9 DIY Travel Toys for family holidays

School holidays are right around the corner, and we’re planning a big family road trip. All those hours in the car leads to bored, grumpy kids, who end up whining or fighting (or both). To make the trip go more smoothly, here are some great DIY travel toys for kids. Perfect for keeping kids entertained on long car or plane rides.

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Travel Drawing Kit

For the kid who loves to draw, colour or write, this travel drawing kit tutorial on my blog, Cook Clean Craft, is a neat way to always have drawing supplies on hand. It includes a slot for a notebook, and fits in a typical Mum-sized handbag.

I-Spy Bag

I-Spy bags can keep fingers moving and distract kids for a while. There are lots of tutorials out there, but here’s one from Thread Riding Hood.

Magnetic Paper Dolls

These magnetic paper dolls are another cute option. Bring along a metal/tin box or a small baking tray for the magnets to stick to, and the creative kit can spend hours playing with her dolls.

Felt Magnetic Set

Another cute magnetic option is this felt set with a house, trees and dolls from Shill O’Pop. The pattern is available on Etsy.

Felt Pizza

if your kids like to cook, make them a felt pizza set. I love the details in this pattern from Sweet Emma Jean.

Quiet Book

Quiet books are another great idea, which almost infinite possibilities. And Next Comes L has some great quiet book ideas, or check out this Pinterest board for more inspiration.

Play Dough

A plastic container with play dough and a few cookie cutters can keep small hands busy for hours (although can make a bit of a mess – but surely mess is better than whining!). Here’s a great playdough recipe from The Imagination Tree (although there’s plenty more out there!).

Travel Sandpit

If you don’t mind a bit of a mess, you could make this travel sandbox from Craftaholics Anonymous.

Baby Travel Toy Blanket

This adorable travel toy blanket from Merriment Design includes pockets and Velcro loops for storing different toys. Perfect for keeping a baby or toddler busy (and quiet!).

What is your favourite way to keep kids happy on plane and car trips?

Narelle (CookCleanCraft) (23 Posts)

Narelle is a former engineer turned Mum and housewife, applying engineering principles to a life at home. She shares tools for the modern domestic engineer at CookCleanCraft.com, including recipes, cleaning and organisation tips, and sewing, crochet, cardboard crafts.