This post is all about screen free travel activities for kids.
Screen Free Travel Activities for Kids: Yes, It’s Possible
We’ve all been there, you’re just settling in for a long road trip or waiting for takeoff at the airport, and your child starts squirming, complaining, or spiraling into boredom. The instinct? Hand over the tablet. And while screens can be a true sanity-saver in certain situations, relying on them as a default travel solution isn’t always the best long-term strategy, especially for younger kids.
If you’re a parent who’s hoping to reduce screen time, or you’re simply traveling in a situation where devices aren’t practical (dead batteries, poor signal, or multiple kids sharing one tablet), having a go-to list of screen free travel activities is imperative. Not only do screen-free alternatives help children build patience, creativity, and self-regulation, but they also encourage more meaningful family interactions, even inside a cramped car or busy airport.
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This post is packed with practical ideas to help you keep kids busy on long trips without screens. Whether you’re traveling by car, plane, or train, I’ll share tried-and-true travel tips for parents, fun and affordable activities that require no screen time, and even a list of my screen-free travel toys and games that are parent-approved and kid-tested. The goal? A smoother, happier journey for everyone…no batteries required.
Preparing Kids for Screen-Free Travel
Before you even step out the door, one of the best ways to set your trip up for success is to prepare your kids for the idea of traveling without screens. For many kids, especially those used to using a tablet in everyday life, going screen-free for a prolonged period can be a big adjustment. But with a little prep, you can help make the transition smoother and even fun.
Tips For Screen Free Travel With Kids
1. Set Expectations Early
Start by talking about the trip a few days in advance. Let your child know what to expect including how long you’ll be traveling, what kind of activities they’ll get to do, and why you’re choosing to go screen-free. Keep it positive! You might say something like, “We’re going to do a screen-free trip this time so we can play more games together and use our imaginations!”
If your child is old enough, explain that screens aren’t always an option (like if you’re flying and don’t want to rely on Wi-Fi or battery life), and this is a chance to discover new ways to stay busy and have fun.
2. Involve Your Kids In The Planning
When kids feel involved, they’re more likely to buy in. Let them help pack their own “travel fun bag” with screen-free activities. Offer a few choices from a curated list, like coloring books, travel games, or a favorite stuffed animal so they feel some control over what they bring.
You can even turn it into a special event: lay out several activities and let them choose five to pack. Bonus tip: Hide one or two surprises they don’t know about so you can pull them out later when they need a little pick-me-up.
Consider showing them some of the activities from this post and letting them pick out a few on their own.
3. Create a Loose Travel Routine
Kids thrive on routines, even when they’re in a car or on a plane. Try setting up a simple schedule like:
- 30 minutes: coloring or crafts
- Snack time
- Audio story or podcast
- Game time (like I Spy or a travel bingo sheet)
- Movement/stretch break
- Quiet play (fidget toy, puzzle book)
You don’t have to follow it perfectly, but having a rhythm to the trip gives kids structure and helps prevent boredom from creeping in.
4. Prepare for the Inevitable Bumps
Even with the best planning, kids will get tired, cranky, or overstimulated at some point. That doesn’t mean the trip is a failure. It just means they’re human. Keep a stash of low-effort activities (like mess-free sticker books or a surprise snack), and remind yourself that meltdowns are a normal part of travel, screens or no screens.
Sometimes, the best “activity” is just sitting together, watching the clouds out the window, or telling silly stories to pass the time.
Screen-Free Travel Activities for Kids
Travel Toys and Games
Bluey Magnetic Playset
- 75 BLUEY MAGNETIC ACCESSORIES: Complete with 75 magnetic punch-out characters and accessories, this whimsical playset offers endless ways for your little pup to learn through play! Mix & match tons of different magnetic toys, outfits, and accessories to tell your own Bluey story.
- ALL YOUR FAVORITE BLUEY CHARACTERS: Punch out your favorite cast of characters from the magnetic sheet, including Grandad, Nana, Bandit, Chilli, Bluey, Bingo, Muffin, then place them inside the tin to create your own adventures!
- PREMIUM STORAGE CASE + PLAY SPACE: Use the storage tin to keep your magnets organized (don’t leave a pup out in the cold!) and bring a world of creative adventure wherever you go, including playdates, sleepovers, road trips and more!
Magnetic Travel Toys for Toddler
- Toys for All Ages: This humanoid magnet is made of high quality Silicone and magnets. There are 4 durable magnets built into the arms and legs of the toy, and the body is bendable and resistant to defo mation and color fading.Bright colors and a comfortable feel make this a great sensory fidget toy for toddlers, kids and adults. Gifts for boys and girls.
- Travel Toys: These magnetic toys are small, silent, simple and easy to carry around, a must-have toy for kids traveling, as well as everyday restaurant toys, airplane toys, car toys and church toys. road trip activities essentials. Toys for ages 2-4.
- Fidgets for Classroom: It’s small, simple, yet surprisingly engaging. It’s quiet, colorful, and durable, yet plans for children’s imagination and creativity. Avoid too many electronic screen distractions and come play with your classmates!
Petit Collage Funny Face Magnetic Travel Play Set
- MAGNETIC GAME FOR KIDS – How silly can you make each face look? This On-the-Go Funny Faces Magnetic Travel Game from Petit Collage is sure to bring the giggles!
- ROAD TRIP GAME – This travel toy for kids includes 25+ magnetic pieces and 2 individual play scenes on the interior of the tin. Create over 100 different combinations of silly faces with glasses, hats, mustaches, and more.
- FUN TRAVEL ACTIVITY – Packaged in a handy portable tin, this game can easily be slipped into a backpack, purse, or diaper bag, making it an ideal travel activity for kids. It also makes a thoughtful gift for kids for any occasion!
Coogam Travel Tangram Puzzle
- The tangram is a dissection puzzle consisting of seven flat shapes, called tans, which are put together to form shapes. The objective of the puzzle is to form a specific shape (given only an outline or silhouette) using all seven pieces, which may not overlap.
- This Coogam tangram puzzle book is the new designed and improved version of original.There is less of a chance of mess thanks to the tangram’s magnetic design.Its 6.1″x5.9″ dimensions and 7.4oz weight makes it very portable.
- This travel puzzle set contains 360 different patterns and solution, this patterns can help little minds grasp concrete patterns, abstract shapes, problem solving, and geometric shapes and sizes. They range in difficulty, but that means kids and adults can play, and kids can definitely grow with this.
- Jigsaw Puzzle Games is traditional teaching mathematics for above 3 years old. The Tangram can enhance children’s patience and observation, practical ability, hand-eye coordination ability when playing puzzle games.
- Magnetic Tangram puzzle toys come with 7 small colorful simple magnetic plates, use different method to build the ever-changing image patterns, from easy to difficult. Really fun and educational game for inspiring children’s intelligence.
Magnetic PlayMonster Take N Play Anywhere — Hangman
- Take ‘N Play Anywhere games feature big playing pieces that are easy for kids to use and hard for kids to lose
- In this game both the letters and the body parts are magnetic allowing you to play the classic game anywhere
- For 2 players
- Recommended for ages 5 and up
- The classic hangman game in magnetic, travel-size form
Puzzles for Kids
- UNICORN PUZZLES FOR KIDS: magnet sudoku toy for kids is an amazing preschool learning activity that helps develop motor skills and improve logical thinking; This travel game is 8,3×24,9 inches and consists of 3 colorful animal puzzles
- MAGNETIC TOYS FOR TODDLERS: QUOKKA learning game is challenging puzzles for kids and interesting puzzles for kids ages 3-5; Your kids can practice with our 24 pieces magnet puzzle book and move to 36 piece puzzles
- KIDS TRAVEL ACTIVITY: if you’re looking for road trip activities for kids, you can try these toddler games ages 3-4; Our magnetic book will be helpful during any journey due to its comfortable packaging, modern design, and difference in themes
- FAVORITE LEARNING GAMES: these magnetic puzzles are an excellent way to prepare your children kindergarten as this toddler toy develops kids’ concentration and visual skills; You get exciting puzzles with princesses, unicorns and mermaids for girls
- NICE MAGNETIC GIFT: toddler gift for ages 3-5 help you surprise your child with colorful images and modern design; You can enjoy your family time with our travel toy and bring positive emotions to everyone with QUOKKA
Magnetic 2-in-1 Checkers & Tic-Tac-Toe Board Game
- Checkers & Tic-Tac-Toe Children Board Games: Ttravel toys which include Eva checkers board game for kids and Tic-tac-toe game for kids 3-10 years to enjoy while traveling or as group activity. Checkers printed on EVA material & paper and foldable to fit in small backpack.
- Layered EVA Magnetic Checker Pieces: Magnetic checker pieces are layered, with top waterproof layer, pattern layer, thickened sponge layer, and bottom magnetic layer so they can easily stick to the board. Travel game for children is designed to be thick so children can pick them with easy and do not get lost or break easily.
- Easy To Store, Light Weight, & Uniquely Designed: Checkers & tic tac toe outdoor game opens just like a book and its simple makes it easy for children to carry anywhere. Uniquely designed 2 magnetic travel games on one board and clear patterns with bright blue color for kids to have fun anytime, anywhere.
- Educational & Fun: This travel game stimulates children’s minds, encouraging teamwork, strategic thinking, and creativity. It’s a great way to keep kids engaged and entertained while improving their reasoning and problem-solving skills
ThinkFun Minecraft Magnetic Travel Puzzle
- What You Get – The Minecraft Magnetic Travel Puzzle Includes 9 Magnetic Minecraft Items, An Instruction Manual, And A Challenge Booklet Containing 40 Beginner To Expert Challenges And Solutions
- Clear Instructions – Easy To Learn With A Clear, High Quality Instruction Manual. You Can Start Playing Immediately
- Develops Critical Skills – Learn Logical Reasoning And Deduction Skills Through Fun Gameplay
- Comes With Multi-Level Challenges – Minecraft Magnetic Travel Puzzle Comes With 40 Beginner To Expert Challenges That Become Increasingly Difficult As You Play Through Them
Wikki Stix for Doodlers
- Perfect Vacation Companion: Wikki Stix for Doodlers is a kid’s travel essential, providing endless creative entertainment without the need for screens. Ideal for long journeys, it ensures a mess-free and engaging alternative, making every moment of the vacation memorable.
- Stress-Reducing Fidget Fun: Beyond creative play, Wikki Stix for Doodlers doubles as a stress-reducer and fidget toy. The tactile sensation of shaping and molding the sticks provides a soothing experience, making it an excellent tool to calm fidgety fingers and promote relaxation in any setting.
- Perfect Small Gift For Both Kids And Adults As A Christmas Stocking Stuffer, Party Prize, Or Any-Time Gift
- Small Compact Tube With 24 6” Wikki Stix! Convenient Take-Along Size For Those Moments Of “Down Time”.
- Versatile Arts and Crafts Medium: Wikki Stix for Doodlers isn’t just a toy – it’s a versatile arts and crafts medium for kids. Spark creativity with 24 six-inch sticks that can be shaped, twisted, and combined to bring 3-D designs to life. Let their imagination soar as they create unique masterpieces, fostering artistic expression and skill development in an enjoyable, mess-free way.
PAW Patrol – Magnetic Creations Tin – Dress Up Play Set
- Paw Patrol magnetic play tin is portable and provides hours of fun for kids
- Includes 40 full color mix-and-match magnets featuring fully licensed Paw Patrol content. Perfect for creating new stories and adventures every time you play!
- The inside of the tin is fully printed allowing you to create your own scenes for Paw Patrol content pieces.
- The tin container allows easy portability for on the go or travel play for kids
- Contents include: 1 full color printed magnetic tin and 2 magnetic sheets containing 40 pop-out magnets
Hasbro Gaming Guess Who? Card Game
- GUESS WHO? CARD GAME: Kids can enjoy a twist on classic Guess Who? gameplay with this fun, fast, kids’ card game
- TRAVEL GAME FOR KIDS: This Guess Who? game is a quick-playing card game; take it with you when you travel for a fun way to keep your kids entertained
- MAKE A GUESS: Each player lays out their face cards in front of them, and picks a Mystery card from the deck. Then players ask yes or no questions to guess each other’s Mystery character
- BASED ON THE CHILDREN’S BOARD GAME: Looking for a fun kids gift? The Guess Who? card game can make a great birthday gift, holiday gift, or stocking stuffer for kids ages 5 and up
- CLASSIC GAMES FOR FAMILIES: From classic board games to up-and-active children’s games, indoor games, or travel games, Hasbro Gaming is a one-stop-shop for filling your games closet
Matching Memory Game
- Matching Memory Game Set: This memory play set consists of a wooden board and six double-sided learning cards, It contains 12 themes such as shape, number, sport, sea world, farm, zoo, color, vehicle, alphabet, fruit, Christmas, Halloween which children can learn in entertainment. Also,it’s a great way to get your kids to lay the electronics down.
- Great Educational Learning Toys: Our matching memory game combines vivid patterns with memory toys to help children improve their ability to observe, memory, think, match, focus and compete. It’s a challenging children’s game and great learning tool that let children learn through play.
- Rich Theme Design & Premium Quality：The 6 cards contain 12 kinds of theme designs. And the patterns are vivid, which can help children remember the images better. The surface of the card is smooth and flat, and it is not easy to wrinkle or tear. The memory board is made of high-quality wood and plastic materials, all parts are repeatedly polished , smooth without burrs, and the design of rounded corners is adopted around it, which will not hurt the user’s hands.
- Perfect Travel Toys: The matching memory game is great for kids on long road trips or in a car, airplane even restaurant, perfect size for portability and storage. Children of all ages can also play together, so that they can keep quiet on the road and away from electronic products. It’s great travel essential activity for toddlers and kids.
Search and Find Activity Books for Kids
- 【𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞 & 𝐑𝐞𝐮𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐬】Our preschool learning activities books for kids ages 3-8 are made of high quality paper, sturdy, no odor, waterproof, tear-resistant and the rounded corners won’t scratch your toddler’s skin to avoid any potential injury. Search and find educational game mat can be wiped off with a pen tip, wet wipes or rags, just like new and reusable, so kids can practice their new skills over and over again.
- 【𝐅𝐮𝐧 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐲 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬】This activity busy books for kids ages 3-5 are learning through play, develop their concentration, observation and insight skills, perceive colors, enhance logical knowledge, hand-eye coordination, basic letter recognition, diversify words, improving memory and more. The perfect busy book that combines learning and play for kids to love. Great back to school supplies, back to school gifts for students.
- 【𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐩 𝐄𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬】Playing this activity book as travel games or toys, keeps your little one from feeling bored and restless during the journey, allowing them to stay quietly busy and reach the destination without realizing it. Options it and keep your kids occupied on road trips or airplanes by using it as a car game activities while on the go. Engage, entertain and learn, bringing positive emotions to everyone. Provides another screen-free fun for kids. As a travel toys for toddlers 3-5 is great for indoor and outdoor activities.
Easy Printable Screen Free Travel Activities For Kids
Coloring Bookmarks For Kids
These cute coloring bookmarks for kids are great screen free travel activities for kids. It comes with 28 fun designs, and you can print it as many times as you want to, so there are plenty to go around, no matter how many kids are traveling with you. You can have them printed on cardstock, or once you get home you can laminate them to make them last long term. They also make great gifts to give to friends and family from the kids. Have your kids color a bunch of bookmarks to give to their friends when you return home!
There is also a Summer Themed bundle available as well!
Alphabet Coloring Pages
These Alphabet Coloring Pages are perfect screen free travel activities for little kids and toddlers. They can entertain themselves, while practicing their letters. It’s a simple and instant download so you can print it and be on your way!
Zoo Animal Printable Activity Pack
Perfect for ages 4–7, this Zoo Animal Activity Printable Bundle is packed with screen-free fun that keeps little ones learning and laughing. 2 Zoo-Themed Crossword Puzzles (with clues just for kids!) Includes: 3 Word Searches (with over 36 zoo animals to find), 3 Fun Mazes (like “Escape the Zoo” and “Zoo Paths & Animal Tracks”), 2 Word Scramble Pages (“Scrambled Safari” + “Untangle the Zoo”), Coloring pages with cute phrases like “Zoo Friends” and “Bear Hugs”, “Draw Your Favorite Zoo Animal” activity page and a Toddler-friendly matching page. Answer key included!
Washable Markers Set with Glitter Pencil Case
- 70PCS Kids Marker Set: This kids art set includes 1 X Mermaid Pencil Case, 12 Washable Dual Brush Markers,12 x Washable Fine Tip Brush Markers,12 x Twistable Crayons, 12 X Scented Glitter Gel Pens, 1 X Mermaid Hairpin and 20 charming Mermaid Stickers. With an impressive array of colors and drawing stuffs,this art marker set inspires kids to unleash their imagination and create stunning, vibrant artwork!
- Mermaid Travel Drawing Kit for Kids: This glittery mermaid art case comes with four zippered compartments for easy organization of pens and stationery, allowing quick access to supplies. Its lightweight design and sturdy carry handle make it perfect for kids to take creativity on the go.Adorned with 3D holographic mermaid tails and pearls,this portable drawing kit is an great gift for girls aged 4-10!
- Perfect Mermaid Art Gift for Girls Ages 4-12: Tailored for kids aged 4-10, this kids drawing set features delightful mermaid designs, making it the ideal gift for kids aged 4-10. These kids art supplies are used to nurture creativity and stimulate imagination in kids, ensuring it’s a cherished gift for birthdays, Children’s Day, Halloween, Christmas, and Back to School!
- Infinitely Creative Art Kits: Packed with vibrant washable markers, crayons, glitter gel pens, and cute stickers, this art set unlocks endless creative possibilities. Kids can unleash their imagination and craft great artworks while enjoying collaborative play with friends, fostering lasting friendships.No little girl can resist this mermaid marker set—it’s the valued gift every girl desires!
- Washable and Safe Art Case:Perfect for writing, drawing, coloring, and doodling, these markers offer endless creative possibilities. Each pen has a fun fruit scent and is washable for easy cleanup. All coloring set are safe and meets ASTM standards, allowing kids to explore their creativity worry-free. Perfect for all ages of girls,this art crafts guarantee a safe and happy artistic journey!
Audio-Based Entertainment
Screen free travel activities for kids doesn’t mean that it needs to be TECHNOLOGY free!
Sign up for an Amazon Audible Free Trial. There’s tons of audiobooks and even podcasts that kids would enjoy listening to. Take a break from the same old playlist and give some of them a try. You can always cancel the free trial after your trip, but you probably won’t want to! I originally downloaded it for a road trip, but now listening to audio books during a walk in the park, or while cleaning has become my go-to!
Tonies Toniebox Audio Player Starter Set
The Toniebox Audio Player is another popular choice among moms and dads. It’s great for bedtime stories, and encouraging screen-free time at home, but it’s also portable so it’s great to take on the road! You can get different story characters over time to add to the fun. It’s super simple to operate, even for little ones. The stories automatically start playing when you insert the Tonie Character on top.
- New and innovative audio player for kids 3+ that is great for bedtime stories, music, and education.
- Screen-free listening experience that inspires your kids’ imagination in ways that over-stimulating flashing screens do not.
- Easy to use design that even the youngest children can operate independently.
- Playback starts automatically when Tonies audio characters are placed on the Toniebox. Pressing the ears changes the volume. Tapping the sides changes tracks.
- Bundle includes a light blue Toniebox, charging station, Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and Playtime Puppy Tonies. Additional Tonies can be purchased separately.
Free or DIY Screen-Free Travel Ideas
Classic Verbal Games
- I Spy
- 20 Questions
- Would You Rather
- The Alphabet Game
- Story-building together
Movement Breaks and Sensory Activities
- Car stretch stops
- Travel yoga for kids
- Sensory fidgets or texture bags
Travel Tips for Parents
While activity ideas and travel toys are helpful, sometimes the best tools for surviving a long trip with kids aren’t things you can pack in a bag. Here are some realistic, screen-free travel tips for parents to help keep the journey as smooth (and meltdown-free) as possible.
Rotate Activities To Keep Things Fresh
One of the biggest mistakes parents make is handing over everything at once. Instead, think of your stash of activities like a deck of cards, and don’t play your best one right away. Start simple and gradually rotate in new options every 30–45 minutes. Even a familiar toy can feel exciting again if it’s been tucked away for a while.
You can even pack each activity in a small pouch or envelope and let your child “open” a new one at timed intervals. It builds excitement and breaks up the monotony of the ride or flight.
Use a Travel Timer To Your Advantage
Kids have very little concept of time on a trip, which can make the experience feel endless. A visual timer, sand timer, or even a fun kitchen timer can be a great tool for managing transitions: “Let’s color until the timer goes off, then we’ll listen to a story!” This gives them a sense of control and predictability and helps avoid power struggles over when to switch activities.
Timers can also be used to build anticipation: “In 10 minutes, you get to open a surprise!”
Plan Strategic Snack Breaks
Never underestimate the power of snacks. Use them not just to fill bellies but as little anchors throughout the trip. Pack a variety with some healthy and some fun. Then stagger them intentionally to break up the time. Bonus points for snacks that take longer to eat (like trail mix, fruit leather, or mini cheese cubes) to extend the entertainment factor.
Pro tip: avoid sticky or crumb-heavy snacks if you want to save your sanity later.
Make Time For Movement
Whether you’re on a road trip or stuck at the airport, kids need to move. For car rides, schedule regular stretch stops and let them run, jump, and get the wiggles out before getting back in the seat. At the airport, look for empty gates or kid-friendly areas where they can move around safely.
Even a two-minute stretch or silly dance can reset a cranky kid’s mood, and yours too. (Try bringing these Spring Movement Cards)
Don’t Try to Entertain Them the Whole Time
This one’s important moms! Remember that you are not your child’s personal cruise director. It’s okay and healthy for kids to be a little bored sometimes. Boredom often leads to creativity, especially when screens aren’t available. So if your child spends part of the ride daydreaming, staring out the window, or quietly playing on their own, that’s a win!
Give yourself permission to take breaks too. You don’t have to be “on” the whole time.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with kids, especially without screens can feel like a big challenge, but it’s also a huge opportunity. Screen-free trips encourage creativity, conversation, and connection, even if they come with a few bumps along the way. Not every moment has to be perfectly planned or picture-perfect. What matters most is that you’re present and making memories together.
So give yourself grace. If you make it through a three-hour car ride with only a few meltdowns and lots of giggles in between, that’s a win. Even a partially screen-free trip is progress. And your kids might just surprise you with how well they adapt when given the chance.
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About Mom-Thoughts
Hi, I’m Heather! I’m the proud mom of one beautiful, wonderfully weird, and hilariously sassy little girl (seriously, the sass is unmatched!). After losing both of my parents before my daughter was born, I often found myself navigating motherhood without the advice and support I so desperately needed.
Add to that the constant presence of mom-shamers lurking around every corner, and it can feel nearly impossible to be appreciated for the rock star of a woman you truly are.
That’s why at Mom-Thoughts, we’re all about embracing what works best for you and your family—no judgment, no shame. We believe in real, down-to-earth parenting that prioritizes you too, Mama, because taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your little ones.
So, welcome to the club. You belong here. <3
