Stumped for ideas on the perfect present to tuck under the tree or surprise your kiddos with this holiday season? Look no further than San Diego Family's 2020 Holiday Toy Review. From low-tech, classic wooden toys to ultra high-tech electronics and video gaming, our Holiday Toy Review is guaranteed to help you find that perfect present for kids big and little! Each item here has earned the stamp of approval from our local kid and parent reviewers.

Download San Diego Family's 2020 Holiday Toy Review

File is 16 pages (51.5 MB), so give it a few seconds to download.

SAMPLE TOY REVIEW PAGE

Updated: December 2020

_____________

Backpacks, Lunch Boxes and Water Bottles! Check out this fun selection of backpacks, water bottles, lunch bags, bento boxes and snack bags that are perfect for school, work or day trips.

Zoo Little Kid Backpack
$22; Skiphop.com
Whimsical details and durable materials make this animal backpack the perfect pack for on-the-go. Mesh side pocket adjusts to fit a juice box, sippy cup or water bottle. The front pouch is ideal for snacks and includes extra pockets for pencils and other travel necessities. Comfy padded straps go easy on little shoulders.

Hello Kitty Stainless Mug 
$52; Zojirushi.com
Known for their superior vacuum insulation technology, these Zojirushi mugs pay homage to Sanrio’s Hello Kitty icon, in white/gold and black/gold combinations. The 16 oz. capacity mug is made of high-quality 18/8 stainless steel, with a lightweight and compact design. The lid lock prevents accidental leaks or spills, and the lid is vented so the beverage flows smoothly. The mug is made of BPA-free plastic and a nonstick coated interior makes the mug easier to clean.

Hydro Flask Insulated Lunch Box
$44.95-$54.95; HydroFlask.com
From weekday lunch breaks to meals on the go, this lunch box offers a fun and versatile sidekick to fuel your daily adventures, with maximum insulation that keeps your favorite foods cold for hours. The modern, yet durable design features a fully lined interior for easy cleaning and quick wipe-downs, while a flexible handle makes it comfortable to carry. An internal stretch-mesh lid pocket offers additional storage for small items or an ice pack. Available in 3.5 L and 5 L sizes.

Travel Cutlery Set 
$8.99; Ecomended.com
Thoughtfully crafted with a new wheat fiber and PP composite, this set brings you a convenient and fashionable way to eat at home, school or on the go while making a positive impact on our planet Earth. Included in the set is a waterproof case, fork, spoon and chopsticks to help you eliminate single use plastic.

Mod Lunch Bento
$14.99; PackIt.com
Includes three removable dividers that wall off thick liquids and solids, letting you separate sensitive foods and create customized space. Leak-resistant lid locks to prevent spills. Dishwasher safe on top rack.

Fressko Colour Flask
$39.95; MadeByFressko.com
These stylish, chemical-free, insulated flasks with stainless steel inner include Fressko’s 2-in-1 Filter and are the perfect companion for creating your favourite fruit-infused cocktail, brewing your special tea blend or simply mixing your coffee; all while you brew as you go. This product is lightweight, vacuum sealed to ensure the contents stay hot (while remaining soft to the touch) for up to 6 hours or chilled for at least 12 hours and has a leak-proof, easy to grip lid, scratch-proof body and slip resistant base. Available in 6 colors.

Natural wheat Fiber Bento Box
$19.99; Ecomended.com
Thoughtfully crafted with a new wheat fiber and PP composite, this bento box brings you a convenient and fashionable way to eat at work, school or on the go while making a positive impact on our planet Earth. Included in the set is a waterproof case, fork, spoon and divider tray to help you eliminate single use plastic.

Contour 2.0 Pro Laptop Backpack
$99; Kensington.com
Comfortable, secure, stylish, durable, and TSA checkpoint friendly, the ergonomist-approved backpack is the perfect 17" laptop backpack for mobile professionals. Features a heat-dissipating contoured back that hugs the body and shifts weight so it’s closer to the center of gravity; specially positioned pockets that help evenly distribute weight and balance contents; a laptop security compartment with a puncture-resistant, lockable zipper; tough, water-resistant material; and interior padding for an added layer of protection. 

Freezable Snack Box
$15.99; PackIt.com
Roomy enough to chill snacks and a small bottled drink for an afternoon outing, its small profile still fits snugly inside larger bags. Buckle handle clips onto totes, backpacks, strollers and more. Collapses flat and freezes overnight.

Nalgene 32-ounce Water Bottle
$15; Nalgene.com
$5 from each sale of this special Nalgene bottle goes to the Nalgene Water Fund, which promotes grass-roots nonprofits working with domestic communities struggling with access to clean water. Like all Nalgene bottles, made in the USA, leakproof and dishwasher safe.

FinalStraw 
$24.50; FinalStraw.com
A collapsible, reusable straw that fits in a convenient keychain sized carrying case, so it goes where you go. It comes with a telescoping cleaning devise so you can clean it on the go, too. 

Zoo Straw Bottle
$8;  SkipHop.com
A major milestone for toddler is when she is ready to move on from sippy cups. The Zoo Straw Bottle helps ease this transition by giving little ones a "big-kid cup" with the protection of a flip-top lid. Dishwasher-safe; also comes with an extra straw.

Just My Style Glitter Water Bottle
$9.99; 6+
Amazon.com
Hydrate in style. Make your glittery water bottle match any outfit using two sheets of reusable stickers. Use adhesive gemstones to make the details pop and take your shine to the next level — and carry your stylish water bottle wherever you go with the pink handle. This BPA-Free water bottle is safe and convenient for everyday use, so you can stay hydrated on-the-go while you express your personal style.

Updated: August 2020

Children's Charities: Toy Donation Request Form 

Back to School Snacks!  Healthy, fun snack ideas to throw in kids' lunch bags!

Kate's Real Food Snack Bites
KatesRealFood.com
Three mouth-watering flavors to choose from (Handle Snack Bites, Grizzly Snack Bites, Stash Snack Bites), all made with USDA-certified organic ingredients and sweetened with all natural honey. Try one of each or stock up on your favorite flavor of salty and sharable snack bites.

Tuna Pouches
WildPlanetFoods.com
Single-serve flavored tuna pouches. The best part is, their tuna is 100% pole and line caught (this is the most sustainable choice for tuna). With absolutely nothing to drain, these mess-free, nutritive pouches are perfectly convenient for bringing to school.

Once Again’s Sunflower Butter Squeeze Packs
Buy.OnceAgainNutButter.com
Made with organic sunflower seeds, organic sunflower oil, and just a touch of organic cane sugar and salt. Processed in a peanut-free facility and is an alternative to peanut butter for kids with allergies. In addition to being certified-organic, it is also Non-GMO Project Verified, certified gluten-free, Kosher, vegan, and part of the brand’s Honest in Trade program.

Silly Juice
SillyJuice.com
All Silly Juice varieties are designed to make consumers taste buds dance, and are made with real juice, no high fructose corn syrup, are non-GMO, gluten-free, low in sodium and contain no added colors. Availbale in Cool Blue Freeze, Orange Cream, Pink Strawberry Swirl, Red Apple Cherry Blossom, Watermelon Fruit Punch and White Grape Burst.

The Collaborative Non-Dairy Yogurt
CoconutCollaborative.com
The yogurts are vegan, low in sugar and don’t comprise on taste or texture and uses plants to innovate deliciously creamy treats. The  full line of yogurts offer dairy-free alternatives that are both vegan and gluten-free. Unbelievably creamy and tasty, these delicious yogurts are available in Plain, Vanilla, Blueberry, and Mango and Passionfruit.

Brainiac Kids Applesauce Pouches
BrainiacKids.com
With no added sugars and reasonable prices, it's an easy way for moms and dads to make sure daily nutrient needs are met. Brainiac has packed its tasty applesauce pouches with a blend of nutrients developing brains need that includes Omega-3s, DHA and Choline. Plus, they have no added sugars. A no “brainer” for parents everywhere.

Harvest Snaps Snack Crisps 
HarvestSnaps.com
Made from green peas, black beans or red lentils as the #1 ingredient. Baked (never fried!), the super-tasty, better-for-you crisps provide protein and fiber in every serving. They’re also certified gluten-free and completely free of artificial flavors, cholesterol and the common allergens: soy, nuts, peanuts, wheat, and eggs. 

Manuka Honey Sticks 
https://www.shoppri.com/collections/manuka-honey/products/manuka-honey-sticks-10pack
A great treat for kids lunch boxes or for those on the go. Take your daily dose of Manuka with you and enjoy it direct from the stick to give your immune system that extra boost during the day, put in tea or coffee, or even on your morning yogurt, granola or oatmeal. 

BODYARMOR
DrinkBodyArmor.com
When you’re looking for hardworking hydration for your family, grab BODYARMOR Sports Drink. It’s made with potassium-packed electrolytes, coconut water, B vitamins and antioxidants – all with no artificial sweeteners, flavors or dyes. Pick-up a 12oz 8-count BODYARMOR Team Pack at your local Ralphs. 

KRAVE Plant-Based Jerky
KraveJerkey.com
Perfect for flexitarians and those looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets. Features a taste and texture similar to meat cuts but is made from peas and fava beans for an eating experience and nutritional profile superior to any vegan jerky currently on the market. With 8 grams of protein per serving, each bag is a good source of protein and comes in two uniquely savory flavors: Smoked Chipotle and Korean BBQ.

The Empowered Cookie
EmpoweredCookie.com
The Empowered Cookie is a sweet treat reimagined as it embraces plant-based eating for a brighter, more delicious, and convenient, yet sustainable future. Look for The Empowered Cookie varieties including Chocolate Cherry, Chocolate Walnut, Double Chocolate Chunk, Ginger Molasses, Lemon Lavender Poppy Seed, and Raisin Walnut.

Juicy Juice Fruitifuls Organic
JuicyJuice.com
Features 45% less sugar than the leading juice (first ingredient is water) and packs a half cup of fruit in each 8-ounce serving with the same fruity flavor kids love. Now available in a new multi-serve bottle in Apple, Fruit Punch and Grape.

Lenny & Larry Cookies
LennyLarry.com
This complete crunchy cookies takes a beloved twist on cookies but this time providing more nutrients so even kids can benefit from snacking on the whole bag. Filled with the perfect amount of smooth and creamy chocolate chips, these will easily become your new favorite vegan snack. With no high fructose corn syrup, or artificial sweeteners, kids will love crunching on these.

Wabry Syrup
WabrySyrup.com
Great on pancakes, waffles, sundaes, or mixed in milk. No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. No high fructose corn syrup. Certified organic by CCOF. California Social Purpose Corporation supporting orphanages in developing countries. 

Kabaki Tea
KabakiTea.com
Boost your immune system with this delicious tea. This tea is vibrant in color, has high levels of potent antioxidants, and is delicately flavored.  

Otamot Organic Essential Sauce
OtamotFoods.com
Made of 9-12 organic vegetables each cooked at a precise time and temperature to retain natural vitamins, minerals and fiber – making it the healthiest option of its kind. The sauce is highly versatile, in addition to being great for classics like pasta/pizza, it can be eaten chilled as a crudité dip (it has a thicker consistency than traditional marinara), soup, stew, hummus, carrot cupcakes, and more.

Noosa Fruit Smoothies 
NoosaYoghurt.com
Perfect for on-the-go snacking occasions and delivering the same delicious “WOW” taste and flavor noosa fans know and love, noosa fruit smoothies are made with real fruit, all-natural ingredients, and are a good source of protein.

Chomperz
SeaSnax.com
Boldly going where no seaweed snack has gone before... Handcrafted whole pieces of premium seaweed with sticky rice, sea salt, and organic seasonings for a savory snack that delivers on the CRUNCH.

Pasta Bow Tie Minis
PastaSnacks.com
We're all ears! These crispy bite-sized pasta snacks are 90 calories of oven-baked, GMO-free goodness. Puffed to perfection these scrumptious Bow Ties are a tasty nod to Mickey's classic style.

Old Trapper Beef Sticks
OldTrapper.com
Old Trapper meat snacks can deliver solid nutrition with each bite. A take-anywhere healthy snack that is low in calories yet high in protein - the perfect fuel or recovery snack. Each 1 oz serving contains only 70 calories, 0 grams of fat and 6 grams of carbs.

Seasoned Pistachio Kernels
SettonFarms.com
Each resealable bag is packed with three ounces of premium quality shelled and seasoned pistachios that are heart healthy, easy to enjoy on the go, and kid-friendly. With no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, these all-natural, seasoned kernels are a unique source of plant-based protein and make a great addition to almost any recipe. Available in Garlic Onion, Chili Limon, Chipotle BBQ, Jalapeno, and Salt and Pepper.

LAIKI Crackers 
LaikiCrackers.com
With only 3 simple ingredients, these delectable crackers have an unexpected, satisfying crunch.  There are no labels to read, no ingredients to worry
about – just 100% guilt-free, whole-grain goodness. Free from the top 8 allergens so it is perfect for school-aged children. Also Gluten Free, Non GMO verified, Vegan, Kosher, and FODMAP friendly so they are safe for almost everyone.  

gimMe Organic Roasted Seaweed Snacks 
gimMeSnacks.com
This superfood alternative is healthy without sacrificing the savory and bold flavors that kids love. GimMe Snacks are not only flavorful, but also high in nutrients including Vitamin C, iodine, calcium, Omega 3s, biotin, folate, fiber, protein and more. Plus, the packages are small and compact - perfect for school lunches.

Pistachio + Plum Chewy Bites
SettonFarms.com
All-natural bite-sized bars packed with over 50% California grown pistachios, plums, date nectar and a touch of lemon. Each individually wrapped bite is loaded with protein, fiber, iron, potassium and antioxidants, making them an ideal, on-the-go, heart healthy snack that is both delicious and nutrient dense. 

GoGo Big squeeZ
GoGoSqueez.com
A 33% larger version of our traditional 100% fruit products. No artificial flavors or preservatives. ½ cup of fruit per pouch. No sugar added, non-GMO Project certified. Apple Apple, Apple Raspberry Strawberry Vanilla, Apple Strawberry, Apple Pear Cinnamon Vanilla, Apple Mango Banana Passionfruit, Apple Pineapple Peach.

Planet Oat Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts
PlanetOat.com
Made for all, these desserts are perfect for those looking for a dairy alternative ice-cream or those looking to explore more plant-based products. Made with the unmistakable creaminess of Planet Oat Oatmilk, these are available in six rich and creamy flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Coffee Fudge Swirl, Blueberry Oat Crumble, Cookies & Crème and Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl. 

SeaSnax Roasted Sheets
SeaSnax.com
Made with premium organic nori and roasted until perfectly crisp in a light mist of organic extra virgin olive oil, then lightly seasoned with a touch of sea salt and organic seasonings for a savory, and satisfying crunch without the junk. 

GoGo squeeZ happy tummieZ
GoGoSqueez.com
On the go fruit pouches designed to promote healthy good gut health in children with plant-based prebiotic fiber. Good source of fiber. Non-GMO Project and USDA Organic certified. Organic Apple Banana Strawberry, Organic Raspberry Pear Yellow Carrot, Organic Strawberry Pomegranate Spinach, Organic Apple Mango Pineapple Banana.

Published: July 2020

Heading off to college? Here are some great products to send with your college student for dorm and apartment living.

Oscillating Tower Fan 001 with Large LED Display
$85.99; Taotronics.com
Equipped with 3 powerful modes (Normal, Natural, Sleep) and 3 fan speeds (High, Medium, Low), offering 9 different air flow settings to meet your multiple cooling needs in sweltering summer. Perfect 65°oscillating cooling fan is your air conditioner’s BFF distributing air with a velocity of 20ft/s to increase air flow and circulation for quick cooling that saves energy. This quiet, real space saving standing fan can be placed anywhere with utmost ease.

Blowfish Malibu Shoes
Prices vary; BlowfishShoes.com
Blowfish Malibu is a shoe brand that embodies Malibu, California. Blowfish Malibu has delighted shoe lovers with comfortable, on-trend styles. The goal is simple: make quality, fashionable shoes and sell them at affordable prices. With numerous styles available, you can capture the fresh, youthful spirit and casual living that is distinctively Southern California.

Harmony Hardcover Notebook Large
$21.19; ataglance.com
With space to track your goals, plans, achievements and more alongside your notes, this notebook will help keep you organized and on-task like never before. Features pink or navy faux-leather hardcovers with gold foil accents and gold corners for a high-quality, stylish look. 

AU-Stream True Wireless Earphones
$99.95; AUSounds.com
Perfect for students, these wireless earphones feature a 13MM Titanium driver and a frequency range of 20Hz - 20KHz, providing the ultimate sound in a mobile lightweight housing. AU-Stream also features True Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, smart pairing, dual microphones, an IPX5 waterproof rating, and a total battery life of 17.5 hours. Plus, $1 from the sale of every earphone goes to MusiCares to help the non-profit provide a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need.

FreePlay LIVE Portable PA System
$450; Mackie.com
FreePlay LIVE is the ultra-portable, personal PA of your dreams. With tons of power, crystal clear sound, up to 15 hours of battery life, and much more, FreePlay LIVE is perfect for performers, buskers, presenters, and even for rocking out to your favorite playlist.

Contour 2.0 Pro Laptop Backpack – 17”
$99; Kensington.com
Comfortable, secure, stylish, durable, and TSA checkpoint friendly, the ergonomist-approved Contour 2.0 Pro Laptop Backpack — 17" is the perfect 17" laptop backpack for mobile professionals. The Contour 2.0 Pro Laptop Backpack — 17" features a heat-dissipating contoured back that hugs the body and shifts weight so it’s closer to the center of gravity*; specially positioned pockets that help evenly distribute weight and balance contents; a laptop security compartment with a puncture-resistant, lockable zipper; tough, water-resistant material; and interior padding for an added layer of protection. *While properly wearing both straps.

iHome Weather Tough Speaker
$59.99; iHomeAudio.com 
Features a rugged design and is waterproof, shockproof and sand-proof. Bring it with you on any adventure rain or shine and enjoy up to 11 hours of Audio. Features 5 color changing accent lighting modes that pulse to the music for full spectrum effects. Stream wireless audio via Bluetooth and take calls with the built-in speakerphone. Enjoy 360° stereo sound and enhanced bass with a rear firing passive subwoofer.

Closca Water Bottle
$45; Closca.com
Wear your bottle instead of carrying it, while expressing your attitudes. Dual caps allow for ice, fruit, and tea infuse, as well as an easy, seamless cleaning. LeakProof guarantee, BPA free, made with the toughest glass in a water bottle. Keep your water pure and odor-free. The Closca Water App helps you find the nearest refill points. The NFC in the bottom cap opens it directly in your smartphone. 10% is donated to a Beach Conservation NGO.

Portable Lock Box
$49.99; Kensington.com 
Made with lightweight yet durable high-impact ABS plastic, the splash-resistant box is perfect for a mobile phone, passport, keys, wallet, money, and more. The dual locking mechanism lets you use the traditional keyed lock or the convenient resettable three-dial combination lock. Easy to take with you to keep valuables safe. A strong, adjustable security strap allows you to tether the lock box to a stationary object, and can also be used as a convenient carry handle.

California Breeze Sweater
$38; JardinByMacris.com
Perfect for college, this sweater is casual, goes with everything, is lightweight and is easy to throw in a backpack or tie around your waist. Solid v-neck pullover sweater, high-low hem, 3/4 sleeve, slit details on side.

Quartet Magnetic Dry Erase Whiteboard
$21.04; Amazon.com
A smooth, magnetic surface for easy writing and drawing as well as the ability to magnetically post pictures and papers. Best for occasional personal use in spaces such as home offices, cubicles or dorm rooms. Board can be used vertically or horizontally to fit your space and messaging needs. Comes with self-stick pads to easily mount the board on any flat surface. Includes one mini dry-erase marker with a magnetic eraser cap and two circle magnets. 

SmartyPits All-Natural Aluminum-Free Deodorant
$11.99; SmartyPits.com  
Won’t clog up your sweat glands like typical antiperspirants; it contains plant-based powders that wick away sweat to keep your armpits dry. Includes prebiotics, which helps to nourish the good bacteria living in your armpits. With no aluminum salts to stain your pits yellow, natural deodorant helps keep you clean and fresh. All fragrances are phthalate-free, paraben-free, propylene glycol-free, and cruelty-free. Available in various scents, including Coconut Mango, Lavender Rose, Eucalyptus Spearmint, Orange Bergamot, Tweed & Spice, Lemongrass Patchouli, Cool Cucumber, Rosemary Mint, and Unscented. 

Peeramid Bookrest
$17.99; Walmart.com
Inspired by the Great Pyramids, this uniquely shaped pillow with bookmark props a book or Kindle at the perfect angle for reading. Use it in bed, at a table, your favorite chair, on the floor, virtually anywhere. Simply placing the spine of your book into the ledge of the Peeramid allows readers a free hand to take notes, snack and truly relax. 

Fressko Colour Flask
$39.95; MadeByFressko.com
These stylish, chemical-free, insulated flasks with stainless steel inner include Fressko’s 2-in-1 Filter and are the perfect companion for creating your favourite fruit-infused cocktail, brewing your special tea blend or simply mixing your coffee; all while you BREW AS YOU GO. This product is lightweight, vacuum sealed to ensure the contents stay hot (while remaining soft to the touch) for up to 6 hours or chilled for at least 12 hours and has a leak-proof, easy to grip lid, scratch-proof body and slip resistant base. Available in 6 colours.

AT-A-GLANCE Elevation Academic Weekly-Monthly Planner
$15.59; ataglance.com
Allows you to schedule from one summer to the next with pages that go from July 2020-June 2021.This planner is a space for you to reach your goals, to track what matters most and to become the best version of yourself.

Pro Fit Ergo Vertical Wireless Trackball
$79.99; Kensington.com
A 60° tilt angle keeps the wrist in a natural handshake position to improve wrist and forearm posture. This mouse-like vertical trackball is easy to learn and it offers nine programmable buttons. Easy to use, with the same left click, right click and scroll wheel operation as a traditional mouse, while providing the advantages of a trackball with a simple roll of the thumb. The high-quality optical tracking sensor, 34mm thumb-operated trackball and triple DPI switch provide smooth cursor control, optimal precision and easy cursor speed transitions.

Silk Pillowcases
$35; SleepingInSilk.com
A natural way to your beauty sleep. And silk is so blissful to sleep on. Sure, silk looks cool on a bed, but there's more than just appearance. Silk is hypoallergenic and temperature regulating - which leads to a sounder sleep. And silk helps keep hair looking good, saving time in the morning. 

Dual Charging Bluetooth Alarm Clock with Wireless and USB Charging
$69.99; iHomeAudio.com
A sleek space-saving dual charging Bluetooth alarm clock. Stream your music wirelessly and enjoy room-filling sound. Charge your Qi-compatible phone wirelessly and use the USB port in the back of the device to charge a secondary unit. Set alarms, take phone calls, and enjoy a dimmable backlit display.

Adventure Ready 13” Tablet/Laptop Capsule
$59.99; Phoozy.com
Helps prevent overheating in the sun and insulates from the cold to extend battery life while also providing an IP66 water-resistance rating and military-grade drop protection. Sleek, slim, light-weight design easily slides inside other bags or use the included adjustable, quick-release shoulder strap with pad for comfortable wear across the body or over the shoulder. 

Mani-Pedi Kit
$59.99; Leangelique.com
With its ten different attachments you can shape, smooth, file, remove dry skin, polish, push back your cuticles, and even clean under your nails. Comes with a built-in nail polish dryer for drying your nails faster and more effectively. Comes with charger, so that you never have to run out of batteries, instead keep it charged for whenever you need to use it.

Active Antimicrobial Hydrogel Spray
$29.99; shop.bldgactive.com
Perfect for students going back to school, everyone should have a bottle in their backpack. A safe, non-toxic solution for cleaning and healing skin irritations and wounds. This multi-functional spray is safe for use around all areas of the body, including around the mouth, nose, ears and eyes. Made with no steroids, synthetic antibiotics, alcohol, and harsh, stinging chemicals. 

beachsafe Portable Safe
$79.99; thebeachsafe.com
beachsafe allows you to have peace of mind in knowing your valuables are safe wherever you are. This is the perfect gift for students, to ensure their most precious possessions stay safe in the dorm room, and on spring break alike. This portable, lightweight safe is designed with a 4-digit combination lock, water-resistant exterior, and a stainless-steel securing cable that easily attaches to your beach chair. beachsafe’s high-tech features include two USB ports, a powerful built-in solar powered battery pack to charge phones on the go, and a cooling fan to protect your smart devices while keeping them charged.  

The Arsenal Mens Grooming Kit
$14.94; Wild-Willies.com
This grooming kit is your one stop shop for all your men's grooming needs that don't involve your beard. Includes straight edge nail clippers, multi-purpose scissor, slanted edge clippers, tweezers, nail file, scraping tool, cuticle stick, V-shaped push stick, needle and loop blackhead remover and ear pick.

GoodCook Meal Prep Snack Containers
$7.99-$10.99; Amazon.com
Two compartment, BPA-Free, microwave/dishwasher/freezer safe containers. Snack prep for the week in advance. Stack them in the ‘fridge or pantry for an easy grab-and-go to put in lunch bags, or for kids to bring back to their home desk.

Bluetooth Vanity Speaker with Wireless Charging and USB Charging
$149.99; iHomeAudio.com 
This 9" distortion-free mirror features full-color spectrum lighting with hi/med/low brightness modes that will have you looking great in any light. Charge your phone wirelessly through the wireless charging pad on the base of the mirror, and charge a secondary device through the 5W USB port. Stream music wirelessly through the mirror and enjoy your favorite songs as you get ready. 

43mm Fingerprint Padlock
$69.99; BenjiLock.com
Stores up to 10 fingerprints for multiple users. Unlocks with your fingerprint or key. Highly secure chrome plated, hardened steel shackle. Up to 1 year on a single charge.

Zojirushi's Flip and Go Mug
$52-$55; Zojirushi.com
Bright and bold, and portable. The perfect addition for you every day, wherever you go. The Flip-and-Go handle is sturdy and folds down so it doesn’t get in the way when drinking. Available in Cobalt Blue, Hibiscus Red, Teal and Purple Dusk, 16 or 20 oz. capacity. 

Uber Mini Fridge
$42.99; UberAppliance.com
The sleek and highly functional design features heating and cooling options to keep contents cool or hot. Utilizing state-of-the-art and environmentally friendly thermo-electric Peltier Technology, Uber Chill is capable of cooling or warming within a reasonable amount of time, cooling down to 32 degreed F and warming up to 150 degrees F. 

The Ultimate College Student Health Handbook: Your Guide for Everything from Hangovers to Homesickness by by Dr. Jill Grimes
JillGrimesMD.com
The book serves as a guide to what students really want (or need) to know about their mental and physical health when they're away from home. The book covers topics such as: living in the close quarters of dormitories, feeling homesick, experiencing test anxiety, managing the stomach flu, and even how to nurse a hangover. 

Prep: The Essential College Cookbook
$18.95; RoostBooks.com
This useful guide has everything you need to cook yourself real meals with real food. Centered around 10 basic lessons to get you comfortable in the kitchen, this book will get you whipping up nutritious meals, satisfying snacks, and simple desserts for you and your friends in no time. Also included are notes on knife skills, essential (and nonessential) cooking tools, and stocking your pantry. This is your go-to guide for cooking basics.

Updated: November 2020

Many kids say the best part of going back to school is shopping for new supplies. These kid-tested, parent-approved products will help kids have a functional and fashionable start to the school year.

FriXion Fineliner Erasable Marker Pens
$5.99/4 pack, $14.99/12 pack; Pilot.com
Express yourself creatively and fearlessly with these erasable fine point marker pens. Thanks to FriXion’s unique, thermo-sensitive ink formula you can write smoothly, erase cleanly and revise repeatedly without damaging documents. The durable writing tip produces crisp, erasable lines in 12 stunning colors, ideal for everything from grading papers, to creating stunning bullet journal spreads that look perfect every time. A 2020 Product of the Year winner.

Crayola’s Colors of the World Crayons 
$2.49; Crayola.com
With Colors of the World Crayons, children can fully and accurately represent themselves and the world around them through creativity, imagination and self-expression. The 24 newly formulated colors reflect more than 40 global skin tone shades encompassing three undertones – Rose, Almond & Golden – and range in skin tone colors from extra light to deepest. Each crayon is wrapped in a gradient skin tone label, with the color name in English, Spanish and French.

Mathematics 2021: Your Daily Epsilon of Math
$15.99; QuartoKnows.com
Doing daily mathematics can help keep your brain working in ways that verbal exercises can't. This calendar provides you with an equation for every day of the year. The solution for each equation is the date; but the challenge lies in figuring how to arrive at the answer, and possibly discovering more than one method of arriving there.

SureTrack Dual Wireless Mouse
$29.99; Kensington.com
The first lightweight mouse to offer adaptable wireless connectivity options (2.4GHz, Bluetooth 3.0 and Bluetooth 5.0) to accommodate a wide range of computing devices from laptops and desktop PCs to mobile smart devices, also provides precision tracking on the most difficult surfaces, including glass. The ambidextrous 3-button design is equipped with AES 128-bit encryption, a triple DPI switch for simple cursor speed transitions, premium quiet buttons and multiple color options.

Rainbow Sparkle Glitter Glue Set
$7.99; Ooly.com
Use the power of rainbows and glitter mixed with glue to make all your projects shiny and new. With this pack of six glitter glue bottles you can bring a new glittering sparkle to your next arts and crafts projects. You can also use them to add something special to something bland. 

Fiskars MVP Non-stick Kids Scissors
$4.50; Fiskars.com
Fun, textured handles remind kids of soccer, basketball, football, baseball, dance and hockey. Accommodates both right- and left-handed users, available in both blunt and pointed-tip.

BIC Kids Coloring Markers, Pencils and Crayons 
$7.99; Walmart.com
An ideal choice for long-lasting, creative coloring and drawing projects for kids of all ages. Markers feature a blocked tip design that resists being pushed in, so young artists can use added pressure without smashing the tips. The bright, ultra-washable ink rinses easily off skin and most clothing, making cleanup simple. Crayons are break-resistant with durable tips, offering added resistance for long-lasting coloring. The wrap-free design lets kids color uninterrupted without having to peel off paper, yet still leave less waxy residue on hands than traditional crayons. Pencils feature durable barrels, offering long-lasting coloring while remaining easy to sharpen. If the barrels break, they snap cleanly without splintering, unlike traditional wooden pencils. 

G2 Mini (10 Pack) 
$12.17; Amazon.com
Known for its smooth writing and longest-lasting gel ink, G2 is the ultimate pen for overachievers. The G2 Minis pack everything overachievers love about G2 into a pint-sized package, perfect for tasks both big and small. Available in a stunning spectrum of colors.

Sprout Pencils
$14.95; SproutWorld.com
100% natural, biodegradable pencils that can be planted once you're done using them, and they sprout within 1-4 weeks. The pencils are a simple solution to eliminate plastic pens (135 million plastic pens are produced every day). Herbs, flowers, and vegetable plant varieties.

Metallic Outline Markers
$7.99; Crayola.com
Designed with a unique laydown that displays two colors with one stroke. When applied to poster and foam board, the ink naturally separates and creates a beautiful outlining detail. Add special effects to art projects, crafts and homework assignments.

Trace With Me Dry-Erase Sight Words Tablet
$7.99; DisneyLearning.com
Elsa, Lightning McQueen, Miguel, and other Disney and Pixar friends in the Disney Learning Trace with Me activity book series inspire children to practice fine motor and early reading skills over and over again on convenient dry-erase pages that magically wipe clean.

XL Poster Markers
$7.99; Crayola.com
Add a big, bold and colorful statement to all signs, school projects and science fairs. The extra large, chisel tip allows for drawing both thick and thin lines for quick and full coverage of large surfaces. 

USA Titanium 36 Count Woodcase Pencils
$5.47; Walmart.com
These PMA approved pencils sharpen evenly in all types of sharpeners and include quality smudge resistant erasers that are long lasting. With superior point strength and smooth writing, they are an excellent premium choice for school, home or in the office.

Make No Mistake Eraser Markers
$12.50; Ooly.com
Didn’t you mean to make that green unicorn pink? Well, erase it. The Make No Mistake Erasable Markers fix your mistakes in an instant. No-stress coloring unleashes powerful creativity in your inner artist. Start creating magical masterpieces today.

I'M READING Chalkboard Tote Kit
$19.95; Chalk-of-the-town.com
"I'M READING..." Tote Bag Kit is perfect for the avid reader, book worm or teacher as they can both carry and share the book they are reading. Use the included water-based chalk markers to write a title or topic on the tote or illustrate highlights from the book. Once dry, the chalkmarker ink will not smudge. 

Easy Peel Crayon Pencils
$4.99; Crayola.com
For the next school project, these pencils provide vibrant color and coverage for large areas and work on a variety of surfaces. Smooth, quick-dry, and washable color laydown in an easy peel, no sharpening, stick format. 

Scribble Stuff Felt Pens
$11.97; Walmart.com
The pack comes with a rainbow spectrum of 24 unique vivid colors. The felt pens glide across paper thanks to the protective plastic nib at the base of each of the 0.8mm tips. So you can color, draw, doodle and display your many, many works of art without worry or hesitation. These pens are great for work, home and school.

Fun learning games! Shhh, don't tell the kids. They might learn something while playing these child- and parent-tested educational games. A perfect way to have tons of fun while helping get kids ready for the new school year. Find lots more in our round-up of STEM toys and games.

Explore and Write Activity Desk
$54.99; Ages 2-5
Walmart.com
Features an interactive desktop and five pages to explore that are filled with engaging content including letters, numbers, music, colors and more. The writing pad with light-up display lets kids practice writing by tracing letters, numbers and shapes with a stylus. The desk transforms into an easel and chalkboard with plenty of storage space for art supplies.

Tapple
$19.99; 8+
USAopoly.com
A fast-paced word game that gives families and friends a rush of excitement as they compete to beat the timer. Simply pick a category, say a word that fits, tap the first letter of the word, then pass the Tapple wheel. No spelling required. And so much fun, kids don’t even realize they are learning.

Hape Junior Inventor Science Experiment Tool Box
$39.99; 4+
Hape.com
This cool compact junior inventor toolbox contains everything children aged four and over need to carry out over six exciting experiments that will teach them about science and inventing.

Invasion of the Cow Snatchers
$29.99; 6+
ThinkFun.com
Take control of your very own UFO to solve 60 magnetic challenges. Maneuver your way over and around farm obstacles while beaming up cows. The five levels of difficulty and two modes of play are perfect for beginner and experienced puzzlers alike. Ignite your mind with 60 out of this world challenges. This fun logic maze uses magnets to create an innovative and interesting play pattern that will keep both kids and adults occupied for hours. 

LeapStart 3D Learning System
$49.99; Ages 2-7
Amazon.com
Perfect for visual or auditory learners, the touch and talk activities enhance learning with interactive animations to help kids build math, reading, problem-solving skills and more. The LeapStart library of books covers a variety of preschool through first grade subjects with more than 30 activities in every book. Many replayable activities have two levels with 50+ key skills per grade level, so kids can play and learn at the level and move up when they're ready.

Astro Trash 
$19.95; 6+
USAopoly.com
Each player must get rid of all the Trash on their play mat at the expense of the players to their left and right. Players simultaneously roll three dice and rapidly move the “trash” according to the direction, quantity, and color indicated on the dice.

Edushape Jumbo Domino
$19.99; 2+
Amazon.com
Children are introduced to the classic game of dominoes with giant, soft flexible pieces. Supports math skills, number and pattern recognition and more.

Peppa Pig Scribbles & Sounds Doodle Board
$19.99; 2+
Amazon.com
Get creative with Peppa and her family using three stencils. Insert the stencils into the doodle board and it will recognize them and give playful responses as kids draw letters, shapes and Peppa Pig characters. Peppa guides little doodlers with ideas about what to draw and what letters to explore. Use the attached stylus to trace letters and shapes on the electronic clipboard, then erase and draw again. Four modes of play explore letters, music and art. 

Smart Learning Station
$35.99; 3+
tlji.com
The Smart Learning Station is an exciting electronic learning machine featuring five games. This colorful interactive unit features an alphabet and numbers touch pad, five light up LED shape buttons and a convenient carry handle that puts kids in charge of choosing their fun. 

Solar System Puzzle
$24.99; 5+
Hape.com
The sun brings light to all the planets around it. Learn more about our solar system with this out-of-this-world puzzle featuring solid-wood planet pieces, a glowing LED sun, and a poster with all the planet names.

Hoyle Mixed Emojis
$5.99; 6+
Amazon.com
The express yourself game of feelings. Mixed Emojis encourages recognizing and expressing emotions and memory and is fun for both kids and parents.

My Little Farm Activity Set
$39.99; 3+
SmartFeltToys.com
Perfect for indoor and outdoor fun, this interactive play set is made of felt. With 32 soft stick-able pieces and a four-panel felt board that easily assembles into a reversible 3D barn and farm, kids can either match the felt pieces to the outlines on the panels, or place the felt pieces wherever they like on the free expression panels to create their own stories.

Mathable Junior
$9.99; 5+
Amazon.com
Played like the popular letter word games, Mathable Jr. includes number tiles that must be added to or subtracted from the numbers on the game board. With two bold and bright board game sides to play on.

Published: July 2019

Products for Teens and Tweens. Check out these products for the tween or teen in your life.

Trolls Fuzzy Diary
$12-$16.99; Amazon.com
Let your true colors shine through like a rainbow when you use the included mini markers to bring your glittering world to life. Sing like Queen Poppy as you decorate your puffy stickers and beautify your entries with rockin’ graphics from one of your four sticker sheets. Peel and stick on the fuzzy rainbow hair for that warm and fuzzy feeling — and keep your entries under lock and key.

My Audio Pet
$39.95; MyAudioPet.com
These tiny bluetooth speakers really pack some serious sound. Coming in different animal shapes and sizes, your new speaker pals are perfect to take on the go. The My Audio Pet speakers pair perfectly with their unique line of books - My Audio Stories. Adults can use the speakers to connect and record the story for children to play back at any time! 

Social Studio
$19.99; Target.com
Includes everything you need to shoot your very own viral videos. Equipped with an adjustable base and rotating head to shoot at the best angle possible, this device allows kids of all ages to shoot viral videos hands free. Includes fun and trendy backgrounds, mixing tools, various slimy compounds, and sparkly mix ins.

Big Life Journal Daily Edition for KIDS
$19.95; BigLifeJournal.com
A science-based journal that helps children grow resilient, confident and emotionally healthy. The daily activities inside the journal help your child focus on encouraging, self-loving thoughts and wire their brain for growth mindset, resilience, confidence, gratitude, kindness, and self-love. 

The “TEEN QUEEN” Bundle 
$49; RaraClub.com
Each product in the bundle was carefully vetted and selected based on company focus and mission. Includes Blume Day Dreamer Face Cleanser, Blume Melt Down Acne Oil, Zandra Big Balm Lip Balm, and Unicorn Snot SPF Glitter Sunscreen. In addition to bundles, customers can purchase the individual products. RARA CLUB is working hard to become the one stop shop for individuals who are brand conscious by doing the research for you.  

Kids Against Maturity
$29.99; KidsAgainstMaturity.com
Combines age-appropriate toilet humor for children and teens, with witty layered innuendos for parents, making it a fun choice for the whole family.

Star Wars-The Mandalorian-The Child Puzzle
$10.99; Amazon.com
In this 500 piece puzzle, The Mandalorian is carrying a child of unknown species back to his ship after fighting off an ambush of rival bounty hunters. A bonus puzzle poster is also included so that you have a handy reference of what the completed puzzle should look like while you put yours together.

Sparti Scents
$28 each; SpartiScents.com
Skincare + fragrance all in one. Delivers fragrance at pure and concentrated levels for an intense and lasting delightful scent. This "skincare" fragrance glides on and will drench your skin with a light layer of the perfect perfume scent. Packaged in a cool twist-on portable swivel stick so you can easily take it anywhere. 

Star Wars The Child Bluetooth speaker
$19.99; Amazon.com
He may look like “Baby Yoda,” but this adorable creature is called The Child - and now you can become his protector with this Bluetooth speaker toy from Star Wars.

Shred Dog Element Insulator Jacket
$66; Shreddog.com
An extremely versatile jacket that can be worn as an everyday essential, a stand-alone jacket on the mountain, layered underneath the hardshell, or zipped-in to the Hardshell to provide additional warmth on cold days. This technical piece is designed to keep active kids warm without causing them to overheat and sweat. 

Mani-Pedi Kit
$59.99; Leangelique.com
With its ten different attachments you can shape, smooth, file, remove dry skin, polish, push back your cuticles, and even clean under your nails. Comes with a built-in nail polish dryer for drying your nails faster and more effectively. Comes with charger, so that you never have to run out of batteries, instead keep it charged for whenever you need to use it.

The Big One Star Wars Inflatable Chair
$69.99; PoolCandy.net
Great for indoor or outdoor use, this chair is incredibly easy to assemble - inflates in minutes. Jedi can customize your comfort by adjusting the air pressure of the chair, firm, cushy – you decide. The chair is brightened by remote controlled LED Lights and you can choose over 120 different color shades or auto flashing colors.

Trackeroo Portable Case for AirPods
$14.95; Amazon.com
Trackeroo can you help you find AirPods even while enclosed in the case with the additional built-in pouch to hold any tracking device. Trackeroo has a side loop designed specifically for a keychain ring or carabiner, to help keep your AirPods close to you at all times. They come in a wide variety of colors like black, white, blue, red, pink, green, and our personal favorite glow in the dark.

Sticker Makers
$13.99; Xyron.com
Make custom stickers. Great for scrapbooking, card making, school projects, DIY Planners and kid's crafts. Simply insert the item, pull through and peel sticker. It's that easy.

Instax Mini Link Smartphone Printer
$99.99; Target.com
Print photos and videos easily from your smartphone. Print real INSTAX prints with friends for even more fun. 

Colorful Cases for a Cause: IllusionPhotograph
$29.99; IllusionPhotograph.com
These artistic cases comes in environmentally-friendly, leather-like material with a hybrid durable strap and RFID protection material built in. Part wallet, part phone case and part beautiful art, it’s the total package for a keepsake. From every purchase, $5.00 will go back to supportLiving Heart Peru, a non-profit that helps develop self-sustaining agriculture, health and education initiatives in remote, impoverished highland communities above Peru’s Sacred Valley.

Fashionit: Micro Bluetooth Speaker
$35; The Grommet.com
This coin-sized Bluetooth speaker pumps up the volume and can pair with other speakers to create a surround sound-like effect. You can also use it as a selfie remote for phone-free photos, too.

Sea Turtle Bracelet Stack
$65; OceanandCompany.com
Turn up the beach vibes with these Stone Sea Turtle Bracelets. Whether you are walking on the beach or enjoying a nice day in the city. The length of the Sea Turtle Bracelet is just over six inches but can be stretched longer. It is a one size fits all elastic band which fits wrists of nearly all sizes. 10% of all the profits go to organizations that help preserve and protect the ocean. 

Published: November 2020

Summer is the season of fun, especially for kids!
We’ve compiled the hottest parent-approved and kid-tested toys of the summer! These toys are sure to provide hours of enjoyment and entertainment for your kids..

Click the link below to view the 10 pages of
Summer Toys pdf file

File is 20 MB. It may take a moment to appear.

Updated: June 2020

__________

....

Kitchen Produts. Here are some of our favorite reader-tested kitchen products to help make mealtime easier.

Tea Towel-California Poppies
Starting at $20; HoneyandHank.com
Each piece features hidden, hand-drawn designs that tastefully infuse culture and nostalgia into home accessories like pillows, napkins and tea towels. Every pattern delivers a fun “ah-ha!” moment, when you realize the prints are actually made up of the state shape or icon. 

Hello Kitty Automatic Rice Cooker & Warmer
$203; Zojirushi.com
The 5.5 cup cooker has easy one-touch operation, automatic keep warm when cooking is done, a detachable and washable inner lid, detachable power cord, hinged lock tight lid with push button release, and an easy-to-clean nonstick inner cooking pan. Accessories include a measuring cup, spatula and spatula holder. Features gold Hello Kitty graphics on a white machine.

7-Piece Nesting Bowls
$70; BamboozleHome.com 
Versatile, compact and perfect for both entertaining or everyday use. With a variety of sizes to suit any of your needs, use larger bowls for baking or family style meals, and smaller bowls for salads or your favorite snacks. The set is made of biodegradable, dishwasher safe, and durable bamboo fiber, and is available in pastel, thistle, and gray color schemes. 

Colori Paring Knife
$10; Kuhnrikonshop.com 
A must-have tool for any chef, novice or professional. The Japanese stainless-steel blade is great for peeling, trimming or slicing fruits and vegetables. Fun colors like bubble gum, dragonfruit, and unicorn are perfect for teens who are interested in cooking. Food releases easily from the nonstick blade. Safely transport to picnics and campsites with matching sheath. 

LUX LCD Multi-Cooker
$159.95; ZavorAmerica.com
LUX LCD functions as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker and so much more. It is designed with an interactive and easy to use digital LCD screen that features 10 cooking functions including Dessert, Eggs and Grains and more than 30 programmable settings for an amazing one-pot cooking experience. 

GoodCook Meal Prep Snack Containers
$7.99-$10.99; Amazon.com
Two compartment, BPA-Free, microwave/dishwasher/freezer safe containers. Snack prep for the week in advance. Stack them in the ‘fridge or pantry for an easy grab-and-go to put in lunch bags, or for kids to bring back to their home desk.

KinderKitchen Knife Set
$32; Kuhnrikonshop.com
Kinderkitchen tools are kid-tested and help children learn the importance of eating well. The Duck Snippers and Dog Knives are sharp enough to cut food but not small fingers. The rounded tips and guards keep children safe while helping in the kitchen.

Eclipse Server
$20; BamboozleHome.com
Made of biodegradable, dishwasher safe, and durable bamboo fiber, the Eclipse Server is a cure for the common chip and dip combination. Available in graphite, avocado, Robin’s egg, and sapphire.

Fab Slabs Antibacterial Cutting Board
$55-$80; FabSlabsCuttingBoards.com.au
Cutting boards can traditionally be a hotbed for bacteria growth. Each of these beautiful, richly toned cutting boards and grazing platters is crafted from high-quality Camphor Laurel trees, a type of timber that is naturally and permanently antibacterial.

The ZeroWater 12 Cup 
$36.99; Target.com
With ZeroWater you can enjoy great tasting water with the latest advanced filter technology. The ZeroWater filtration system removes virtually all dissolved solids from your tap water, delivering great tasting water. These are the only pour-through filters on the market certified by the NSF to reduce lead and Chromium. ZeroWater filtration also reduces Fluoride from your water and other unwanted contaminants such as asbestos, plastics, pesticides, oestrogen, mercury and lead to name a few.

BlendJet One
$39.95; BlendJet.com
The world's first truly portable and rechargeable blender. Simply load with your favorite ingredients and blend. Fully charges in an hour and lasts for 8-10 blends. Perfect for making smoothies, protein shakes, baby food, hummus, guacamole, salsa, even face masks.

Smelly Proof Storage Bags
Starting at $6; SmellyProof.com 
Keep your goodies and kids safe with Child Resistant Bags from Smelly Proof. Lock odors in and little ones out. Great for medicine, food, and more that you would not like your kids to have easy access to.

GoodCook Sweet Creations Best Ever Bakeware
$8.99-$28.99; GoodCook.com
Designed with sidewalls that offer a straighter edge and a diamond-infused nonstick interior that is coupled with a textured surface—features that help baked goods cook more evenly, release with ease, and the straight edges give a bakery-style finish that is ideal for decorating. Sizes include round cake pans, square cake pan, oblong cake pan, medium cookie sheet, large cookie sheet, oblong cake pan, half sheet pan, 12-cup muffin pan, 24-cup mini muffin pan, loaf pan, and a 16” pizza pan

Updated: August 2020

Family Travel Products! Whether you are traveling by plane, train or car, these travel products are sure to make any family trip more enjoyable.

Waterproof Electronics Accessories Organizer Bag 
$8.99; https://us.patpat.com/product/Waterproof-Electronics-Accessories-Organizer-Bag-408637.html 
Keep your cords, chargers, and devices neatly stored and ready for vacation with the help of this PatPat home organizer.

Compass Backpack
$79.99; Coalatree.com
This PSA approved backpack is the perfect carry on size for any flight. With an external zipper pocket on top, two hydration sleeves on the sides, and a hidden pocket for valuables that sits against your back, you'll never spend excess time looking for the essentials you need. Their padded sleeves fit up to 17" laptops and 10" tablets and their fabric will repel any unwanted rain or spills, keeping your gear dry and protected. 

Go Happy Kids Travel Tray
$37.50; gohappykids.com  
Gives kids a clean, contained space to play, create and eat while in the air. The Travel Tray is a 15x11 surface with a raised border and grippy, silicone liner to keep things like crayons from rolling off while offering plenty of space for a cup, toys, coloring books, electronics and more. The ABS plastic surface also functions as a dry erase whiteboard. Easily wipes off for a germ-free surface and comes with a drawstring bag for storing. It weighs only one pound and easily slides into backpacks or carry-ons. The optional adjustable strap helps the tray stay put on plane & train tray tables. 

TSA Fingerprint Padlock
$49.99; BenjiLock.com
Stores up to 5 fingerprints for multiple users. Unlocks with your fingerprint or pin code. Fully rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery. TSA-accepted Travel Sentry Approved padlock.

UnbuckleMe Car Seat Buckle Release Tool
$14.99; UnbuckleMe.com
Helps support parents, caregivers and grandparents with arthritis, hand or wrist weakness, and conditions like carpal tunnel or thumb pain to improve their everyday ride to and from school, the park, drop off at daycare and more, offering support to many families in their daily routine. With the simple and handy UnbuckleMe solution you can unbuckle kids and grandkids in your vehicle at your arrival without pain. The Unbuckle tool uses leverage to make it easier and reduce the force by more than 50% to unbuckle their car seat buckle.  UnbuckleMe does not attach to the car seat for safety and works with all push button child car seat buckles. 

TidyHook AUTO
$7.95; TidyHook.com
TidyHook handy interchangeable versatile two-part device helps you keep your car more tidy and clean with it’s simple hook that holds leak-resistant heavy duty reusable bags for a quick trash pick up. TidyHook AUTO “side-of-the-seat” placement helps you install TidyHook in just seconds and is a savvy solution for use daily to get rid of what you don’t need on your daily car rides and road trips too.

The Cozee
$249.99; LifeGivingWarmth.com
Take The Cozee with you wherever you go. The innovative battery pack lasts for more than five hours of continuous heat and features two USB ports making it easy to charge your mobile devices no matter where you are. The weather and water-resistant exterior is designed to withstand the wind, snow, and even light rain. Full sized blanket measures 60 inches wide by 60 inches long.

SlideAway!
$59; Creativeqt.net
This toy basket doubles as a play area for sorting toys and a storage container to keep toys hidden while they aren’t in use.  Pour toys like building bricks, doll accessories and cars right onto the playmat where they stay corralled in a play area with a surrounding lip.  When the kids are done playing, a quick pull of the built-in handles will “slide away” the toys right back into the attached basket making clean up a breeze. This stylish toy storage solution looks great in any room of the home and can also be carried to other places with its sturdy handles.

Bentoko 6 Piece Packing Cube Set
$29.99; BentokoTravel.com
Each organizer set comes in 6 pieces and includes, 1 Large, 2 medium and 2 small cubes plus 1 bag, 2-Way invisible zippers to prevent catching on clothes, mesh tops for breathability and visibility, top handle for easy grabbing or carrying separately, and extra side zip pockets for small items.

Infinity Pillow
$39; InfinityPillow.co
The best travel pillow in the world! Comfort is the priority. Starting with the Infinity Pillow, this brand set out to create the best modern travel products to bring along everywhere. Innovative designs, the softest materials and creative construction techniques. The result is everything we think comfort 

Zenergy Portable
$39.99; iHomeAudio.com
Rechargeable color changing Speaker with 15 meditative sound therapy tracks and four color changing modes designed to enhance your energy in the morning and induce sleep at night.

Wayfinder Backpack Mini
$59; EagleCreek.com
Small, discreet, and perfect for carrying on weekend trips, road trips, or back and forth to the office. Black, blue, and gray colors ensure it matches your colorful lifestyle and durable coating provides lasting strength.

My Alchemy Skin Care Travel Mini
$65; MyAlchemySkinCare.com
Keep your skin healthy, happy and glowing. Includes: Wildcrafted Cleanser to remove grit and grime, Rose Hydrosol for spritzing anytime of the day, Illuminate, to moisturize and nourish skin with a miracle boost of vitamins to give a radiant glow, Compressed Travel Towelettes to remove make-up, Vitamini Box for supplements. 

Coyuchi Organic Latex Travel Pillow
$48; Coyuchi.com
Coyuchi’s neck pillow is made of organic latex covered in a cozy organic cotton velour. This organic latex creates a pillow that’s soft, squeezable, and non-toxic, yet is able to keep its shape and resists wear over time. The pillow also comes with cords which can be used to keep the pillow in place while you sleep or tied to your luggage. 

TWIST+ World Charging Station
$44.95; TheGrommet.com
Designed to use with Apple MagSafe 1 & 2 adapter, 12W USB Adapter, Apple Portable Power Adapters, World Travel Adapter Kit, Battery Charger, and Airport Express. Charge up to four devices simultaneously. Worldwide compatibility in over 150 countries. Light and compact to be the ultimate travel companion.

SleepPhones: ASMR Edition
$99.95; SleepPhones.com
SleepPhones: ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) Edition come preloaded with deeply relaxing ASMR content. They feature tracks from 16 popular ASMR artists. ASMR involves soothing sensations triggered by equally soothing stimuli. Some common sensations including tingling, relaxation, and sleepiness, while common triggers include whispering, tapping, and crinkling paper. 

Aria Kit
$79.99; AriaKit.com
Perfectly organized and full of everything you need to stay comfortable on the plane and on layovers. Hand-picked, high-quality materials to make your travel experience incredibly comfortable. Includes handmade face and body moisturize, lip balm with essential oils, all-natural deodorant, natural toothpaste with colloidal silver, alcohol-free, gentle wet wipes that remove makeup and more.

Updated: March 2021