These are the hottest new toys I spotted at New York Toy Fair 2026 that kids will be begging for this year.
If there’s one thing I loved about wandering the Toy Fair floor, it was discovering those why-didn’t-this-exist-before? gems, the perfect travel toys, and best gifts.
These are the toys that stopped me at Toy Fair:
Zipstring + Zipstring Aracna
If you haven’t seen a Zipstring (aka: “the coolest toy in the world” - says my seven year old son) in action, prepare to be mesmerized. It uses airflow to make a loop of string “float” in midair and it looks like magic. Kids were completely transfixed. The new Zipstring Aracna version adds a slightly edgier, spider-inspired twist (big hit with the 8+ crowd). THIS will be the best gift your kid gets this year.
Cuddle Tonies + Tonies Play
We’ve always loved the storytelling magic of Tonies, and this year they introduced Cuddle Tonies which are soft plush versions that double as cozy bedtime friends. They are currently available on their website for preorder. Also new: Tonieplay, giving kids even more interactive listening options with games, quizzes and challenges (my 7 year old spent 2 hours listening and playing when I brought it home!). If you’re building a screen-free routine, this ecosystem just keeps getting better.
Boppo
Now available on their website, Boppo is going to be the hottest travel toy this year! It was one of the most impressive and exciting toys I saw that's great for ALL ages. Tap the buttons for games, music, podcasts, and learning activities - this one is definitely coming with us for long flights and car trips!
StickerBox
This is just the coolest thing! And a total dream for crafty kids and sticker collectors. StickerBox is a kid safe, AI voice-to-sticker printer that turns your kids' wildest ideas into real stickers.
Hey Doodle Mats + Story Books
I’m a longtime fan of Hey Doodle and their reusable silicone colouring mats and I am thrilled to see new storybook mats. They’re reusable, travel-friendly, and genuinely mess-free which is everything! International shipping available on Hey Doodle.
Magic Jellykins
From Spin Master, Magic Jellykins are still under wraps with a TBD release date but they were one of the most aw-inspiring toys I saw. Add water to the jar, shake it up and watch a plush character magically appear! Let them dry out and you'll have a cute little friend to play with. Your kids will lose their minds over this one!
Squishmallows Pillow
Yes, you read that correctly. Squishmallows now make pillows! The same squishy material but in a pillow shape, no more using your Squishmallow stuffie as a makeshift pillow. Right now they have the adult size available at Target, but a kids’ version is coming soon!!
PlayTab + PlayTab Go
From one of our favourites Fat Brain Toys, the PlayTab modular activity sensory board is a favourite travel toy for babies and toddlers and now there’s PlayTab Go, which is an even more compact travel-friendly version where you can mix-and-match the tiles.
StyleStix by Vango
StyleStix by Vango are washable, easily removable, peel and press stickers that stick to any fabric. It’s not released yet but I'm predicting this one will be a HUGE HIT with the creative crowd - especially tweens. Think fashion-forward building and design play.
Crayola Clicks
Our fave travel markers because no more lost caps! ... the Crayola Clicks are expanding with new new pastel click markers and mechanical coloured pencils lineup. Not released yet, but if your kids love art supplies as much as mine, these are worth watching.
NODI Flip
Already launched in Germany, but not yet available in North America. NODI Flip is a kid-safe alternative to smartphones with parent controlled voice messaging, Spotify, audiobooks, and news. We’ll update as soon as it lands here. I'm SO excited about this one.
Pets 2 Love
From the same creator behind the viral Fast 2 Flat cars, Pets 2 Love blends collectible energy with interactive fun. Adorable pets pop out of their little heart shaped purse at the press of a button and open into a playset with a least. My daughter loves this thing!
CrunchLabs
We’re longtime fans of CrunchLabs subscription boxes (we truly love them) and this fall CrunchLabs are launching a new line of engineering toys that are going to be epic! In the meantime, their existing monthly engineering builds are still one of our favourite gift ideas for curious kids.
LoopsLab
This one is very cool. I love what LoopsLab has created. Your kids can place figurines on a stage to mix beats and make their own music.
Micromags
If you love magnetic building toys, take note. The mini Heart to Heart and Spring Garden sets from Micromags are available now, with a Gingerbread House and Spooky seasonal sets coming for the holidays. The Spring Garden with the miniature bunny is my fave theme. Bonus: they’re compatible with the new Magna-tiles rail pack, which opens up even more building possibilities.
I’m SO glad I made the last minute decision to hop on a plane and explore The Toy Fair. I left feeling so inspired. So many amazing travel friendly toys that are on my list for our upcoming travel adventures! You can see some of these toys in action here!
I’ll keep updating this list as release dates roll out. If you’re already planning birthdays, holiday gifts, or just want to bookmark what’s coming next, this is your 2026 cheat sheet.
Which one are you most excited about?
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. I only recommend products that I absolutely love and use myself. Your support helps me continue to create helpful content for families on the go!
