Appropriate age group(s):
Elementary School
Middle School

For which mode(s) of transportation is this tip or activity appropriate?
Traveling by car (or bus)
Traveling by plane
Traveling by train
Traveling by boat

Describe this trip activity or tip:
Buy a hard-sided, plastic box...one that opens like an adult briefcase. I bought my son one that has a center piece on a hinge, so that he has two separate sides.

Before the trip begins, gather materials for activities such as markers, crayons, pencils, drawing paper, construction paper, (safety) scissors, glue sticks, stickers, etc.

Also, buy some little mini-books, or you can use some from your child's shelf.

Perhaps you could also throw in a couple of inexpensive toys such as Hot Wheels or fingernail stickers.

The hard surface gives the child some place to work, the "briefcase" opened keeps the materials together, the books give the kids something to look at or read, and the toys give them a little treat for the trip.

As children get older, adjust the contents to the appropriate age.

I have been doing this with my son for the last 6 years and, as we travel from Canada back to the U.S. at least twice each year, this has been a lifesaver. Particularly as I am in front driving and my son is sitting in back by himself.