Best Airplane Toys for Toddlers (12 Months to 2 Years): Real Mom Favorites
Flying with a toddler between 12 months and 2 years old? We’ve traveled a bunch of times with our daughter in this age range! After plenty of flights, I’ve put together a list of our absolute favorite airplane toys that are light, quiet, and—most importantly—hold attention for more than two minutes. Whether you're flying solo with your little one or traveling as a family, these toys can make a world of difference in the air.
This blog contains affiliate links, meaning: at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission if you click-through and make a purchase. We appreciate you using our links to explore and shop.
What to Look for in Airplane Toys for Toddlers
No sound or very quiet
Compact and packable
Encourages independent play
Easy to wipe down
Engaging but not overstimulating
🔄 Toys Loved Across Multiple Ages
Some toys have proven to be favorites across different stages, offering longevity and value.
Suction Cup Spinners: Engaging for both 12-month-olds and 2-year-olds, these spinners provide consistent entertainment.
Montessori Pull String Toys: Suitable from 12 months up to 2 years, these toys support ongoing development of motor skills.
Sticker Books: These books remain a hit from 18 months through 2 years, adapting to the child's growing creativity.
Under 12 Months
At 2 months old: we fed her at takeoff and she fell asleep soon after. When she woke up from her nap she enjoyed looking down the aisle and at the lights on the ceiling. We also brought this ball rattle that she enjoyed (and is easy to pack).
At 4 months old: We needed some more entertainment. She loved the seat back screens (since she doesn’t get any direct screen time at home) and she also loved the spinners above that we could stick to the tray table.
12 Months
At this stage, toys that stimulate sensory exploration and fine motor skills are ideal.
Suction Cup Spinners: These toys can be attached to airplane windows or tray tables, providing visual and tactile stimulation.
Busy Book: Soft books with interactive pages offer auditory and tactile engagement, perfect for keeping a 12-month-old entertained.
Pop Tubes: Expandable tubes that make fun sounds when stretched and compressed, providing auditory stimulation.
18 - 20 Months
As toddlers grow, their play becomes more interactive. Toys that encourage problem-solving and creativity are excellent choices.
Reusable Sticker Books: These books allow toddlers to place and replace stickers, fostering creativity and fine motor skills.
Water Wow Coloring Books: Mess-free coloring books that use water-filled pens to reveal colors, ideal for travel.
LCD Drawing Screen: Lightweight, mess-free doodling that’s perfect for little hands and works great on repeat.
First 100 Stickers Book: A sticker book that introduces toddlers to new words and objects, enhancing vocabulary.
2 Years
At two years old, toddlers are more independent and curious. Toys that encourage imaginative play and storytelling are great.
JoyCat Preschool Busy Book: An interactive book with various activities that promote learning and fine motor skills.
Reusable Maze Tracing Boards: Fun, screen-free fine motor activity that works great on the tray table.
Seek & Find Sticker Pad: Over 500 stickers and pages of visual challenges kept us busy for long stretches.
Mess-Free Coloring Pad (Crayola Color Wonder): A no-mess way to color with a favorite character.
Yoto Mini Player + Story Cards: Our go-to for quiet time stories and music without relying on a screen.
Our Travel Tips:
1. Embrace the Power of Snacks
Snacks aren't just for hunger—they're a fantastic distraction tool. On our first flight without a pacifier, having a variety of snacks kept our little one content and occupied.
2. Utilize Window Seats
If possible, book a window seat. Toddlers often enjoy looking outside, and it provides a space to attach suction toys, offering both entertainment and a change of scenery.
3. Pack a Surprise Toy
Including a new or rarely seen toy can captivate your child's attention. We keep out travel toys stored separately and rotate them in sparingly so they are more exciting when they appear for plane rides. You don’t have to buy something new each time, however the novelty can be particularly effective during takeoff or when they become restless.
4. Don't Forget Comfort Items
Bringing along a favorite blanket or stuffed animal can provide a sense of security and help soothe your toddler during the flight.
See more of our Toddler Content:
