Traveling with kids can be an incredibly enriching experience, creating lasting family memories. However, let’s be honest, it can also be challenging. One of the most effective strategies for smoother journeys, whether you’re embarking on a cross-country road trip or an international flight, is preparing dedicated Kids Travel Bags. These aren’t just about packing toys; they are about equipping your children with everything they need to stay happy, entertained, and comfortable throughout your travels.
After years of traveling with our three children, we’ve learned firsthand the immense value of well-thought-out kids travel bags. From minimizing meltdowns to fostering independence, these bags are a game-changer for family travel. This guide will walk you through creating the perfect travel bags for your kids, ensuring a more enjoyable and stress-free travel experience for everyone.
Choosing the Right Kids Travel Backpack
The foundation of any great kids travel bag is, naturally, the bag itself. Selecting the right backpack is crucial for comfort, functionality, and durability. You want a bag that your child can comfortably carry and that will withstand the rigors of travel.
Size Matters: Backpack Size Guide for Different Ages
Choosing the appropriate size backpack is paramount. A bag that’s too large will be cumbersome, while one that’s too small won’t hold enough essentials. For younger toddlers and preschoolers, a 10-inch backpack is generally ideal. This size is manageable for their smaller frames and still offers sufficient space for key items. For older kids, elementary school age and beyond, consider backpacks in the 16-20 inch range. These larger backpacks provide ample room for more entertainment, snacks, and even a lightweight jacket.
Remember, the goal is for your child to carry their own bag. Overpacking or choosing an oversized backpack will likely result in you carrying it, defeating the purpose of kids travel bags and adding to your load.
Comfort and Durability: Key Features to Look For
Beyond size, consider the comfort and durability of the backpack. Look for features like padded shoulder straps and back panels to ensure comfortable carrying, especially during long travel days. Adjustable straps are also important for a secure and customized fit as your child grows.
Durability is equally important. Opt for backpacks made from sturdy, water-resistant materials to withstand wear and tear. Reinforced stitching and strong zippers are indicators of a quality bag that will last through many adventures.
Personalization and Safety: Adding Contact Info
A simple yet important tip for kids travel bags is to personalize them and add your contact information. Use a permanent marker to write your name and phone number on the front of each backpack. In the unfortunate event that you get separated from your child in a crowded place, this can significantly aid in quickly reuniting. Consider bright-colored backpacks as well, making your child easier to spot in busy environments.
A 10-inch waterproof sports backpack, ideal as a kids travel bag for toddlers and young children, available in multiple colors.
A full-sized waterproof backpack with adjustable straps and ample storage, suitable as a kids travel bag for older children and teenagers.
Must-Have Entertainment Items for Kids Travel Bags
Keeping kids entertained during travel is key to a peaceful journey. A well-packed kids travel bag is your secret weapon in preventing boredom-induced restlessness. The goal is to include a variety of engaging activities to keep them occupied and happy, whether you are on a plane, train, or automobile.
Creative Fun: Coloring Books and Activity Books
A mix of electronic and non-electronic entertainment is often the most effective strategy. Coloring books and activity books are excellent non-digital options for kids travel bags. Pair them with crayons or colored pencils for hours of creative fun. For younger children, simple coloring books are perfect, while older kids might enjoy more complex activity books, like mazes, word searches, or sticker books. These are great for downtime during travel or in hotel rooms.
Interactive Play: Printable Travel Games
Printable travel games add an element of interactive fun to kids travel bags. There are countless free printable games available online, from classic bingo and matching games to travel-themed scavenger hunts and “I Spy” activities. Consider themed games related to your destination or your child’s interests to make them even more engaging. These games are perfect for playing together as a family or for solo entertainment.
Literacy on the Go: Books – Physical and Digital
Encourage a love of reading by including books in your kids travel bags. While e-readers are convenient for travel, there’s still something special about physical books. Pack a few lightweight paperback books that fit easily into their backpacks. For older children, let them bring their current chapter book. Don’t forget to download ebooks onto tablets as well, offering a wider selection without adding bulk.
Comfort Companions: Small Toys and Stuffed Animals
Allowing children to bring a few small, familiar toys and stuffed animals can provide comfort and entertainment on the go. A favorite plush toy can be a source of comfort, especially during unfamiliar travel situations or when sleeping in new places. Small action figures, toy cars, or building blocks can also keep little hands busy. Choose toys that are easy to manage and won’t get easily lost.
Tech Time: Tablets, Headphones, and Accessories
Electronics can be invaluable for long travel stretches. Consider including a tablet pre-loaded with movies, games, and educational apps in your kids travel bags. Tablets like the Kindle Fire are affordable and versatile options for kids. Don’t forget essential accessories:
- Kid-Proof Cases: Protect tablets from bumps and drops with durable, kid-proof cases. Choose different colors for each child’s tablet to easily distinguish them.
- Headphones: Headphones are a must-have for shared travel spaces. Opt for kid-friendly headphones with volume limiting features to protect their hearing. Some headphones even have a sharing function, allowing two kids to listen to the same device.
- SD Memory Cards: Expand storage on tablets with SD cards to load up on movies, apps, and books, ensuring hours of entertainment without relying on Wi-Fi.
- Portable Chargers: A portable charger is a lifesaver for keeping devices powered up during long journeys, especially when outlets are scarce.
A Kindle Fire 7 tablet, a great electronic device for kids travel bags, pre-load with movies, games and books.
A Kindle Fire HD 10 tablet, recommended for older kids travel bags, featuring a larger screen and longer battery life for more immersive entertainment.
A SanDisk 32GB micro SD memory card, an essential accessory for kids travel bags to expand tablet storage for more content.
Mpow CH6S Kids Headphones, adjustable headphones with volume control, perfect for kids travel bags to minimize noise and enhance entertainment.
Snacks and Drinks: Fueling Your Little Travelers
Hungry and thirsty kids are often unhappy kids. Packing snacks and drinks in kids travel bags is essential for preventing meltdowns and ensuring everyone stays content. Having readily available snacks empowers children to self-regulate their hunger and thirst, reducing potential travel-related stress.
Hydration Heroes: Spill-Proof Water Bottles
Water bottles are a non-negotiable item in kids travel bags. Choose spill-proof water bottles to minimize messes, especially during bumpy rides or turbulence. Opt for a size that fits comfortably in backpack side pockets – around 20 ounces is generally a good balance. When flying, remember to pack empty water bottles to fill up after airport security.
Snack Smart: Healthy and Fun Food Options
Pack a variety of snacks that are both healthy and appealing to kids. Consider options like:
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Apple slices, grapes, baby carrots, and cucumber sticks are nutritious and easy to pack.
- Cheese and Protein: Cheese sticks, hard-boiled eggs, or trail mix provide protein and keep hunger at bay.
- Whole Grain Snacks: Crackers, granola bars, or whole grain cereals offer sustained energy.
- Treats in Moderation: Include a few small, individually wrapped treats like cookies or fruit snacks for a little indulgence.
Packing Tips: Reusable Bags and Variety
Use reusable storage bags for packing snacks. These are eco-friendly, durable, and see-through, making it easy to identify contents. Pack a variety of snacks to cater to different preferences and prevent snack fatigue. Individual snack packs are convenient for portion control and hygiene.
Reusable storage bags, ideal for packing snacks in kids travel bags, are see-through and more durable than disposable bags.
Nabisco Sweet & Savory Mix Variety Pack, individual snack packs perfect for kids travel bags, offering portion-controlled and kid-friendly treats.
By thoughtfully packing kids travel bags, you are investing in a smoother, happier, and more enjoyable travel experience for your entire family. Remember to tailor the contents to your children’s ages and interests, and involve them in the packing process to build excitement for your upcoming adventure. Happy travels!
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