Summer is the time for travel so here is a fun, DIY travel play set for kids. This makes a great surprise DIY gift for children or a it can be a super fun project to do together with kids. Another great thing about this homemade toys on the go play set is that you can customize it to fit the interests of the child. This super cute DIY travel activities set was first shared by Ken Wingard on the Home & Family show which airs weekdays at 10 am ET/PT on the Hallmark Channel. I was given permission to share it with you here.
Kids Can Easily Bring Toys On The Go With This Portable Activities Set
The hardest part about this whole toy blog post was picking a name to accurately describe the DIY action figure playset project. A suitcase of toys for playing on the go could be called a “busy bag,” “travel toy kit,” or “portable play set.” If it’s designed specifically for children, it might also be referred to as a “play suitcase” or “activity case.” These kits are usually compact and filled with engaging toys, games, or crafts to keep kids entertained while traveling. What ever moniker you think is most fitting for these DIY travel toys, I hope you enjoy fun DIY play set ideas.
DIY Travel Toys Craft Supplies:
This fun DIY travel playset is a great way to upcycle an old suitcase or briefcase into fun travel games. The coolest thing about this diy toy project for kids is that you can make a diy action figure playset around whatever their interests are whether it is cars, trains, barbies, dinosaurs, zoo animals, farm animals, etc. It is a great way to keep your toys on-the-go organized.
- Old Suitcase or Briefcase or Lunchbox
- Masonite (type of hardboard made of pressure-molded wood fibers), plywood, or thick cardboard
- 2 paintable self-adhesive magnetic sheets
- 4 printable magnetic sheets
- Spray paint
- 2 feet decorative chain
- 2 1/8 inch bolts with washers & nuts
- Some small toys such as cars, animals, dolls, or figurines
How To Make A Travel Toys Play Set:
1. Gut suitcase
2. Drill 1/8 inch hole 2 inches down on one of the sides without the handle (on each half of the suitcase)
3. Insert 1/8 inch bolt through hole, and add chain, washer and then nut on each half. This chain can be adjusted to allow the suitcase to stay at a little larger than a 90 degree angle while the child plays.
4. Measure and cut two pieces of masonite to rest on interior suitcase rims.
5. Cut two pieces of magnetic sheets to fit interior back wall of each side of suitcase.
7. Paint background images, such as a sky image, night image, etc. on self-adhesive magnetic sheets.
7. Print out 2 landscape images. Spray mount to each side of masonite boards.
8. Print out figure sheets (i.e. building images, trees, etc) to printable magnetic sheets, and then cut out individual figures (images on our website).
9. Place individual figures onto magnetic background sheet.
10. Add fun figurines and your fun play set is ready for the road!
If I lost you, or you are more visual like me, this clip of the Home and Family show may be of help to you:
Conclusion
Making your own toys on the go or play kits has several benefits, ranging from cost savings to personalized touches that suit specific needs. Here are the key advantages:
1. Customization
- Tailor the kit to the child’s age, interests, and developmental needs.
- Include sensory-friendly or educational items for specific purposes, such as motor skill improvement or sensory regulation.
2. Cost-Effectiveness
- Use items you already have at home, such as craft supplies or small toys, to save money.
- Avoid expensive pre-made kits that might include items your child won’t use.
3. Flexibility
- Swap out items based on the destination or occasion.
- Update the kit regularly to keep it fresh and exciting for your child.
I hope you found this DIY travel playset for kids inspirational! What theme will you use for making your own DIY play set to bring fun with you on your travels? Who in your life would enjoy this homemade toy? Will you make it as a DIY gift or do it together as a fun craft project? Share your DIY playset ideas on social media @familyfocusblog!
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linda moore says
What a great toy playset idea! I have 2 grand kids and my little one can play with his cars for hours on end. This would surely keep him busy a while. Thank you for sharing this toys on the go idea!
Donna Hup says
Oh my goodness I love this DIY toy play set! I totally want to make one for my nephew now 🙂