License plate game

Tegu

Tegu Travel Pals magnetic wooden blocks

Six chunky magnetic wood pieces that stick to each other and to tray tables. It's the most quietly brilliant restaurant toy we know: no rolling away, no noise, and no small loose magnets.

What real parents say: One family reviewer reports almost ten years of playing, chewing and crashing on Tegu magnetic blocks. Sources

Honest drawback: Six pieces is a short game for older kids. It shines for ages 1–4.

PicassoTiles

PicassoTiles Nano Magnetic Tiles travel tin

A small travel tin of mini magnetic tiles that works on a tray table. It's a good budget pick for kids who already love tiles at home.

Honest drawback: The tiles are small. We'd keep them away from younger siblings who still mouth things, and count them back into the tin.

Sarah's Silks

Sarah's Silks Mini Treasure Map Playsilk

A printed silk treasure map turns any hotel room or backyard into a quest. It's a stocking stuffer with an imagination engine built in.

Honest drawback: It's mostly a prop, so the adventure comes from the kid (and you).