‘I Was Here: A Travel Journal for the Curious Minded’
Once the kids have moved past coloring books and stickers, it’s time to upgrade them to a travel journal. “I Was Here” by Kate Pocrass is just the ticket (pun intended) to capture the growing mind’s awareness of travel and adventure. The pages brim with mod art, words of inspiration and plenty of blank space to illustrate an individual account of a trip. chroniclebooks.com, $16.95
Amazon Fire Kids Edition
Ah, the beloved tablet. It has become a travel necessity for adults and kids alike. But sharing can be difficult among both parents and siblings, so perhaps a splurge on a kids-only device is in order. The Fire Kids Edition is compact, with a 7-inch display, and comes with a kid-proof case designed just for little hands and potential drops. Load it up with Amazon’s vast library of books, movies, TV shows, apps and games, most available free for one year after purchase with Amazon Prime. amazon.com, from $99.99
FujiFilm Instax Mini 8
Who says only parents should be in charge of photo-documenting family travel? These instant cameras are perfect for youngsters with a creative eye and a desire to contribute to the family memory log. Kids will get instant gratification seeing their photos come to life, and Mom and Dad will have the pleasure of seeing the family trip through the eyes of their children. Available at a variety of retailers, including Best Buy and amazon.com, from $64.21
Swankeroo
Have little ones help lighten the load by carrying some of their own luggage in a sweet Swankeroo backpack. Hip and aesthetically pleasing, these backpacks come in a mini size for ages 1-5 and a standard size for bigger kids. Made of durable duck fabric and a faux leather bottom, these will stand the test of time on the road and at home. swankeroo.storenvy.com, from $45
Create your own goody bag
Whether traveling by car or by plane, a surprise goody bag upon takeoff can be just the thing to gear your kids up with excitement for the hours ahead. This works especially well with the toddler set; even simple things like lip balm, hand sanitizer, stickers and some fresh crayons can keep minds occupied and moods upbeat.
