All parents will appreciate that choosing a great gift for a child can sometimes be more difficult than you think! And, as a relative or friend what to choose can often seem even more daunting. Below is a list of top recommendations based on positive feedback from a sample of like minded gift buyers and the most important critics of all - the recipients of the gifts themselves! *



1. Puzzles & games to stimulate and entertain

If you're stuck for an unusual, affordable birthday present idea then look no further! Every child enjoys a new game or puzzle to play with and whether you're looking for something to keep little hands occupied while travelling, or a game for all the family to play there is plenty on the market to inspire and entertain. Look out for magnetic playsets which are ideal if you're on the move. Many come with handy travelling pouches too, great for keeping all the little bits and pieces together in one place. Make sure you find a puzzle or game with more than one challenge or solution so it's not a one hit wonder. Problem solving logic games are ideal for keeping kids and even the whole family entertained on journeys. Old fashioned word games/quizzes are still very popular and are another great idea which can be enjoyed as you travel together.

2. Bags of fun

Every child loves the independence that having their own set of luggage brings. There are some fun yet extremely practical children's luggage trolleys on the market that are a real hit with young travellers, such as kids character wheelie trolleys. Kids just love packing up their belongings and wheeling their own quirky friend around with them. Some children's luggage sets even come with matching dressing up kit for added travel adventure! Top tip if you are planning lots of travelling - many kids suitcases are big enough to foster independence, yet compact enough to classify as hand luggage - great news if you're in a rush at the airport!

3. Jolly brollies for singing in the rain

We all know fresh air is great for kids and if you're looking for an inspirational way to encourage outings whatever the weather then this is it. Children adore having their own brolly to put up, take down and just carry about with them. Look out for chunky, rounded handles to make carrying easy, a rounded tip for safety and nice rounded ends to each spoke of the umbrella.

4. Funky backpacks & kit bags

Kids are great ones for deciding to bring half the contents of their toy box with them just as you are ready to leave the house. Get them their own backpack and you won't have a problem as they can choose their favourite things to bring and carry them too! Go for one which is sturdy, waterproof, has lots of useful pockets and plenty of padding in the straps. These bags are also ideal for packing the essentials in for nursery or school.And, how about an equally funky kit bag - ideal for trips to the swimming pool or to hold a PE kit? In our experience kids can never have too many bags!

Gervase Walton

KidsTravel2

*based on feedback from customers of KidsTravel2