All the best travel essentials for teens

When you purchase through links on our site we may earn a commission, Learn More >>

Travelling is an exciting adventure, but packing for a trip can be stressful, especially for teenagers. With so many teenage essentials to bring along, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to pack.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of must-have travel accessories for teens to make packing for your next trip a breeze.

What are some top accessories to take with you when you travel

From travel essentials for teens like portable chargers and travel pillows to stylish travel gifts for teens like trendy backpacks and cameras, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re going on a family vacation or a solo adventure, these travel accessories for teenagers will ensure you’re comfortable, organised, and ready for anything.

Must-have travel essentials for teens

In this article, we’ll share our top holiday packing list for teenagers, including travel accessories that will make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. So, grab your suitcase and get ready to pack like a pro with our ultimate guide to travel accessories for teenagers.

1 – Travel Pillow

travel neck pillows
What teens need when traveling

Get a good night’s sleep on a long flight with a comfortable travel pillow. We recommend the Cabeau Evolution Pillow, which has a memory foam filling and can be adjusted for the perfect fit. In reality, there are tons of pillows and sleeping accessories available to make you comfortable on a plane.

2 -Travel Adapter

Make sure your devices stay charged no matter where you are in the world with a travel adaptor. We recommend the Ceptics World Travel Adapter Kit, which includes plugs for over 150 countries.

3- Travel Wallet

a travel wallet from Pacsafe with compartments for cards and passport
Essential items for teen trips

Keep your passport, boarding pass, and other important documents organised and secure with a travel wallet. We recommend travel Wallets from Vulkit and Pacsafe whose products have RFID blocking technology to prevent identity theft.

4- Phone Mount for Aeroplane

This product, a smartphone holder, is ideal for teenagers due to its convenience and versatility. It connects to the plane seat in front of you and holds your phone, so you can watch the latest movies and TV shows

5- Kindle

Save space in your luggage and bring a library’s worth of books with a Kindle e-reader. We recommend the Kindle Paperwhite, which has a high-resolution display and a built-in light for reading in any lighting conditions.

6- Quick-Dry Towel

Pack a quick-dry towel for the beach, pool, or gym. We recommend the Youphoria Outdoors Microfiber Travel Towel, which is lightweight, absorbent, and dries quickly.

7- Collapsible Water Bottle

Save space in your luggage with a collapsible water bottle. We recommend the Vapur Eclipse, which is lightweight, durable, and has a flip-top cap for easy drinking.

8- Bluetooth Headphones

a young adult female traveller wearing headphones
Teen travel must-haves

Listen to music or take calls on the go with Bluetooth headphones. We recommend the Soundcore Range by Anker, which has a secure fit, long battery life, and excellent sound quality. Noise-cancelling headphones are a must-have travel accessory

9- Portable Bluetooth Speaker

a teenager at the beach listening to her bluetooth speaker
Packing tips for teenage travellers

Listen to music or podcasts on the go with a portable Bluetooth speaker. We recommend the JBL Flip Range, which is waterproof, has a long battery life, and delivers excellent sound quality.

10- Portable Charger

A portable charger is a must-have accessory for teenagers who love travelling. It ensures that their phones and other devices are always charged up, and they can stay connected with their friends and family.

a teenager travelling charging her phone
Put this on your teenagers’ travel gear checklist

There are many portable chargers available in the market, but we recommend choosing one that is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around from brands like Basues and Xiaomi.

11- Using Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great accessory for teenagers who like to keep their belongings organised when travelling. They come in various sizes, and they can be used to separate different items, such as clothing, toiletries, and gadgets. This way, teenagers can quickly find what they need without rummaging through their bags.

12- Portable hotspot modem

a small hotspot modem for connecting to the internet
Stay connected when travelling.

A portable hotspot modem is a compact device that provides internet connectivity on the go. It’s perfect for travel because it allows users to access the internet anywhere with cellular coverage, ensuring a reliable connection for work, navigation, or entertainment.

This eliminates the need to rely on potentially insecure or slow public Wi-Fi networks while maintaining productivity and convenience.

13- First Aid Kit

Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere, so carrying a first aid kit when travelling is always a good idea. It can help teenagers deal with minor injuries or illnesses, such as cuts, bruises, headaches, or allergies. A compact first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and allergy medicine.

14- Anti-theft Backpack

a teenage boy wearing an anti theft backpack
Travel gear for teens, anti-theft backpacks

An anti-theft backpack is designed with security features like hidden zippers, cut-resistant straps, and RFID-blocking pockets. Bags by Pacsafe are excellent for travel because they deter theft attempts, and safeguard valuables like passports and gadgets.

These backpacks offer peace of mind, ensuring teen travellers can explore without worrying about pickpockets or theft, enhancing the overall travel experience.

15- Luggage Lock

A luggage lock is a simple but effective accessory that can prevent theft and keep belongings safe when travelling. It can be used to lock suitcases, backpacks, or bags, and it provides peace of mind knowing that the luggage is secure. We recommend choosing a combination lock that is easy to set and reset.

16- Waterproof Phone Case

A waterproof phone case is a must-have accessory for teenagers who love swimming, snorkelling, or water sports. It can protect the phone from water damage and allow teenagers to take photos and videos underwater. We recommend choosing a phone case that is compatible with the phone model and easy to use.

17- Travel Journal

A travel journal is a great accessory for teenagers who want to document their travel experiences and memories. It can be used to write down thoughts, feelings, and observations, and it can also include photos, tickets, and other mementos. We recommend choosing a compact and durable travel journal that can be easily carried around.

18- Eye Mask

An eye mask is essential for teenagers who want to sleep during long flights or in bright hotel rooms. It can block out light and provide a comfortable and peaceful sleep environment. We recommend choosing an eye mask made of soft and breathable material that fits snugly around the head.

19- Travel Safe

Companies like Vaultz make little bags, that can be looked at and secured to non-movable objects. This is great for travel as you can secure money and passports at your hotels or even when you’re out and about. SAFEGO on the other hand make small portable lock box safes with key and combination access.

20- Travel Size Toiletry Bottles

Using travel-size toiletry bottles, teenagers can avoid carrying bulky and heavy toiletry items. These small containers can hold shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other liquid items without taking up too much space in the luggage.

21- Travel Umbrella

A travel umbrella is a lightweight and compact accessory that can keep teenagers dry during sudden rain showers. We recommend choosing a durable umbrella that can withstand strong winds and easily store in a backpack or purse.

22- Travel Clothing

Choosing the right clothing for travel can make a big difference in comfort and convenience. Teenagers can opt for lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying clothes that are easy to pack and versatile enough for different activities.

23- Compression Socks

Compression socks can help reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition that can occur during long flights or car rides. These socks apply pressure to the legs and improve blood circulation, preventing swelling and discomfort.

24- Travel-Sized Games

Super Mario at a store
Teenagers’ travel gear checklist

Teenagers can bring some fun and entertainment to their travel with travel-sized games. These compact games, such as card games, board games, or puzzles, can be played alone or with friends during downtime or long waits.

The ultimate travel game would be Nintendo Switch, one of the top travel accessories for youth travellers.

25- Travel-Sized Snacks

Packing some travel-sized snacks can be a lifesaver for hungry teenagers during long flights or car rides. Snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or jerky can provide energy and nutrition without occupying too much luggage space.

26- Travel Pillowcase

A travel pillowcase can protect the travel pillow from dirt, sweat, and odours and can be easily removed and washed. We recommend choosing a pillowcase made of soft and breathable fabric that fits the travel pillow snugly.

27- Reusable Tote Bag

A reusable tote bag is an eco-friendly accessory used for shopping, carrying souvenirs, or as a beach bag. It can fold up easily and take up minimal space in the luggage.

28- Portable Fan

a teenage using a portable fan

A portable fan can provide relief from hot and humid weather and keep teenagers cool and comfortable. We recommend choosing a lightweight, rechargeable fan with adjustable speed settings.

29- Neck Wallet

a teenage boy wearing a neck wallet

A neck wallet is a discreet and secure accessory that can hold important documents, such as passports, IDs, credit cards, and cash. It can be worn under the clothes, keeping valuables safe from pickpockets and theft.

30- Sunglasses

A teenage boy on holiday in sunglasses
Sunglasses protect teenagers’ eyes.

Sunglasses are a stylish and practical accessory that can protect teenagers’ eyes from harmful UV rays and glare. We recommend choosing durable, lightweight sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection.

31- Travel-Sized Laundry Detergent

Teenagers can wash their clothes on the go with travel-sized laundry detergent. These small packets or bottles can be used to wash clothes in sinks, tubs, or washing machines, allowing teenagers to pack light and stay fresh.

32- Portable Clothesline

A portable clothesline is a handy accessory that can be used to dry clothes anywhere, anytime. It can be hung between two objects, such as trees, poles, or chairs, and can hold wet clothes or towels.

33- Travel Sewing Kit

A travel sewing kit can come in handy for minor clothing repairs or adjustments, such as fixing a loose button, hem, or seam. We recommend choosing a kit that includes basic sewing supplies, such as needles, thread, scissors, and pins.

34- Portable Espresso Maker

For teenagers who can’t live without their caffeine fix, a portable espresso maker can be a game-changer. These compact and easy-to-use devices can brew fresh and delicious espresso shots anywhere and anytime

35- Luggage Travel Cup Holder

A cup and passport holder that slips over the handle of your suitcase, freeing up hand space and giving you storage options while waiting for flights.

36- Tablet

someone using a tablet
A tablet is a good alternative to a computer

Taking a tablet overseas for your teenagers is a convenient choice. It’s lightweight and versatile, offering web access, entertainment, and educational apps.

Tablets are also less prone to damage during travel compared to laptops, making them a practical and engaging option for your teenagers while abroad. Consider brands like Samsung and Apple

37- Action Camera travel gear for teenage adventurers

A samll action camera situated on some rocks
Action cameras – great travel gifts for young adults

Opting for an action camera such as GoPro or Insta 360 for your teenagers while travelling abroad is a great choice. Action cameras are compact, durable, and perfect for capturing adventures. They’re easy to carry, provide excellent quality footage, and withstand various conditions, making them an ideal companion for young travellers exploring new places.

38- Gaming laptop Bag

a young man wearing a gaming backpack to carry his laptop
Make sure your laptop is protected on a family vacation

Do you have a teenager who loves gaming? Did you spend a fortune on a gaming laptop that streams all the latest games? You will need a backpack with lots of padding and compartments to keep your computer and several electronic devices safe during international travel.

So there you have it, our ultimate guide to travel accessories for teenagers! We hope this article has given you some ideas for what to pack on your next trip: a family vacation or a solo adventure.

Packaging can be stressful, especially for teenagers, but having the right travel essentials for teens can make all the difference.

From portable chargers to stylish backpacks, these travel gifts for teens will help you stay organised, comfortable, and ready for anything.

When it comes to packing, it’s important to remember your teenage essentials, like your phone, headphones, and toiletries. But don’t forget to have some fun with it too! Add personality to your suitcase with a funky passport cover or a trendy camera.

A lot of these items make a practical travel gift for teenagers. Teens can be hard to buy, so why not buy the perfect travel gift from our list?

We hope our travel accessories packing list for teenagers has inspired you to pack smart and travel in style. Always remember, the key to a successful trip is being prepared, so make sure to check off everything on our list of travel accessories for teens before you hit the road.


More family travel inspiration for your family vacation with teens