FAO Schwarz Kid’s Travel Play Set

Kids love to play pretend. Vacations and new experiences are also an incredible source of excitement. We helped MerchSource design an endearing Kid’s Travel Play Set, which supplies all the essentials for an adventure in the land of make believe. The hard shell roller bag has a retractable handle and safe-close latch. Travel necessities store inside – a play passport, credit card, face mask, and neck pillow. The play camera, toothbrush and toiletry bottles are all made of wood, for a warm tactile experience.

Much of the charm of the set comes from the accessories made from wood. Our design decisions had to consider manufacturing constraints unique to the material. Simple forms and large features, in addition to being advantageous to production, also helped make the objects playful and approachable for little hands. These abstracted versions of everyday products support a sense of belonging and ownership; like a dash of realism for kids’ imagination, but made just for them.

The wood camera has a rotating focus ring, and a “through the lens” viewfinder. The wood smartphone features app stickers to customize their screen.

Toys that support imagination should create opportunities for narratives. We designed a zipping soft-shell case to house the toiletries and “delicate” camera. For getting ready to go out, the hanging caddy ensures the little traveler remembers the essentials. Both fit within the roller bag with room for the neck pillow and eye mask.

We also designed an alternate colorway, selecting within the FAO brand palette.