If you’re a parent on the go, then you know the struggle of trying to keep your toddler entertained and comfortable during long car rides. It can feel like an endless cycle of snacks, toys, and “Are we there yet?” But fear not, dear parent – the solution to your back seat woes has arrived in the form of a car seat travel tray! It’s a portable learning and entertainment center that keeps kids cheerfully occupied on long car rides (or planes, trains, strollers, etc…you get the point here). We’ve researched the options and considered what other parents have said. No longer will you have to constantly turn around to tend to your toddler’s needs – they’ll have a designated space to play and explore, giving you the freedom to focus on the road ahead. And let’s be honest, a peaceful car ride is a rare and beautiful thing for any parent. So buckle up because we’re about to go over the top picks for the best car seat trays for toddlers.
Best Overall
Kenley Kids Car Seat Lap Tray
Description
In need of a portable, self-contained entertainment center for the car? This docking station disassembles into a zippered carrying case with a padded strap. Unlike bulkier options out there, this one can be fully collapsed and is comfortable to carry.
It also ensures that your child can reach their necessities no matter where you go. Your iPad or tablet can be watched from its clear viewing pocket (10″w) on the tray, and there are a total of 14 compartments of varying sizes to keep all the essentials close at hand.
Things to know:
- The product dimensions are 13″D x 16.5″W x 8.8″H at the back and 5.5″H on the sides, which is the tallest tablet support of all the travel trays we reviewed.
- Like Lusso Gears’ travel tray, this one has a dry-erase surface, but this one is clear and allows for paper to be placed underneath. This does not come with dry-erase markers, so make sure to pick up some yourself before hitting the road.
- They warn that thick protective tablet cases may not fit inside the tablet holder.
- The sides are just hanging pockets and do not offer any support or stability. This has to rest on your child’s lap or another stable surface.
Things to love:
- It has an insulated side pocket to keep snacks cold or hot!
- The ipad/tablet holder is 11″x7.5″, which is bigger than many and it has a dedicated cable hole to make charging easy.
- They include 3 educational paper activity sheets to use under the clear dry-erase surface, which can be changed up and reused as often as you like.
Questions and Answers
Will A Car Seat Tray Fit On My Car Seat?
Travel trays are generally designed to be universally compatible with most car seats. However, the fit can vary depending on the width and design of both the car seat and the tray. Most of the popular car seat trays come with a strap for attachment, and it’s essential to adjust the included strap for a proper safe, and comfortable fit.
Will Car Seat Trays Work On A Rear-Facing Car Seat?
Depending on the tray you have, yes, it will likely work on a rear-facing seat. Most of the travel trays on the market today are adjustable to fit comfortably when used in different situations, like on a stroller, plane, or car ride. When using a tray with a rear-facing car seat, it’s important to remember that the tray may be tilted to match the angle of the seat, and therefore not level.
Are Car Seat Travel Trays Safe?
Yes, car seat travel trays for kids are generally considered safe to use. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines when using a car seat travel tray to make sure that it’s properly secured and doesn’t interfere with the car seat functionality.
In Conclusion
Car seat travel trays for kids can be an absolute lifesaver for parents on the go! No more crumbs on the floor (probably fewer crumbs anyway), no more “Are we there yet?” every five minutes, and no more boredom-induced meltdowns in the back seat. These handy little trays give your mini-me’s a place to play, eat, and stay entertained while you focus on the road.
Trust us, your sanity, your children and even your car’s interior will thank you! So, next time you’re gearing up for a long drive with the kiddos, don’t forget to pack the handy car seat travel tray. Your trip will be smoother, happier, and so much less stressful. (What more could you ask for?)
Happy travels!