Introduction
Building with LEGOs is a beloved pastime for both children and adults, sparking creativity and providing hours of entertainment. But when it comes to taking these fun-filled blocks on the go, there’s a real problem: the small pieces are notorious for getting lost or making a mess in the car. Plus, trying to construct a masterpiece on a moving platform can be a tricky challenge. On a long road trip or during a LEGO club session away from home, these problems can take the joy out of this enduring favorite activity, leaving you feeling frustrated and limiting your creativity. Our solution? An ingenious way to master the art of LEGO travel: car-friendly containers, roll-up mats, and portable storage boxes. These make travelling with LEGOs hassle-free and more enjoyable. These portable LEGO solutions are easy to use and tailor-made for LEGO enthusiasts on the move. You’ll never again have to panic over lost pieces or clean-up woes. Instead, you’ll be free to indulge in your favorite pastime, wherever your journey may take you.
Understanding the Need for Portable LEGO Solutions
As a die-hard LEGO enthusiast, I have encountered more than my fair share of challenges when trying to make my LEGO sets portable. Trying to transport my beloved bricks on family trips or to LEGO clubs always seemed to result in a scrambled mix of pieces or, even worse, lost elements. Fortunately, I have spent enough time concocting solutions to this problem so you don’t have to.
Why LEGO on the Go?
There are some key benefits to making your LEGO building experience portable. Firstly, if you’re like me and you find building with LEGO to be a calming, therapeutic activity, being able to transport your LEGO can make any long car journey or even a tedious waiting room much more enjoyable. Secondly, LEGO clubs often encourage members to bring along their own sets for interactive building sessions, which can be a logistical nightmare without the proper equipment.
The Trials and Tribulations of LEGO Transportation
The first time my family and I packed up our LEGO sets for a road trip, we used simple plastic storage boxes. It seemed like a foolproof plan, until we opened the boxes at our destination to find the models had disassembled and the different pieces had become a jumbled mess during transit. We had to spend valuable vacation time trying to reassemble the models. From this, I learned that regular storage boxes were not going to cut it.
Finding Success with Car-Friendly Containers
After enduring the disheartening chaos of our first attempt, we knew there had to be a better solution. We stumbled upon LEGO’s official storage and tote collections and decided to give them a go. These special containers have built-in compartments that allow you to sort and store your LEGO bricks by colour, size, or set. We purchased the 3-level storage container and it was a revelation. It separated the bricks by size, and prevented the movement and breakage of the pieces during transit. This simple yet effective solution made our subsequent trips a breeze.
The Magic of Roll-Up Mats and Storage Boxes
The Brik Roll-up Mat turned out to be another game-changer. With a mat that allows you to build right on it and then roll up with your creation still intact inside, pieces no longer get scattered or lost and the cleanup became a simple roll-up process. Pairing this with the LEGO Storage Drawers also provided us a space-saving solution at our destination.
Through my experiences, mishaps, and subsequent discoveries, I learned that there’s more to LEGO than just the build – it’s also about finding the right storage and transportation solutions. The elements we now consider – from car-friendly containers to roll-up mats and portable storage boxes – not only make our LEGO experiences seamless on-the-go but also make building and play a more enjoyable process, no matter where we are.
Choosing the Right Car-Friendly Containers for LEGO
Choosing the right car-friendly containers for your LEGO collection can make or break your on-the-go building experience. From instances when my car became a sea of colorful bricks to those times when our LEGO creations suffered from road trip turbulence, I’ve experimented and learned a lot about the ideal containers for travelling with LEGO.
Size Matters
The first element to consider when choosing a LEGO container for your car is size. The container’s size should ideally be a balance between portability and storage capacity. An overly small box may not fit all of your LEGO pieces, while a huge container may be impractical to travel with.
From my experience, a medium-sized storage box (10 x 5 x 7 inches) works best for personal use or small groups. It can accommodate a considerable number of LEGO pieces without being too bulky for car travel. However, you might want to consider larger containers for LEGO Clubs or family trips with multiple LEGO enthusiasts.
Durability is Essential
Next, you can’t overlook the container’s durability. LEGO pieces can be heavy collectively, and the container should withstand the weight without cracking or breaking. I learned this the hard way when once, a non-sturdy plastic box I used broke, transforming my car’s backseat into a LEGO battlefield.
Opt for boxes made of robust, high-grade plastic or metal to prevent such mishaps. I’ve been using containers from the Sterilite brand, and I find them highly durable and reliable.
Consider Compartmentalization
A box full of mixed bricks can lead to wasted time searching for the right piece. Therefore, a case with compartments can be a game-changer. Some containers are designed with multiple compartments of various sizes, perfect for categorizing your LEGO pieces.
Go for Stackable Solutions
If you have an extensive LEGO collection, stackable storage solutions can save you space.
Roll-Up Mats – An Innovative Solution
One of my best discoveries was the roll-up mat. It not only provides a building surface but also serves as storage by rolling up into a carrying case with your LEGO bricks inside. One highly recommended brand is Lay-n-Go.
The Bottom line
Remember, every trip with LEGO doesn’t necessarily have to end up with a messy car and frustrated kids. The right container can keep your LEGO pieces organised and improve your building experience on the go.
Choosing car-friendly containers for LEGO may seem like a small detail, but it lays the foundation for a fun and seamless LEGO building experience during travel. So choose wisely – your LEGO-loving kids and your car’s cleanliness will thank you.
Utilizing Roll-Up Mats for Easy LEGO Play
One of the best solutions for transporting LEGO on the go, and particularly for reducing clean up time, is the use of roll-up mats. These mats combine storage, transportation, and play area into one convenient package, making them an essential tool for travel, family trips, or LEGO clubs.
The Benefits of Using Roll-Up Mats
Using a roll-up mat simplifies both set up and clean up processes. It protects your LEGO pieces from falling into difficult-to-reach places or getting mixed with other toys. Moreover, these mats are easy to clean and are, therefore, a hygienic play area for children. This is a real joy for parents, as research has found that toys can quickly become a hotbed for germs. In fact, according to a study by the University of Arizona, toy blocks have more than 350 times the number of bacteria than a toilet seat does! (Source)
Choosing the Right Roll-Up Mat
When choosing a LEGO roll-up mat, look for one that is large enough to accommodate the number of LEGO pieces you typically play with – sizes tend to range around 150cm in diameter. The mat should also be built with a drawstring or similar mechanism for easy gathering and storage of the LEGO inside. And, prefer mats made of durable and water-resistant materials such as nylon or canvas to withstand regular use and make cleaning easier.
Personal Experience With Roll-Up Mats
As a LEGO enthusiast, I’ve tried various methods to minimize the LEGO mess and make transportation easier. Storage boxes were an okay solution, but setting up and sorting through a box of mixed LEGO can be time-consuming and, let’s be honest, frustrating. My first use of a roll-up mat revolutionized my LEGO play. It was during a weekend family trip – hours of fun without the typical mess. The mat was large enough for both my children to play at once, and when play time was over, I simply pulled on the mat’s drawstrings and it neatly gathered up all the LEGO pieces into a convenient bag. It was speedy, it was secure, and we didn’t lose a single piece on our trip!
But unfortunately, the first mat I bought was made from too thin a material and ended up tearing at the drawstring after a few uses. Lesson learned: check for durability when purchasing. It’s worth investing in a more long-lasting, sturdier product.
Conclusion
Roll-up mats are truly a practical solution for LEGO play. They allow your child to immerse in their own brick world with lesser restrictions, while you enjoy the benefits of effortless cleanup. From family trips to daily use, these mats will be your perfect partner for an easy LEGO play.
Exploring Different Types of Portable LEGO Storage Boxes
Playing with LEGO is a beloved pastime for many people, young and old. However, travelling with it can often be a logistical nightmare. Here, we’re going to explore different types of portable LEGO storage boxes and offer some solutions for maintaining the integrity of your creations while on the go.
The Advancement of LEGO Storage
Once, scarce options left LEGO enthusiasts scrambling for solutions. Now, thanks to dedicated products like car-friendly containers and roll-up mats, we can carry our LEGO bricks wherever we go without having to worry about losing pieces or damaging our creations.
- Car-friendly containers – These are specially designed boxes that can comfortably fit in a car seat or trunk. They come with sorted compartments that keep everything organized. One highly recommended brand is the Stanley 10-Compartment Deep Pro Organizer.
- Roll-up Mats – Lay out your LEGO collection on these practical mats, and once playtime is over, simply roll them up. The best part is your LEGO stays right where you left them!
- Portable Storage Boxes – These are versatile and efficient for larger LEGO collection. With adjustable compartments, these boxes can store LEGO pieces of different sizes and shapes. The IRIS USA, Inc. TB-42 Stackable Clear Storage Box is an excellent option.
Learning from Experience
As a parent and a LEGO enthusiast, nothing frustrates me more than stepping on a stray brick. I have learned the hard way that good storage not only protects my feet but also extends the life of our LEGO collection. Over the years, I’ve tried different storage solutions and, through trial and error, have found that portable storage solutions work best for us. It was a revelation to realize how a simple organization tool could actually enhance our enjoyment of LEGO by making it easier to transport and store.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
According to a report by Parenting.com, parents spend an average of 12 minutes daily picking up toys. A well-chosen LEGO storage solution can reduce that tidying time, meaning more free time and less frustration for everyone. Talk about a win-win!
Wrap Up
Balancing between usability, portability, and neat organization, storage becomes an essential part of the LEGO hobby, especially for those who often lug their collection around. Given the escalating popularity of LEGO and the increasing demand for organized storage, brands are stepping up to offer well-crafted, user-friendly storage options.
LEGO, once simple blocks, have muscled their way into the heart of pop culture and doesn’t show signs of letting up. In keeping tune with that, investing in a high-quality portable LEGO storage box or similar solution can ensure your LEGO journey is smooth and enjoyable, no matter where it takes you. Remember, the joy of LEGO is not just in the building but also in the sharing, and proper LEGO storage makes both a lot easier. Happy building!
Practical Tips for Packing and Organizing LEGO for Travel
Is there anything more frustrating than your carefully built LEGO creation falling apart during transit? Unfortunately, I’ve had this experience more times than I’d like to remember, and it was what ultimately led me to develop my own system for packing and organizing LEGO for travel. Here are some practical tips that have saved both my sanity and my LEGO masterpieces.
Pick The Right Storage
The first step in transporting LEGO with ease is picking the right container. For smaller creations and loose pieces, snack-size Ziploc bags are perfectly sufficient and remarkably versatile. But that white LEGO Millennium Falcon needs a bit more space and protection. Thus, for larger projects, I suggest a sturdy, partitioned plastic box with a snap-on lid, like the ones carried by ArtBin or Marbles:
• ArtBin Storage Container
• Marbles Storage Solutions
These boxes offer enough space for your bigger pieces and the tight seal ensures no parts will fall out, even if the box accidentally opens. If your kids often build on the go, LEGO Cinch Bucket is an amazing solution. I’ve found them incredibly useful during family trips.
Use Baseplates and Roll-up Mats
One thing that I’ve learned is that baseplates and roll-up mats are lifesavers when it comes to traveling with LEGO. These tools not only provide a sturdy surface on which to build, but they can also be rolled up, keeping pieces in place. My go-to is the Nimuno Loops LEGO-compatible adhesive tape. The pieces stick to it and it can be easily rolled up for travel.
Label Everything
If you’re a LEGO enthusiast like me, you know there’s nothing worse than losing that one special piece you need to complete your build. Therefore, I learnt through a painful process of trial and error that clearly labeling Lego pieces by size, color or set really does make a big difference. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Use Reusable Bags for Loose Bricks
One approach that has not worked so well for me is packing free bricks in cheap bags that tear easily. Instead, opt for stronger, reusable bags to hold bricks. They are durable and environment friendly. I prefer Stasher Bags. With their pinch-loc seal, they are both safe and practical for LEGO storage.
Pack Carefully
Finally, packing your LEGO carefully is of utmost importance. No matter if you’re packing for a family trip or for a LEGO club, always put your heaviest boxes at the bottom of your bag or suitcase. Also, ensure that delicate creations have enough padding around them to avoid getting damaged.
Following these above-mentioned practical tips will ensure that your prized LEGO sets remain safe and sound, even while on the go. After all, building with LEGO should be fun, not fraught with worry about lost or broken pieces!
Running a LEGO Club: How to Transport and Store LEGO Sets Efficiently
Running a LEGO club or simply traveling with LEGO sets can be a fun but also a challenging task. Ensuring the safe transportation and efficient storage of your LEGO sets is crucial to maintaining their condition and making the most of your LEGO experience. Here are some handy tips and insights to help you optimize your LEGO transport and storage practices.
Car-Friendly Containers
One brilliant solution for on-the-go LEGO transportation is using car-friendly containers. We recommend containers made of sturdy, durable materials that are resistant to impact. Compartmentalized containers are excellent for organization. They prevent pieces from mixing up and ease the process of finding the right piece at the right time.
One scenario I’ll never forget, is when we were carpooling to a LEGO club competition. We hit a pothole and heard a heartbreaking clattering sound from the back seat. A moment later, we discovered that our complex LEGO structure had tumbled and crumbled. After that incident, investing in impact-resistant, car-friendly containers became a no-brainer!
Roll-Up Mats and Baseplates
Ideal for play and easy transportation, roll-up mats act as a portable LEGO table. They allow children to build their projects on a flat, stable surface and then safely roll up the mat with the bricks still on it for travel.
Years back, in one LEGO club session, we had a “Build & Carry” challenge, where children had to build their designs and carry them to a different location. One smart kid used a roll-up mat, built his design on it, rolled it up, and carried it to the required spot. The design remained intact, earning him bonus points! This was a game-changer for all of us and roll-up mats became a new addition to our LEGO transport essentials list.
Portable Storage Boxes
Portable storage boxes with secure latches are another efficient solution for LEGO transportation. These boxes with adjustable segments are a great choice, allowing you to customize the storage space as per your needs. Make sure to choose a storage box that is lightweight yet sturdy for the best results.
Once at a family trip, I dropped a storage box full of LEGO parts. While it could have been a disaster, the latch on the box held tight and not a single piece fell out. That day, I learned the importance of a quality latch in LEGO storage equipment.
Remember, efficient LEGO transportation and storage are not just about safety and organization. They can greatly improve the building experience and even inspire creativity. After all, Lego isn’t just a toy, it’s a medium for imagination and a tool for future builders and creators!
To see some great examples of car-friendly containers, roll-up mats, and portable storage boxes, visit LEGO’s official website or well-known LEGO blogs like thebrickblogger.com.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, we’ve ventured together through an exciting journey that has shown us that the joy of Lego doesn’t have to be confined to our homes! “Portable LEGO Solutions” has unveiled an assortment of ingenious methods such as mobile containers, roll-up mats, and portable storage boxes that make transporting this creative toy a breeze.
Now, you’re armed with the know-how to take your Lego creations on the road, whether for a family trip or a Lego club meet-up. But remember, this is just the beginning of your Lego travel adventure, much like a fresh Lego set waiting to be assembled. With a few of these practical tools and a dose of your own innovation, you’re all set to reshape your Lego experience.
We encourage you to continue exploring and trying out the options that make the most sense for you. Different trips may call for different solutions, and part of the fun is in figuring out what works best. You might also consider other container sizes and types for even more portability or seek out DIY options for a personalised touch.
Don’t forget the most important thing is to enjoy the process! Each Lego piece we click into place not only builds structures but also bridges to our imagination and creativity. And now, we’re adding another dimension- mobility.
There’s a whole world of Lego travellers out there, sharing their experiences and tips online, which can offer a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration. Forums, blogs and social networking sites are all great places to connect, learn, and inspire.
In conclusion, Lego is more than just a set of building blocks. It’s a universal language that brings people together from all walks of life, promoting creativity, problem-solving, and endless fun. And now, we’ve equipped you with the tools to take this language worldwide.
This guide has paved the way to intertwine adventure and creativity, making room for your Lego builds in car journeys, family outings and community gatherings. So engineers, architects, builders of the future: Gird yourselves with these portable solutions, keep your imaginative sparks flying, and let your Lego masterpieces travel with you!
Remember – the world is your Lego playground. Let’s start exploring!