Must-Have Travel Toys for Toddlers on Long Flights

Flying with a toddler can be a test of patience — but with the right toys in your carry-on, it doesn’t have to be. The key to a smoother flight? Keep little hands and curious minds busy (and tantrums at bay). Whether you're bringing a travel car seat on board or letting your child sit in your lap, these must-have toddler toys will keep your child entertained from takeoff to landing.


Why Travel Toys Matter (Especially When Flying)

When your toddler is buckled into their airplane car seat for hours, they need something more engaging than the tray table. Distraction is key to surviving long flights with toddlers, especially if you're hoping to sneak in a nap or enjoy a few peaceful minutes.

Bonus tip: Pair these toys with the WAYB Pico, a compact travel car seat that’s not only FAA-approved but gives your toddler a comfy and familiar spot on the plane.


7 Toddler Travel Toys That Actually Work


1. Reusable Sticker Books

Mess-free and endlessly entertaining, these let toddlers peel and stick over and over again — no clean-up required.

2. Water Reveal Pads

Just add water (literally). These magic coloring books use a refillable water pen, so they’re TSA-friendly and mess-free.

3. Fidget Toys and Pop-Its

Perfect for sensory stimulation and fine motor skills, these toys are lightweight and easy to clip to a backpack or car seat.

4. Magnetic Drawing Boards

Skip the crayons. A magnetic board means no loose pieces and no risk of melted markers mid-flight.

5. Compact Puzzle Books or Busy Boards

Velcro, zippers, laces — busy boards give toddlers something to “work” on while sitting still in their portable car seat toddler-style.

6. Small Plush Toys or Stuffed Animals

Soothing and familiar, these provide emotional comfort when the engine noise or turbulence gets overwhelming.

7. Toddler Headphones + Audiobooks

Download a few toddler-friendly audiobooks or playlists before the flight.

Here are some of our favorites:

  • Dogman
  • The Bad Guys
  • Richard Scarry
  • Jory John
  • Amelia Bedelia
  • Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
  • The Night Fairy

Looking for more airplane-friendly toddler gear? Check out our guide to the best travel car seat for airplanes to make your journey even smoother.


Tips for Packing Toys

  • Limit to 2–3 small toys that are new or “special” for the flight.
  • Rotate toys every 30–45 minutes to keep things interesting.

  • Store them in a zippered pouch or packing cube for quick access under the seat.

The right entertainment can turn a stressful travel day into a surprisingly fun adventure. Combine these toys with a comfy, safe seat like the WAYB Pico — a forward-facing lightweight car seat built for travel — and you're set for smooth skies.