Screen-Free Travel with Kids: Knitting Your Way to a More Relaxing Journey

In today’s tech-focused world, it’s easy to hand kids a screen when traveling, but this often means missing out on real-world experiences and creative fun. Instead of relying on tablets and phones, why not try a low-tech alternative that’s engaging and productive? Knitting might seem old-school, but it’s an ideal activity to keep kids busy, entertained, and off their screens during long car rides, flights, or any trip.

Teach your children to knit and they'll never be bored.

The Perks of Screen-Free Travel

Traveling without screens isn’t just about cutting down on screen time. It’s a chance to connect with each other, enjoy hands-on activities, and create shared moments. Screen-free travel encourages kids to build patience, focus on the world around them, and tap into their creativity. It’s a refreshing way to make travel feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. Read my good friend Jenna Lee Dillon’s Book, “Look Up” for more poignant and inspirational insight on screen-freed travel. (affiliate link)

Knitting: The Perfect Travel Buddy

Knitting isn’t just a hobby for adults—it’s a fun, calming, and surprisingly addictive activity that’s great for kids, too. Here’s how knitting can turn travel time into a screen-free, creative escape for the whole family:

Easy to Pack, Easy to Play

Knitting doesn’t require much—a couple of needles and a ball of yarn. It’s easy to tuck into a bag and pull out wherever you are, whether it’s in the car, on a plane, or waiting in line.

Learning on the Go

Knitting is a great way for kids to learn practical skills like following instructions, problem-solving, and fine motor coordination. Even simple projects give them a sense of pride and accomplishment.

A Soothing Activity

The gentle rhythm of knitting is a great way to help kids (and adults!) relax during travel. It’s a quiet, calming activity that can make those long stretches of downtime feel more productive and peaceful.

Get Creative

Knitting lets kids play with color, texture, and patterns, making each project their own. Picking out yarn and designing their own piece can turn knitting into a fun, personalized part of the trip.

Make Something Memorable

Instead of spending hours watching videos or playing games, kids can end their trip with something they’ve made—whether it’s a cozy scarf, a bright beanie, or a quirky little toy.

Tips for Traveling with Knitting Kids

If you’re thinking about introducing knitting to your child as a travel activity, here are some easy ways to get started:

Begin with Simple Projects: Stick with beginner-friendly items like scarves, headbands, or simple washcloths. Avoid overly complex patterns that might overwhelm young knitters.
Choose the Right Gear: Short, lightweight needles and chunky yarn are perfect for small hands and short attention spans. Plus, bigger yarn means projects come together faster! Try this super-fast and super-easy free knit hat pattern to start.
Pack a Travel Knitting Kit: Keep all the essentials—needles, yarn, scissors, and maybe a tape measure—in a small bag that’s easy to grab when it’s time to settle in and knit. Read more about building your knitting supply kit here.
Teach the Basics Before You Go: Spend a little time before your trip teaching casting on, the knit stitch, and binding off. Not only will it give your kids a head start, but it’s also a fun way to build excitement for the trip. Not sure where to start? Head over to my free knitting lessons and learn together.
Knit in the Quiet Moments: Knitting is great for filling those little gaps in the day—while waiting for food, sitting at the gate, or when everyone needs a little break.

Making Screen-Free Travel a Fun Tradition

Knitting on the road is more than just a way to pass the time; it’s a chance to create something tangible while sharing a low-tech, satisfying experience. As you knit together, you’re not just crafting scarves and hats but also building memories of fun, creativity, and connection. It’s a travel tradition that kids will look forward to: one that’s less about watching screens and more about making things (and memories) that last.

So, next time you pack for a trip, toss in some yarn and needles. Knitting might just become your family’s favorite way to make travel time fly by, one stitch at a time.