86 Best Travel Gifts for Teens: What’s Trending in 2023

Finding the perfect gift for a teenager can be a daunting task, especially if the travel bug bites them. 

You want to give them something that’s not only cool but also a practical travel gift. 

That’s where this gift guide comes in.

 I’ve done the legwork for you and curated a list of the best travel gifts for teens. 

The guide is organized into sections to make your shopping experience as smooth as possible. 

We’ve got you covered on everything from the latest tech gadgets to essential travel gear, self-care items, and even some unique, fun travel gifts that will make you the hero of the holiday season. 

Each section is packed with handpicked teen-approved items for both style and utility. So, let’s dive in and find some awesome travel gifts that will elevate your teen’s travel game to the next level.

Technology:

1. Portable Charger

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A portable charger is a lifesaver for charging devices during long journeys.
• Perfect For: Teens who are always on their phones.

This guide will review several electronic devices I feel are must-haves, but this one might be my favorite. 

This is my family’s favorite portable charger. 

 It lasts all day at Disney World and is perfect for charging anywhere.  

You want a capacity, fast-charging device with multiple USB ports. A portable charge will save you the mini-crisis of having your phone die on vacation.

2. Noise-Canceling Headphones

• Why It’s a Must-Have: These headphones help create a personal sanctuary during travel.
• Perfect For: Teens who need their space.

I swear by these for flights. 

They help tune out the crying babies and chatty passengers.  

Look for comfortable headphones, have a  long battery life, and have excellent sound quality.

3. Kindle E-reader

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A Kindle is like carrying a whole library without the weight.
• Perfect For: Book-loving teens.

I finished three novels on our last road trip, thanks to my Kindle.

 This will be their go-to travel companion if your teenager likes to read.

4. GoPro Camera

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Capture action shots and underwater adventures effortlessly.
• Perfect For: Adventurous Teens.

Your teenager will love to use their GoPro to film them snorkeling or hiking.  

The footage is breathtaking.  The GoPro is waterproof and high-resolution. 

5. Smartphone Lens Attachment

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Enhance phone photography with wide-angle, macro, or fisheye shots.
• Perfect For: Aspiring photographers.

Your teenager can take some incredible photos on your trip using just their phone and one of these lens attachments.  Look for one that is easy to clip on. 

6. Laptop Sleeve

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Protects the laptop from scratches and minor bumps.
• Perfect For: Teens who can’t part with their laptops.

This laptop sleeve has a cool design that protects your laptop through security and the hazards of traveling.

 Look for a sleeve with a padded interior, water-resistant material, and extra pockets. 

7. Portable Bluetooth Speaker

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Great for beach parties or hotel room hangouts.
• Perfect For: Music-loving teens.

We used this speaker on our last Caribbean cruise in our cabin stateroom and then took it to our beach excursion.  It was perfect.  Look for one that is waterproof. 

8. Universal International Travel Power Adapter

• Why It’s a Must-Have: It is essential for international travel to keep all gadgets charged.
• Perfect For: Families who love globe-trotting.

We used this adaptor on our trip to Paris and London.  It is a must-have if you will be doing any international travel. 

9. Smartwatch

• Why It’s a Must-Have: More than just a watch, it’s like having a personal assistant on your wrist.
• Perfect For: Teens who love tech.

Your teen can use this smartwatch to track their steps and also stay connected without constantly checking their phone.

10. WiFi Hotspot Device

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Provides internet access when there’s no free WiFi, ensuring constant connectivity.
• Perfect For: Teens who need to be online.

This was a game-changer on our last camping trip. Look for a device with long battery life, high-speed data, and global coverage

11. AirPods

• Why They’re a Must-Have: Wireless and compact, offering excellent sound quality.
• Perfect For: Teens on the Move.

No more tangled cords.  Great for listening to music, podcasts, or movies on long flights or car trips.  A must-have for your packing list. 

12. iPad

• Why It’s a Must-Have: It’s like a portable computer but way cooler.
• Perfect For: Multi-tasking teens.

My son uses his iPad for everything from drawing to watching YouTube tutorials.

13. Amazon Fire Tablet HD

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A budget-friendly tablet with decent performance.
• Perfect For: Basic needs like reading and browsing.

We got one for my youngest child, and it’s perfect for keeping her entertained without breaking the bank.

14. Nintendo Switch

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Portable gaming for long trips.
• Perfect For: Gamer teens.

Family game nights have moved to the Nintendo Switch during our travels. It’s a hit!  It’s also portable to be used in the car and on long plane rides.  

15. Fujifilm Instax Mini

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Instant photos for immediate keepsakes.
• Perfect For: Memory-making.

Polaroids are back! My niece loves taking instant photos with her friends and sticking them in her travel journal. 

16. AirFly Airplane Bluetooth Adapter

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Use Bluetooth headphones on a plane.
• Perfect For: Quality sound lovers.

This little gadget made our last flight so much more enjoyable. 

You plug it into the airplane seat back and can watch the airline’s in-flight entertainment using your own Bluetooth headphones. 

No more needing to use the plane’s cheap headphones or needing to bring your own wired headphones to plug in. 

17. Polaroid Pocket Printer

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Print photos directly from a smartphone.
• Perfect For: Scrapbookers and journal keepers.

Your teenager will love printing out all their favorite trip photos right from their phone and making a scrapbook. Such a cool keepsake!

18. iPad Cover with Stand

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Protects the iPad and doubles as a stand.
• Perfect For: Any iPad owner.

We got a cover with a built-in stand, making movie-watching during trips so much easier. We also like the protection it offers our device. 

19. Travel Camera

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A travel camera captures high-quality photos and is easier to carry than a DSLR.
• Perfect For: Aspiring photographers.

We prefer to take our photos on our iPhones, but for those wanting higher quality pictures, consider investing in your teenager’s photography hobby with a travel camera. It will be their new travel buddy.

Best Travel Gear for Teens

1. Travel Backpack

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A travel backpack is versatile and easy to carry, making it ideal for day trips or as a carry-on.
• Perfect For: Teens who like to have all their essentials within reach.

My kids could not function without their travel backpacks.  They pack everything in it, from their tablets to their snacks.

2. Packing Cubes

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Packing cubes help organize luggage, making it easier to find things.
• Perfect For: Teens who tend to overpack.

We started using packing cubes last year, and now we can’t imagine traveling without them. They’re a game-changer! Each family member has a different color. 

3. TSA-Approved Lock

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A TSA-approved lock keeps your luggage secure while still allowing for TSA inspections..
• Perfect For: Security-conscious families.

These give us peace of mind when checking luggage at the airport.  Traveling overseas to tourist-heavy areas always gives me pause, and we take our security extra seriously. 

4. Luggage Tags

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Luggage tags help identify your bags quickly in a sea of similar-looking luggage.
• Perfect For: Anyone with luggage!

We each have personalized luggage tags, and it’s become a fun family tradition to choose new ones before big trips.

5. Collapsible Water Bottle

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A collapsible water bottle saves space and is eco-friendly.
• Perfect For: Eco-conscious teens.

We used our water bottles all over Disney World and when we went to Europe.  We could refill them all day, and it saved so much money. 

They pack down nicely to save space in your carry-on or suitcase.  

6. Travel Pillow

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A travel pillow provides neck support during long flights or car rides.
• Perfect For: Teens who want to catch some Z’s on the go.

With a travel pillow, your teenager will be able to sleep anywhere:  an airplane, a car, or even a noisy train.  

7. Sleep Mask

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A sleep mask helps block out light, making it easier to sleep.
• Perfect For: Light-sensitive sleepers.

This is my family’s sleep mask that we use for our everyday use.  It has Bluetooth speakers inside so your child can listen to music or white noise while you drift off to sleep. 

8. Travel Blanket

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A travel blanket provides extra warmth on chilly planes or during outdoor adventures.
• Perfect For: Teens who are always cold.

We have this travel blanket that’s been on more trips than I can count. 

It’s like a piece of home on the road. It’s lightweight yet warm and perfect for long-haul overnight flights.  It folds up perfectly to be stashed in our carry-on bags. 

9. Passport Holder

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A passport holder keeps your passport protected and easily accessible..
• Perfect For: International travelers.

Look…teenagers are hard on their stuff.  The passport holder protects their passport and makes it easier to find when diffing through your carry-on luggage. 

10. Checked suitcase

• Why It’s a Must-Have: For longer trips, a checked suitcase is essential to carry all you need.
• Perfect For: Extended vacations.

We invested in a good-quality checked suitcase for both my kids and these suitcases have survived multiple international trips.

11. Duffel Bag

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A duffel bag is great for short trips or as an extra bag for souvenirs.
• Perfect For: Weekend getaways.

Your teenager can use their duffel bag for everything from sleepovers to camping trips.

12. Travel Perfume Holder

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Carry your favorite scent without bringing the whole bottle.
• Perfect For: Teens who like to freshen up.

Your daughter will love this because she can bring her favorite perfume without worrying about spills.

13. LifeStraw Go Water Filter

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Provides safe drinking water on the go.
• Perfect For: Adventure trips.

This came in handy during our hiking trip last summer. Fresh mountain water, anyone?

14. Travel Jewelry Case

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Keeps jewelry organized and tangle-free.
• Perfect For: Teens who love accessories.

This will keep all your daughter’s (or son’s) jewelry organized so you get to your destination without a tangled mess.  We love it. 

15. Cable Organizer

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Keeps all your cables and chargers organized.
• Perfect For: Tech-savvy teens.

No more tangled cables! This is a sanity-saver.

16. Carry-On Luggage

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Perfect for keeping essentials nearby during travel.
• Perfect For: Air travel.

This is the perfect size suitcase if your teen wants to carry their luggage on vs. checking it. 

17. AirTags

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Helps locate lost items.
• Perfect For: Forgetful teens.

We attached an AirTag to my son’s backpack, and it’s been a lifesaver more than once.  

We also threw one of these in our checked bags for peace of mind in case the airline lost our luggage. 

18. Weekender Bag

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Ideal for short trips and easy to carry.
• Perfect For: Weekend trips.

My daughter loves her weekender bag because it’s “just the right size for everything.”

19. Luggage Scale

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Avoid overweight luggage fees by weighing your bags before you get to the airport.
• Perfect For: Heavy packers.

We learned the hard way about overweight fees. Now, our luggage scale is as essential as our passports.

20. Flexible Tripod with Selfie Stick

• Why It’s a Must-Have: This 2-in-1 gadget allows for versatile photo-taking, from selfies to group shots.
• Perfect For: Photo enthusiasts and vloggers.

Your teenager will love this gadget.  They can capture family moments and memories and get that perfect video for TikTok. 

21. Airplane Phone Holder

• Why It’s a Must-Have: This holder attaches to the airplane seat, making it easier to watch movies or read..
• Perfect For: Long flights.

We used these on our last international flight, and it was a game-changer. No more juggling phones on tiny tray tables!

22. Inflatable Travel Pillow

• Why It’s a Must-Have: An inflatable travel pillow provides neck support and is easy to pack.
• Perfect For: Long journeys.

I am not joking!  This is a game-changer!  

We used this on our last flight to Barcelona, and I could lay forward and get the best airplane sleep I have ever had. 

It will help your teenager get those much-needed zzzzzs on an overnight trip.

23. Smartphone Ring Holder

• Why It’s a Must-Have: This ring holder provides a secure grip on your phone.
• Perfect For: Everyday use and travel.

This little guy makes taking photos and holding your phone in crowded locations so much easier.  It provides stability, and my whole family has one on their phones. 

24. Selfie Ring Light

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A selfie ring light provides better lighting for photos and videos.
• Perfect For: Selfie lovers and vloggers.

If your teenager loves taking selfies, this light is perfect.  They can use it to capture awesome travel memories with the perfect lighting. They will be thrilled. 

Fashion and Accessories

1. Sunglasses

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and add a touch of style to any outfit.
• Perfect For: Sunny destinations and outdoor activities.

There is nothing more annoying than being in a beautiful location but not able to fully enjoy it because the sun is in your eyes.  

These are my favorite affordable sunglasses. They have everything: UV protection, polarized lenses, and comfortable fit.

2. Quick-Dry Towel

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Quick-dry towels are lightweight and dry fast, making them perfect for travel.
• Perfect For: Beach trips, camping, and workouts.

We all have our own quick-dry towels in different colors. 

They came in handy during our last beach vacation. They are compact and can be easily packed in your suitcase. 

3. Sandals

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Sandals are easy to slip on and off, making them convenient for beach trips or casual outings.
• Perfect For: Warm weather and relaxed settings.

We live in our sandals during summer trips.  They are the next best thing to being barefoot. 

4. Rain Jacket

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A rain jacket keeps you dry during unexpected showers.
• Perfect For: Unpredictable weather.

We got caught in a downpour while exploring Rome last year. Thank goodness for our packable rain jackets!

5. Compression Socks

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Compression socks improve blood circulation, making them great for long flights or car rides.
• Perfect For: Long periods of sitting or standing.

My family dawns these on our long flights to help with circulation.  

They really help keep the blood flowing and minimize post-long-haul flight swelling of your legs. 

6. Waist or Belt Bag

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Keeps essentials like money and phone easily accessible.
• Perfect For: Sightseeing and short excursions.

Your teen will love a waist bag because it lets them go hands-free while taking selfies.

7. Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Provides extra security for valuables.
• Perfect For: Crowded places and city travel.

Your teenager (and you) will feel much safer exploring busy markets and high touristy places with their anti-theft bag.

8. RFID Blocking Wallet

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Protects your cards from electronic pickpocketing.
• Perfect For: International travel and crowded places.

We all switched to RFID-blocking wallets before our Europe trip, and it gave us an extra layer of security.

Self-Care Items

1. Travel-Sized Toiletries

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Travel-sized toiletries are convenient and TSA-approved.
• Features to Look For: Leak-proof bottles of essential items like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
• Perfect For: Any type of travel.

We always pack travel-sized toiletries for our getaways. It’s so much easier than lugging around full-sized bottles.

2. Makeup Remover Wipes

• Why It’s a Must-Have: These wipes are perfect for quick and easy makeup removal.
• Features to Look For: Gentle on the skin, alcohol-free, biodegradable.
• Perfect For: Teens who wear makeup.

These are perfect for freshening up after a long flight or car ride.

3. Hand Sanitizer

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Hand sanitizer is essential for keeping hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
• Perfect For: Everyday use and especially during travel.

We keep mini hand sanitizers in every bag. Better safe than sorry, especially these days!

4. Lip Balm

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Lip balm keeps lips moisturized, preventing dryness and chapping.
• Perfect For: Dry or cold climates.

Airports and certain climates can be drying to your lips.  We always have a stock of these around. 

5. Hairbrush

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A good hairbrush is essential for keeping hair tangle-free.
• Perfect For: All hair types.

A compact hairbrush is a must for any type of travel.  You want one that won’t occupy too much room in your suitcase. 

6. Toothbrush Kit

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Oral hygiene shouldn’t take a backseat when traveling.
• Perfect For: Everyone.

We each have our own travel toothbrush kits. It’s one of those small things that make a big difference in how we start our day.

7. Microfiber Hair Towel

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Dries hair quickly and reduces frizz.
• Perfect For: Teens with long or curly hair.

This towel cuts down on drying time, which is awesome when trying to make it to a destination or a tour in a hurry. 

8. Shower Body Wipes

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Great for freshening up when a shower isn’t available.
• Perfect For: Camping trips or long travel days.

We used these during our last camping trip, and they were a lifesaver.

9. Shampoo and Conditioner Bar

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Eco-friendly and convenient for travel.
• Perfect For: Eco-conscious teens.

My family loves this shampoo bar. It’s easy to pack and lasts forever.

Beach and Outdoor Gear

1. Sleeping Bag

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A sleeping bag is essential for camping trips, providing a cozy resting place.
• Perfect For: Camping and outdoor adventures.

My son loves his sleeping bag so much that he sometimes uses it for sleepovers. It’s perfect for any outdoor camping

2. Snorkeling Set

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A snorkeling set allows you to explore underwater worlds.
• Perfect For: Beach vacations and water activities.

My kids discovered their love for marine life on our last cruise, thanks to this snorkeling set. This set has it all: Comfortable fit, anti-fog lenses, and quality snorkel.

3. Binoculars

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Binoculars bring distant objects into focus, enhancing your experience of nature.
• Perfect For: Birdwatching, scenic views, and sporting events.

If you know anything about my husband, you will know he is into going on wildlife excursions. 

We always bring these binoculars with us. My kids love using them to spot wildlife.

4. Pocket Knife

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A pocket knife is a versatile tool for various outdoor tasks.
• Perfect For: Camping and outdoor adventures.

Your teenager will feel like a real adventurer with his pocket knife. It’s come in handy more times than we can count.

5. Waterproof Dry Bag

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Keeps your belongings dry during water activities.
• Perfect For: Kayaking, boating, or beach days.

Your teenager will love their dry bag.  It protects their phone, camera, and any other items they want to keep dry on a water excursion.

6. Beach Towel Clips

• Why It’s a Must-Have: These clips keep your beach towel in place, even on windy days.
• Perfect For: Beach outings.

We used these during our last cruise, and they were a game-changer. 

No more chasing after runaway towels!

7. Waterproof Phone Case

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A waterproof case protects your phone from water damage.
• Perfect For: Beach trips and water activities.

We used this waterproof case during our last snorkeling excursion, and it was a hit. 

Underwater selfies, anyone?

Games and Entertainment

1. Playing Cards

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Playing cards are versatile and can be used for countless games.
• Perfect For: Group entertainment and solo play.

We always pack a deck of cards. It’s led to some epic family game nights in hotel rooms.

2. Travel-Sized Board Games

• Why It’s a Must-Have: These are compact versions of classic board games, perfect for travel.
• Perfect For: Family travel game nights.

Our kids love travel-sized board games. They’re a great way to unwind and bond as a family. 

We also pack them in their carry-on for quick entertainment on long plane rides. 

3. Puzzle Cube

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A puzzle cube is a fun and challenging way to pass the time.
• Features to Look For: Smooth rotation, vibrant colors.
• Perfect For: Solo entertainment.

These are perfect for long car rides or plane rides.  It’s a great alternative to iPad time and is a mini-brain workout.

4. Mini Drone

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A mini drone offers a unique way to capture memories and explore your surroundings.
• Perfect For: Outdoor adventures.

While pricey, a mini drone would be a hit for your teenagers to capture memories on vacation.  

This drone checks all the boxes:  Easy controls, good battery life, and camera capabilities.

5. Coloring Book

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Coloring books are a creative and relaxing way to pass the time.
• Perfect For: Artistic teens and downtime.

Your teen will love this travel-themed coloring book. Perfect for winding down after a long day of touring or passing the time on a long car ride. 

6. Would You Rather Game

• Why It’s a Must-Have: This game sparks interesting conversations and lots of laughs.
• Perfect For: Group entertainment.

We played this during a road trip, and it was hilarious. You learn some interesting things about each other!

7. Carpool Chaos

• Why It’s a Must-Have: This game is perfect for entertaining everyone during car rides.
• Perfect For: Road trips.

We tried this on our last road trip, and it was so much fun!  It definitely made the time go by faster. 

Unique Gifts and Gift Cards

1. Subscription Boxes (Travel-Themed)

• Why It’s a Must-Have: These boxes deliver a monthly dose of travel inspiration right to your doorstep.
• Perfect For: Teens who love to explore new places and cultures.

This is a unique way to expose your kids to travel and international destinations without actually leaving the country.  Check them out.

2. Personal Safety Alarm

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A personal safety alarm provides an extra layer of security.
• Perfect For: anyone

You can have extra peace of mind by gifting one of these bad boys to your teenager.  It is Loud!

3. Kindle Unlimited Subscription

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Unlimited access to a vast library of e-books.
• Perfect For: Avid readers.

It’s like having a library in your pocket.  Unlimited Books for your Kindle! This will meet all your teen travel reading needs. 

4. Stickers for Water Bottle

• Why It’s a Must-Have: These stickers add a personal touch to water bottles.
• Perfect For: Teens who like to personalize their gear.

My kids love to decorate their water bottles with travel-themed stickers. It helps keep them engaged and is a fun way to personalize them. 

5. iTunes Gift Card

• Why It’s a Must-Have: An iTunes gift card allows teens to choose their own music, apps, or movies.
• Perfect For: Apple users.

If you have an upcoming trip, an iTunes gift card is perfect.  Your teenager can download games to their tablet ahead of time for maximum travel entertainment. 

6. Audible Credits

• Why It’s a Must-Have: Audible credits can be used to purchase audiobooks for on-the-go entertainment.
• Perfect For: Teens who love books but may not always have time to read.

Audio books are a big thing in my household.  Audible credits will let your teenagers select their own audiobooks to listen to on that long plane ride. 

7. Cork Globe

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A cork globe is a fun and interactive way to track travel.
• Perfect For: Aspiring world travelers.

We have a cork globe at home, and it’s so much fun to add new pins after each trip.

8. Starbucks Gift Card

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A Starbucks gift card is perfect for coffee lovers or for grabbing a quick snack.
• Perfect For: Coffee enthusiasts and snackers.

Starbucks is everywhere.  In almost every city we have gone to. 

While I know it’s not the most authentic coffee experience, sometimes your teenager might want something familiar.  

9. Travel Fan

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A travel fan offers a quick way to cool down.
• Perfect For: Hot climates and outdoor activities.

We used travel fans during our last summer trip, and they were a lifesaver during hot afternoons.  

This one has all the best features: Compact size, rechargeable battery, and adjustable speed.

10. Scratch-Off Map

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A scratch-off map is a fun way to keep track of the places you’ve visited.
• Perfect For: Teens who love to document their travels.

This is like a visual travel diary.  We love scratching off new states and countries on the map. 

11. Travel Journal

• Why It’s a Must-Have: A travel journal is perfect for capturing memories and thoughts during trips.
• Perfect For: Teens who love to write or sketch.

If your teenager is into documenting their travel experiences, this travel journal is beautiful and will become a cherished possession in no time. 

Final Thoughts:  Best Travel Gifts for Teens

And there you have it—a comprehensive guide to finding the perfect travel gift for the teenager in your life. 

I hope this list of travel gift ideas made your quest for the perfect travel gift for your teen a whole lot easier for your next family vacation. 

From cutting-edge technology, must-have travel accessories, and unique finds, this guide aims to cover all the bases. 

So go ahead, pick that perfect gift, and watch their face light up with the joy of new possibilities. 

After all, the best gifts aren’t just things; they’re experiences waiting to happen. Happy gifting!

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