Entertaining kids when traveling has completely changed from the time I used to take vacations with my parents. All my kids want to do nowadays is play on their electronics with earbuds in while listening to music. Sound familiar? When traveling with teens and tweens, I’ve found it easier to engage their love of all things digital and incorporate that into our travel time.
Then – Do you want to bring a book to read on the road?
Now – Okay, but I need a new ebook.
Then – Want to watch the inflight movie?
Now – Well, maybe now that they can choose their own on a long-haul flight, but a pre-downloaded series might be better to watch on the iPad.
Then – Are you taking pictures to capture memories?
Now – Sure, but they are selfies shared instantly on social media – no more waiting to develop the film once returning home.
While many times I want to chuck my kids devices in the garbage, utilizing these electronics can be beneficial and even educational while traveling. We put together some of the best travel apps for teens and tweens to help provide download ideas before your next big adventure.
My kids have either used or currently use almost all of these apps. I also tried to limit the amount of games here as I know kids already have their favorites. Instead, I went for games that made kids think a bit more than just shooting at a zombie.
If you’re looking for more apps to download as a parent, I’ve put together a list of my favorite travel apps for Europe. Some of these are great no matter where you are visiting.
Learn a Language
Duolingo – Language app to learn Spanish, French, German and more with fun practice sessions and pronunciation lessons. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Babbel – Language app to learn Spanish, French, Italian, and more. The app uses short lessons and sessions that cover a variety of topics. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Get Social
Instagram – Kids can share share photos and stories as well as go live at a destination. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Snapchat – My kids are all about Snapchat right now. Share photos and short videos with friends plus add fun filters to the images. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Face Swap Live – Meeting new friends is fun with this app. Switch faces with friends or photos in real-time. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Wifimap – While traveling, kids might not have data available for games and social media. Use the app to find hotspots and passwords to connect to wifi. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Magisto – This movie maker and video editor app allows kids to share their completed movie on social channels. It can be a fun way to share their travels and experiences. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Fun & Educational
Kindle – Kids don’t need to add weight to their luggage with books. Download the Kindle app to read favorite books on the device of their choice. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Netflix – If you have a Netflix subscription, download the app to watch shows while traveling. There is also a new option to download and watch select TV shows and movies without being connected to the internet. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Draw Rider – Get to the end of the road without crashing on this black and white game. You can also share with friends. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Extreme Road Trip 2 – Do stunts to get nitro boost and collect coins to unlock new cars. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Klocki – Unique puzzle game to make kids think, but easy enough they shouldn’t get too frustrated. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Ballz – Throw the balls and break the bricks. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
SAT Vocab by MindSnacks – Help kids learn new vocabulary and prepare for their SAT’s by playing games.Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Bandsintown – For music loving teens. They can track their favorite artists, receive alerts when they’re touring near you, and keep track of which shows they want to see. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Words with Friends – Social crossword game to get kids thinking. We play this as a family and the kids even play against their grandparents. Free {Available on iOS and Android}
Visited – Mark how many countries and states you have visited as well as marking places you want to visit. Free {Available on iOS as “Visited: Mark where you have been on a travel map” and on Android as “Visited World”}
Roadside America – Find nutty sights and oddball wonders on this app. $2.99+ {Available only on iOS}
Since getting kids completely off their electronics during your vacation probably isn’t possible, download apps that are educational, fun and get them excited about sharing their travels. Allow them to share adventures with their friends, read a book, learn a new language or complete a puzzle.
Things may have changed since we traveled with our parents, but we can still use the kids love for devices to our advantage. These apps can be lifesavers during road trips or long flights. It will keep the boredom at bay and hopefully even have them saying a few words in Spanish during your next visit to Mexico or Spain.
Do you have other travel apps for teens or tweens to share? Leave your favorites in the comments.
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