Rounding up a few delightful + practical gifts for kids and teens on the go.
Although Michael and I don’t have kids of our own, in many ways it almost feels like we do because we are in fact frequently surrounded by them.
As the cool, traveling aunt and uncle (sometimes real, sometimes honorary), it’s always been my goal to inspire a love of travel from an early age. With that in mind, today I’ve curated a selection of special gifts meant to do just that.
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I should mention that it can be hard to capture universally appealing gifts across these age groups, as so much life happens before we turn eighteen, but hopefully, something here will speak to the youth in your life (or at least will spark some gifting inspiration!).
2023 GIFTS FOR KIDS + TEENS
1. Instant Camera | These little cameras have been popular for quite some time, and for good reason: they’re so much fun! Even if you don’t have a budding photographer on your hands, this is such a fun way to capture travel memories.
2. All-in-One Makeup Palette | Formulated for medium-to-dark skin tones, this palette includes eyeshadow, blush, and powder for a compact makeup routine on the fly.
3. Logan Suitcase | Being able to carry your own belongings through the world is empowering, and this suitcase comes in two sizes: ages 3-5, and age 6+. Plus, the bright color combination means you’ll never lose sight of it in the airport!
4. Picnic Play Set | Practice makes perfect! This sweet wooden picnic set makes for charming imaginative play, preparing them for the delights of picnicking around the world.
5. Rollerskates | Heading on a roadtrip? Toss a pair of skates in the backseat, and you’ll never have to hear “But my feet are tired…” again.
6. Bluetooth Transmitter | This handy little device solves the problem of pairing wireless earbuds to in-flight entertainment.
7. Screen-Free Audio Device | This neat speaker offers a unique form of audio entertainment via prerecorded and DIY audio cards. They can pop in a podcast, audiobook, or music card for some screen-free time (plus, it can act as an alarm clock!).
8. Around the World Cooking Set | Taste the flavors of the world without leaving home! This trio of cooking kits offers recipes and ingredients from Mexico, Greece, and Japan.
9. Temporary Tattoos | For some kids and teens, travel offers a chance to experience things you normally aren’t permitted to do back home (like having a tiny glass of wine at dinner!). Temporary tattoos are a fun way to commemorate a trip, if only for a few days.
Still looking for more inspiration? Check out these past gift guides: 2022 | 2021 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017
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How old are the youngest travelers in your life?