In addition to things like an I Spy bag, there are lots of great little toys and trinkets for Hawaii parents to keep kids amused on flights and car rides. These are affordable, easy to find, and are quiet enough not to annoy other passengers. Keeping these five items in a gallon-size plastic bag will keep kids entertained when the "Fasten Seatbelt" sign is on.
1. Mini magnetic doodle pad (from $8 and up). Spill-proof, stain-proof, endlessly reusable, and small enough to fit in any diaper bag or carry-on. This is a can't-miss toy for kids of any age, but especially ones who are too young for crayons.
2. Crayon Rocks (from $6 and up). That said, sometimes it's nice to have a colorful alternative, especially for older toddlers who can be trusted not to eat their toys. Crayon Rocks are eco-friendly, specially shaped for enhancing fine motor skills, and the jellybean shape keeps the crayons from rolling off the airplane tray table. They are small and look a bit like candy, so adult supervision is necessary.
3. Stickers. You can find stickers at any drugstore, grocery, or toy store and just a few dollars should set you up with a great stockpile. It's also easy to find sticker activity books to go along with the stickers so your kids don't end up decorating their seatmate (they may anyway).
4. Flexible straws. Another inexpensive find-anywhere item. We buy the neon straws and match colors, twist into shapes, blow bubbles in the complimentary water, and anything else we can think of. It's a nice open-ended creative toy and so cheap and easy to replace that you don't have to worry if it gets left behind.
5. Sensory ball ($20 for four). This is a fun toy for the terminal or for layovers. The nubbly texture is easy for kids to hold, they bounce well, and the surface is easy to clean in case any travel-related goo accumulates on the sides. Tip: put one in the toy bag, one in your suitcase, and leave the other two at home for spares on future trips.
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