Traveling with kids can be both exciting and challenging. If you’ve ever been on a plane, train, or car ride with restless little ones, you know how quickly boredom sets in. I’ve found that one of the best ways to keep kids entertained—and even sneak in some learning—is through books. Over time, I’ve tried out a variety of children’s travel books, and today, I’m sharing my top picks with you.
These aren’t just any books; they’re durable, engaging, and perfectly suited for on-the-go adventures. Whether you’re buckling up for a road trip, waiting at the airport, or taking a scenic train ride, these books can make the journey smoother for everyone.
What Makes a Good Travel Book for Kids?
When selecting books for travel, I always look for a few key qualities:
- Durability: Board books, padded covers, or wipe-clean pages stand up to travel wear and tear.
- Compact Size: Easy to slip into a backpack or travel pouch.
- Engaging Design: Interactive flaps, pop-ups, or colorful illustrations that keep kids’ attention.
- Educational Value: Travel themes, fun facts, or simple storytelling that entertains while teaching.
With those in mind, let’s dive into my top 10 best traveling books for kids that I’ve personally found helpful during our journeys.
National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of the World
Planes (Big Busy Machines)
Usborne Look Inside an Airport
Cars and Trucks and Things That Go
My Big Train Book
On the Go Mazes
Sticker Dolly Dressing: Travel
I Spy Travel Book for Kids
The Travel Activity Book
Atlas of Adventures: Travel Edition
1. National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of the World
This vibrant picture book introduces kids to cultures, animals, and landmarks from around the globe. It’s packed with colorful images and bite-sized facts that are easy to read during a car ride. Best suited for ages 4–8, it’s perfect for sparking curiosity about travel.
2. Planes (Big Busy Machines)
For little aviation enthusiasts, this book makes flights exciting rather than scary. With engaging illustrations and simple text, it’s a wonderful children’s travel book to bring on board. I used this with my toddler, and it kept him fascinated during takeoff!
3. Usborne Look Inside an Airport
This interactive flap book helps kids understand the hustle and bustle of airports. Perfect for ages 5–9, it makes waiting at gates much more engaging. The flaps kept my child busy while we waited for boarding calls.
4. Cars and Trucks and Things That Go
Richard Scarry’s classic is a must-have for long road trips. It’s filled with detailed illustrations that kids can pore over for hours. My kids love spotting funny details on every page, making it ideal for car journeys.
5. My Big Train Book
This sturdy board book is designed for train lovers. It features big, colorful images of trains with easy-to-read text. I recommend this for toddlers who love pointing and naming objects—it’s durable enough to survive bumpy rides.
6. On the Go Mazes
Sometimes kids need activities, not just stories. This maze book offers plenty of travel-themed puzzles to keep children entertained during long flights or drives. Compact and fun, it’s great for ages 6–10.
7. Sticker Dolly Dressing: Travel
One of my daughter’s favorites! This sticker activity book lets kids dress characters for different travel adventures. It’s mess-free and easy to carry, making it an ideal airplane activity. Recommended for ages 5+.
8. I Spy Travel Book for Kids
This interactive book challenges kids to spot items, keeping them engaged during long trips. It’s a great companion for car rides, especially if you want to reduce screen time. My kids had fun competing to find the objects first!
9. The Travel Activity Book
10. Atlas of Adventures: Travel Edition
Travel Reading Tips for Parents
- Bundle Books in a Travel Pouch: Keep them organized and easy to grab.
- Rotate Activities: Alternate reading with puzzles, stickers, or drawing.
- Make Reading Interactive: Ask kids questions about what they see in the story.
- Reward-Based Reading: Encourage reading by giving small rewards after chapters or pages.
- Mix Ages & Interests: Pack books for both toddlers and older kids so everyone stays entertained.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What are the best traveling books for kids?
The best traveling books for kids are ones that are durable, compact, and engaging. Board books, sticker books, and interactive activity books are excellent choices because they keep children entertained and are easy to pack.
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At what age should I start bringing travel books for my child?
Yes, TSA allows first aid kits in both carry-on and checked luggage. Ensure no sharp objects exceed size limits.
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Are travel books better than tablets for long journeys?
Travel books provide a screen-free alternative that stimulates creativity and learning. While tablets can be convenient, children’s travel books encourage imagination, focus, and interaction without screen fatigue.
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How do I choose the right travel book for a plane or train ride?
Look for books that are lightweight, easy to carry, and have short activities or chapters. Sticker books, flap books, and activity puzzles work great for planes, while story-based books are ideal for longer train journeys.
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Can travel books also be educational?
Yes! Many children’s travel books introduce geography, cultures, animals, and problem-solving skills in fun ways. Titles like atlases or National Geographic books combine entertainment with valuable learning.
Final Thoughts
Bringing along the best traveling books for kids has truly transformed our journeys. Instead of restless energy, my kids stay curious, engaged, and happy. Whether it’s exploring an atlas on a plane, playing “I Spy” in the car, or flipping through flaps at the airport, these books have been lifesavers.
If you’re planning your next family adventure, I highly recommend adding a few of these titles to your travel bag. They’re compact, educational, and—most importantly—fun!