The joy of exploring new places becomes even more special when shared with our little ones. However, keeping a 2-year-old entertained during those long travel hours can be challenging.
In this article, I’v curated a list of the best travel toys for 2 year olds that promise to keep those tiny hands and curious minds busy. Discover the perfect travel companions for your toddler’s next adventure!
Best Travel Toys for 2 Year Old
1. Guolely Busy Board Montessori Toy for 1-4 Year Old
When I first bought the Guolely Busy Board Montessori Toy for my 2-year-old daughter, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I had read about Montessori-inspired toys and their benefits, but this was our first foray into them. This busy board exceeded all my expectations.
Every morning, my little one rushes to play with it, trying her tiny hands on the various buckles, buttons, and zippers. It’s not just a toy; it’s a learning tool. Within weeks, she has shown considerable improvement in her fine motor skills. Moreover, it keeps her engaged for a reasonable amount of time, allowing me to get some chores done. The design is appealing, and its sturdy construction ensures that it can endure the enthusiastic handling by toddlers.
Product Features
- Multiple sensory and skill-based activities like buckles, buttons, zippers, and laces.
- Bright and engaging colors captivate a child’s attention.
- Made of child-safe, non-toxic materials.
- Portable design, making it easy to carry on trips.
- Durable construction to withstand regular play by toddlers.
Pros
- Enhances fine motor skills effectively.
- It keeps toddlers engaged for extended periods.
- Multi-functional: serves as both a toy and a learning tool.
- Safe for children to play with, no small detachable parts.
- Can be used over a range of ages from 1-4 years old.
Cons
- It may be overwhelming for some younger toddlers with its numerous features.
- It has a slightly higher price point than some other essential toys, but the quality and multifunctionality justify it.
- Requires supervision for younger toddlers to ensure they don’t misuse it.
2. Purple Cow Magnetic Travel Car Race Game
On our last family vacation, I stumbled upon the Purple Cow Magnetic Travel Car Race Game, and it might be a good distraction for our kids during long car rides. It became an instant hit when we opened it up in the car! The game is simple yet incredibly engaging. The kids loved maneuvering their little magnetic vehicles around the track, competing against each other.
The magnetic feature ensured that the cars and game pieces stayed in place, even when we hit a bumpy patch on the road. This is a dream come true for parents like me, always hunting for car-friendly games that are both fun and mess-free. It’s a car race game and a means for the kids to enhance their strategic skills as they decide their next move to inch closer to victory. The laughter and cheers from the back seat confirmed my belief that this was one of the best purchases for our trip.
Product Features
- Compact and travel-friendly design.
- Vital magnetic pieces ensure they stay in place during the journey.
- Vibrant and detailed race track graphics.
- Suitable for a broad age range, appealing to both young and older children.
- Engaging gameplay that requires strategic thinking.
Pros
- Keeps children engaged and entertained during long car rides.
- Enhances cognitive and strategic thinking skills.
- Mess-free, thanks to the magnetic pieces.
- Durable and sturdy, designed to withstand the rough handling of excited kids.
- Easy to store and carry, perfect for travel.
Cons
- Due to small magnetic pieces, it’s essential to ensure younger children don’t swallow them.
- Older kids or adults might find the game less challenging after several rounds.
- The game board might be slightly cramped for more than two players, making it a tad restrictive for larger groups.
3. LEGO DUPLO My First Number Train
Last Christmas, we decided to introduce our 2-year-old to the world of LEGO, starting with the LEGO DUPLO My First Number Train. The choice was spot on! From the instant he unwrapped the gift, his excitement was palpable. The bright colors and oversized blocks of DUPLO are just right for his little hands. As he assembled the train, it became evident that this was a fun toy and a brilliant educational tool.
Each train carriage corresponds to a number, which allowed us to combine playtime with learning sessions. We’d ask him to identify numbers, and then he’d diligently search for the matching carriage. As days went by, not only did he perfect his counting skills, but he also started creating imaginative play scenarios with the accompanying figures and animals. The versatility of this simple toy, blending learning with fun, impressed us thoroughly.
Product Features
- Colorful and large LEGO DUPLO bricks, ideal for toddlers.
- Numbered train carriages to assist with basic counting and number recognition.
- It includes child LEGO DUPLO figures and a cat for imaginative play.
- Compatible with other LEGO DUPLO sets for expanded building and play.
- It comes with a buildable platform and two wagons.
Pros
- It is an excellent blend of fun and education.
- Safe and suitable for younger children, with no small parts.
- It enhances both fine motor skills and cognitive development.
- Encourages creativity and imaginative play.
- Durable and long-lasting, like most LEGO products.
Cons
- Some children might quickly outgrow the basic number concept, seeking more advanced builds.
- The number of pieces provided might be limiting for kids with bigger building aspirations.
- Though compatible with other sets, purchasing additional DUPLO sets for a more varied experience might be considered a hidden cost by some parents.
4. Bluey Magnetic Playset
On my little one’s 4th birthday, I introduced her to the Bluey Magnetic Playset, and the look on her face was nothing short of pure joy. If you have a child who’s a fan of Bluey, this playset is a delightful addition to their toy collection. The magnetic board depicts one of the familiar scenes from the show, and it comes with magnetic characters that allow kids to recreate their favorite episodes or come up with their own imaginative stories.
My daughter loves arranging Bluey, Bingo, and their friends in various playful settings, letting her imagination run wild. It’s been weeks, and she’s still just as captivated, making up new adventures for the Heeler family. The playset has become our go-to entertainment solution, especially during outings and restaurant visits. Its magnetic nature ensures no pieces go missing, and the playset offers a beautiful, screen-free way for her to engage with her favorite characters.
Product Features
- Magnetic board with a detailed backdrop from the Bluey world.
- Comes with favorite characters like Bluey, Bingo, and other friends and family as magnetic pieces.
- Compact and foldable design for easy portability.
- Sturdy and durable construction to withstand daily play.
- A storage pouch is included, ensuring pieces are kept.
Pros
- Encourages imaginative play and storytelling.
- Magnetic pieces mean fewer chances of losing characters.
- The portable design makes it great for travel or dining out.
- It is a fantastic way for children to engage with their favorite Bluey characters without screens.
- Suitable for a wide age range, given the simplicity and fun of the product.
Cons
- Limited to the backdrop provided, which might restrict some storytelling variations after prolonged use.
- Magnetic strength might not be strong enough to always hold larger pieces upright.
- While it offers many characters, hardcore Bluey fans might wish for even more characters from the series.
5. Skoolzy Rainbow Counting Bears With Matching Sorting Cups
Finding the right balance between fun and educational toys for my little one has always been challenging. When I came across the Skoolzy Rainbow Counting Bears with Matching Sorting Cups, I felt I might have hit the jackpot, and boy, was I right! From the moment we opened the package, my child was immediately drawn to the vibrant colors of the bears.
The game is more than just counting and sorting; it’s an engaging experience that merges color recognition, motor skills, and basic math concepts. We spent countless hours together, matching the bears with their corresponding colored cups, creating patterns, and counting. As weeks went by, I could visibly see my child’s progress in not only identifying colors but also understanding the basics of addition and subtraction while thinking they were “playing.” Seeing their eyes light up in excitement every time they get the sorting right or develop a new pattern is heartwarming.
Product Features
- The set includes 60 colorful counting bears in six different colors.
- Six matching sorting cups for color recognition activities.
- Made with child-safe, BPA-free materials.
- It comes with a storage bag to keep everything organized.
- A comprehensive activity guide that provides numerous game and learning ideas.
Pros
- Brilliantly merges fun with education, keeping children engaged.
- Enhances color recognition, motor skills, and basic arithmetic concepts.
- Made of durable and safe materials, ensuring long-lasting use without safety concerns.
- A portable design with a storage bag makes it easy to carry and store.
- It offers multiple ways to play and learn, ensuring it remains interesting.
Cons
- Small parts might be a choking hazard for younger children, so supervision is needed.
- Some children might find the activity repetitive after a while.
- Bears could be a tad small for kids who prefer larger play pieces.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Travel Toy
Traveling with children can be both a joy and a challenge. While the new experiences can be enriching, keeping kids entertained during long journeys is essential for a peaceful trip. Selecting the right travel toy can make all the difference. Here are some factors to consider when making your choice, ensuring the journey remains pleasant for everyone involved.
Age Appropriateness
Ensuring the travel toy is suitable for the child’s age is crucial. Some toys contain small parts that may pose choking hazards to younger children. Additionally, a toy that needs to be more advanced may frustrate them, while one that’s too simple may not hold their attention. Always check the recommended age on the toy’s packaging to ensure it matches your child’s developmental stage.
Portability
Since you’re considering a travel toy, it should be easy to carry and pack. Bulky toys can be cumbersome and take up valuable luggage space. Instead, opt for compact, lightweight toys that can easily fit into a backpack or handbag. This ensures that the toy can be easily removed and stashed away during travels.
Durability
Travel can be tough on toys. They might be dropped, stepped on, or squished in tight spaces. As a result, it’s essential to select a toy that is made of durable materials and can withstand rough handling. This not only ensures the toy lasts longer but also ensures safety, as broken toy parts can be dangerous.
Educational Value
Travel time can be an excellent learning opportunity. Consider toys that promote cognitive development, enhance motor skills, or introduce new concepts to the child. Puzzle games, building blocks, or interactive books can be entertaining and educational, keeping the child engaged and contributing to their growth.
Noise Level
It’s essential to think about where you’ll be traveling and the environment you’ll be in. Toys that make loud noises can disrupt confined spaces like planes or cars and disturb other travelers. Choose toys that are quiet or come with volume controls to maintain a peaceful environment.
Battery Dependency
Electronic toys that require batteries can be a hassle, especially if they run out of power during travel. If you opt for a battery-operated toy, ensure you carry extra batteries. Alternatively, consider toys that are manually operated or come with rechargeable options, which can be more convenient during long journeys.
Here’s a great video showing some tips for moms when traveling with kids!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the suitable travel toy for your two-year-old is paramount not just for entertainment, but also for enhancing their developmental skills. The Guolely Busy Board Montessori Toy for 1-4 Year Old stands out as the top choice. It seamlessly combines the Montessori approach with the intricate design, ensuring that your child is entertained and engages in cognitive development and fine motor skills.
Its age-appropriate activities promote learning through play – a philosophy deeply embedded in Montessori teachings. Whether tying a shoelace, buttoning a shirt, or playing with buckles, the Busy Board introduces these daily tasks to toddlers in a playful and captivating manner. Thanks for reading!
KidSpaceStuff is a site dedicated to helping parents find the best interior design, activities, and inspiration for their kids.
