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As you begin holiday shopping for your loved ones, you might be stumped on what to get the hardest person to shop for—a teenager. Finding the best gifts for teens in your life can be quite the challenge—no one stays up to date on the latest trends quite like them. But don’t worry, we have plenty of gift ideas that your teenage daughter, grandson, or niece will appreciate, all tailored toward those with travel on the brain.
Whether the teenager in your life is just getting into travel and could use some fresh gear or is already a pro at mapping out their next adventure, we've got you covered with travel-friendly gift ideas they'll actually use at every price point. From digital cameras and TikTok beauty favorites to cool travel accessories for their phone, these gifts will earn you plenty of points with even the hardest to impress teen. Read on for our edit of 61 unique and trendy gifts to spoil the teen in your life.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
Top picks:
- For the new traveler: Calpak starter bundle
- For the photographer: Camp Snap digital camera
- For the bookworm: Kindle Paperwhite
- For the camper: Sewanta camping hammock
- For the beauty lover: Yoolife makeup bag
Jump to the best gifts for teens by category:
- For the tech-obsessed teen
- For the outdoor enthusiasts
- For the beauty gurus
- For the fashionistas
- For the budding travelers
- For their stocking
For tech-obsessed teens
A pair of noise-canceling headphones, especially ones as sleek as the Apple AirPods Max, will be much appreciated by any teen traveler. Not only are they great to block out noise on a flight, they'll get use on bus or car rides to school, too.
I'm gifting a few people on my list this Camp Snap digital camera. The lightweight, screen-free digital camera is perfect for travel and fits conveniently in a sling bag or fanny pack. It gives that retro aesthetic you want of your cabin trip upstate or your camping getaway with friends. It's easy to use, nice to look at, and offers three different film styles (standard, vintage, and black and white).
Commerce writer Jessica Chapel raves about this under-$50 digital camera. “It’s the perfect gift for on-the-go beginners who are bored of their phone pictures,” says Chapel. Get this for any young traveler who wants the fun a digital camera offers without the hefty price tag and all the fuss of fancier models. It's available in pink, purple, green, black, and white.
Any teen will appreciate an iPad, especially the lightweight mini that's easy to travel with. It fits nicely into any travel backpack without adding the bulk of a laptop.
If you're stuck on what to gift the teen in your life, we suggest something that will make their busy morning and nighttime routines a little less hectic, like the Hatch Restore 2 alarm clock that gradually wakes them up much more gently than a phone does.
For teens who spend most of their time outdoors
For something sans logo, this Snowflake beanie from Aritzia will match any fall or winter outfit.
The Lululemon Everywhere belt bag is a favorite among teens (and our editors) for its size, style, and versatility.
The Queen Bee of water bottles, we guarantee your teen will appreciate a new Stanley tumbler. It keeps water cold all day long, has a large handle for easy carrying, and just looks good!
For teens who follow TikTok beauty trends
If you really want to spoil the teen you know, surprise them with the Dyson Airwrap or the Shark FlexStyle. (Not sure which of these hair tools is right for your giftee? Check out our in-depth comparison here.)
Makeup bags are a must! We love these that come with your giftee's initial. (For a slightly elevated option, I can't recommend this one from Parallelle enough.)
Speaking of long flights, everyone needs a silky, soft sleep mask to block out light while traveling. I bring one with me on every trip.
For fashion-forward teens
A cozy fleece jacket like this one from Patagonia will last for years to come and really keeps you warm.
To lighten up their suitcase, gift them a packable jacket. You can layer bulky sweaters underneath this or wear it on its own, making it a versatile pick.
Lululemon's Align leggings really are one of the best—stretchy, supportive, and high-waisted, they last for years.
A cozy pair of winter leggings, like these from FP Movement, will keep your teen warm on outdoor runs or walks this season.
The Adidas Samba OG sneakers have been trending for some time now, and for good reason—they offer a sporty yet chic look and are actually comfortable enough to wear for a full day of walking.
Upgrade that old, dirty pair of slippers they're wearing with this fan-favorite from Ugg. They feature the brand's signature super-soft interior that keep you warm and cozy.
The Tasman offers all the warmth and comfort of a classic Ugg slipper with just a little more support, making them suitable to wear outdoors or the airport.
A versatile shoulder bag is a must-have, especially one that's both equally chic and practical like the Coach Tabby. It can worn as a crossbody, too.
Sometimes you need a mini bag that holds just the essentials, like your phone, school ID, lip balm, and little else.
A monogram necklace like this is thoughtful and so timeless. They'll think of you every time they wear it!
For teens planning a trip next year
Any traveler will appreciate a new piece of luggage as a gift this season. Away's Bigger Carry-On is one of our tried-and-true favorites for its roomy interior, durable shell, and minimalist design.
We also recommend The Carry-On Roller from Béis. It's decently priced and offers lots of organizational features on the inside. There's also a built-in weight indicator so you never have to worry about extra baggage fees.
If you're shopping for a new traveler, gifting them a luggage set like this from Calpak is a smart choice. This offers everything they'll need, including a carry-on, checked suitcase, packing cubes, and a shoe bag.
If they're always headed on weekend trips with friends or coming back home from college for holiday breaks, a good weekender is just the thing. I recommend this duffel bag from Calpak for travelers of any age—there are endless pockets, a shoe compartment, and the super-soft handle is easy on your shoulder.
Thinking of gifting them a new backpack for school? Consider Dagne Dover's ultra-soft and sleek Dakota backpack.
A jewelry case is an essential for travel, otherwise all your favorite necklaces and bracelets will end up tangled. This cute, compact option can be personalized, too.
For their stocking
A portable charger really is the ultimate travel essential. This one is compact enough to fit in your jacket pocket or a small fanny pack.
Need some more inspo? Check out Traveler's Amazon Storefront for even more of our favorite travel gifts.