Last Updated on 11 November 2025 by Colette
Packing for teens is a whole different ballgame. Gone are the days when you could toss in a cuddly toy, a few snacks and the same t-shirt in six different colours. Teens have opinions, style preferences, and tech habits – and if they’re not happy with what’s in their suitcase, you’re all going to know about it!
Tip: I would suggest that if they’re going to complain about what’s in their suitcase – have them pack it themselves then it’s their own fault rather than yours if things are missing . . .
My kids are 11, 13 and 15 now and have been packing their own bags for cub camp, weekend sleepovers with their Grandparents and short trips for years now (I’m talking since they were in the infants at primary school) – I’ve always encouraged them to pack their own things and whilst that has caused the odd emergency trip to the supermarket for knickers, socks or a toothbrush, we can only learn from our mistakes and it’s all steps towards independence.
Sometimes they have a written packing list for a scouting trip, other times I give them a verbal list of “pack for three nights; you need clothes for outdoor adventures and something tidy to wear for when we go out for tea”. When they were younger I used to cast an eye over their packing to make sure nothing was missing but now it’s their own responsibility to make sure they’ve got all bases covered.
However, when it comes to packing for a festival or a holiday where a) I’m working hard to avoid overpacking and b) missing essentials will be harder to come by – we pack as a team. I still give them that verbal packing list of however many nights we are going for but then we pack it together so it might be “bring me your outfit for Saturday”, “bring me seven pairs of knickers” , “choose one pair of sunglasses”.
After years of travelling with our own teens, we’ve learned a thing or two about what really matters to them. This list isn’t about overpacking – it’s about getting the essentials right so that they’re comfortable, prepared, and (relatively) complaint-free.
Clothing Must-Haves
Teens want to look good and feel comfy – especially if you’re sightseeing or doing lots of walking. I love to have a few new bits that I’ve bought especially for my holiday and I know the girls do too whereas Ben is less bothered – he just wants to know he’ll be comfortable.
Don’t forget:
- Versatile basics they can mix and match – think joggers, jeans, shorts, hoodies and tees. We’re not scared of a long car journey in our family so joggers and comfy tees are key for road trips or flights.
- Enough clean underwear and t shirts for each day you’re away (nobody wants to be washing on holiday)
- Weather-appropriate layers – waterproof jacket, cosy hoodie, sunglasses, something to throw on in the evening when the sun goes down – think about where you are going and what you’ll be doing!
- If swimming or beach days are on the cards – how much is too much swimwear? I tend to think a couple of bikinis or swimming costumes is a good idea to allow for things to dry and also for a bit of variation but a different bikini for every day is a waste of space in your case
Top tip: Let them choose their outfits before you pack – it saves arguments later and gives them some control over their wardrobe. It also means you don’t end up with loads of unworn clothes that were taken “just in case”.
Tech
We all know tech is life for most teens (and us parents to a point!) – of course it serves its purpose for entertainment, navigation and even translation as well as staying in touch with their friends and you if necessary – basically you’re all going to suffer if you leave the wrong bits at home!
Make sure they have:
- Phone and charger (obviously)
- Power bank (absolute lifesaver for long days out)
- Headphones or earbuds (nobody needs to hear them scrolling through TikTok!)
- Travel adapter
- Optional extras: tablet/Kindle, smartwatch, portable speaker
Pro tip: If you’re flying, it’s worth keeping all the tech in one bag to go through security so you don’t all have to rummage through your bags and empty your own bits out. You can divvy it all up again once you’re on the other side.
Toiletries
Even if you’re sharing a family washbag, give teens their own toiletry kit. It gives them independence and makes them more likely to actually use it.
Include:
- Mini versions of their favourite skincare or haircare (hand luggage friendly and also just really cool!)
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Deodorant and fragrance (they’ll thank you after a warm day out!)
- Travel-size makeup or grooming products (encourage them to keep make up etc a minimum – how many lip glosses are they realistically going to need for a seven night trip?)
- Their contacts. It would be better to pack them in advance. However, if you forget, you can still order contact lenses online to have a smooth trip.
- Period products, if applicable (better safe than sorry!)
Tip: If you’re flying, make sure they know the current rules on liquids in hand luggage – nobody wants to lose their favourite Sol de Janeiro body spray on the way through security!
Sleep Essentials
Whether it’s a flight, a long car journey, or a noisy hotel, being able to relax makes all the difference.
Pack these:
- Neck pillow or oversized hoodie for naps (my kids actually like to take their own pillows if we have space in the car so they can use them while we are away too)
- Eye mask & earplugs
- A book, downloaded films, or podcast playlists
- Cosy socks or slippers if you’re staying somewhere chilly
“Just in Case”
Hopefully you won’t need any of the things in this section but it’s definitely worth packing them if you can!
Include:
- Plasters
- Blister plasters
- Pain relief (headaches, cramps)
- Mini first-aid kit or travel meds (esp. if they have allergies or needs)
- Period products if applicable
- Travel sickness tablets or bands if needed
Things They’ll Be Glad You Remembered
These might seem small, but they’re often the things teens forget then desperately want later so you’ll earn a few brownie points for the things in this section.
Don’t skip:
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks – all the snacks
- Sunglasses & a cap or hat
- A day bag – small backpack or crossbody for putting their phone and sunglasses etc in
- Something to read – be it a book or kindle
Let Them Pick a “Wild Card” Item
Give them space for one totally personal item – something that doesn’t have to make sense to you but they’re really keen to take! It gives them a sense of ownership and adds a little fun to packing. (Just make sure they haven’t slipped anything into their hand luggage that might cause problems – my friend’s daughter had put her craft scissors in her hand luggage without her Dad knowing and caused a right drama at check in!)
Travelling with teens can be amazing but packing smartly makes a huge difference. Think beyond the basics and consider what will help them feel comfortable, entertained and independent. Most importantly, let them be part of the packing process, and you might just avoid the dreaded “Why didn’t we bring…?” halfway through the trip!
I’d love to know if you’ve got any go-to teen travel items that are always a hit in your house? Share them in the comments and I’ll add them to the list!
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