04-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Related Post: Disney World with Babies, Toddlers, or Preschoolers

Melissa & Doug Take-Along Shape Sorter

We couldn’t write a blog post about the best travel toys for 1-year-olds without including the  Melissa & Doug Take-Along Shape Sorter .  This shape sorter is one of the most popular travel toys for babies and toddlers.

There are different elements to this travel toy that your baby will love. The blocks are textured so they can feel the differences between the shapes. Plus, the other side of the toy has crinkly flaps that reveal pictures of common items to help your baby with object recognition.

Your baby can learn and play, which is why this is one of our favorite baby toys for airplane rides. There is no sound so you do not disturb the people around you.

The carrying case is part of the toy, so the blocks will not get lost as you travel. This is one of the best road trip toys for babies and toddlers.

Melissa & Doug Take-Along Shape Sorter Price

Soft Alphabet Cards

My wife always has flashcards for our son. As a preschool teacher, she can’t help herself. He has several educational toys, so soft alphabet cards are perfect for 1-year-olds.

These cards are cloth, so you don’t have to worry about ripping them, which is always our toddler’s goal. The letters are upper and lower case with words and pictures to help your little one learn.

Your baby will have a blast while learning. Plus, they are virtually indestructible, which is exactly what toddlers need.

Related Post: Best Road Trip Toys for Toddlers

Soft Alphabet Cards Price

The First Years Stack Up Cup Toys

Stacking blocks are one of the most popular toys for babies. You can entertain a lap baby on an airplane by stacking and unstacking the cups, as well as hiding objects underneath.

What we like about these stacking cups, in particular, are the holes in the bottom. The holes make these great bathtub or pool toys for your baby.

Along with the holes at the bottom of these stacking cups, there are numbers. Your baby will learn how to count and number recognition as they get older.

These are one of our favorite car toys for 1-year-olds. Learning, fun, and more importantly, no sound.

Related Post: Top 20 LEGO Alternatives for Babies and Big Kids

Stack Up Cup Toys Price

The Best Airplane Toys For 1-Year-Olds

We created a separate section specifically for airplane toys for a 1-year-old. The toys in this section are perfect for traveling on a plane with a one-year-old. These travel toys are quiet, functional, and fun.

Read More: The 15 Best Crayons for Toddlers

Sea Animal Fabric Cloth Book

The sea animal cloth book is perfect for traveling with babies. There are different interactive elements to this cloth book that babies will love.

What makes this book fun is the elements of the book are toys. The hook ring is a teething toy, with a mirror on the back page, crinkle paper, and eight fun legs.

We know books aren’t the most exciting toys for babies, but they’ll enjoy this cloth book.

Related Post: Best Travel Books for Toddlers

Sea Animal Fabric Cloth Book Price

You must admit you can’t help yourself when there is bubble paper around there is something in you that has to pop it. If that is the case for adults, it’s most certainly the case for kids. 

Toys Dimpl  is a fun travel toy with silicone bubbles for them to pop again and again. Your baby will learn cause & effect, fine motor skills, and sensory exploration.

The toy is the size of an average adult hand, so it will not take up too much space in your travel diaper bag . It’s the perfect size for traveling with a baby.

Toys Dimpl Price

Sensory Travel Toys for 1-Year-Olds

Egg Baby Teether

The  Dino Eggie Teether  became a lifesaver when our son started getting his teeth. He didn’t get his first tooth until he was one, but we purchased this when he was three months old.

My wife wasn’t happy about the purchase, but it came in handy when we were in Hawaii, and he wanted something to chew.

After over nine months, this was the best teether we had to relieve his pain, and it was crucial on our flights, from the time he was 18 months old to almost 2 years old.

Our son loved this teether, so if you are traveling with a teething 1-year-old, this may be a good option.

Egg Baby Teether Price

Baby Touch & Feel Baby Animals

Our son loves touch-and-feel books. Even now that he’s 2-years-old, he still plays with them. Touch and feel books are one of the best plane toys for a 1-year-old, especially if you plan on flying with your baby in your lap.

The best plane toys for a 1-year-old are quiet, functional, and fun. Touch books help your baby learn and recognize different textures. They will enjoy the fur of a soft bunny, puppy, and little duckling.

Related Post: Must-Have Items When Traveling With A Baby

Baby Touch & Feel Baby Animals Price

Touch & Feel Books

Baby Beads Wood Rattle

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The  Baby Beads Wood Rattle   will have your 1-year-old transfixed trying to figure it out. I know your first thought is if these are a choking hazard, and they are not.

The balls are large, but they are drilled, into the structure, so it is unlikely they will become loose enough for your baby to put in their mouth.

This rattle is heavier than other rattles to will help your one-year-old with their hand and arm strength. The developmental toy is one of the best-selling wooden toys on Amazon. You can trust the hundreds of positive reviews.

Although this toy is a little old-fashioned, it still gets the job done. If you are looking for a travel toy from a brand you can trust, this wood rattle is a good choice.

Paw Patrol Finger Puppets

Finger puppets are the ultimate plane toys for 1-year-olds because they do not take up much space, do not make noise, are easy to use, and are easy to clean.

The Paw Patrol puppets are the most popular finger puppets for babies, but there are many other characters to choose from, so if your little one loves Mickey Mouse, they are available too.

We used puppets when our son was 9 months old, and he enjoyed loved peek-a-boo. Even now, he still loves to play peek-a-boo with one of the puppets we decided to keep after he turned 2-years-old.

Paw Patrol Finger Puppets Price

Best-Selling Puppets for 1-Year-Olds

The Best Road Trip Travel Toys for 1-Year-Olds

The travel toys in this section are perfect for taking road trips with your 1-year-old. They are the best car travel toys for babies from six months to 2 years old.

These travel toys are perfect for 18-month-olds learning how to become more independent. Here is our list of the best travel toys for road trips with 1-year-olds.

Related Post: 15 Travel Games for Toddlers & Preschoolers

Lamaze Walla Koala, Clip On Toy

The  Lamaze Walla Koala Clip-On Toy  is a cute clip-on toy that can hang from your baby’s car seat while on a road trip. The tail is silicone, so they can chew on it to relieve teething pain. 

It’s an easy travel toy that clips onto a travel diaper bag, stroller, or high chair. The bright colors and patterns support your baby’s visual stimulation.

Your baby will feel different textures since this toy helps stimulate their sensory play. The best part, it’s machine washable, so after your baby has slobbered and chewed on it, you can throw it in the washer.

Lamaze Walla Koala Price

Lamaze Clip-On Toy

Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Singin Soccer Ball

The  Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Singin Soccer Ball  is a fun travel toy that your baby can play with in the car during a road trip and while on vacation.

It’s a travel toy that will help your baby learn with songs and phrases. There are three different play modes, which encourage learning, music, and imagination.

To activate the soccer ball, all your little one has to do is roll or shake it. We all know 12 to 18-month-olds are experts at shaking things. 

They’ll learn about counting, opposites, colors, sportsmanship, and sharing. This is one of the travel toys that your baby can continue to play with as they get older.

Luckily, there is a volume button, so you can decrease the volume when you are tired of hearing the songs in the car. Plus, it’s machine washable, so all you need to do is remove the electronic portion and throw the ball in the washer.

Laugh & Learn Singin Soccer Ball Price

Pull-Back Plush Car Set

The Pull-Back Plush Car Set is a fun car set for babies, especially those still chewing on their toys. These plush cars are perfect for traveling on a road trip with a baby.

Since these cars are powered by friction, there are no batteries; these cloth cars can be washed in water.

Babies 12 months and older will enjoy playing with these cars, which include a travel bag. The travel bag doubles as a road, which makes playing on the floor with the taxi, police car, ambulance, and donut truck even more fun.

Pull-Back Plush Car Set Price

Related Post: Our Baby First-Aid Kit for Travel

B. toys – FunKeys

I don’t know what it is, but babies love playing with kids. When our son was a baby, he always managed to pull my keys off the counter (by the lanyard) and play with or hide them.

To keep him from playing with my keys, we purchased the B. toys – FunKeys . These keys are the perfect road trip travel toys for babies 18 months and older. The material is non-toxic plastic, so they are safe for teething little ones.

The buttons on these keys are perfect for a baby’s tiny fingers. Each button makes a different sound, so your baby can imitate you. Plus, there is a flashlight button, which may come in handy when you are looking for your keys if your baby gets ahold of them.

These toddler keys will be great as your baby becomes a toddler. They’re one of the most realistic keys for toddlers that want to be like mom or dad.

B. toys – FunKeys Price

iPlay, iLearn Baby Stacking Toy

There is already a stacking toy on our list, but the iPlay, iLearn Baby Stacking Toy is a fun travel toy for babies because it sings.

Each of the six rings has a different texture. The rings include a sunflower rattle, teething ring, windmill rattle, crinkle ring, and a beeping duck.

Your baby will love the sounds this road trip travel toy makes, as it simulates a white noise machine.

iPlay, iLearn Baby Stacking Toy Price

Check out our other travel toy and activity guides:

• The 25 Best Travel Toys for Babies
• 20 Toys to Keep Toddlers Busy on an Airplane
• 25 Beach Toys for Toddlers
• Our Favorite Travel Toys for 3-Year-Olds
• 15 Travel Games for Toddlers
• 20 Fun Travel Toys for 4-Year-Olds
• Our Favorite Headphones for Toddlers
• 20 Screen-Free Road Trip Toys for Toddlers
• 10 Mess-Free Travel Activities for 2-Year-Olds
• 50 Road Trip Activities for Toddlers
• LeapFrog Tablets for Toddlers to Promote Learning
• 20 Educational Travel Toys for 5-Year-Olds
• 15 Fun Airplane Activities for Toddlers
• The Best Learning Tablets for Toddlers
• 20 Snow Toys for Toddlers and Big Kids

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6 thoughts on “the 20 best travel toys for 1-year-olds for flights and road trips”.

Buckle Toy – Blu Whale toy is a hit with my two-and-a-half-year-old. I bought it to keep her occupied and quiet on a long trip. The small zippered mouth pocket was also ideal for storing small gifts for each flight (four total round trip). This is an excellent product.

That’s great!! Anything that keeps them happy is a win in my book. Our son recently got into the Water Wow color pads and mess-free coloring books. They’ve been great for keeping him busy on flights.

She sat silently all the way through which was a huge win for us. Highly recommend it!

I like that you mentioned getting stacking blocks with different textures and shapes to them. My wife and I are going on a road trip with our 13-month-old and are looking for some fun new ways to entertain him. Thank you so much for the article on what toys are best for traveling!

I love this post! I have a one-year-old and I’m always on the lookout for toys that will make road trips and flights easier. This list is great!

I love this post! I have a one-year-old and I’m always on the lookout for the best airplane travel toys for him. Thanks for the list!

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Traveling with One-Year-Old: What to Pack (PDF Checklist)

After nearly 20 flights with my one-year-old son, I thought I’d share exactly what’s in my carry-on — in checklist form — so you can just print it off and copy my list for your next trip!

I’ll share my checklist here with all of my explanations and then link a clean PDF version of this checklist at the bottom of this article for you to print at home or access on your phone later!

What Kind of Bag Should I Pack for My One-Year-Old’s Carry-On?

I like to use a backpack diaper bag personally. This way, I can pack everything I need and still have my hands free to wrangle my little budding toddler through the airport.

The exact type and size of backpack you choose will depend on your own personal preferences, but having been through a couple of different ones myself, I find that I like to have one with SEPARATE compartments for each of the following:

• Diaper change items (diapers, mat, wipes, bum cream, hand sanitizer)
• Food/snacks
• Activities (toys, books stickers) and extra clothes can go together
• Miscellaneous (nail clippers, pacifiers, chap stick, etc.)

I like to keep these items separated from each other (especially diaper change and food items). When there aren’t enough compartments and everything is thrown in together, it drives me crazy on travel days!

What to Pack in Your One-Year-Old’s Carry-On (Diaper Bag)

You want to have the perfect balance of packing exactly what you need, and not having too much excess to lug around with you while traveling. That’s what I hope this checklist can you for you and your family! Download my clean PDF checklist at the bottom of this article, or follow along with this checklist jpg image below:

Diaper Change items to pack

You want to pack diaper change items in their own pocket/section of your carry-on, to be EASILY accessed in case of a blow-out emergency on the plane. Make sure you don’t have to go digging for a diaper and wipes. Your diaper change pocket will have:

• Diapers (8 per travel day)
• Wipes (1-2 packs — you’ll also be using them to wipe down the airplane seat and other surfaces during travel)
• Diaper rash cream (under 100 ml)
• Hand sanitizer bottle (under 100 ml)
• A large Ziploc bag in case you need to separate dirty clothes or a dirty diaper
• Foldable changing mat

Food and Drink items to pack

You want to be sure and pack your one-year-old’s favorite snacks and drinks (and some novel ones too!). I like to pack a variety of snacks and put them in different containers. I use snack catchers so that my son can access his snacks independently without making a huge mess.

I also like to put his snacks into pill organizer boxes to make it a bit of a fun activity for him. I bring mostly dry snacks because they make less of a mess, but I do like to bring a bit of fruit sometimes too.

You may want to bring your toddler’s milk in case you aren’t able to buy the kind you need at the airport/on the plane.

Going through security with milk can sometimes be a headache , as the rules are not always clear about what liquids are allowed — even for people traveling with littles. Do research on your specific country’s allowances before leaving and take screenshots to show the workers at security.

We have been very fortunate to take all of our liquids for our son easily through security so far, but I know that’s not been the case for everyone.

Activities and Entertainment to pack

I like to be over-prepared when it comes to entertainment. Sitting still is HARD for a one-year-old. They are going to want to explore.

Walking the aisles is a perfectly acceptable activity for a one-year-old on a plane, but for times when the seatbelt sign is on, here are some entertainment ideas you’ll want to have ready in your carry-on:

• a tablet pre-loaded with shows and movies
• toddler headphones
• puffy stickers
• magnetic blocks
• Water Wow books

I actually wrote an ENTIRE article on 20 cheap and easy activity ideas for one-year-olds on the plane, so I highly recommend you check that out for more fun ideas!

Clothes to pack/Dressing your One-Year-Old on the Plane

I think PAJAMAS are the way to go for travel days. A cozy outfit (with 2-3 cozy back up outfits in the carry-on) is what you want for your one-year-old in the airport/on the plane.

For shoes, we usually put our son in slip-on soft leather shoes . He doesn’t need “real” shoes because we’re indoors all day on travel days. And soft shoes are much more comfortable for us when he’s crawling all over our legs on the airplane. Keep it simple:

• Pajamas (2-3)
• Socks (2 pairs)

Try to limit bringing complicated separates — they get lost. Try not to bring your favorite outfits traveling — they tend to get dirty or possibly destroyed.

Avoid outfits with snaps and buttons , which can be frustrating on a travel day that has enough frustrations already! Zippers all the way!

Sleep items to pack

To encourage sleeping on the plane, try to mimic some of the sleep cues you use at home. Bring items that usually bring your toddler comfort, such as:

• a special blanket or teddy bear (be careful not to lose this in transit!)
• pacifiers and pacifier leashes
• portable sound machine

If you’re paying for a seat for your toddler , you have the option of bringing your car seat onboard the plane. Many toddlers sleep best in a familiar environment such as a car seat. Alternatively, you could bring an inflatable bed or inflatable footrest (but keep in mind that these aren’t allowed on some airlines — do your research first).

If you’ll have your toddler on your lap , practice putting them to sleep on you at home if this is not something usual for them.

Health and Emergency items to Pack

Bring a small first aid kit with a thermometer . You want to be able to bandage minor injuries and take your baby’s temperature if necessary. This is something we’ve needed on multiple trips, unfortunately.

Baby Tylenol or the equivalent should also be part of your pack. I like to bring adult Tylenol for myself too, just in case.

What to Pack in Mom’s Carry-on Bag

I like to bring a separate small backpack for myself, which I usually put in the overhead bin on the plane. And then I wear a fanny pack throughout our travel day, where I keep things that would be devastating to misplace or have stolen: Passports, wallet, keys, phone.

I usually wear a comfortable, dark-colored outfit (something in the realm of athleisure wear ) and I’m ready to go!

You can see the full list of items I bring for myself in the checklist, but I want to point out especially: an extra outfit (for you — because you never know when you’re traveling with a baby), a baby monitor to have handy as soon as you arrive at your destination, and small travel-sized toiletries in the case of delays or cancellations.

Also, don’t forget extra batteries for everything, chargers, and plug converters for the country you’re heading to.

Additional Items to Pack: Strollers, Carriers, Car Seats, etc.

Depending on where you’re traveling and how long, you may want to consider bringing some additional items. Let’s talk about strollers, carriers, and car seats. And also about some items you really don’t need to bring.

In some destinations, we’ve found that a stroller just isn’t practical. The many stairs or cobblestones, etc. have made navigating with a stroller really difficult and we didn’t use it at all, preferring a carrier or hiking backpack instead.

But if you are going to bring your stroller traveling (and in many cases, it is a good idea), consider bringing one that is lightweight and foldable. There are some that fit in the overhead compartment onboard the plane.

Baby Carrier

We have sworn by the Lille Baby carrier since our son was very little and we’re still using it now at 15 months. We also like the Trail Magik for short trips and hikes and our hiking backpack (for hiking and sightseeing).

If you’re going to be driving or taking taxis at your destination, it’s probably a good idea to travel with your car seat. Your baby is already comfortable with the one you have and won’t have to get used to a rental.

You might also want to use it on the airplane if you’ve purchased a seat for your child (or if there happens to be a free seat available next to you).

Check and make sure that your car seat is approved to be used on airplanes and in the country where you’re traveling beforehand. There’s usually a sticker on your car seat that will tell you this, and the information can often be found on an airline’s website.

What NOT to bother packing

Don’t bother packing items that you can easily rent or request from your hotel/Airbnb at your destination. These include:

• a baby bed/toddler bed
• a high chair
• a baby bathtub

If you’re not worried about traveling light, then sure — go for it. But for most parents trying to conserve space and not travel with overpacking luggage, you don’t need these items.

Beds and high chairs can be requested from most hotels and Airbnbs. Toddlers can be bathed in the tub at your destination, in the shower with you, or in a sink.

What to Pack in Your Checked Bags for You and Your One-Year-Old

In addition to this checklist, you’re going to want to pack your checked luggage . I don’t have a specific checklist for checked luggage because it varies so much between families and the nature of their travels. So I’ll just give a few general pointers here:

• Don’t overpack. Bring less than you think you’ll need. Keep some space in your bag for unplanned purchases.
• Don’t pack a bunch of toys. Your toddler will be fascinated by new things at your destination. A couple of small toys will do.
• Bring toddler clothes that you’re not in love with — that you wouldn’t mind seeing get dirty, lost, or ruined.
• Don’t bring doubles and triples of things. You can usually buy a backup at your destination if needed.
• Don’t put any valuables or necessities (medications) in your checked bags.

PDF Version of ‘What to Pack for a One-Year-Old’ Checklist

Here is my PDF version packing checklist for a one-year-old that you just read about, for your convenience. I hope it helps!

Brittany is a Wayfaring Human who loves to adventure with her husband and son. When she's not having adventures, she's taking pictures of them and writing about them.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Flying With Kids

From activity books to wipes galore, everything you need for your next flight with kids.

Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley.

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Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

The trick to flying with young kids? Careful preparation. Our writer has traveled the world with twins, and she knows that flying with children can be miserable if you don't bring the right items on board with you. But with the right tools, a flight with your youngsters is not just feasible but can even be fun. We've rounded up all the supplies you’ll need for feeding, cleaning, soothing, and entertaining little ones — plus transporting all that cargo. So use this guide to prepare properly for your next family flight .

Packing Checklist for Flying With Kids

We've broken down all categories of things you’ll need to pack when flying with children and included the exact items we’d recommend.

Read more about our specific recommendations below and start your own checklist, too.

Entertainment 

• Best Tablet: Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Tablet
• Best Headphones: Puro Sound Labs BT2200s Kids’ Bluetooth Headphones
• Best Tech Stand: Airglo Cell Phone and Tablet Holder
• Best Coloring Book: Unicorn Imagine Ink Magic Ink Book
• Best Book: "Where’s Waldo? The Fantastic Journey"
• Best Activity Book: On the Plane Activity Book
• Best Craft: Purple Ladybug Wax Craft Sticks
• Best Game: Magnetic Travel Games
• Best Set: Mini Voyager 4-7 Jetsetter Travel Kit
• Best Sound Machine: Frida Baby Portable 2-in-1 Sound Machine
• Best Pillow and Blanket: Roamwild Kids Travel Pillow and Travel Blanket Set
• Best Portable Bed: Flyaway Kids Bed

Food and Drink

• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Yeti 12-ounce Kids Water Bottle
• Best Lollipops: Ring Pops (20 Count)
• Best Snacks: Healthy Snacks Variety Pack
• Best Snack Activity: Fred Match Up Memory Snack Tray
• Best Changing Pad: SkipHop Portable Baby Changing Pad
• Best Multi-purpose Wipes: Hello Bello Unscented Baby Wipes
• Best Face Wipes: Baby Wipes by Boogie Wipes
• Best Surface Wipes: Lysol Disinfecting Surface Wipes
• Best Hand Sanitizer: Kinia 8-pack Hand Sanitizer Holders
• Best Diaper Bag: Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack
• Best Crossbody Bag: Kibou Vegan Leather Fanny Pack Diaper Bag
• Best Kids Backpack: Herschel Backpack Kids 9L
• Best Wheeled Backpack: Jansport Driver 8 Backpack
• Best Carry-on Suitcase: Rockland London Hardside 20-inch Spinner
• Best Ride-on Suitcase: Jetkids by Stokke Bedbox 19-inch Ride-on Carry-on

Accessories

• Best Luggage Trackers: Apple AirTags
• Best First Aid Kit: PreparaKit Take Along First-aid Kit
• Best Storage Bags: Hefty Slider Storage Bags

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Entertaining kids is absolutely critical to keeping the peace on any flight. For babies and younger kids, one rule of thumb is to think of entertainment in 15-minute increments; bring enough options to rotate activities often. For older or generally tech-minded kids? Well, the magic power of screens sure comes in handy.

Best Tablet

Amazon fire hd 10 kids edition.

Why We Love It: This tablet has plenty of storage space and comes in a virtually indestructible case.

What to Consider: This isn’t as full-featured as, say, an iPad, so kids will outgrow it eventually.

Tablets are great for long-stretch occupation — just be sure to download your child's favorite shows and movies ahead of time rather than relying on airplane wifi to stream. Amazon’s Fire for kids simpler and less expensive than standard adult versions, and it comes with an indestructible, kid-friendly case with a stand. The Fire HD 10 also includes a two-year guarantee and a yearlong subscription to Amazon Kids+. We find this to be a great investment to keep children from ages 3 to 5 occupied.

Best Headphones

Puro sound labs bt2200s volume limited kids headphones.

Why We Love It: These Bluetooth headphones have a safe maximum volume for kids.

What to Consider: They are pricier than some alternative kids' headphones.

In the same way that you’ll likely lean hard on that tablet to keep kids occupied, you'll depend on quality kids' headphones to go with it. This compact but powerful pair is made to protect early hearing damage by following the World Health Organization’s recommendation of an 85dB-limited volume range. The Bluetooth capability has a 30-foot range of movement so the child can feel free to move about the cabin, too.The lightweight, durable headphones come in nine fun colors.

Best Tech Stand

Airglo airplane travel essentials.

Why We Love It: This universal tech holder is a great hands-free solution for use in planes, cars, and more.

What to Consider: It might not be the most secure stand for larger phones or tablets.

This nifty gadget is the brainchild of a flight attendant who saw a need for a phone stand that would allow passengers to watch movies and TV shows on long flights. Now kids can also watch on your devices hands-free with this tool that fits any brand’s gadgets. It folds fairly flat when not in use, and this lightweight stand could also be repurposed to hang a bag on a chair or tray table.

Best Coloring Book

Bendon unicorn imagine ink magic ink book.

Why We Love It: This compact book is small, self-contained, and mess-free.

What to Consider: The cover is slightly misleading: This book isn’t actually full of unicorn themes.

These invisible ink activity books are self-contained — no crayon collection to roll under plane seats — and guaranteed mess-free. Kids just use the Imagine Ink marker to stay busy with 16 pages of games, all in a portable-size book just right for tossing in a travel bag. We've found invisible ink books particularly effective for children aged 3 to 6.

Where's Waldo? The Fantastic Journey Paperback

Why We Love It: This book is challenging for kids of all ages (including pre-readers) and delivers on a healthy dose of nostalgia for parents as well.

What to Consider: A book will never be as tempting as a tablet for tech-addled kids.

Books that challenge little ones keep them entertained. And Where’s Waldo does just that — even for kids who aren’t reading yet. The paperback book is not only small and lightweight for travel, but its journey motif fits in nicely with vacation adventures, too.

Best Activity Book

On the plane activity book.

Why We Love It: This lightweight book gets kids excited about their flight, with plane-themed games and activities.

What to Consider: You’ll need to bring and keep track of your own coloring implements.

Engage kids in the excitement of travel with this activity book that has an airplane journey theme. Think: spot the identical pilots on their way through the airport, true-or-false airplane and flying facts, and more. Just pack a pencil (or probably two).

Purple Ladybug Wax Craft Sticks for Kids

Why We Love It: This generously stocked wax stick kit has plenty of sticks to share between or among siblings.

What to Consider: You'll probably leave some sticks on the floor and in the seats.

This set of wax craft sticks will be a novelty for most kids, and waxy sticks won’t roll away as easily as crayons or markers. This kit comes with 300 sticks in 15 colors and two different lengths, plenty for multiple siblings to have a go. Kids can endlessly shape and reshape them with no noise and no mess.

The Purple Cow Magnetic Animal Homes Matching Puzzle

Why We Love It: Magnetic pieces keep this tin game set together for play on the go.

What to Consider: Pieces are only magnetic on one side.

Nothing’s more frustrating than trying to travel with a game that’s rendered immediately useless after some essential piece slides irretrievably under an airplane or car seat. This compact game set provides a frustration-free alternative with magnets that keep everything together. We recommend it for children over 2.

Mini Voyager 4-7y Jetsetter Travel Kit

Mini Voyage

Why We Love It: This kit combines a customized array of kids entertainment items into one grab-and-go bundle.

What to Consider: You may save money by finding and buying all of these items separately (if you have the time and inclination).

If creating a DIY bag of entertainment ideas for every flight seems like a lot of work, buy this kit, which compiles it all for you in one convenient bundle. Choose from multiple items to build your own customized pack based on your kid’s interests and ages, including stickers, books, toys, and games.

When kids don’t get adequate rest, the whole thing goes off the rails in a hurry — for everyone. In addition to comfy clothes and layers, these packable items help keep children warm, soothed, and rested on the plane.

Best Sound Machine

Fridababy 2-in-1 portable sound machine.

Why We Love It: This portable sound machine also has a nightlight, and it hooks onto a tray table hinge or arm rest.

What to Consider: It can be hard to differentiate the buttons in the dark.

This little machine produces five soothing sounds for kids, including shushing and a heartbeat. It has an adjustable strap, so you can hook it onto an arm rest or or tray table hinge, or a car seat or stroller once off the plane. During your flight, just but be mindful of using anything beyond pink noise in flight out of respect to your fellow passengers. Conveniently, it also has a nightlight with three glow levels which could help you locate items in a dimmed cabin, too.

Best Pillow and Blanket

Roamwild kids travel pillow.

Why We Love It: This cute and cuddly set is a pillow, blanket, and toy all in one.

What to Consider: While the sleeve-style cover adds comfort to an armrest, it’s still an armrest — so it may be too firm for some kids’ tastes.

A travel pillow and blanket are always useful tools in keeping children cozy for long flights. This one has a niche feature: After you remove the blanket, the sleeve-style toy slides over any armrest to transform it into a kids’ pillow. So, it’s a penguin toy, a comfy pillow, and a warm blanket, all in one cute and compact package.

Best Portable Bed

Flyaway kids bed.

Why We Love It: Not just a place to sleep, this comfy surface also keeps toys and accessories from rolling onto the floor.

What to Consider: You’ll be happy to have it on the plane, but then you’ll be committed to traveling with it for the duration of your trip.

When kids are overtired, everyone loses. And a tool like this can be just the ticket for helping them sleep on long flights. The bed for babies, toddlers, and little kids inflates in 90 seconds and deflates quickly, too. It comes in a carry bag with a pump included, and it can be wiped clean.

When it comes to traveling with kids, you’ll always need more snacks than you think. Think you’ve packed enough? Great, now double it. And don’t forget a refillable water bottle to kep your kiddo hydrated.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Yeti rambler jr. kids bottle.

Why We Love It: This water bottle is impressively leakproof and made to withstand a beating.

What to Consider: The bottle itself is heavy, especially compared to its relatively small 12-ounce payload.

Staying hydrated with kids while traveling is a must, and this water bottle means business. The Yeti is durable, spill proof, and double-wall insulated to keep drinks cold (or warm) for hours. Plus, a straw cap makes it easy for kids to sip on the go.

Best Lollipops

Ring pop individually wrapped bulk lollipop variety party pack.

Why We Love It: It acts as both a snack and a bribe — er, reward , that is — and can help reduce ear discomfort on planes.

What to Consider: Nope, there’s no nutritional value here!

Lollipops and their ilk are a multifunction tool for traveling with kids: It’s a snack! It’s a reward! It keeps them busy! And the act of swallowing while sucking on them can also ease ear pressure on takeoff and landing. Even better, Ring Pops are a smart, toy-like alternative to stick lollies for hands-free holding.

Best Snacks

Stuff your sack healthy snacks variety pack organic care package.

Why We Love It: This variety pack includes 18 different flavors to keep kids interested.

What to Consider: The packaged snacks may be organic, but they are still processed food.

Having kids means having snacks handy at all times; traveling makes it all the more necessary to keep kids fed and comfortable to combat whining. This variety pack includes 25 organic packaged snacks from 19 different brands; 18 different flavors keep them intrigued as little surprises unfold throughout a long journey.

Best Snack Activity

Fred match up memory snack tray.

Why We Love It: Dispensing snacks this way keeps the experience fun for kids — and prolongs the process to keep them busy, too.

What to Consider: Make sure your child is able to push buttons.

Snacks serve two important functions: nutrition and amusement. For that reason, try to prolong these food breaks as a way to keep kids busy and amused. Try putting different snacks into this fun tray with compartments; it’s fun for littles to discover treats behind each door, and it adds time to the whole process. For slightly older toddlers and children, you can make a memory game out of it.

Keeping kids clean — and cleaning up after them — has long been a top concern among traveling parents. A global pandemic only underscored the importance of traveling with wipes and sanitizer.

Best Changing Pad

Skip hop pronto changing station.

Why We Love It: When you travel with your own changing pad, you’re guaranteed a non-public surface no matter where you are.

What to Consider: A separate changing pad may not be necessary if you have a diaper bag that comes with one.

Change a diaper on the go without fear of exposing baby to gross, public surfaces. This changing pad takes the form of a clutch, with a large mesh pocket that holds four diapers and accessories, plus a translucent wipes case. A front zipper pocket holds essentials like keys and cash. Drop it in any bag, or clip it on a travel stroller or luggage handle instead.

Best Multi-purpose Wipes

Hello bello unscented baby wipes.

Why We Love It: You can use these extra-soft baby wipes on just about everything.

What to Consider: These full-size packs aren’t tiny.

Is there nothing a baby wipe can't do? From diaper changes to on-the-go hand cleaning to wiping up half-eaten miscellany, traveling with baby wipes is a must. These are super soft with aloe and chamomile extract — and no alcohol, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, or parabens.

Best Face Wipes

Boogie wipes.

Why We Love It: These hypoallergenic, ultra-soft saline wipes are great for cleaning snotty faces and even clearing airways.

What to Consider: If you don’t want to pack a bag full of different wipe options, this specialty product might be the first to go.

With kids, runny noses are just about guaranteed for chunks of the year, and they're even more likely when you add in the fatigue and exposure from traveling. These hypoallergenic and alcohol-free cloths are designed expressly for nose-wiping, with gentle saline, vitamin E, aloe, and chamomile to soothe sensitive skin.

Best Surface Wipes

Lysol disinfecting wipes to-go pack.

Why We Love It: You’ll find tons of uses for this travel-sized package of wipes when traveling through public spaces with (or without) kids.

What to Consider: These are ideal for surfaces, but they are not for use on kids’ faces.

These germ-busting wipes are ideal for cleaning nonporous surfaces like a tray tables or seatback entertainment screens, and they're a must for both safety and peace of mind when traveling with littles known to touch everything.

Best Hand Sanitizer

Kinia 8 pack empty mixed kids hand sanitizer.

Why We Love It: These cute and colorful hand sanitizer holders keep gel easy to access for frequent cleanups.

What to Consider: Be advised these containers come empty, so you’ll need to fill with your favorite brand.

In addition to wipes, hand sanitizer is a must for quick cleaning on the go. Keep your gel handy by filling these colorful jelly wrap silicone carriers. The 1-ounce, flip-top-cap bottles attach with adjustable silicone cords to backpacks, diaper bags, and just about anywhere else.

Depending on kids’ ages and sizes, they may be candidates to tote their own cargo. Backpacks, rolling bags, and even ride-on options help keep the process moving smoothly. Adults, on the other hand, can benefit from bags that keep hands free in case they need to carry tired children or hold little hands along the way.

Best Diaper Bag

Dagne dover indi diaper backpack.

Why We Love It: This bag is sleek, chic, and unisex, and it delivers on functionality with tons of specialized compartments.

What to Consider: It's spacious and deep, so smaller items can be hard to spot in a hurry (and when are you not in a hurry when traveling with kids?).

Traveling with kids means prioritizing performance in a diaper bag ; we're huge fans of Dagne Dover because the brand fuses functionality with style so well. Done in chic, 100-percent vegan neoprene, this backpack-style diaper bag also clips to a stroller upon arrival. It includes a mini changing mat and extra pouches, with an extra zipper opening for easy access to wipes.

Best Crossbody Bag

Kibou diaper bag.

Why We Love It: This crossbody doubles as a compact diaper bag for hands-free convenience.

What to Consider: A diaper bag this small obviously isn’t a feasible option for longer outings or multiple babies, so consider your usage.

This vegan-leather waist pack, which extends into a crossbody, is a great choice for traveling through airports and wearing on the plane. The ultra-compact diaper bag has tons of features so you can travel hands free: A built-in waterproof pocket holds 20 wipes wet for up to a week, a detachable changing pad unfolds from the back flap, a hook holds a pacifier or key, slots secure credit cards or cash, and the nylon lining is wipeable and stain resistant. It's even possible to use this as a regular bag once your little ones are out of diapers, too.

Best Kids Backpack

Herschel heritage backpack | kids.

Why We Love It: Encouraging kids to carry their own backpack builds independence while keeping the family’s cargo moving.

What to Consider: This kid-size version is best for ages 3 to 7; move up to youth size for older kids.

Herschel has just the right size backpack for children preschool age and up to carry their own gear — both to help out the family and to develop a bit of self reliance. This kid-proportioned version is just 13 inches high and has a removable sternum support strap. The next size up is right for youths ages 8 to 12 and, at 15 inches high, it also features a 13-inch laptop or tablet sleeve.

Best Wheeled Backpack

Jansport driver 8 core series wheeled backpack.

Why We Love It: A rolling backpack keeps the weight off kids’ backs and holds a solid amount of cargo.

What to Consider: This well-equipped pack is substantially sized and a better bet for grade school ages and up.

This 21-inch rolling backpack is packed with features for bigger kids. It has two spacious main compartments plus skate wheels and a telescoping handle for a smooth ride. An exterior mesh bottle pocket stretches to fit large bottles, and a 15-inch laptop sleeve has a buckle to keep technology extra secure. It comes in an array of solid colors and appealing prints, and you can easily tuck away the shoulder straps when not in use.

Best Kids' Carry-on Suitcase

Rockland london hardside spinner wheel luggage carry-on.

Why We Love It: Kids can grow with this 20-inch spinner, small enough to manage but large enough to hold proper cargo.

What to Consider: A 20-inch spinner will be too large for preschoolers to easily maneuver.

When it comes to kids’ roller bags, we advocate for choosing a piece small enough for them to manage but large enough to hold a meaningful amount of cargo. To be worthwhile, it must be an efficient use of hands and bin space, not just a character-shaped gimmick that holds very little. Our writer's twins have these durable hardside cases, which they’ve carried independently since age 6 (going on three years and many miles and still going!).

Best Ride-on Suitcase

​​stokke jetkids bedbox.

Why We Love It: This wheeled ride-on suitcase transforms into a leg rest or bed in flight.

What to Consider: Not all carriers permit the use of items like these as leg rests while in the air.

This ride-on rolling suitcase has hidden talents beyond scooting through the airport: It transforms into a leg rest, or an in-plane bed, to help keep kids comfy and rested during the flight, too. Bonus: It even includes two sheets of stickers for kids to personalize their own luggage.

It may seem overwhelming to keep track of all the things you need to bring, especially after you've left home. GPS trackers can be lifesavers for locating your items during the journey, and a small first aid kit and plastic slider bags prepare for just-in-case moments and help clean up mid-flight messes, too.

Best Luggage Tracker

Apple airtag 4-pack.

Why We Love It: Track your kids’ stuff — or even your kids themselves — amid hectic environments like airports.

What to Consider: These tiny trackers are made to interface with Apple devices only.

In crowded, chaotic environments — especially when the dependability of baggage handling could use improvement — a small GPS tracking device tucked into a bag can make all the difference in reuniting with it after, say, a kid blithely walks away from their belongings after being distracted by a candy display. You can also use these tags on children themselves, with an array of specialty wristbands, keychains, and necklaces designed to incorporate the tags for wearability.

Best First Aid Kit

Preparakit small compact first aid kit for kids.

Why We Love It: This well-stocked first aid kit covers the basics in a compact, highly portable package.

What to Consider: You can save money if you choose to compile your own kit with customized supplies.

This TSA-approved mini first aid kit contains all the essentials for babies and toddlers in a package just about the size of a wallet. The curated array of 50 items includes bandages, gauze, tape, scissors, thermometer strips, and more. There’s also additional room to add your own prescription or over-the-counter medication.

Best Storage Bags

Hefty slider storage bags.

Why We Love It: They have a stand-up bottom for convenience.

What to Consider: They're less durable than sturdier bags made for freezer storage,

There are so many uses for slider storage bags while flying with kids: Use them within backpacks to organize cables, toys, and snacks. Or, use them to separate wet or soiled items, and to collect trash tidily. Plus, they’re super lightweight and waterproof.

Prioritize new or special items

When it comes to keeping kids entertained during a long flight, they’re most likely to stay engaged when playing with something that is new to them. Now’s the time to choose new or rarely used games, books, toys, and technology to pack in your kit for maximum novelty value.

Consider portability

You may be accustomed to your full arsenal of supplies at home, but carefully consider how portable and necessary each of these items is before committing to travel with it. Luggage fees add up, arms and hands quickly fill, and only the truly portable items are usually worthwhile to bring along on travels with kids.

Children over the age of two must have their own ticket, and therefore are entitled to the same baggage privileges of other ticketed passengers in the category. Check your airline and ticket class for the specific baggage allowances.

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby or toddler food (including purée pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces are allowed in carry-on baggage, according to the TSA regulations ; these are considered medically necessary liquids. Just make sure to take these items out of your carry-on bag to be screened separately.

The same permission applies to breast milk and formula cooling accessories, like ice packs and freezer packs.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Alesandra Dubin is a career travel and lifestyle writer and a frequent traveler. She’s also a twin mom with plenty of hard-earned experience from world travels with kids.

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Road Trip With a 1 Year Old: A Handy Guide

• Date: July 18, 2022
• Time to read: 5 min.

Traveling in the car is a great way to vacation with a one year old! It can be tricky, but I got all the tips and tricks you need!

Plan to Stop every 2 hours, pack a variety of snacks and travel during nap times to make the trip go as smoothly as possible. Plan stops where babies can walk around and get in some exercise. Pack the essentials in arm’s reach to make stops easier. 

When you are traveling with a 1 year old I like to keep a diaper basket under the seat. Keep diapers, wipes, diaper cream and a changing mat in this basket so that you can quickly grab everything for a diaper change. 

Older babies can enjoy some toys on a road trip as well. Pack some books, small toys and snacks in another basket that is in easy reach. 

Stopping every 2-3 hours is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics to help prevent positional asphyxia. This can happen when babies slouch down in their car seats and stop breathing. 

This happens more often in younger babies, but it can happen in older babies if they get themselves in a weird position and cannot get out of it. 

As a general rule, you should have an adult ride next to the baby to monitor their breathing and their comfort. 

Be careful when offering snacks on the road and be sure that you monitor the baby if they are eating to ensure they are not choking. 

Be sure to slow down and enjoy the trip. Traveling with a baby has it’s own pace and it may take some getting used to, but slowing down will make the trip much less stressful. 

Spend an extra night at the hotel, make an extra bathroom stop, slow down and embrace the trip. 

Packing for a 1 Year Old 

When you are packing for your one year old I recommend that you pack 2 extra outfits per 5 days of your trip , and be sure to have a plan if you need to do laundry. 

Eating habits can change on vacation and that can result in some messy outfits. 

Be sure to pack your regular brand of diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream. This can avoid a painful rash or allergic reaction while away from home. 

Choose engaging toys for travel times when your baby is awake and ready to play.

I have a packing for kids guide that might be helpful when you are making your packing list and organizing all the little outfits. There are some free printable checklists included in the linked post.

Great Road Trip Toys for a 1 Year Old

A 1 year old may be distracted by some well chosen toys on your road trip. 

These are the best, low mess, solutions that have worked for our family on 10+ hour road trips. 

Small board books are a great toy for the car. We love big sets of small books like the linked set, and classics in small board book form. 

Corduroy , We’re Going On a Bear Hunt , and Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? have all been winners with my babies. I often find these at local thrift stores. 

Reading these to babies can be a great distraction on a long stretch of driving. 

When you need a sure fire distraction bubbles can be really special in the car. Choose a bottle that fits in the cupholder to keep the mess down. 

If you have responsible older kids this can also be fun for them to blow bubbles for the baby. 

Magnet toys are great for the car and they stay contained very well!

We enjoy magnet blocks like Magna Tiles . Just 2-3 blocks are really fun for a 1 year old. They also rattle when they are shaken, which is fun for a baby as well. 

Light Up Toys 

If you will be traveling at night, a light up toy can be super engaging. 

Simple toys like a small flashlight, a puck light, or glow sticks can be magical in a dark car. 

I know that my kids love traveling at night because it is such a new experience and the light up toys are just magical even for my 7 year old. 

Tips for a Traveling Alone With a Baby

I recommend that you travel with two adults whenever possible, but I know that sometimes you must travel on your own with a baby. 

I love a good adventure and this is what I have learned by traveling alone with my babies. 

Stop Frequently

You should plan to stop every 2 hours or less. This gives you time to check in on the baby and to be sure that they have what they need. 

This also gives you a chance to feed and change the baby. 

Mirrors that allow you to see your baby can be helpful, or a deadly distraction, consult your pediatrician about installing a mirror. 

Pack snacks and drinks for both of you in case you need to change plans suddenly. 

Be sure to pack any special foods that your baby needs, formula, snacks or medicine should be well stocked. Don’t forget mom’s favorites too, pack substantial snacks and cold drinks in the cooler. 

Having everything you need just feels good and makes you feel more secure. 

If you don’t feel comfortable stopping or your baby is sleeping you can choose to keep rolling and eat out of the cooler. 

I always think of my car like Mary Poppins carpet bag, or Herminone’s purse. Full of everything we could possibly need. Magically prepared. 

Be Sure To Rest

Drowsy driving is really dangerous and traveling alone with kids is exhausting. 

Be sure you are getting enough sleep to safely drive. Caffeine can help for a short time, but if you find yourself getting tired, plan to stop. 

The biggest tip I have for you is to go slowly. Do one thing at a time and try to be intentional. 

For example, be sure to put the keys in your pocket before leaving the car to unbuckle the baby, be sure to change diapers at each stop and double check buckles before you start driving. 

There are so many little things to do and check it is easy to forget and become overwhelmed. 

Rushing can make things much more stressful. 

When I travel with my husband he loves to rush and do things quickly, but I have to go slow or we will regret it later. 

Don’t be embarrassed by your pace if you are with a group of kid free companions. Focus on mindfulness and be present in each task. 

• What Is a Good Budget For A Family Road Trip?
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Best Travel Toys for 1 Year Old – Airplane or Car!

Traveling with a 1 year old can seem like a scary thought at first. You might be worried about how you’ll entertain them for an extended period of time in such a small space. To help, we are sharing the best travel toys for a 1 year old that can be used on an airplane or in the car.

One year olds are typically mobile (either crawling or walking) and curious, yet a little too young to be able to hold a conversation. For these reasons, I thought the toughest age to travel with a child was 12 – 18 months. However, I still highly encourage you to take that trip! These baby/toddler travel tips will help you prepare and feel confident!

These top travel toys for a 1 year old will keep your little one entertained and happy, thus allowing you to stay calm and confident. But don’t forget the power of a snack, random things in your purse, the tray table, music and more! There are so many new and exciting things that your child will love to explore if you introduce it to them.

If you’re looking for more travel tips, we’ve got you! Like, how the heck do you travel with a stroller ? What to expect on a first flight with baby or how to take your baby/toddler hiking .

We’ve traveled nearly full time with our now 2.5 year old daughter since she was 6 weeks old. She’s been on short flights, long haul flights and cross country road trips, and we’ve learned a ton along the way. So let’s get into it! Here are our tried and true best travel toys for a 1 year old.

How Many Travel Toys Do You Need For A 1 Year Old?

You need less than you think! I’m guilty of overpacking for my child, but the truth is they need much less than we think they do. For shorter trips 2-3 toys will be plenty. For long haul trips pack 4-6 toys.

Don’t forget there are many things that can be used as toys even though they weren’t purchased as toys! Your 1 year old will love opening and closing the window or tray table. They will love going through your purse, or stacking plastic cups. 

Spend time looking at what’s out the window, listening to music, singing songs, and telling stories. Also, snacks are incredible entertainment while traveling. If you’re looking for a great travel snack cup, we love this snack cup  because it’s also a toy!

Once you get to your destination you won’t need many toys at all. You’ll be our exploring most days and that will keep your 1 year old busy. The world is their playground! 

What Makes A Great Travel Toy for a 1 Year Old

When you are deciding what travel toys for your 1 year old you want to pack, there are a few key factors you’ll want to keep in mind. Make sure your travel toys are compact, lightweight, quiet, multi purpose, mess free and don’t require charging.

First, make sure your travel toys are compact. They shouldn’t take up much room in your carry on luggage. Chances are you won’t have much room to spare anyways! Pack a few small compact toys and have them easily accessible while you travel.

Lightweight

The heavier your bags are, the harder they are to lug around. Plus lighter toys will be easier for your 1 year old to manage independently.

Make sure your travel toys for your 1 year old are quiet. Whether you are traveling by plane or car, a loud, obnoxious toy on repeat is not fun for you or anyone around you.

Multi Purpose

Think outside the box and ask yourself if two toys can be used together or if your toy can involve snacks. These toys score bonus points!

Skip the play-doh, markers and glitter. Only pack toys that do not require cleaning up after. That’s the last thing you’ll want to deal with on your trip.

Doesn’t Require Charging

Pick travel toys for a 1 year old that don’t require batteries or charging so you don’t risk their favorite toy dying mid flight or road trip!

Best Travel Toys for 1 Year Old

Busy boards are full of activities that will keep your 1 year old well… busy. There are a ton available on Amazon. Most have similar activities in them, but they come in many different colors and designs so find one you think your 1 year old will enjoy.

Suction Spinning Toy

These toys are great for sticking on the window or tray table and letting your child spin them. These ones also have a pop it at the ends which is an additional fun activity for them. Also, when you get to your destination, these make great bath toys!

Pull String Activity Toy

This activity toy has so many things to explore. Each string has a different texture and shape and your 1 year old can use their imagination while pulling them back and fourth. They will hear different noises and feel different vibrations which will keep them interested to see what they can create next.

Buckle Pillow

The buckle pillow has many puzzle games that will keep your 1 year old engaged. They can match the 6 colorful buckles to work on hand-eye coordination, plus use the zippers and buttons on the side.

Peek-a-boo Book

You can use this book to read to your child or you can let your 1 year old independently explore it. They will enjoy lifting the many flaps throughout the book and discovering what’s underneath.

The tissue box is a fun and exciting travel toy for a 1 year old. This toy keeps surprising your child as they pull out new things from the box. The items included are different textures and have different pictures on them for your child to explore. Or you can add your own fun surprises in the box.

LED Busy Board

This is a great compact travel toy for a 1 year old. They can press the buttons, turn the knobs and flip the switches to see what happens. Cause and effect toys are great for keeping their little minds busy.

Cars, Trucks and Playmat

Farm Animals

If your 1 year old loves farm animals these are so cute and fun! They can continuously put them together and pull them apart. You can practice animal noises with them or even share a snack with the animals.

Lock and Keys

What 1 year old doesn’t feel super cool with their own set of keys?!? They can use the keys to open the locks on the individuals cars which is an exciting cause and effect toy. The cars can be played with individually, connected like a train or all locked together. Lastly, they are labeled by number so it is a great way to introduce and start practicing numbers.

Quiet Felt Book

This soft felt book encourages independent play as your 1 year old explores the books and completes simple tasks. The small size and light weight make it easy to pack for your trip.

All kids love bubbles! They are magic. These ones are great because they are small and mess free. While these might be frowned upon on an airplane, I would absolutely whip them out in the terminal while you are waiting to board. They are also great in the car or at your final destination.

Enjoy your trip with your 1 year old!

We hope you found some entertaining travel toys for your 1 year old. If you are traveling with a toddler we also have a post on the best travel toys for toddlers ! Have a wonderful trip with your kiddo! You’re about to make some incredible memories!

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38 Best Baby Travel Gear Items for 2024 + What NOT To Bring

Hi All! My name is Lyric Fergusson. My husband, Asher, and I are the parents of two incredible babies named Kingsley and Aurora (pictured). Our little ones have been with us to France, Italy, Mexico, Belize, Honduras, South America, five Caribbean Islands & on a road trip to California and the Grand Canyon — and having them along has been amazing and mostly stress-free!

This said, as a mama, I fully understand how intimidating it can be to travel with a baby, especially for the first time.

We feel that having the right gear is key to making a family trip a truly enjoyable one, and we believe it is a large part of why we’ve had such wonderful travels with our babies. That’s why we created this guide for the must-haves and great accessories that will make traveling as a family way easier!

38 Essential Baby Travel Items

1. travel stroller.

Airport security rules state that any stroller that weighs over 20 lbs (9 kgs), is too bulky, or is non-collapsible must be checked at the ticket counter .

Mamas, this means if your stroller exceeds the weight limits, you will be schlepping your baby and ALL of your bags through the airport with no stroller. Suffice it to say, you’ll regret the decision to bring a heavy stroller.

This Summer Infant 3DLite is our top travel stroller pick. It’s inexpensive, durable, only 13 lbs, and has a multi-position recline that goes practically flat for an on-the-go nap. It fits in the smallest of trunks and we’ve even hauled it (pretty easily) up and down six flights of stairs in Paris. If the 3D Lite isn’t your bucket-list stroller, check out the Nova for luxury, the Summer Two-Seater , or a foldable wagon which is always a fun idea (especially if you’re hauling around more than one toddler or headed to a beach destination!)

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Stroller + Car Seat Combo

You can compromise with the best of both worlds – opting for this 3-in-1 Trio system by Chicco . It is designed with travel in mind, helping you create a full-blown system that your kids can grow with. While in stroller mode, the canopy expands for UV protection, or you can push it down and click it into place to activate car-seat/booster mode. It quickly folds and unfolds to suit your needs and holds so much stuff like groceries, blankets, etc.

I will say, it’s slightly bulkier than some options, but that’s the trade-off of having an all-in-one piece, which means fewer items to carry around. Overall, it will make your baggage lighter and cut down on the amount of equipment you have to keep up with.

3. Convertible Travel Carseat

While the stroller + car seat combo is ideal for infants, this option is better for families needing more weight flexibility and a car seat for growing kids.

I would never put my baby in a car without a car seat. However, I cannot imagine lugging around our 35 lb one across the airport, let alone Europe! This one weighs only 12 lbs and works for children from 5-65 lbs (check the weight limits for each mode, forward or rear-facing).

Note: All airlines will check your car seat at the ticket counter free of charge.

4. Travel Crib (a.k.a. Travel Playpen)

In our experience, the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib is the best of the best when it comes to travel cribs. It’s only 12 lbs, really well-made, and you can put it together and take it down in less than 10 seconds (without reading any instructions!) The crib has an extremely cushy mattress pad that lays flat on the Earth, (unlike the Guava Lotus which we didn’t like ) and most other travel cribs where the mattresses hover above the ground and wobble whenever your baby shifts during the night (sounds comfy, right?)

It even comes with a chic, easy-to-carry case. Our little guy has slept beautifully through the night on every trip we have ever taken and I really think it is because of this crib. You can let them play and nap in it before you head out so they can become familiar with it. They will sleep so much better!

Note: All domestic airlines will check your crib at the ticket counter free of charge. I always check with international carriers about their policy prior to traveling.

5. Quick-Dry Travel Towels

Travel towels are one of the most versatile items you can pack. It can serve as a drool rag, seat cover, packing cushion, and much more. They’re also amazing for cleaning up spills! When we discovered these, we stopped bringing along bulky towels or trying to pack fluffy ones that the hotel provides when going on beach trips. This one dries 10x faster than cotton and weighs less than half a pound — perfect for in the diaper bag!

6. Travel Insurance for Your Trip

Since your domestic provider typically does not cover you outside of the country, the last thing you want to worry about is rushing a spouse or child to the hospital and having to pay out-of-pocket for a five-figure bill. Protect your vacation investment and your loved ones with travel insurance – it’s a small price compared to anything else you’re booking, yet will cover you for flight cancellations, delays, baggage loss, theft, and expensive medical emergencies.

We use Faye because they are revolutionizing the insurance game! While most providers make the process miserable with tons of paperwork and hoops to jump through – Faye reimburses you through their mobile app, making the claims process a cakewalk. Get a customized quote for each trip and traveler. It’s very affordable for young families since it goes up in cost with age and is worth it for the sheer peace of mind.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Diaper Changing Pad

My husband and I use the  Kopi Baby changing pad religiously during travel because it folds up easily into a small bag, keeping everything clean (wipes, diapers, etc.) even when we’re in seriously dirty places.

We have used it on the airport floor, in the Louvre, and in Caribbean bathrooms that had no changing tables. Yuck! It’s honestly the bomb and really worth the spend for travel.

8. Short-Sleeved Bib

These amazing bibs from Bumpkins are my favorites because they are wearable like a shirt. Simply latch the back and your kiddo’s outfit will have full coverage from even the goopiest of foods. It’s waterproof and therefore super easy to clean — even in small cruise ship sinks — while also drying quickly and saving you a lot of cleanup!

9. Hanging Toiletry Bag

Moms deal with more STUFF than basically anyone on the planet (wipes, tissues, first-aid, snacks, toys, oh my!) Use this hanging toiletry bag to organize all of your family’s toiletries in one bag instead of dealing with unhinged chaos all over the hotel room. This is a way easier system than piling tons of plastic sacks with liquid bottles that you’re trying to keep from leaking all over your suitcase.

We’re obsessed with this bag from Eco Sun, a sustainable company in Hawaii that is made by travelers, for travelers. It organizes all of our self-care routines (and thus, our sanity!) with a leakproof design and stain-resistant material. There are 4 pockets on the inside with elastic bands to hold your bottles and brushes in place, plus 3 external compartments for smaller items that you need easy access to. It’s an elegant and cohesive system for an area of my life that would otherwise be pretty stressful on the road.

10. Stroller Clips

Whether you are using a blanket to block out the sun or to keep your little one warm, stroller clips are awesome because they’ll secure the blanket just where it needs to be. That way, your baby can sleep peacefully — and you can push them easily (no more blankets getting tangled in the wheels, blown off by the wind, or dragged on the floor).

Stroller clips are also great for attaching the diaper bag, your purse, baby’s toys, or really anything else to the stroller.

11. Stroller Protector Bag

You will typically have to check your stroller at the gate between flights and this bag will save it from getting wet or damaged as the flight crew is literally throwing it on and off the belly of the plane. The Hap Tim Stroller Bag is extremely sturdy and streamlined, which is helpful when moving the stroller in and out of taxis, hotels, and rental cars, and it has a long set of straps that make carrying the stroller a piece of cake.

12. Wet/Dry Sacks

Poop can happen at any time. In case you don’t want to mess up your nicer diaper bags, having wet/dry bags on hand at all times is beyond useful. These are just as durable as your high-end bags but not so precious that you’ll worry about them getting ruined (about what you would spend on a week’s worth of ziplocks). It also is easier to clean in the washing machine and traps the stinky diaper smell so you’re not trapped in a stink bubble all day! Besides being leakproof, you’re helping Mother Earth by going reusable.

13. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

After having items stolen out of our check luggage, we never forgo luggage locks. We bring a couple of sets for suitcases, city lockers, using backpacks in crowded areas, and more. Plus, these are TSA-approved so you won’t suffer through any hang-ups at security.

14. Insulated Food Jar

This jar has saved us so many times. If your baby is eating solids but is picky, likes warm snacks, or is just not into eating restaurant food yet (and you aren’t too keen on always giving them jars of pre-packaged food), I would bring along one of these. You can bake them a yam at grandma’s or order some steamed veggies at your hotel and throw the food in the Foogo Thermos , and it will stay warm for hours while you tour Rome or head to the beach.

15. Neck Wallet

When traveling with little ones, things can get hectic REAL QUICK while going through airports, taxis, and beyond. This neck wallet makes it super easy to keep track of where your family’s passports, phones, credit cards, cash, and plane tickets are while also preventing petty theft or sticky fingers. My hubby wears his with all four of our family’s passports and when we’re in crowded places, he conceals it under his shirt. This one also comes with RFID-blocking material to stop e-thieves from scanning your financial data.

16. Diaper Bag

For your full-blown Diaper bag, this bag is awesome for allowing you to have tons of storage in a waterproof case. This diaper bag from BabbleRoo is stylish, lightweight, and won’t break the bank. It also has 18 pockets to hold everything from diapers to a water bottle to your cell phone. And if you spill milk (or baby pukes on the bag), no problem! The wipe-clean material is super easy to clean. Bonus: It comes with a matching changing pad in case you forget your Kopi Baby !

17. Sleep Sack

We love the Woolino sleep sack! It is 100% natural, made from premium soft Australian merino wool, has an organic cotton outer shell, and is machine-washable. It also regulates the body temperature and is comfortable for baby from external temperatures as low as 60°F (16°C) to as high as 77°F (25°C).

It’s a great way to keep your honey cozy on an airplane, and so helpful for unpredictable temperatures in hotels or and even at grandma’s house. One extra bonus: we don’t have to travel with many blankets which keeps our luggage weight down.

18. Homeopathic First Aid Kit

Don’t leave home without these remedies – we certainly don’t. They are natural, safe, effective, and don’t cause harmful side effects.

They have saved us repeatedly during teething, tummy aches, or crabby spells. I can’t recommend them enough.

• Camilia Teething Relief  – These all-natural drops relieve painful gums and irritability from teething, as well as associated digestive distress. The single-use containers help prevent contamination.
• Natural Gas Relief  – Even with the grape flavor, these drops have NO artificial flavors or dyes. They provide natural relief for all the symptoms that come along with gas, like bloating, colic, constipation, and restlessness.
• Baby Calm – If your baby is fussy or won’t sleep, try these tablets. They’re quick-dissolving and provide immediate relief, so you can both get back to sleep.
• Earache Relief  – If your baby has an earache, these all-natural drops will help relieve symptoms like fever, pain, irritability, and sleeplessness. The dosing dropper makes it super easy to apply the drops.
• Echinacea Drops  – Our little guy has yet to get sick while we’ve traveled, and I really think It’s due to these drops. If Kingsley looks like he is possibly heading in the sick direction I give him this and it boosts his immune system immediately. He even likes the taste.
• Baby Vitamin C – Vitamin C is another awesome immune booster which I give our son a few days before we begin traveling. I give it to him again if I think he seems like he might be catching something.

19. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Did you know that you risk your private data whenever you join a public network at cafes, Airbnbs, hotels, and the airport? And many people can monitor your online activity without your permission, including cyber thieves, your internet provider, government entities, and nosy neighbors! A virtual private network (VPN) keeps all of your digital information secure from hackers so you don’t have to worry about your credit cards, passwords, or other confidential info getting stolen.

You’re bound to connect to a random Wi-Fi network when traveling, so take the extra step to encrypt your network with a VPN like NordVPN . It’s super affordable and will also limit any local censorship you may face, which can block your favorite websites like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and more. We never travel without a VPN and even use it at home to ensure a safe connection! Give it a try, there’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

View options at NordVPN ➜

20. Luggage Straps

Just as every outdoorsman should carry rope – every parent should have this adjustable strap! It’s a multi-purposeful item that can serve you in a variety of ways (depending on how creative you want to get). First and foremost, it secures your checked luggage and carry-on bags for rough handling and takes the pressure off of your zippers.

Beyond this, the brightly-colored straps will help your family’s bags stand out at the arrivals terminal (where everyone and their uncle has the same black bag), so it’s a massive timesaver.

More creatively, you can tether a bunch of bags together, create a makeshift strap if one breaks, compress items that are overpacked, and basically secure anything that is falling apart. I once used these to fix my friend’s suitcase that broke, which got us through to the next flight. And the built-in contact card is invaluable if your bags end up getting lost. It’s one of our favorite discoveries and a must for any traveler’s packing list!

21. Packing Cubes

If you have ever dug frantically into a suitcase looking for a single clean baby sock while your whole family is downstairs waiting for you, you will understand why packing cubes are a necessity! I usually put my son’s t-shirts and shorts in one cube, his long-sleeved sweaters and pants in another, and accessories in another. It seriously helps us stay organized!

Available on  HeroTravelSupply.com  with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code  “HERO” .

Or view on Amazon.com ➜

22. Mini White Noise Machine

You might think, “Why do I need a white noise machine when I have an App on my iPhone?” Well, let me tell you that if you use your phone for white noise, that means your phone is held hostage in the baby’s room while you are in the living room trying to make a dinner reservation or check work emails, etc.

This pocket-sized white noise machine was the best purchase we made before our Caribbean cruise adventure. Both at our hotel in Puerto Rico and on the cruise itself, we had to deal with some really rowdy people yelling at all hours of the night. We were kind of shocked – our little dude slept peacefully through the night when we had this white noise machine on. I won’t travel without it now. It takes up virtually no space and you never know who is going to be your neighbor!

23. Sanitizing Wipes

These are awesome! They are cheap and I’ve used them to wipe down airline trays, restaurant high chairs, bathroom changing tables (and of course, our hands) while exploring. The individual packets fit easily in your diaper bag or your coat pocket without being bulky. An absolute 5-star in our book.

24. Baby Carrier

Ok, I know most of you probably already have a baby carrier, but I have to mention this Baby Bjorn Carrier because it’s been amazing for us while traveling.

It’s really comfortable, not bulky, and can easily fold up and fit under the stroller. We even use it as a portable high chair! How? Well, when my little dude was too tiny to fit in a restaurant high chair but was eating solids, he could comfortably have his entire meal while strapped to my hubby. It made eating out really enjoyable and low-stress, plus the carrier is super easy to wipe down and wash.

25. Universal Power Adapter

There are 15 styles of outlets around the world, so it’s nice to avoid buying a brand new power adapter for each country. This universal option is compatible with outlets in 100+ popular destinations and has multiple USB outlets for efficient charging. Not to mention, it very well could be the last adapter you ever have to buy since it comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

26. Inflatable Travel Bed

This adorable inflatable toddler bed is a game-changer for kiddos who are too big for a crib but need their own space to sleep on a trip. I worry about my tots falling out of massive beds at hotels or Airbnbs, and this option is comfy, easy to blow up, and keeps them close while still giving them a sense of independence. We’ve traveled with two of these for years and our kiddos are big fans!

27. Neck Pillow for Toddlers

Speaking of difficulty in transit, a neck pillow for kids is smart to have on-hand in case your babes can’t sprawl out. For those of you familiar with the strange positions your children’s heads can get into on long car rides, this one will support your toddler’s neck and be useful in almost all traveling scenarios. Moms that are breastfeeding may consider an inflatable nursing pillow that is made for travel and lumbar support.

28. Windproof Travel Umbrella

An umbrella should always be in your travel artillery and this one weighs only 1-pound and fits in your diaper bag. It comes with a convenient carrying case and has sheltered us from some pretty vicious storms since it’s windproof and covers 2 people (plus baby if you all snuggle close!)

29. Portable High Chair

We love bringing our foldable high chair to make mealtime go much smoother whether you are at an AirBnB or at grandma’s. It works for babies up to toddlers and is a great solution for restaurants that don’t have booster seats or high chairs. It’s compact and has some sneaky pockets, plus a carrying case. The tray is free of harmful chemicals like BPA, and it’s dishwasher safe.

30. All-in-One Food Processor

A food processor is so useful for blending up fresh fruits and vegetables for your little one on-the-go. This set comes with silicon molds as a freezer tray and glass cases for storage. My babies loved easy concoctions like mangos with sweet potatoes, carrot with orange, and bananas with strawberries. Yum!

31. Cooling Towel

For any tropical escapes or warm destinations, this cooling towel is a godsend! It’s absolutely non-toxic and safe for baby to hold onto. By adding water and wringing it out, the towel magically drops to 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temp. Anytime you need more icey relief, simply add more water. It will save baby, dad and mom from heat-induced melt-downs. Try it out and you can thank us later!

32. Baby-Proofing Gear

Babyproofing is something you should consider doing anywhere you stay. Whether they’re crawling, scooting, or starting to walk, it’s a preventative measure worth taking, especially if you are traveling to a home or Bnb that you know is not baby-proofed

Of course, a gate should be kept anywhere you don’t want your little one to roam (like the stairs or outside). For your curious explorers, you may also need outlet covers , safety straps for cabinets, door knob covers , and corner protectors for tables or sharp edges.

33. Car Seat Protector Backpack

Many parents complain that their car seat has gotten dirty, cracked or damaged when they’ve traveled — especially if they check it at the ticket counter. Because of this bag, we’ve never had any trouble.

It’s padded, and although you might look a little ridiculous with it on your back, I can’t tell you how nice it is to have two free hands when you are trying to wrangle multiple children and luggage. I’m a pretty tiny woman, and I can very comfortably wear it while using my hands for other things.

34. Inflatable Baby Bathtub

Not only is this thing cute as can be, but it blows up easily to make a bathtub that’s fantastic for travel. The textured bottom means baby won’t slip around, but it’s small enough to keep them in place. It’s surprisingly scientific since it has hot-white technology that lets you know when the water is too hot, displaying a different color. It was awarded ‘top baby bath’ in 2016 and is easy to drain from the bottom without any heavy lifting.

35. Baby-Safe Dish Soap

Cleaning bottles, sippy cups, bibs, and pacifiers on the go can be a bit of a challenge, I know! And it’s really hard to get to a destination and realize you have no soap to wash your bubba’s stuff (story of my life in the Caribbean… whoops!) I now bring along baby-safe dish soap so that I can be sure that all of Kingsley and Aurora’s belongings stay clean even when I’m rushing to wash them in a tiny bathroom basin.

36. Travel Potty-Training Seat

This is excellent for traveling families with a toddler in toilet training! Not only is it adorable, but it comes in many different colors and latches onto most standard-sized toilets. The foldable design means you can store it in your diaper bag and then whip it out when necessary at hotels, malls, airports, on planes, or wherever. WAY easier than holding your kid in the air as they hover over a gross toilet seat! And super easy to clean.

37. Diaper Rash Cream

This is hands down the best diaper rash cream out there! We initially got it in a gift set with our first baby but have now bought countless tubes. It is the main diaper cream we use, especially if we are trying to treat a rash. We will sometimes use Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment if we are just preventing irritation on a clear butt. If we have a really bad rash, we will layer and use both. This cream is so thick, smells lovely, and works without the harsh chemicals.

38. Your Favorite Bedtime Story

Maintaining your routine while traveling will add a sense of normalcy to the experience. Your little one will find comfort in familiarity and it will help them sleep in a new place. So bring along your favorite book or try a new one to end the day with a sweet story. Reading aloud builds a network of words in their heads and can help them develop their language and speaking skills more quickly. Plus, your voice is so soothing to them and will help ease them into sleep.

Additional Baby Travel Gear to Consider

• Crib Sheets
• Travel Laundry Bag
• Baby Monitor
• Changing Pad
• Cheap Burp Cloths
• Cooling Towels
• Nursing Cover-up
• Breast-pump Backpack
• Travel Nursing Pillow
• Baby Dishes
• Baby Utensils
• Pacifier & Bottle Wipes
• Roadtrip Organizer
• Travel Towels
• Soft Washcloths
• Swim Diapers
• Stroller Fan
• Spillproof Snack Cup
• Luggage Locks
• Plane Window Toys
• Weleda Baby On the Go Kit
• Kid-Safe Bug Repellent
• Laundry Soap

What NOT to Bring when Traveling with Baby

1. don’t bring a bulky stroller (no jogging strollers.

They’re hard to get in and out of a small rental car, and almost impossible to lift when you’re juggling baby AND luggage at the same time (and don’t even think about trying to collapse it!).

2. DON’T TAKE a bulky car seat

A big, heavy car seat also makes it hard to hold baby and deal with luggage, and even harder to run through the airport to catch your flight! Plus car seats can get damaged when traveling, so you don’t want to be using an expensive one.

3. DON’T PACK cloth diapers

Cloth diapers are eco-friendly, but don’t feel bad if you don’t want to mess with them when traveling. They create a lot of extra work, and you’ll already be plenty busy traveling with a baby.

4. DON’T BRING heavy toys

There’s no need to lug around your baby’s heaviest toys when you’re traveling. Bring their lightweight ones instead, and you can always buy a few new toys at your destination for added fun!

5. DON’T PACK too many blankets

It’s tempting to think you should bring tons of extra blankets “just in case.” Just don’t. Go for a sleep sack instead – they’re easier and they stay put on their own. Bringing extra blankets is asking for weight, bulk, and extra laundry!

6. DON’T TAKE too many diapers

Disposable diapers are bulky, so think about how many you’ll need before you pack (do bring some extras – just not too many extras!). Better yet, have  Honest Company Diapers  ship a pack to your location, or if you’re going overseas, just buy them when you arrive.

7. DON’T BRING heavy baby books

Maybe you want to use your vacation time to catch up on some reading, but this is not the time to tackle that 500-page book on everything you’re doing wrong as a parent. You’re on vacation, treat yourself to some light beach reading instead, and make it even more convenient by using a Kindle .

8. DON’T PACK too few baby clothes

I know this sounds odd, but it’s a balance. Of course you don’t want your suitcase to be too heavy, but you don’t want to spend your whole trip washing either. And honestly, it’s not like baby clothes weigh much!

9. DON’T TAKE full-sized bottles

Traveling with a baby means packing lots of liquids (baby shampoo, baby lotion, dish soap, etc.), on top of your own toiletries. So many regular-sized bottles will be way too heavy, so pack all your liquids in travel-sized containers instead.

10. DON’T PACK too many disposable items

No matter where you’re traveling, you’ll probably be able to get things like wet wipes, tissues, and plastic bags pretty easily. So just bring as many as you’ll realistically use, and know that you can easily pick up more if you end up needing them.

FAQs about traveling with a baby

1. does my baby need a passport.

Yes. Regardless of their age, your baby needs a passport for international trips, including to Canada.

To get them a passport in the U.S., you will need a copy of the birth certificate and two 2″x2″ photos of the baby (from the shoulders up), and both parents need to come with the baby to a passport acceptance facility. Single parents must present a custody agreement, and if one parent is not able to come (such as if they’re stationed elsewhere), a signed and notarized Form DS-3053 will also have to be presented.

2. How should I choose a hotel when traveling with a baby?

• To minimize your time schlepping everything around, look for a hotel that’s near the attractions you plan to visit or at least near public transportation if you’ll be using it.
• Having quiet at nighttime is key, so try to avoid hotels on busy streets, as well as older buildings, which may not have good soundproofing.
• You’ll probably need to do laundry at some point, so check for either coin-op laundry in the hotel or a nearby laundromat.
• Try to find a hotel with large rooms, which will allow plenty of space to set up a crib or playpen.
• Make sure the bathroom has a tub, and not just a shower, which seems to be getting more common.
• Even if the room doesn’t have a full kitchen, it’s useful to at least have a refrigerator, as well as some counter space to make bottle-washing easier.
• If you’re not planning to bring a travel crib, call the hotel before you book to double-check that they’ll provide one.

3. What should I do to baby-proof our hotel room?

• Ask before you arrive if the hotel offers baby-proofing supplies (or even baby-proofed rooms)
• Check that all the furniture in the room (including the TV) is stable
• Check the floor (including under the bed) for anything a baby could put in their mouth: coins, rocks, pills, bottle caps, etc.
• Put blue painter’s tape over outlets.
• Tape foam squares over any sharp corners near the floor
• Tape the toilet lid down
• Tape any electrical cords to the furniture out of baby’s reach

4. Does my baby need a plane ticket?

Different airlines have varying policies on infant travel, but buying a ticket for children under two years old is usually optional. Without a ticket, the baby has to be held on your lap throughout the flight, and some airlines charge a “lap child fee,” especially for international flights.

If you’re planning to fly with a child in your lap, you should inform the airline in advance. But if you’d rather have a separate seat for your baby, you can book them one at a child’s fare.

5. Which airlines are the most baby-friendly?

The best airline for you depends on what’s most important to you when it comes to flying with your baby. These airlines are regularly rated as the most family- and child-friendly:

• Eithad: Their Flying Nannies are special flight attendants whose job is to help you fly with your baby, and they also offer a bottle-warming service on board.
• Emirates Airlines: The Dubai airport provides complimentary strollers, and the airline provides children on the plane with an entertainment kit that includes blankets and a fuzzy “We Fly With Me” stuffed animal.
• Air New Zealand: Their Economy Skycouch connects three seats and converts into a bed for comfort and easier sleeping, and the airline also provides bassinets on board.

6. How much baby food and milk/formula can I bring in my carry-on luggage?

Bring as much as you’ll need for the flight. Baby food, formula, and milk are exempted from the 3-ounce rule for liquids, but you do need to declare it at security so it can be inspected separately. They run a harmless test on excepted baby liquids, and once they’re done they will reseal it and give it back to you.

Even for parents traveling with children, water is still not allowed, so plan to buy it or bring a reusable filtered water bottle to fill up once you’ve passed through security.

7. How can I help my baby sleep on the plane?

Parents planning on using a bassinet, book a front-row seat if possible to make sure there’s plenty of space. Consider bringing a  sleep sack  to keep them more comfortable and a blanket or scarf to drape over the bassinet and block out light. And of course, bring their pacifier and any favorite toys. Feed your baby during take-off, which will help pop their ears, reduce discomfort, and calm them down.

8. How many diapers do I need to bring on a trip?

A good rule of thumb is to bring one diaper per hour of flight or car time, but it’s always a good idea to bring some extras beyond that, just in case.

9. Can I go camping with a baby?

If you’ve never been camping before, this might not be the best time to get into it.

Otherwise, it’s a good idea to get an okay from your pediatrician first, but many families absolutely go on camping trips with infants, and have plenty of fun! You’ll just want to be more aware of weather, drive time, cleanliness, baby-safe  insect repellent , and supplies, and it probably goes without saying that your baby likely won’t sleep through the night in a tent.

10. What are the best places to travel with a baby?

Depending on your travel preferences, beach destinations and national parks can make for great baby-friendly getaways. They tend to be mellow and allow for a lot of flexibility with your schedule and activities.

Alternatively, all-inclusive resorts make things easy and will usually provide all the amenities you need – plus they tend to be VERY fun!

Of course, a staycation or a visit to family or friends are good options, too, and will probably feel a little more familiar to you and baby.

11. What kinds of things are required when flying with a baby? Do I have to have a special seatbelt?

YES, you do need a special seatbelt for toddlers and up to a certain weight. Babies will likely need their own carseat, or you can typically hold them in your lap. If the airline doesn’t require you to purchase a ticket for a lap-child, this is a great way to save money as long as you’re comfortable holding your little one the whole time.

In instances like this it’s handy to have a  baby sling  which can be tightened to hold baby close, or loosened to act as a lap-cradle to relieve your back and arms while baby sleeps.

Verify the TSA requirements for traveling with small children  here .

Here are some links to the relevant car seat rules for the major US airlines so you can be prepared for your next flight:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines (and also here )
• Frontier Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines
• Virgin America (and also here )

Lyric Fergusson

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What It’s Like To Fly With a 1-Year-Old [Our Top 5 Tips for Success!]

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Flying With a Baby Under 1 Year Old

Flying with a toddler older than 1-year-old, economy vs. business class seats, ordering kids’ and baby meals, traveling with breast milk or formula, umbrella stroller, diaper bags: backpack vs. purse, lounge access with babies, 1. snacks, snacks, and more snacks, 2. schedule the flight around nap time, 3. bring new toys and activities, 4. pack smart, 5. go with the flow, final thoughts.

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My kids have been on countless planes, trains, and automobiles and have stayed in hotels, Airbnbs, and even an RV. They’re now 3 and 5 years old, carrying their own backpacks and attempting to pull their own carry-ons, but this wasn’t always the case.

If you’re new to traveling with small children, it might seem overwhelming or outright impossible. Sure, there’s a lot of stuff to pack and juggling to do while taking care of a tiny human, yourself, and all of your things. But it’s probably simpler than you think, especially if you follow some of the tips outlined below .

When kids are especially small — think a few months old to about a year old — it’s downright easy to travel with them. The plane provides white noise and lulls them almost straight to sleep as soon as you’re in the air, barring any pressure change discomfort, of course. They aren’t moving too much, nor are they requesting (demanding) to get out of your arms or the seat and walk the plane.

You can wear your tiny human on your chest or back and they pretty much go wherever you take them without protest. Their schedule and eating habits are predictable and they’ve yet to have their first meltdown.

The early days are almost blissful.

And then they turn 1.

The older your child gets, the more curious they become . The 1-year-old stage is a fun time because they’re walking, or just on the cusp of it, suggesting that they’re ready for more independence, have a sense of humor, and are generally well-tempered. This is a sweet spot right before their inability to communicate leads to temper tantrums and frustration.

Hot Tip: The biggest difference between flying with a 1-year-old and a younger child is how alert they will be.

Your 1-year-old might want to stand in your lap, or in the seat, and wave at, smile at, and talk to other passengers. For more active toddlers, you may have to walk around the cabin with them . And if they’re walking, they’ll likely want to walk on the ground themselves.

They’re hopefully eating solid foods so you’ll have to remember to pack food that you know they’ll like. Don’t rely on getting something at the airport or even the food provided on the plane. They’re also larger, so that tiny, inaccessible plane bathroom won’t be fun for either of you when it comes time to change a diaper at 30,000 feet.

But the biggest difference of all might be whether or not you buy your ever-growing infant their own seat.

Should You Buy a Seat for Your Toddler?

When my kids were young enough for it, I was of the mind that as long as my kids could fly for free, we wouldn’t buy them a seat. Plus, they’re only small for so long and I always loved holding onto them when they slept. Add to that the increasing costs of airline tickets, both in cash and miles, and I’m glad that we were able to save the money with a lap infant when we could.

To make having a lap infant easier, either my husband or I would wear the baby in an Ergobaby carrier when they slept so that we had full use of our arms . We could even sleep ourselves without fearing that the baby would fall out of our arms.

I know a lot of parents who prefer for each member of their family to have their own seat, mostly for the sake of space. But in addition to that, some children just don’t sleep well being held — not to mention the adult holding them might be pretty uncomfortable, too.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that children fly in a child restraint system (CRS) , which is essentially a car seat . There are specific requirements for CRS devices, so be sure and check out the website before you fly to make sure you’ve got the right type.

You’ll get a baggage allowance for your 1-year-old when you purchase a seat no matter how old they are. This would allow you to pack more freely instead of packing your child’s items together with the items in your carry-on … something I’ve done many times.

If you’re lucky, you’ll be seated in a row that has an empty seat next to you and your child can sit there free of charge when the “Fasten Seat Belt” sign is off.

Baby bassinets are detachable bassinets available on some planes in the bulkhead seat. These bassinets generally have age, weight, and/or height restrictions for use, and with a 1-year-old, your options to use a bassinet may be getting limited .

If you’re inclined to use a bassinet for your baby — particularly on a long-haul flight where you want to ensure the best rest possible — you’ll need to call the airline right after making your reservation to reserve your seat and bassinet.

Hot Tip: Not all airlines offer bassinets. Before you book, check out our ultimate guide to baby bassinet seats on over 50 airlines to find out if your preferred airline offers a bassinet or not.

The debate about whether or not kids and babies should be in premium cabins is one we won’t settle here. Still, parents traveling with young children may want to know some of the pros and cons of flying business class with a baby .

In business class, you’re guaranteed to get more legroom and larger seats. When traveling with a lap infant especially, it never hurts to have as much room as possible. In economy, you cannot sit in the exit row where you’d normally expect to have the most room in the back of the plane. That means that you’ll be jammed in a row, potentially with strangers.

With fewer passengers to take care of in business class, the flight attendants should have more time to help you when you need assistance. For example, you may need water to make a bottle or you forgot your child’s juice. In business class, you can expect to be taken care of a little more often.

Unfortunately, just by the sheer volume of folks in the economy compared to the number of attendants, you won’t receive the same service.

In premium cabins, depending on the airline, you may be able to reserve an infant or child meal in advance to be served during your flight. If flying domestic economy, you won’t have this option.

And lastly, flying in business could be cost-prohibitive to many. Even with points, business class seats often cost a significant amount more than economy class tickets. It’s easy to feel that the pros listed above don’t outweigh the dollar amount you’ll have to pay for those conveniences.

International airlines shine when it comes to their meal services (even in economy). As such, you can expect to be able to order a kids’ meal in advance of your flight or when you get on board.

The makeup of the meals and offerings varies depending on the airline, of course. Some airlines, usually depending on the length of the flight, will offer hot meals like pasta and even hamburgers. Others might only offer a kids’ snack box.

Whether or not these amenities are included in the price of your ticket depends on the airline as well. For example, United brought back kids’ meals that can be ordered at least 24 hours before your flight for flights over 2,000 miles and where a complimentary meal will be served.

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), breast milk , formula, and toddler drinks are considered medically necessary. Breast milk, formula, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (including puree pouches) can exceed 3.4 ounces and do not need to fit in quart-size bags.

You are recommended to let the TSA agent know that you’re traveling with these items at the beginning of the screening and to take it out of your carry-on.  It is also recommended that these items travel in clear containers for the sake of expediting the screening process.

Though the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categorizes breast pumps as a medical device and as such should be allowed in addition to your carry-on and personal item, this depends on the airline. It’s a good idea to call the airline you’ll be flying with before you check in for your flight to ensure that you can bring your breast pump onboard.

Helpful Travel Accessories

As your children get older, they’ll likely want to help carry their backpacks or pull their own luggage . Eventually, you won’t need to carry or push them in a stroller everywhere because they’ll want to walk on their own, too. In the meantime, however, when traveling with a 1-year-old, all of that still falls on you. Luckily, there are plenty of travel gadgets and accessories to help make it easier.

Umbrella strollers are lightweight, foldable strollers for babies old enough to hold their heads up. An infant stroller most likely works together with your car seat, which can be bulky and hard to maneuver through the airport. If your child is big enough, an umbrella stroller is the way to go.

Whether or not you go with the convenience of an umbrella stroller or elect for your larger stroller, you can gate-check your stroller and keep it with you right up until you board the plane. Your stroller will either be waiting for you at the gate when you land or will have made its way to the baggage carousel.

Car seat requirements are not the same for cars and airplanes, and to use your car seat on the plane the car seat must be FAA-approved .

It’s important to note that the EU has different requirements for car seats than the U.S., so you’ll want to be aware of this if that’s where you’re traveling. One major difference between EU and U.S. car seats is that EU-approved car seats do not have chest clips. EU regulation states that a child must be able to be removed from the seat in a single motion.

I think that baby backpacks are better for travel than baby purses (one-shoulder baby bags) for a few reasons.

First, you have a full range of motion when wearing a backpack with weight evenly distributed through your back instead of on one shoulder.

Second, a backpack tends to have more pockets for all the things you’ll be carrying for your baby. It doesn’t hurt that it’s probably easier to convince your partner to share the responsibility of carrying a backpack vs. a purse.

Speaking of all the things you’ll be carrying, here are a few items that should make traveling with a 1-year-old a little easier:

• Bottles, bottle liners, tops
• Extra clothes for you and baby
• Extra socks (and maybe shoes)
• Foldable changing pad for changes in public restrooms
• Formula dispenser
• Hand sanitizer
• Plastic bags for dirty clothes, diapers, etc.
• Spill-proof and independent snack dispenser
• Spill-proof sippy cup

Hot Tip: Check out our in-depth buyer’s guide to the best travel diaper bags , featuring both backpack-style and purse-style options.

There seems to be an ongoing debate on social media about babies in premium cabins (more on that a little later) and whether or not they should be allowed in lounges.

Lounges don’t typically have age restrictions (kids under 2 are even generally free!), though most don’t have amenities geared toward children. But what you get at a lounge is more space to spread out, with time away from the gate to relax and gather yourself before you fly.

Centurion Lounges , however, do a great job of welcoming and catering to young travelers with family rooms decked out with toys, games, TVs, and kid-size furniture. But even without that family-specific amenities, lounges are a great place to chill out before or after a flight with your baby.

At the lounge, you can also get warm water for formula, warm-up milk and kids’ food, and grab some fruit or other snacks for later.

Tips for Flying With a 1-Year-Old

Whether or not you choose to purchase a seat for your 1-year-old, we have some tips for making flying easier.

I used to think people were exaggerating when they said to bring more snacks than you think you need. But I underestimated just how important a well-timed handful of Cheerios would be.

It’s not so much that your child will be hungry, but that snacking tends to quell a fussy toddler. I cannot explain it any further than that.

Pack the snacks you know they love and maybe even a few surprises. There’s an endless list of snacks you could bring. Fruit, Cheerios, Goldfish, pureed food packs … anything that your child can safely consume will work.

Don’t forget that TSA allows water and food for toddlers in reasonable quantities above the standard 3.4 ounces allowed for all passengers. A standard sippy cup is probably enough to get you through your whole travel day.

This is one of my favorite tips, but I think whether or not a flight is timed well will depend on your child .

For some toddlers, the sound of the airplane in flight works like white noise and helps them sleep. But as they get older and are more alert for longer periods of time, the excitement of a new adventure might energize them enough to try and stay awake for longer than you expect.

In this case, scheduling a flight around nap time won’t matter. But for a first flight with a 1-year-old, it’s worth a try. If you find that your child didn’t stick to the schedule, you won’t have to worry about it next time. We live and we learn.

For long-haul flights, I recommend scheduling a red-eye flight to your destination and skipping the last nap before the flight . The reason for this is that the cabin is dimmed along with the white noise of the plane. I’ve never met a traveling child that could resist the urge to fall asleep under those conditions. Hopefully, they’ll be tired enough to sleep through the entire flight.

At 1 year old, your toddler will likely be awake for at least part of your flight, so you’ll want to have something to occupy them. Tablets are an easy go-to, but understandably, some parents won’t want to introduce screen time at this age, or at all. But if you do decide to go with a tablet loaded with movies, TV shows, or games, be sure and bring along child-safe and cordless Bluetooth headphones . Child-safe headphones should remain at lower decibels to preserve their tiny eardrums.

Avoid toys that make any type of noise so as not to disturb other passengers on your flight.

Hot Tip: Keep in mind that at a year old, your child may not be able to stay engaged by 1 toy or activity for very long, so it’s a good idea to have several options.

Luckily, there are a lot of other activities that are appropriate for this age. Here are a few of my favorite ways to entertain a 1-year-old on a flight:

• Window Clings : Your toddler can stick these on the window themselves, pull them off, and repeat to their heart’s content. Another alternative is circle stickers, like what you’d find at a garage sale. Really, any sticker will work, just test out how easy they are for tiny fingers to peel off.
• Flash Cards : Even if your toddler isn’t talking yet, flash cards can be a great way to practice learning their shapes and colors. Animals and objects flash cards are also a great way to increase your child’s vocabulary.
• Books : Bring along your toddler’s favorite picture book. Pop-up books are always a hit as well. If you can, bring a book that’s age-appropriate and talks about where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, or flying on a plane.
• Play-Doh : Play-Doh is a tactile activity that lets your toddler use their hands. You can even bring plastic cookie cutters to make different shapes out of them. Clay, an alternative to Play-Doh, is a little more difficult to mold but also a worthy activity for a 1-year-old and even helps to strengthen their grip.
• Coloring Books : Again, coloring books are something that your child can do with their hands. Get the jumbo crayons that are easier to hold and choose a coloring book that has characters they recognize. You can color, too! This is a great activity to do together.
• Water Wow! Books : Water Wow! books by Melissa and Doug are awesome and were an instant hit for my kids. You fill the paintbrush with some water and let your toddler “paint” the pages of the cardboard book. There are several designs to choose from, including construction, numbers, alphabet, and animals. The best part about these is that when they dry, the color disappears so you can use them over and over again.

In addition to the activities above, be sure to include items that are brand new to your child . In fact, all of the items listed could be brand new and you could gift wrap them . It’s the novelty of the surprise that gets them excited and wanting to play with whatever the new toy is. Who doesn’t love unwrapping a gift?

I wish that I could tell you that packing gets easier as your kids get older, but I can’t say that.

Yes, you can probably leave their 10 favorite blankets, nappies, and toys at home, but you’ll still need to pack a considerable number of items when you’re away from home. For example, I always packed 2 outfits per day that we would be away, plus a couple of extra. I didn’t plan to change my child’s clothes more than once per day, but we all know that stuff happens .

I would also bring an extra top for myself on travel days in case that stuff happened on me.

Your 1-year-old likely has at least 1 pair of shoes and might need a coat (and sweaters depending on the weather at your destination), gloves, and beanies. Clothes only get bigger along with your child and consequently take up more room in your luggage.

Packing cubes have been a dream for both packing compactly as well as organizing my family’s bags. We each have our own set of cubes in different colors and I roll whole outfits together to save time when we’re getting dressed in the morning .

Rolling outfits works best for the kids’ clothes since my and my husband’s clothes are too big to roll together like this. This trick also helps me avoid over- or underpacking because I always know what’s meant to go with what.

Once we arrive at our accommodations, I leave the clothes in the packing cubes and just put them into the dresser drawers. Packing cubes have immensely simplified the way I organize and pack for my family.

I wish I had a dollar for everything that didn’t go according to plan since I started to travel with my family.

Flight delays and cancellations , lost items, cranky kids, and more, will inevitably happen to you. One of my children almost always catches a cold 2 weeks before a long-haul flight. We even ended up in a clinic in Amsterdam on our first family trip to Europe and returned home with ear infections (yes, the whole family).

When you go with the flow of each day, it allows you to take each inconvenience in stride instead of letting it ruin or make you regret your whole trip. Traveling with children requires patience and grace with them as well as yourself, especially when it comes to how you plan your days.

You can’t pack each day with museum visits, tours, and other activities when traveling with small children. They simply don’t have the stamina to keep up and will let you know when they’ve had enough.

Schedule your activities around their nap times to maximize your experience together and to better ensure a good mood from your little one.

We can only plan so much and the rest is out of our control. Temper your expectations and you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation with your 1-year-old.

Traveling with a 1-year-old is different than traveling with a younger baby, but not always in a bad way. It’s true that traveling with babies younger than a year old is easier because they sleep more often, are easier to transport, and are overall more amenable to most situations. But traveling with an older toddler can also be more fun for you.

If you plan accordingly — while saving room for things you can’t control — and follow at least some of the tips outlined above, I trust that you’ll have a great travel experience when flying with a 1-year-old.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep a 1-year-old calm on a plane.

If your child is particularly anxious or energetic at any point during the flight, give them their favorite toy that usually calms them down. A pacifier or a bottle is great during takeoff and landing, especially for helping with inner ear pressure. Their favorite stuffed animals, blanket, or book are additional comfort items you could try.

What can you do if your baby cries on a plane?

You know your child best and what usually calms them down, so start with what you know.

Some other tips to try: shushing while rocking, walking the aisle when the “Fasten Seat Belt” sign is off, and good old-fashioned distractions usually help. Alternatively, ask yourself the classic question: is my baby tired, hungry, or wet?

How can you relieve ear pressure for a baby when flying?

During takeoff and landing, you want to make sure that your child is swallowing to avoid or alleviate ear pressure. The best way to do this is to give them a pacifier or bottle. Snacking may also work.

Where do you change diapers on a plane?

There are changing tables in the lavatory located on airplanes. Unfortunately, not every plane has changing tables in the lavatories.

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About Ashley Onadele

Ashley discovered a love for travel in college that’s continued as her family has grown. She loves showing parents how they can take their families on trips using points and has contributed to numerous publications and podcasts.

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Top 10 Kids’ Travel Toys for Road Trips

Let’s get straight to business. If you’re traveling with children soon, you probably don’t have time to read my eloquent introduction with adorable anecdotes about how amazing my children behaved, and how patient and entertaining I (the mom) was on our 8-hour road trip to Ohio for holiday travel. It’s possible, of course, that I don’t have these lovely stories to tell…but that’s not the point. You need novel stuff to entertain your kids…and you probably need it fast. This I can help with.

*For my most up-to-date article on the best travel toys for kids — tech and non-screen time — which just dropped May 2021, go here . The post links here have been updated for 2021, but check out the comments at the bottom of the post from 2018 and 2019—so many AWESOME ideas!*

Traveling With Kids: Toy Prep Tips

1.  If you are flying, go to  this post for a full guide of what to pack in a kid carry-on bag .

2.  Even if you aren’t flying, I recommend packing the exact same toy categories in the kid backpack for ALL travel…makes things simple.

3.  For road trips, I throw in some extra toys (besides the backpack toys ) that are especially good for car travel (from the Top 10 list below). This is the perk of road tripping, right? You can just throw in a bunch of fun stuff that might come in handy (even if it’s bulky).

Road Trip Prep: Best 10 Toys For Kids

• Car Seat Tray   2.  Plus-Plus Play Tube   3.  Easy Origami Book 4.  Mini Squigz   5.  Puro Headphones   6.  Travel Bingo   7.  Magnetic Drawing Board  8.  Brainstring   9. Schylling Sports Video Game   10.  Robot Claw 

1.  An Organizing “Toy”

Okay…these aren’t toys, but I do think it’s important to have a thing or two to help keep toys organized in the back seat. To start with, it’s often helpful to have a surface to play on. A surface with an edge is even better, so little pieces or pencils or whatever else they’re playing with doesn’t slide right off immediately. It’s also helpful to have places kids can put “stuff”… this could be plastic cups that fit nicely in the cup holders (which can hold pencils and little building toys) or a full-on back-seat organizer that the super-organized kids may have more fun organizing than playing with the toys themselves. Or if you have two kids, a cooler in-between them (filled with healthy stuff they can eat on their own any time they want) can also serve as a joint play surface. Don’t forget someplace to put trash — how cute is the little trashcan below that fits into a cup holder!

2.  A Building Toy

For building play in the car, I’ve found the key is to have enough building materials that when the pieces fall on the floor (because they WILL fall on the floor) the kids don’t freak out. Besides having a largish quantity of building materials, it’s also important to make sure the materials are pretty much all the same (so there’s no way they can drop the one specific part they need to complete their engineering masterpiece). We sometimes set a timer and see what creation everyone comes up with during a set amount of time. A big set of WikkiStix , a ton of pipe cleaners , or a big tube of Plus-Plus works really well for open-ended building play on a hard surface or even in laps. If you have never played with Plus-Plus, stop and order them right now. They are SO fun and so addictive.

3.  A Crafty Toy

You have more space in the car than in the airplane bag for creative craft kits, but it’s bumpy and supplies are going to drop on the floor, so again….having a lot of the same materials is important.  Origami is great for older kiddos (just make sure to pack a ziplock for the paper) . Or put kids’ extra time to use making holiday gifts with a potholder set . I’m not usually a fan of these types of “have to follow directions” kits, but my son was super into making these potholders for EVERYONE a few years back. He was so excited to be able to make something that grandparents could actually use. A reader suggested finger knitting during travel days, which is genius — I  don’t know how to finger knit, though, so my kids would need the guide below.

4.  A Window Toy

You can get a little more creative with the car windows (vs. the tiny airplane windows).  Window gel clings or a big set of reusable stickers are fun and there’s a bigger surface to work with in the car. For more elaborate window art engineering, get Squigz.  In the car, they are so fun on windows or even in laps, and once you’ve reached your destination they are awesome for restaurants or floors or bathtubs (If you have two kids, though, I’ve found it easier to buy two tubs…plenty of material for each window.) We use the mini ones , but they are small(recommended for ages 5 and up), so if you have a little one who still puts things in their mouths…this is not the toy for them.   I’m intrigued also by these funny spinner things made by Squigz. Even though they are made for babies, I think my kids would be thoroughly entertained by sticking these on the window and keeping them spinning.  Squigz also has a new version called 2.0 that offers more building versatility.

5.  A Listening Toy

One of my kids’ favorite activities in the car is playing DJ. We rotate selecting one song at a time. It’s amazing how much time this takes up and of course how fun it is to at least try to appreciate everyone’s taste in music. For those times that I’ve had enough of appreciating everyone’s musical taste, headphones come in handy. We used to use these, but based on my good friend V’s advice (an expert family road-tripper with 3 kids), we switched over to Puros, and they are totally worth it. There’s also a newer noise-canceling version that look fantastic. Audiobooks from Audible or free audiobooks from the public library ( Libby App ) are also an amazing car activity (the kids can enjoy some passive chill-out entertainment, but still look out the windows and appreciate where they are in the world).

6.  A Car Specific Game

It’s fun to play at least one car-specific family game.  We usually play a range of alphabet games…finding things that start with letters of the alphabet, finding license plates using the whole alphabet, signs, etc, but the games below look really fun too.  The Melissa and Doug game has those flaps that I love from the airplane guide  that are fun for kids to fidget with even if they aren’t actually playing the game.

7.  A Drawing Toy

I love the little drawing sets and boogie boards in our airplane guide that fit nicely in a backpack or purse, but here are a few more options for something a little different. I like keeping white boards in the car, even for shorter trips. The kids can draw, write notes, and use it as a play surface. Plus, they come in a pack of 6, so you can leave a couple in the car, a couple in their rooms, and have one in the kitchen too. They come in very handy. I find the click dry-erase markers easier in the car so the tops of markers don’t get lost.  Etch-a-sketch , of course, is a classic, and it’s especially fun for kids who don’t have one that they play with regularly. Folks love the travel-sized Magnatab from the airplane guide , but below is the bigger one that would add some additional fun for the car.

8.  A Puzzle Toy

NOT traditional jig-jaw puzzles…no way…road trip disaster. I’m talking brain puzzler puzzles. My 10-year-old loves his Perplexus, but this size is a little better for the car. Easier mazes are great for little ones as are those fun little water “pusher-upper” things.   Riddle books can be a great brain puzzler for the whole family.

9.   A Video Game Toy

You can of course go with the versatile iPad, but if you want to change it up a bit, there are several good options. I’m a huge fan of the Nintendo Switch for many reasons (I go in to more detail here ), but one of the reasons I love it, is it’s incredible for travel and now they have the Nintendo Switch Lite ! So good! My friend V shared with me the fabulous retro sports video games from Schylling below…she said her kids are obsessed, and they were a great road trip addition.

10.  An “It Dropped-on-the Floor, I Can’t-Reach-It…Help, Mom!”…Toy Grabber.

No more words needed. This was my 10-year-old’s suggestion, and I have to say…I think it’s quite brilliant and probably the best thing on this list.

And when you’re done here, b e sure to head to Holiday Central for more sales, style and gift ideas!

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Our Ultimate Toy Guide (For All Ages) Is Here!

A Gift Guide For the Unicorn-Obsessed Kid

We gathered, discussed (argued?) and landed on the 10 pieces that we all deemed the most versatile in our closets. The magical (yet simple) ones that seem to go with everything & somehow make even our most-worn everyday looks seem fresh...and we're sharing them with you!

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April Fools' Day pranks: Apps to translate baby stoner sayings, a ghostbuster at Tinder

Every april 1, brands and companies want to get some laughs – and attention – with goofy new 'product' launches. here are some ideas from companies such as sweetgreen, welch's and omaha steaks..

If you don't like Mondays, this one may especially be grating. It's April Fool's Day , when you should trust no one and question everything.

The roots of April Fools' Day may date back before to before the 15th century. But the modern-day April Fools' Day has become a day to prank a friend, family member, co-worker − or your customers.

Even though some companies have had April Fools' pranks backfire , marketers continue to issue spoof products in attempts to get some laughs and attention.

Already ahead of April Fools' Day, 7-Eleven has hinted at a possible prank product: In addition to new Lemon Lime, Green Apple and Sweet Orange flavored 7-Select sparkling waters, out now with partner Miracle Seltzer, there's a fourth flavor coming April 1: Big Bite Hot Dog.

The hot dog-flavored water "combines the mouthwatering experience of 7-Eleven’s iconic Big Bite Hot Dog into one refreshing beverage – ketchup and mustard included," the convenience chain says in a press release . "Say goodbye to the days of alternating bites of a hot dog with sips of a beverage, now those on the go can swap the bun for bubbles."

Krispy Kreme: A special doughnut deal for April Fools' Day

Will Big Bite Hot Dog sparkling water be sold? Its availability will be announced April 1. However, some reporters were sent a can of the drink. USA TODAY can confirm that it definitely smells like hot dog water and has a smoky aftertaste.

If you are interested in trying it, both 7-Eleven and Miracle Seltzer have hinted at having some to give away on their Instagram pages. (If you get a can, share with a friend as it's 16 ounces.)

Here's a roundup of many of the brand-related April Fools’ gag announcements. You've been warned.

Sour cream & onion flavored soda

Despite the proliferation of crazy-flavored products including Peeps-flavored Pepsi , Frank's RedHot sauce-flavored Vlasic pickles and Doritos Nacho Cheese-flavored liquor , healthy soda brand OLIPOP and Pringles are not really teaming up to bring to market a Sour Cream & Onion soda.

The product would have been "a match made in heaven … to bring the delicious, tangy flavor of Pringles’ Sour Cream & Onion flavor to life in liquid form with prebiotic benefits," the companies said.

Stoner lingo translation app

Another dream team prank product: Rosetta Stoned, a mobile app from Rosetta Stone and medical marijuana company Fluent , that "bridges the conversational gap between novice users and seasoned stoners in any social setting."

Da da decoder

Infant equipment site BabyQuip has its own language-bridging lark: the “Baby Translator” app, to decode your baby's secret language.

"Say 'goodbye' to restless nights as you decode your baby's coos and cries instantly, providing you with the understanding you need as a parent, all in one convenient app," it promises.

An AI-powered plush doll

Custom stuffed animal maker Budsies already makes selfie plush dolls with a built-in voice recorder. Its April Fools' spoof: Artificial intelligence-enabled dolls that "come programmed to learn everything about you and to become your new best friend."

A 50-pound Bearabuddy

Sorry to the 3,500 or so who have already signed up to buy Bearaby's Jumbo Benji plush toy, which is four times the size of its regular weighted plush toys and twice as heavy as its heaviest weighted blanket . This isn't actually going to be sold. But it is real and will be making its home in the lobby at The Child Mind Institute in Harlem to welcome children and their families. More weighted plushies are due the day after April Fools' Day, the company says.

A sleeping bag to go bananas over

The Dole Banana Peel Sleeping Bag, conveniently promoted as being available on April Fools' Day only, is made from actual banana fiber and "allows parents to escape into their own cocoon of sensory deprivation."

A full-body cleaning suit

Outrageous clothing company Tipsy Elves has a special product for April Fools' Day: The Mopsie. You don't need paper towels anymore, you can use your body to clean up those messes, with this "innovative, wearable microfiber towel jumpsuit" for "effortlessly soaking up spills and messes with ease." There's also a Baby Mopsie for "hard to reach places."

Korean BBQ deodorant

Kevin's Natural Foods , which has paleo- and keto-certified ready-to-cook and easy-prep entrées, is touting a new line of personal care products inspired by its food dishes including Korean BBQ Deodorant, Cilantro Lime Toothpaste, Lemongrass Basil Shampoo and Tikka Masala Sunscreen.

"These new face, body and hair care essentials will help fans prioritize self-care inside and out," the company says. 

Omaha Steaks' meaty sprays

Omaha Steaks has its own personal care prank product: Meaty Spritz sprays with flavors such as Omaha Fog, Hog Haze, and Cock-a-Doodle-Dew.

"The world’s first protein-infused, flavor-packed, portable pump spray … (to) enjoy all the mouthwatering flavors of your Omaha Steaks gourmet favorites no matter how far away from the kitchen you are!" the company says.

Sriracha toothpaste

Asian sauce maker Lee Kum Kee , which makes Sriracha Chili Sauce and Sriracha Mayo Dressing, is introducing – not – its Siracha Mayo Toothpaste. It's "fiery and creamy goodness … is sure to spice up your morning dental routine."

Post-salad dental kit

Need some less powerful toothpaste? Sweetgreen offered these fanciful personal hygiene products as part of its Sweetgreen After Salad Kit, which is "designed with your pearly whites in mind … offering everything you need to freshen up post-meal."

Choose from Miso Ginger Toothpaste, Spicy Cashew Mints, Lime Cilantro Dental Floss, and Sweetgreen Toothbrush and Floss Picks.

Fruit juice lip gloss

More personal care prank products: Welch’s Juicyfuls Juicy Fruit Lip Gloss – now available in five flavors: grape, orange, peach, strawberry and raspberry – made with real juice from Juicefuls fruit snacks so "you get that irresistible sweet flavor you love, all in a lip gloss that's as fun as it is nourishing."

Protein-powered seasonings

Quest Nutrition , maker of protein powder, snacks and other products, has a prank product line of seasonings including All Purpose, Lemon Pepper, and Garlic Herb, each of which deliver "21g of protein, 2g of net carbs and less than 1g of sugar."

If you want to try Quest's real products, you can use code NOJOKE for free shipping on online orders over $49 April 1-3.

Superpowered Superfeet?

These would certainly come in hand on a run, but – sorry – it's a jogging joke. Superfeet SuperBoost Power E-Soles gives you 8 hours of continuous battery-powered boost, for almost Iron Man-like propulsion. "All the comfort and support of Superfeet , now with electrifying performance," the company says in a video about the prank product. "It's like having a powerful electric motor in your shoes."

Scotch tape-branded Scotch?

This shenanigan seems like a blend that could stick: Scotch Whisky by Scotch Brand. The whisky "features a nose of cherry wood and a delightfully smooth finish that hits like a well-wrapped gift."

Who you gonna call when ghosted? This new title at Tinder

Dating app Tinder announced a new April Fools' Day hiring quest for a Vice President of Ghost Hunting to help combat "one of dating culture’s most prevalent vices – ghosting," a practice inflicted on 78% of singles already in 2024 (an untrue fact from Tinder).

Patrón's bringing back a beloved liqueur. No kidding.

Patrón patrons get some good news today. The premium tequila maker chose April Fools' Day to announce the return of its Patrón XO Cafe tequila-based coffee liqueur, which was discontinued in 2021. Since production ceased, devotees took to social media and signed a petition asking parent company Bacardi to bring it back.

Made with Patrón Silver tequila and Arabica bean coffee – the dry liqueur can be sipped straight, in cocktails and as dessert topping – Patrón XO Cafe will begin arriving in stores again later this month.

Say it with dead flowers

Don't forget to put roses on your April Fools' Day list. UrbanStems has this "special" delivery, The Dead Inside Collection, "an assortment of dead flower bouquets, dead plants, half empty vases, and more for the pessimist in your life." But, for real, check UrbanStems' social media accounts including Instagram for how to get 20% off an order of real flowers.

Cheesecake Factory's real deals

The Cheesecake Factory  also has a deal that's no joke: Sign up for the chain's Cheesecake Rewards loyalty program on April 1 to get an Any Slice, Half Price reward, redeemable for 50% off any slice of cheesecake or layer cake, with any food or beverage purchase (no gift cards).

Those who were members before April 1 will find something special in their account on Monday, too: either a free slice of cheesecake each month for a year, a free whole cheesecake, a free slice of cheesecake, $5 off $25 purchases, or $10 off $40 purchases. (All rewards redeemable by April 16; can be redeemed for dine-in, to-go and DoorDash.)

New merch from Dunkin', bonus points in app

Dunkin' announced it is going back to its roots and rebranding to just "Donuts'" on Monday, April 1. To celebrate the rebrand, the company is selling "Donuts'" merch, including sweatshirts that read "DONUTS," on ShopDunkin.com .

Additionally, Dunkin' Rewards members will receive 3x bonus points on any donut order through the mobile app on April 1.

Urban Outfitters launches 'Name Three Shirts' movement

Urban Outfitters said it is launching a global movement to "stand in solidarity against band-tee-shaming" by launching a new collection called "Name Three Shirts."

The t-shirt line "playfully mocks the gatekeeping attitudes of older generations who insist that band-shirt wearers should be required to name songs by those artists," the company said in a news release.

The line, which features revamped logos from bands such as The Grateful Dead, Joy Division and Led Zeppelin, is a "playful jab at the attitudes of older generations, and fights back against the misogynistic undertones of the infamous ‘name three songs’ line of questioning," Urban Outfitters said in the news release.

The collection of shirts is available online and in select Urban Outfitters stores starting April 1. You can shop the collection online here .

Auntie Anne's, Frontier Airlines collaborate on Pretzel Plane

Auntie Anne's pretzels and Frontier Airlines announced they have collaborated on the newest addition to Frontier's fleet: the Pretzel Plane.

According to a news release, the plane includes new in-flight entertainment featuring Auntie Anne's pretzels rolled seat-side, the "luxurious" smell of hot, fresh pretzels throughout the cabin and airplane-shaped pretzels if you're feeling hungry.

Moe's Southwest Grill, Sonic team up to introduce a Queso Slush

Two popular fast food chains announced a collaboration that is sure to be polarizing.

Moe's and Sonic announced a new beverage, the Queso Slush, a queso-flavored slushie. "The frozen goodness of a Sonic Slush meets the delicious flavor of Moe's queso."

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads:  @mikesnider  & mikegsnider .

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

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I packed for a 2-week vacation in a van using tips from people who live in one full time. It made my journey so much smoother.

Posted: December 17, 2023 | Last updated: December 18, 2023

• I embarked on a two-week van trip and turned to the experts for packing advice.
• People living out of vans, RVs, and travel trailers gave me some tips.
• They suggested I pack a way to jumpstart the van, and do my best to avoid overpacking. 

Packing for my first van trip didn't start the night before, or even two days ahead of time — it was closer to two weeks before my van adventure.

That's because I wanted to make sure I'd be prepared for all that I would encounter along the road . And part of that preparation involved asking people living out of vans what I should be packing.

They delivered with their advice, so I'm passing on their packing tips for anyone else planning a similar trip.

With limited water on the road, one person recommended that I bring a collapsible water jug on my van trip.

The van I'd rented for two weeks came from the rental company Native Campervans . Thankfully, the 75-square-foot space had practically everything I needed. There was a stove, sink, bed, and plenty of room for storage.

The van also had a seven-gallon tank for water. While some vans are equipped with much larger tanks, I figured stopping to fill it up with water a few times throughout my trip wouldn't be too challenging.

But Christian Schaffer , who has lived in a van for more than four years, advised bringing a collapsible water jug. She said I might use more water than I predicted, so having a few backup gallons could help me avoid a stop or two.

"A thing that's kind of helpful is those big collapsible water jugs that you can fill up just so that you have extra to go off-grid," Schaffer, 38, told BI. "And they pack down really small when you're not using them."

While Casey Hogan said it might seem obvious to travel with a first-aid kit, she said she often sees people without one.

Casey Hogan , a 31-year-old living in a 2019 Ford Transit, reminded me that van life can feel similar to camping. Plus, I'd be doing activities like hiking and climbing, where things could go wrong.

Hogan said she always packs with emergencies in mind. "I always travel with and hike with the first aid kit," Hogan said.

That way, she's prepared if something goes awry out in the wilderness.

Others said emergency items like a portable jump starter and an external battery are essential.

Navod McNeil told BI that he also considers safety when it comes to packing for a van trip in his Ford Transit.

The 30-year-old said that there have been plenty of times when something went wrong with his van, and one common problem was a dead battery.

So he started packing a portable jump starter for his van trips. This way, he doesn't need to rely on AAA or a stranger with jumper cables to save the day.

I have a portable jump starter in my everyday car, which I bought on Amazon for $60 . I might have forgotten to pack it if McNeil didn't remind me.

Beyond that, McNeil said he always has an external battery, so he can still access electricity if his van's power were to fail.

One traveler suggested that I download movies and music to my laptop, phone, or iPad.

Often in remote destinations, there isn't cell service, and depending on your van and WiFi setup, you might be without service for days on end, Maddy Garrett , 25, told BI.

With that in mind, Garrett always has a few playlists, podcasts, and movies downloaded on her devices.

While Garrett said disconnecting from the outside world is a major perk of van life, there are still times when you'll want a solo movie night or music for those long, service-less drives.

Don't forget to pack whatever you want to use to document your trip.

Zach Nelson , a 23-year-old living in a Sprinter van, recommends packing items that will make it easy to document the adventure, whether you prefer to write in a journal or snap pictures on a film camera.

"You definitely need a way to document it, whether it's a Polaroid film camera or even just your phone," Nelson said.

A 25-year-old living in her van swears by her reusable pee cloth.

Garrett said her Kula cloth has been a game changer when it comes to using the restroom with van life. The $20 item is an antimicrobial, reusable pee cloth that's easy to carry on trips.

I'm a frequent hiker and backpacker, and I've had my eye on a Kula cloth for a long time. And since my van wasn't going to have a bathroom, Garrett said it was the ideal time to buy one.

"It just makes your life easier because you could stop and pee on the side of the road at any time," she said.

Plus, a pee cloth would mean that I wouldn't have to worry for two weeks about throwing away used toilet paper, she said, adding that "it's literally the best thing in the whole world."

Most people encouraged me to prepare for the weather.

Multiple people said that traveling in a van would mean needing to adapt to the weather.

"You have to understand whatever is going on outside will probably affect you on the inside," Brittany Newson , a 36-year-old living in a travel trailer, told BI.

Whether it's rain, snow, or heat, everyone agreed I should pack with that in mind.

Sierra Fernald , 23, said I shouldn't only consider the weather, but how I handle it. Fernald said she hates the cold and there were times in her Ram ProMaster van when it felt impossible to get out of her warm bed in the morning. So she invested in warmer clothes and a heater to make those chilly mornings easier.

"Definitely prepare for the weather, and maybe over-prepare a little bit," she said.

And while it might be tempting to overpack, multiple people encouraged me to keep things light.

Multiple people said I wouldn't want to live and travel in a crowded van, so they encouraged me to evaluate if and how I was going to use every item I packed.

"Come in with the bare minimums and see how you like to live in the space," Newson said. "Then you will see what it is that you would need in order to be happy."

Worst-case scenario, I could always stop at a store along the way to pick up anything I'd forgotten.

Their tips worked, and I embarked on my two-week trip without leaving anything major behind.

While I did overpack, the people I spoke with shared helpful suggestions that made a drastic difference throughout my trip.

For example, grabbing a first-aid kit and portable jump starter gave me confidence and reassurance throughout the two weeks. And not worrying about used toilet paper thanks to Garrett's Kula cloth suggestion was a major luxury.

While I'd add a few more items to my packing list for a regular road trip , these nomad-approved items will always be tucked into my suitcase for my future van adventures.

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1-year-old unharmed after being barricaded with suspect during stand-off in NW Harris Co., HCSO says

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- A suspect is in custody after a stand-off where a 1-year-old was present in northwest Harris County, according to officials.

The video above is from ABC13's live-streaming channel.

The Harris County Constable Precinct 4 Office responded to a family disturbance call in the 10400 block of Hamlet Vale Court around 9 p.m. on Thursday.

Preliminary information said that a woman and another young child were in the home but were able to escape.

The man reportedly refused to leave the residence and barricaded himself, along with a 1-year-old child, investigators said.

RELATED: Argument between woman and ex sparks hourslong SWAT scene in NW Houston, HPD said

HCSO's SWAT negotiation team was called to the area as the man stayed inside. Eventually, officials entered the home, causing the suspect to escape through the back door and jump several fences.

Officials quickly located the man and took him into custody.

Investigators said the 1-year-old was not injured.

HCSO said the man is facing charges of domestic assault of a family member.

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