12 (Practically) No-Fail Gift Ideas for Teenagers

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This Post: 12 (Practically) No-Fail Gift Ideas for Teenagers

Written By: Nancy Reynolds

Teenagers are some of the hardest people to shop for during the holidays. One minute they’re obsessed with something and the next, it’s “so last week.”

If you’ve ever had a perfectly wrapped gift met with a half-hearted “cool” or a sarcastic “Thanks, Mom,” you’re not alone. But don’t worry – we’ve done the legwork for you! (We even added a few ideas for inspiration!)

We reached out to a bunch of teens to get their insight into what’s topping their wish lists this holiday season. Whether your teen happens to be into tech, fashion, or just vibing, these ideas will make you the MVP of gift-giving this holiday season.

The bigger, the better. It’s not just clothing – it’s a lifestyle, a blanket, and their personal hiding spot all in one. Whether it’s funny, sports-themed, a heartfelt quote or saying, or anything else you think your teen might love, if it’s oversized, cozy, and comfy, your teen is gonna love adding a new sweatshirt to their collection.

Because apparently, every teen is auditioning for The Voice while they’re in the shower. Seriously… it’s a great gift idea. Whether it’s a cool shower speaker, a top-rated speaker for their bedroom or bathroom, or a mini speaker they can take on the go, you’ll never go wrong with this gift idea.

Nothing screams “teenage vibes” like neon lights illuminating a pile of laundry on the floor. Anyway… they’re fun and inexpensive, and they give teens a way to decorate their room the way THEY want with a cool vibe that’s all their own. (The one shown here is under $15!)

It’s not lazy; it’s flexible. Whether they spend it on fast food, Starbucks, or new perfume or cologne, you can NEVER go wrong with giving a teenager a gift card. 

Because nothing says “freedom” like ordering a burrito at 11 PM without raiding the fridge.

Teenagers are always cold. I mean, who else would wear a hoodie on a 95-degree day? Buying your teen anything cozy and warm will always be a hit with them. Think of a cozy throw blanket, a warm beanie hat, fleece-lined sweatpants, a cozy sweater, warm socks, or even a fleece sheet set. Seriously, ANYTHING soft, warm, cozy, and cuddly and they’re probably going to love it!

Bonus points if it has their initials, their dog’s (or cat’s) face, or a motivational quote they found on Instagram. Even if they have one, teens love to switch them out.

For when their phone dies because they’ve been scrolling TikTok for 8 hours straight but still need to text you for a ride.

Teenagers just love toting around their water bottles. Even if they own one, teens say they wouldn’t mind another one to switch them out. Bonus if it’s trendy, like a Stanley Cup or Hydro Flask. Hydration, but make it cool.

Is their hobby gaming? Get them a cool new gaming accessory or maybe a new gaming chair that has all the bells and whistles. Do they love to read? Get them a gift card to Barnes and Noble or Amazon. You get the picture. Focus on their hobby, interests, or passions. 

If you haven’t figured this out by now, let us clue you in on a little secret… teenagers LOVE the trendiest, newest tech gadgets. Honestly, your options are endless. Cell phone gadgets, speakers, computer gadgets, car gadgets – anything techy, new, fun, and cool will win their approval. (This techy gift idea is fun because it allows them to stream movies or shows on their phone without having to hold it and it has a built-in speaker. Kinda cool, right?)

I know… plenty of parents out there don’t allow their teens to eat or drink in their bedrooms, BUT there are plenty of parents out there who DO. If you don’t mind your teen storing up a few drinks and snacks in their room (although you might see them less than you do now), then a mini fridge is a cool idea. And, teens LOVE it! (This one is priced right!)

If you enjoyed reading,  “12 (Practically) No-Fail Gift Ideas for Teenagers,” here are a few other posts you might like!

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