We are lucky enough to have two teenage boys in our family (well, technically, one teen and one tween on the cusp), and we have had some wonderful times traveling abroad with them. Below is a list of teen travel awesomeness we have compiled from our family travels and adventures.
8 Fun Things About International Travel with Teens
1. Teens are old enough to pack for themselves. Give them a list (or better yet, have them create their own) and let them gather the clothes and accessories they want to take. Points are given for style.
2. They can schlep their own belongings. We bought each member of our family an inexpensive, adjustable backpack (above) at IKEA of all places. They hold so many items, including shoes. Bonus: they qualify on most flights as a carry on bag.
3. Given the chance, teens are pretty capable. In fact, if you include them in the planning they’ll often take the lead when it is time to act. For instance, they have an easier time (i.e. faster) getting through the airport than most adult travelers, because they are prepared and paying attention.
4. Teens are really great in foreign countries. While at home they may be overly interested in their phones and computers, on a trip they often open up (no international roaming really helps). They set aside their screens and actually take an active interest in the world around them.
5. Teens can and will (usually) try new things while abroad. They don’t have the pressure of their peers to keep them from letting loose, being silly and taking chances.
6. Older kids are leashless (not that we ever put our kids on a leash, but you get it). Though you still need to be aware of where your teens are while in a foreign country, you can let them roam and wander further afield than younger kids without freaking out. In theory.
7. Visiting other countries is cool. Our teens like to say that they’ve been somewhere. It’s kind of like the travel version of street cred—it makes them more open to going and exploring, then sharing their experiences with others.
8. There are life lessons. Teens, after traveling internationally, have a better understanding of where they fit in the world and an appreciation for other viewpoints and cultures. It’s wonderful to see them blossom and grow right before your very eyes.
Granted, this list can only reflect our personal experience with our own kids, and your teens (and tweens) may vary. Also, there are always obstacles, exceptions and any number of reasons that any type of travel, let alone international, may not be an option for your family. Fortunately, many of the observations listed above can be applied to other activities as well, the point is doing something new with our kids as often as possible, and to make the most of the shared experience.
What are some of your favorite tips for international travel with teens?
The book featured in the top photo is by our pal David Vienna and you should check it out. No, he didn’t ask us to say this. Map photo by Dariusz Sankowski on Unsplash
I wouldn’t trust teens with their own packing i think you should give them the ability and responsibility to pack their own luggage but you have to verify. Also to get teens off their smart phones you got to give them engaging activities. But chances are they will still be using their phones for selfies. lol
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*Actual teens may vary.