Even when you have the best intentions, family travel is stressful and can take a toll on parents. These unique travel products help keep kids happy and safe while parents stay sane along the way.
O-Sip Silicone Sippy Lids, $10 for pack of threeTurn any cup into a spill-proof sippy cup with these stretchable, reusable lids. Made from food-grade silicone, these lids are dishwasher-safe and BPA-free. Lids are available in valve or cup options.The Shrunks Inflatable Bed Rail, $25This inflatable bed rail will keep little ones secure and prevent nighttime falls while traveling. It’s made of nontoxic materials and fits all bed sizes from toddler to king. It packs up effortlessly in its own compact travel bag and comes with a small foot pump for easy inflation.Lonely Planet Kids First Words Books, $12.99The No. 1 travel guide and phrasebook publisher now has a series for kids. Each book is composed of the 100 most common words used during travel and contains striking, colorful illustrations and a simple phonetic pronunciation guide. On and off the road, First Words makes remembering new vocabulary easy and engaging. Books come in English, Spanish and French.Stride Rite Made2Play Phibian Sneaker Sandal, $30-$40These breathable shoes are built for land and water use. The easy-to-put-on design features a slip-resistant sole, is machine washable and quick to dry. The Phibian comes in a variety of colors and styles for kids both little and big.Tommee Tippee Easi-Roll Bib and Easi-Mats, $6 for pack of two bibs or one matMealtime cleanup is a breeze with these reusable bibs from Tommee Tippee. The bibs include a crumb catcher to collect messes, and they roll up for easy storage. The Easi-Mats prevent spills by holding bowls and plates in place. The mats suction to most flat surfaces and are dishwasher- and microwave-safe.PBS KIDS Plug & Play, $49.99Kids will stay entertained in hotel rooms or at grandma’s house with the new PBS Kids Plug & Play device. It’s preloaded with exclusive sing-alongs, games and activities that can all be accessed without Wi-Fi. When connected to the internet, the Plug & Play offers free access to PBS Kids' 24-hour channel and more than 100 hours of on-demand videos. No subscription is required.Wikki Stix, prices varyUnplug and get creative with these award-winning colorful wax strips. Kids can bend the strips to make their own sculptures and pictures or use one of the many Wikki Stix-themed activity books. The durable strips provide entertainment at restaurants or on the go and are perfect for a variety of ages.