Top Toys and Games to Bring on Holiday and Why They’re Great for Kids and Adults Alike!

There are so many travel friendly games, toys, books and more at Hopkins - check out the full selection here.

Holidays are a time for relaxation, exploration, and quality time with family and friends. But whether you're heading to the beach, the mountains, or just visiting relatives, bringing the right toys and games can make all the difference. Not only do they keep children entertained during travel and downtime, but they also offer real developmental benefits and let’s be honest, adults can have just as much fun!

Why Toys and Games Matter on Holiday

Before we dive into our list of must-pack items, let’s talk about why toys and games are more than just distractions:

• Encourage Creativity & Imagination: Away from screens and routine, kids often turn to imaginative play, which boosts cognitive flexibility and storytelling skills.

• Support Social Connection: Games promote bonding, whether it's a family board game night or a group of children making up rules to a beach game.

• Build Emotional Resilience: Waiting in airports or dealing with travel stress? Having familiar toys or engaging activities can provide comfort and a sense of control.

• Promote Learning: Many toys double as learning tools, reinforcing problem-solving, coordination, and even language skills without feeling like “schoolwork.”

• Offer Adults a Break (or a Bonding Moment): Let’s not overlook the practicality, having engaging activities on hand can give adults time to unwind, or join in and create lasting memories.

Best Toys and Games to Bring on Holiday

Here are some of our top picks for travel-friendly, fun, and enriching play:

1. Travel Board Games and Card Games

Compact and easy to pack card games like Top Trumps or Snap Cards or travel-sized versions of classics like Draughts, Chess or Ludo are perfect for hotels, planes, and rainy afternoons.

2. Magnetic or Mess-Free Drawing Boards / Books / Activity Pads

Great for long car rides or flights, these allow kids to draw, erase, and repeat—no mess, no fuss, and no paper waste. Wipe Clean Books or Sticker Books or Water Wow No Mess Colouring Books are a neat option that will fit in any backpack and will keep children entertained for hours with re-usable activities

3. Building Kits ( Plus-Plus, Magnetic Tiles)

Small sets of interlocking pieces encourage creativity and focus. Bonus: they’re easy to share and work well for quiet time.

4. Outdoor Toys

If you're heading to the beach or a park, pack lightweight toys like frisbees, beach balls. They get everyone moving and spark spontaneous group play.

6. Puzzle Games

Mental games come in many forms - our favourite are the Smart Games IQ range - choose from a few different styles and challenge the whole family to a puzzle that suits their ability. Looking for something more time consuming or challenging? Why not master a Rubiks Cube or other classic puzzle?

7. Soft Toys or Comfort Items

A familiar plush toy or comfort item can soothe younger children in unfamiliar settings and help them settle in at bedtime.

Tips for Choosing Holiday Toys and Games

• Keep it lightweight and compact. Think of how much space you have in your luggage or car.

• Opt for open-ended toys. The more ways kids can use them, the more value you’ll get.

• Avoid noisy or fragile items. Your fellow travelers (and your own peace of mind) will thank you.

• Include the whole family. Choose at least one game that everyone can enjoy together—it’s a great way to bond and laugh.

Final Thoughts

Packing a few well-chosen toys and games can turn idle travel time into memorable playtime. They not only keep children engaged but also offer moments of joy and connection for the whole family. So next time you're making your holiday checklist, don't forget the fun!