Podcasts for Kids: The Perfect Travel Companion to Reduce Screen Time
When it comes to family travel, keeping kids entertained without relying on screens can be a challenge. Whether you're on a long road trip, waiting at the airport, or taking a flight, podcasts offer an engaging and fun way to keep children entertained while also sparking their imagination and curiosity.
Listening to podcasts is not only enjoyable but also educational. Kids can learn new facts, hear captivating stories, and dive into a world of adventure—all without staring at a screen. In this article, we'll explore some of the best podcasts for kids that are perfect for family travel, organised into categories like educational, science, fun, and storytelling. Plus, we'll share how TWO CUBS products—like our travel-friendly backpacks and engaging Crafty Curls—make these trips even smoother for parents.
Let’s dive into the world of podcasts that will make your next family adventure both fun and educational!
Why Podcasts are a Fun Way to Travel
Podcasts are an excellent way to keep kids engaged during travel because they encourage active listening and spark creativity. Here are a few reasons why podcasts are great for kids:
- Screen-Free Entertainment: Podcasts reduce screen time, offering a healthy alternative to watching movies or playing video games on long trips.
- Boosting Imagination: As kids listen to stories, they picture the scenes in their heads, which boosts imagination and creativity.
- Learning on the Go: Many podcasts are educational, allowing kids to learn new facts and information in a fun and interactive way.
- Keeping the Whole Family Engaged: The entire family can enjoy a podcast together, making the travel experience more connected.
Now, let’s explore some of the best podcasts for kids that you can tune into during your next family trip.
Educational Podcasts
- But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids
Available in Australia
"But Why" is a fun podcast where kids send in their questions, and the hosts answer them in engaging ways. From science to history, this podcast covers a wide range of topics that kids are naturally curious about, making learning an adventure.
Why it’s great for travel: Perfect for long road trips, this podcast keeps kids engaged with thought-provoking questions and easy-to-understand answers.
- Imagine This
Available in Australia
This Australian podcast, produced by ABC Kids Listen, dives deep into children's big questions about the world. Whether it’s understanding how bees make honey or why the sky is blue, "Imagine This" offers simple explanations to complex questions.
Why it’s great for travel: This podcast helps young explorers learn more about the world around them, making it a perfect travel companion.
- The Fact Detectives
Available in Australia
Also produced by ABC Kids Listen, "The Fact Detectives" brings fun facts to life. Whether it's discovering how animals sleep or learning about the history of the pyramids, kids are bound to be captivated by the quirky, informative content.
Why it’s great for travel: Each episode is packed with fascinating facts, perfect for keeping kids entertained during those long hours on the road.
Science Podcasts
- Short & Curly
Available in Australia
"Short & Curly" is a fast-paced ethics podcast that tackles questions about morality, decisions, and life’s big dilemmas. With engaging discussions and kid-friendly examples, this podcast makes abstract concepts accessible to young minds.
Why it’s great for travel: It’s a thought-provoking podcast that encourages kids to think critically, perfect for sparking discussions during travel.
- Tumble: Science Podcast for Kids
Available in Australia
"Tumble" takes kids on fascinating science journeys. From exploring the deep sea to venturing into space, this podcast makes science exciting and accessible.
Why it’s great for travel: The storytelling approach makes science come to life, ideal for long trips where you want to keep kids' curiosity alive.
Fun Podcasts
- Car Trip Trivia
Available in Australia
"Car Trip Trivia" is a family-friendly quiz show that features trivia questions on various topics. It's designed to engage the whole family, turning a long car ride into a fun and competitive game.
Why it’s great for travel: It's interactive and encourages everyone in the car to participate, making it a fantastic option for road trips.
- That’s Incredible
Available in Australia
This podcast celebrates the most incredible things on Earth—from amazing animals to fascinating people and places. "That’s Incredible" takes listeners on an entertaining journey of discovery.
Why it’s great for travel: It’s the perfect podcast to listen to when you want to marvel at the wonders of the world, ideal for family trips filled with exploration.
- GoKidGo: Storytelling for Kids
Available in Australia
GoKidGo offers fun and interactive storytelling that sparks kids’ imaginations. With various series to choose from, it’s perfect for younger children who enjoy listening to adventurous tales.
Why it’s great for travel: Each episode brings exciting new characters and settings, keeping kids engaged and entertained throughout the journey.
Storytelling Podcasts
- Bedtime Stories with Netflix Jr.
Available in Australia
"Bedtime Stories with Netflix Jr." offers calming bedtime stories for kids. These short, soothing stories are perfect for winding down after a long day of travel, helping kids relax and prepare for a good night's sleep.
Why it’s great for travel: If you're travelling in the evening or need something to help kids unwind at the end of a busy day, this is the perfect podcast.
- Circle Round
Available in Australia
"Circle Round" tells folktales from around the world, accompanied by original music and sound effects. The stories focus on important life lessons, making them not only entertaining but also meaningful.
Why it’s great for travel: It’s perfect for family listening, with stories that teach valuable morals while keeping kids engaged.
- Story Pirates
Available in Australia
"Story Pirates" is a storytelling podcast where kids’ stories are turned into hilarious and creative audio experiences. The podcast features famous actors and comedians, bringing the stories to life in a fun and exciting way.
Why it’s great for travel: Kids love hearing their peers’ stories come to life, making it a fantastic choice for keeping children entertained on long trips.
- Disney Magic of Storytelling
Available in Australia
For Disney fans, this podcast is a must-listen. "Disney Magic of Storytelling" retells some of the most beloved Disney stories, perfect for fans of all ages.
Why it’s great for travel: It’s a fantastic way to bring Disney magic along on your trip, keeping kids entertained with their favourite tales.
How TWO CUBS Products Enhance Your Travel Experience
While podcasts are a fantastic way to keep kids entertained during travel, the right travel gear can make the experience even more enjoyable for parents. At TWO CUBS, we understand the challenges families face while travelling with children, and our products are designed to provide practical solutions.
For long waits or flights, Crafty Curls are a lifesaver. These non-toxic, mess-free wax sticks allow kids to create fun shapes and figures, providing hours of screen-free entertainment. Pair them with a great podcast for the ultimate travel combo—kids can listen while creating!
Our TWO CUBS backpacks are spacious, lightweight, and eco-friendly—perfect for carrying all your kids’ travel essentials, including snacks, water bottles, and even headphones for podcast listening. With a built-in activity kit, including a colouring book with stickers, crayons, and a notebook, these backpacks help keep kids organised and entertained during the journey.
Our wet bags are perfect for keeping wet or dirty clothes separate from clean items during travel. Whether you're at the beach or navigating through messy activities, these bags ensure that you stay organised and stress-free.
Podcasts are a fantastic way to keep kids entertained and engaged during family travel. From educational shows that inspire curiosity to storytelling podcasts that spark imagination, there’s something for every child. By incorporating podcasts into your travel routine, you can reduce screen time and make your family trips more enjoyable.
And don’t forget—having the right gear, like TWO CUBS backpacks and Crafty Curls, can make the journey even smoother.
For more travel tips and family-friendly products, check out our article on Top Travel Apps for Families and Why Travelling with Kids is a Game-Changer.