To add to the point above: the Defender is solid, but honestly it feels a bit bulky for travel. I had issues with the built-in screen protector scratching over time. Personally, I prefer the Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro Full-Body Rugged Case because the integrated kickstand is a game changer for road trips. It offers similar drop protection for way less cash. Just make sure to wipe the screen first so you dont get trapped bubbles.

Honestly, skip the cheap generic stuff if you have a toddler. I used the OtterBox Defender Series Rugged Case for years and it survived multiple hardwood drops from my own kids. It fits perfectly, unlike those knock-offs.

• Thick bumpers for impact
• Port covers keep crumbs out
• Built-in screen protection It is well within your budget and saved my iPad more times than I can count. Just get it and save the stress.

Adding my two cents here because I have been through three tablets with a toddler who treats them like hockey pucks. Honestly, I have tried a few of the cheaper options before, but unfortunately, they just do not hold up. The rubber starts peeling off within weeks and the plastic hinges always snap. It is super frustrating when you think you are saving a buck but end up buying a replacement device instead. Since you are worried about the screen protector quality on those cheaper cases, I would look at the Speck Products iGuy Protective Case. It is honestly the best thing for toddlers. It is not as bulky as the heavy-duty stuff, but those squishy foam arms make it so easy for little hands to grip while absorbing every single impact from hardwood floors. It basically bounces.

• It is made of a dense EVA foam that is completely kid-safe
• The arms act as a handle and a kickstand for road trips
• No cheap plastic screen covers to get scratched or cloudy If you really need extra screen safety, just grab a separate Spigen Glas tR EZ Fit Tempered Glass Screen Protector and install it underneath. It is way clearer than those flimsy built-in films. That combo is much cheaper than a screen repair and you wont have to deal with the alignment issues of those weird generic cases. Good luck with the road trip, you are gonna need it.