7 Travel Toys That Are Among the Best Toys in 2026

LeapFrog’s new handheld video game system lets preschoolers feel like big kids. The games sneak in education around numbers, letters, and colors, and the games are gentle, like feeding birds and racing boats. “It has become one of the toys we pack for family trips because it keeps my kids occupied and is easy to take along,” a parent told us. Ages 3+; four AA batteries required

A soft busy book keeps toddlers busy and their imagination whirring. Choose from four different ones—a pet sitter, astronaut, gardeneror forest ranger. Each lets kids play with zippers and buckles, and each has a plush character hiding inside. “It kept her engaged longer than I expected, especially during travel,” a parent told us. Ages 18 months+

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Manipulatives such as this putty from Crazy Aaron’s don’t just keep kids distracted, playing with them can be nice and soothing. This honey-themed putty has a texture to it and little bee charms inside. Unlike slime, it isn’t wet feeling, Unlike dough, it never dries out. And unlike electronics, it’s totally silent! Ages 3+

While Tamagotchi is for sure nostalgic, it also keeps getting better. Kids on the go can feed and tend to their digital pet, play minigames, and even connect with siblings. And here’s a life lesson: This iteration lets kids hire a babysitter for their pet when they need a break! Ages 6+; two AAA batteries required

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Little kids quickly figure out how to use the 10 buttons on this innovative display to play music, games, podcasts, and audiobooks. Though it’s shaped like a tablet, there’s no screen. “The concept of this toy is incredible!” one parent said. “I love the size—it’s a little heavy but not a huge issu—the tops, the brightness level, everything is great!” Plug headphones into the headphone jack for plane travel. It recharges via USB-C. Ages 1+

When a series of colored squares lights up, your kid thinks fast and pushes the button that will form three lights in a row. Patterns can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal. There are multiple difficulties and modes, including solo and head-to-head play for up to four players. Ages 7+; three AAA batteries included

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This is faster than classic Catan, at only about 15 minutes, but just as competitive. Players still collect resources and trade them with other players to build settlements. It’s all done via take-along cards, so you could play it in an airport. Ages 10+

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Source: www.goodhousekeeping.com