We all know you shouldn't utilize a television as a baby sitter, but that rule is not going to apply while you are traveling. It is either calm a squirming, whimpering or complaining child with the TV or make your blood pressure shoot to equally unhealthy levels. While you're waiting out a two-hour layover in Detroit or moving down an apparently infinite expanse of I-70 that is down to a single lane, a kids portable DVD player is nothing short of a blessing.

The hypnotic powers of Dora or Spongebob might freak us out at home, but they are something special while you're traveling with munchkins. Therefore, a kids portable DVD player looks less like a luxury and more like a requirement.

But how will you choose the best one? Do you know just what to look for when buying a kids portable DVD player? Here are some recommendations that will set you on the road to soothing the savage child-beast.

Begin by taking into consideration the source; the power source that is. When the unit isn't functioning the moving pictures cannot perform their magic. You do not need to place your tranquility in the hands of a couple of AA batteries. The majority of portable DVD players demand lots of energy and the batteries just will not cut it for extended periods of time. A much better choice is a unit with internal batteries that can be recharged. These have a tendency to last longer than your regular Energizers. You will also need to make sure the machine will keep operating in a car so make certain it features a suitable adapter, or buy one seperately. The last thing you want is for the machine to shut down in the middle of a climatic scene when you are navigating the highways. If you thought your kid was miserable before, just wait until you see what he or she is like when this occurs.

Next, check the sound. Earphones aren't something that many children want to put on. If your wee ones don't like headsets, they will have to rely on whatever built-in audio system the kid's portable DVD player supplies. Some cut-rate models barely produce an audible hiss. That is not good enough. Various other devices sound like they were used for an amplifier for a heavy metal band in a past lifetime. You don’t need that, either. Checking the sound before you purchase is usually a good idea. Headphones however, should always be your first choice if your small child will use them. Listening to the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers for the 74th consecutive time may be better than hearing a yelling little one, but not by very much.

Last but not least, a brand name item is often your best alternative. Sure, you'll be able to probably save ten or fifteen bucks by purchasing a no-name kids portable DVD player, but that cheaper product is way more prone to suddenly fail than something made by a highly regarded company. Nobody is questioning the importance of saving a few dollars, but it is only good to the extent that the product operates as it should. Occasionally it's wise to go cheap, this isn't one of them.

You will be prepared to hit the road if you stick to those guidelines and supplement them with a nice collection of child friendly DVDs. If you are seeking a powerful tool to bring on the road, look no farther than a kids portable DVD player. It is a babysitter, a sedative plus a source of smiles all rolled into one gadget--buy one that will get the job done.