Safe driving kits for teens: top 10 gifts I PEMCO

Learning to drive is a huge milestone, but for teens it also comes with unique risks. They’re still building experience, often drive older cars, and may face distractions or tough conditions like new driving situations, wet roads, or low visibility. That’s why prevention matters most. 

Stocking stuffers for teen drivers that will also keep them safe 

Instead of focusing on flashy accessories, the best holiday gifts for teen drivers are the ones that help them stay safe, prepared, and confident behind the wheel. From tools that prevent breakdowns to gear that reduces distractions, these gifts are practical ways to protect your teen and help give you peace of mind. 

At PEMCO, we believe prevention is the best protection. Here are the top 10 gifts that put safety first and help teens handle the road with confidence. 

Essential safety kits and tools 

• Roadside emergency kit: A must-have for preparedness. Stock it with first-aid supplies, flares, tire tools, and seasonal items like blankets, food, water, and chains. Prevention means being ready before trouble strikes. 
• Mini tool kit: Compact screwdrivers, pliers, and duct tape can prevent small issues from escalating. It empowers teens to handle minor fixes safely until professional help arrives. 
• Portable jump starter: Prevent being stranded with a dead battery. A portable jump starter gives teens independence and safety when help isn’t nearby. Make sure to teach your teen how to safely jump their car. 
• Emergency window opener & seat belt cutter: In rare but serious situations, these tools can be lifesaving. Prevention means being ready for the unexpected, ensuring drivers can get out of a bad situation, quickly if needed. 

Preventative plans and accessories 

• Roadside assistance plan: Peace of mind is prevention, too. Add roadside assistance to your PEMCO policy (with Bodily Injury and Comprehensive coverage) and consider towing and roadside assistance for extra support. 
• Tire pressure gauge: Prevent blowouts and related accidents before they happen. Warning lights don’t activate until pressure is dangerously low, so monthly checks with a gauge are essential. 
• Gas & car wash gift cards: The days when a few loose dollars or car change will get you where you’re going are long gone. Having a way for your teen to fill their tank is practical prevention. Gas cards encourage topping off before the tank dips too low (especially in winter). Car wash cards keep headlights and windshields clear for maximum visibility. 

Distraction reduction and visibility tools 

• Hands-free phone older & car charger: Distraction prevention is critical. A dash-mounted holder keeps eyes forward and hands on the wheel. Dialing a handheld phone increases crash risk 12 times. Pair this with a phone charger and ensure your teed driver is reachable. 
• Flashlight (crank-powered preferred): Most of us rely on our phones for everything, including a flashlight. Don’t let a dead phone battery prevent a call for help. A glove-compartment flashlight keeps teens prepared without extra batteries or phone required. 
• Reflective safety vest: Visibility saves lives. If teens need to exit the car at night, a reflective vest ensures they’re seen by other drivers. 

Bonus prevention tools 

• Dash camera: Encourages safer driving and provides evidence in case of an incident. 
• Blind spot mirrors: Reduce blind spots and prevent lane-change accidents. 
• Ice scraper: Keeps windshields clear for safe visibility. 

Prevention is the gift that keeps giving 

Holiday gifts can be more than thoughtful — they can be preventive. By equipping teen drivers with tools that anticipate problems and encourage safe habits, you’re giving them confidence, independence, and the PEMCO peace of mind that prevention is always better than a reactive solution.  

PEMCO does not endorse or guarantee any products listed. Links are provided for informational purposes and convenience only.