71 Best Gifts for Teens They’re Actually Interested in This Year
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The older you get, the trickier it can be to pick out the best gifts for teens—especially if you’re shopping on a time crunch (Christmas is next week!). It’s only natural; eventually the things that once defined your formative years—Tamagotchis, Jordache jeans, iPhones with home buttons—get replaced, leaving you wondering what the kids are actually into these days (okay, they actually are into Tamagotchis). Buying a gift for a teenage girl who lives on BeautyTok? A viral heatless curling headband is a great idea (it’s one of our fave gifts to give under $50). How about a present for a teen boy who’s a total sneakerhead? One word: Nike. Need something meaningful for their 16th birthday? Friendship bracelets don’t have to come only from her BFFs–just ask Taylor Swift. They make a great gift for daughters as well. From cool room decor you can get last-minute on Amazon, like bean bags and LED lights (teens are all about the aesthetic) to a PlayStation game the whole fam can enjoy, our editors went straight to the source, polling our own teens, our nieces and nephews in high school and college, and our interns, and yes, we spent a lot of hours scrolling TikTok. These are the trendy gifts all the teenagers in our lives said they actually wanted this year—almost all of which arrive in time for December 25, if you order ASAP.
The best gifts for teens, at a glance
Unique Gift for Teens: Yatvro Custom Neon Sign, $50
Best Gift Under $20: Dalattin LED Lights for Bedroom, $17
Cool Gift for Gamers: RGB Headphone Stand With Charging Ports, $17
Best Gift for Teen Guys: Nautica Voyage Eau de Toilette, $16
Trendiest Gift for Teen Girls: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $25
- 1/71
Owala FreeSip Water Bottle (32 Oz.)
The Owala water bottle is the coolest one right now—because it comes in a bunch of colors, has a straw that makes it easy to hydrate, and locks closed so it won't leak in their bag.
- 2/71
Dalattin LED Strip Lights With Remote and App Control
Twenty different color options on this extra-long LED strip ensure that your teen has a light to match whatever mood they’re in. The strip comes in various lengths (100 feet should be enough) and has a timer that can be set to turn the lights on and off. And with a quick and easy peel-and-stick backing, it’s an inexpensive (under $25) decor upgrade to help them take even more pride in their room or dorm.
- 3/71
“I Paused My Game to Be Here” T-Shirt
This to-the-point T-shirt is sure to elicit a loving groan (and plenty of wear) from the good-natured teen who’s always holed up with their games.
- 4/71
Robecurls Curling Headband
This internet-famous curling headband can help your teen ditch hot styling tools for good, since it creates lasting curls in a matter of hours. Our editors put it to the test, and yes, it really works.
- 5/71
TONYMOLY I'm Real Sheet Mask, Pack of 10
If you're trying to find stocking stuffers for multiple teens without spending too much, break up this 10-pack of sheet masks. Each one has a fruity or floral essence, is deeply soothing, and fun for your teen to wear while lounging at home.
- 6/71
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Laneige’s best-selling ultra hydrating, lip-rescuing product needs no introduction. The lip mask is an Amazon bestseller and one of TikTok’s most beloved beauty products. Our Glamour staff approves this message too; just read our rave Laneige review. The mask is nourishing and leaves her with baby soft lips by morning, and it’s beloved by celebs she undoubtedly follows (Kaia Gerber and Sydney Sweeney to name a few). If you're looking for a tinted lip balm that's more like a gloss for everyday, teen girls like Summer Fridays.
- 7/71
Yatvro Custom Neon Sign
If you’re really stuck on gift ideas, try a one-of-a-kind customizable neon sign that they can use to decorate their dorm or bedroom. You can have one made with their name, or an affirmation that they can look at daily.
- 8/71
PlayStation 5 Console
As kids step into their teen years and those “screen time” rules start to relax, why not surprise them with the ultimate gamer’s dream gift? All the teens we spoke to had this high on their wish list. Of course it’s a splurge, but if you consider it as more of a gift for the whole family, with loads of entertainment built in for all of you, then it starts to seem higher value.
- 9/71
Fazit Makeup Patches in Gold Speckles
There’s no bigger Swiftie flex right now than these glitter face freckles Taylor rocked at a Chiefs game. They’re the perfect stocking stuffer to add a touch of sparkle to any look.
- 10/71
Drunk Elephant The Littles 7.0 Travel Skin Care Set
Drunk Elephant products are on every trendy teen’s radar—with even eight- and nine-year-olds clamoring to get their hands on them. Thankfully, skin care ingredients like acids are better suited for teens, making this set of adorable minis a good intro for anyone who couldn’t resist the neon packaging at Sephora.
- 11/71
Shark HD430 FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System
If Dyson’s Airwrap styler is too much of a splurge, the Shark FlexStyle makes for a much more affordable dupe of the popular hair tool. It blow-dries, straightens, curls, and tackles flyaways with its different attachments, and teens want it just as much. “When I asked my cousin, who just started college, what she wanted this year, the first thing she said was a Shark tool to help her get ready for class faster,” says Glamour’s commerce director, Brie Schwartz.
- 12/71
Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2 Printer
Any smartphone can become an instant camera with this tech gift, which prints out digital shots as mini photos that they can display anywhere. It’s especially great for the teen girl or guy who has a mood board on their walls.
- 13/71
Glocusent Neck Reading Light
BookTokers will get a kick out of this reading night light that’s clutch for using when their roommate is fast asleep.
- 14/71
Apple AirTag
Forget the bigger tech gifts like Nintendo Switches and Apple Watches; you can make a bigger impact with the Apple AirTag, a sub-$30 tracker that’ll ensure they never lose their gym bag or house keys again.
- 15/71
TMY Projector Set
Whether they hook up this projector (and its included screen) to video games, livestreams, or Netflix, it’s guaranteed to get plenty of use.
- 16/71
Birthdate Co. Birthdate Candle
This brand offers a unique candle for every single day of the year, complete with fun facts about astrological signs. Birthday gifts don’t get much more personalized than this.
- 17/71
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
Teens love Lululemon’s belt bag, which can be styled as a sling or a fanny pack and holds everything they’ll need for a perfect weekend day. (Try to resist the urge to steal it for yourself.)
- 18/71
Meta Quest 3S Headset
From watching movies to gaming and even to squeezing in a workout, all with stunningly crisp visuals, VR goggles are the splurge-worthy gift your teen won’t want to put down.
- 19/71
JBL Go 4 Bluetooth Speaker
Music lovers need a portable speaker that actually delivers on sound quality. This tiny, splashproof, surprisingly bassy gadget does just that—and it can clip onto their backpack or bike.
- 20/71
Cooluli Skin Care Mini Fridge
And while we’re talking skin care, this cute mini fridge will keep their favorite face masks and serums nice and chilled (with extra room for a seltzer or two), even in small spaces. It’s the coolest gift—literally.
- 21/71
Nintendo Switch V2 Game Console
When they can’t get enough play time at home, or if they just like to play against friends, a Nintendo Switch will ensure uninterrupted gaming on the go.
- 22/71
iLikePar Cereal-Bowl Candle
Is there anything cuter than this candle in the shape of a bowl of cereal? Trick question—of course there isn’t!
- 23/71
Anker Portable Charger
If your kid can hardly make it through a day without running out of extra juice, this rechargeable pocket-friendly power bank will ensure they never have to worry about battery life again—a gift that keeps on giving since you’ll always be able to reach them.
- 24/71
Perixx Periduo-713 Mini Keyboard and Mouse
For the right teenager—think gamers, bookworms, and anime fans—this kawaii keyboard will make their entire year. Grab it in pink, blue, or purple.
- 25/71
Wootrip Mini Microphone
A favorite among TikTok personalities, tiny mics are just right for influencers in training, adding just the right amount of ridiculousness to interviews, vlogs, and sing-alongs.
- 26/71
CosRx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence
If they’re on TikTok (we don’t know a teen who isn’t!) then they’ve likely heard a peep or two about snail mucin. And if so, then they’ve probably seen this same bottle appear on their FYP time and time again. This skin care essence contains 96% of the so-called miracle ingredient (our reviewer says it really works) which quenches dry skin and helps speed up the healing process of any popped zits or scars. All they have to do is spray some on after cleansing their face but before adding moisturizer.
- 27/71
Camkory FHD 1080-Pixel Digital Camera
If you thought digital cameras were only for those cringey Facebook albums you’ve hidden, think again. These handy cameras are back, better, and cheaper than ever. Teens who love to capture the moment need one of these for summer 2024 and beyond.
- 28/71
Skqir Birth Year Necklace
Birth-year necklaces are all the rage right now, and we can’t get over how budget-friendly this one is.
- 29/71
Exeric 10-Foot iPhone Charging Cords (3-Pack)
Each of these candy-colored iPhone cords is 10 feet long and has an angled end that resists fraying. They’re a godsend for texting (or endless scrolling) in bed.
- 30/71
Narecte Oversized Hoodie Blanket
End the battle for blankets during family movie nights with this oversized hoodie blanket that oozes cozy vibes. The giant pocket on the front is great for stashing snacks, a phone, or anything else needed for hours in front of the TV.
- 31/71
Ringo All-in-One Water Bottle, Tripod & Magnetic Phone Mount
Talk about a vlogger’s dream come true. This isn’t only a great gift for the teen who’s keeping up with their H2O intake; it’s also perfect for the one who loves capturing every moment. Thanks to a MagSafe phone holder, they can film or snap pics no matter where they are.
- 32/71
Nike Dunk Low Unlocked By You Customized Sneakers
Nike Dunks are what all the cool kids are wearing apart from Adidas Sambas. But rather than just getting your cool kid any old pair of sneakers, give them the option of customizing their own. They can change the colors of everything from the Nike swoosh to the laces, soles, and exterior.
- 33/71
Jibbitz Festival Shoe Charms (5-Pack)
One thing about trends is that they always come back, and that’s currently the case with shoe charms. Since teens love Crocs, these are perfect for adorning their clogs with some fun festival vibes.
- 34/71
Patchology Serve Chilled Rosé Eye Gels
Nothing says college application season like a lack of sleep, and these soothing undereye patches will help them feel alive even when they’re in the thick of it.
- 35/71
Yonanas Soft-Serve Dessert Maker
Vegans and sugar fiends alike will get a kick out of this kitchen gadget, which turns frozen fruit into sorbet-like desserts.
- 36/71
Wemore Shaggy Long Faux Fur Weighted Blanket
We all have our bed-rotting days, and those are even better with the right blanket at hand. This fuzzy throw is made with faux fur, but the kicker is that it’s also weighted. If they don’t have a weighted blanket just yet, they’ll love all the purported benefits.
- 37/71
Sonix Protective Covers for AirPods Max Headphones
Considering how pricey AirPods Max headphones are, the last thing anyone wants is to scratch theirs up. Instead of carrying around the OG case, headphones-wearing teens can simply snap on these covers to keep theirs shielded and looking better than ever.
- 38/71
Max’Is Creations The Mug With a Hoop
He shoots, he scores…in his coffee mug? Yep. This hilariously cute mug is basically a teeny basketball court. They can throw in some marshmallows to make some baskets or simply just enjoy every sip.
- 39/71
Auseibeely Bow Clips (6-Pack)
Claw clips have had quite the moment, right alongside the bow trend. What do you get when you marry the two? These adorable bow-adorned clips. Gift them a set of six that they can match with anything in their closet.
- 40/71
Komboid Ball-Bouncing Skill Game
Some teens just need to be entertained 24/7, and this game is one of the easiest ways to keep them busy (either on their own or with a friend). They can practice their own steady hand or bounce back and forth with their BFF.
- 41/71
“The Freshman Survival Guide: Soulful Advice for Studying, Socializing, and Everything In Between” by Nora Bradbury-Haehl
Freshman year in college is one of the most awkward, stressful, yet exciting times of any teen’s life. Prep them with this A to Z guide that covers all bases from studying for a big exam to making new friends, and navigating a busy schedule.
- 42/71
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom Nintendo Switch Game
We all love a female lead, and now it’s Princess Zelda’s time to shine in Echoes of Wisdom. Perfect for teens who love a challenge, this game focuses on clever puzzle-solving rather than sword-swinging as she saves Hyrule.
- 43/71
Haus of Sue Game-Controller Gift Card Holder
We get it—some teens simply want cash. “Ever since my nephew hit his tween years, he’s all about picking out his own stuff. This makes giving a gift card feel a little more thoughtful than just handing it over,” says Glamour’s Lee.
- 44/71
Czech Games Edition Codenames Board Game
This popular board game turns teens into secret agents, complete with sneaky wordplay, clever clues, and the chance to prove they’re the smartest in the room. “I love playing these with the teens in my family–it’s a a true riot everyone can have fun with,” says Glamour’s Schwartz.
- 45/71
Scünci by Conair “Wicked” Glinda Satin Spa Headband
We’ll help them be popular. Teens are all about puffy headbands, and this Wicked-inspired Glinda headband will elevate their next TikTok GRWM routine.
- 46/71
iScooter IK3 Electric Scooter
Teens have places to go, whether cruising to a friend’s house or zipping to school. If they’re not driving yet, an electric scooter offers the perfect mix of freedom and fun—no more begging Mom or Dad for a mall drop-off. “My almost 13-year-old nephew is already dreaming of scooting to karate practice solo,” says Lee.
- 47/71
Wall Collage Kit
If your teen is curating their own vibe for their bedroom or dorm, this wall collage kit has everything they need—artwork, stickers, foam blocks, and wall-safe tape—to turn their Pinterest dreams into reality.
- 48/71
Thoughtfully Store BomBombs Hot-Chocolate-Mix Gift Set
When in doubt, appeal to their sweet tooth. This adorable mini hot chocolate mix set comes in tiny paper cup packaging—filled with mix (not for sipping, but totally cute enough for TikTok).
- 49/71
STMT D.I.Y. Glitz Bead Case
Whether they’re solo crafting or getting together with friends, this bead kit comes with more than 500 beads to make the perfect stack.
- 50/71
Glossier You Rêve Eau de Parfum
Gone are the cucumber melon days—the teens we talked to are all about elevated fragrances, and they universally love teen-fave brand Glossier. This warm, musky perfume, with notes of buttercream, plum butter, and toasted almond, will blend with their own skin (it smells different on everyone). Glamour editors are big fans too.
- 51/71
MAC Cosmetics Golden Touch Mini Makeup Brush Set
No GRWM makeup routine is complete without the perfect set of makeup brushes. This one has four golden-hued brushes for face and eyes, all in travel-friendly sizes, tucked into a glam sequin-covered cosmetics case.
- 52/71
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 28"
These leggings might’ve gone viral years ago, but their fame is still holding on. We love the high waistband and extreme softness of the material (that still manages to be supportive and doesn't wear out). She'll wear them pretty much everywhere.
- 53/71
Sol de Janeiro Jet Set
We’ve dished on Sol de Janeiro hair and body mists and best-selling Brazilian Bum Bum Cream before, and teens agree with Glamour editors: They’re worth the buy. This is a travel gift set of its most popular fragrance (the tropical pistachio and salted caramel) in the cream, body wash, and perfume mist.
- 54/71
Squishmallow 5" Plush Mystery Box, 5-Pack
Squishmallows are easily one of the biggest gifts of the season. This mystery box contains five of the cute plush animals. While most teens just like to leave them on display, they’re more than welcome to cuddle with the soft toy.
- 55/71
Nike Pull Over Hoodie
A soft, cozy sweatshirt is a must-have in every teen’s wardrobe, and this pullover checks all the boxes for the teens we talked to—especially because it's from their favorite brand, Nike. With a brushed fleece interior and a perfectly oversized fit (complete with a roomy kangaroo pocket!), it’s equal parts comfy and cool.
- 56/71
Tree Hut Holiday Treasures Body Scrub Gift Set
Teen girls adore the rich fragrances and exfoliating feel of Tree Hut’s body scrubs. Treat them to a trio of holiday scents—sugarplums and champagne, sandalwood and prosecco, and blue raspberry with jasmine.
- 57/71
Nike Club Training Joggers
Pair their hoodie with cozy Nike joggers that have a tapered fit to lock in warmth. They’ll never own enough, especially as they grow.
- 58/71
Crocs Mellow Recovery Slides
Crocs are where it’s at, but they likely already own the clogs. Add the popular slide to their collection—it’s sportier looking and equally comfy, and it comes in a bunch of colors.
- 59/71
Big Joe Wild Things Animal Bean Bag Chair
Parents of teens we spoke to pointed to bean bag chairs as the best gift for kids’ spaces, whether it’s their bedroom or dorm room. They can get cozy, do their homework, read, or play games in it. The cute kitty design of this one is playful enough for tweens, but there are plenty of other styles on Amazon (like this corduroy one that turns into a bed).
- 60/71
“The Unofficial TikTok Cookbook” by Valentina Mussi
Pique their culinary interest with a cookbook full of ridiculous, TikTok-viral snacks—seltzer slushies and spicy cheese-puff-encrusted chicken tenders. Maybe they’ll feel inspired to cook their own dinner too. One can dream.
- 61/71
Kintion Pocket Mirror
If she’s constantly checking her lip gloss, she’ll thank you for an LED makeup mirror that’s small enough to toss in her bookbag or purse. It is smaller than her phone, has two types of magnification (one’s close enough for tweezing fine hairs and applying tricky eyeliner), and provides bright, natural-tone light so she can better see her work.
- 62/71
Ugg Classic Mini II Boots
The popularity of Ugg boots amongst teens (and adults, TBH) endures through the years to present day—every teen still wants them. They’ll wear them around the house, to school, and to hang with friends. These booties are particularly loved, with their ankle coverage, warm lining, and grippy tread.
- 63/71
Roblox Digital Gift Card
We had to google “what is Roblox” when two moms of teens we spoke to said their gamer kids will never say no to Robux (currency you can spend on the platform that lets them create and play video games).
- 64/71
Starface Pimple Patches
Starface pimple patches treat zits, sure, but they've become a style symbol with teens, too. Instead of trying to hide acne, they turn it into a fashion statement. “Their star shape is actually pretty important too, since the pointy arm shape allows it to grip skin more effectively than a circle,” says Glamour commerce editor Jake Henry Smith, who swears by them.
- 65/71
Yesy Sour Candy Box
Forget chocolate—sour candy’s the way to a teen’s stomach, especially a big ol’ gift box stuffed with the greatest hits (Sour Patch Kids, Warheads, Sour Skittles).
- 66/71
SuSuTiFy Custom Case for Airpods
AirPods are a safe choice to give a teen, but if they’ve already got some, then gift them a custom case so they can keep them separate from everyone else’s. (But order ASAP if you want this in time for Christmas.)
- 67/71
Christmas Straw Toppers for Stanley Cup
Like bag charms and Jibbitz, these festive gadgets accessorize their everyday items. The little caps fit around the top of their Staney cup’s straw, serving as adorable ornamentation and protecting their mouthpiece.
- 68/71
MT World Personalized Makeup Bag
Help them organize their makeup, toiletries, or tech gear with a pretty cosmetic case customized with their name that also happens to be popular on TikTok.
- 69/71
New Bee RGB Headphone Stand With Charging Port
Every gamer or music lover will appreciate having a spot to safely hang their prized headphones, especially one that changes light colors and acts as a charger for multiple devices.
- 70/71
Swarmir Bluetooth Speaker Night Light
A color-changing Bluetooth speaker/wireless phone charger will help set the mood for lounging, gaming, and—insert air quotes—studying.
- 71/71
Nautica Voyage Eau de Toilette
Fresh, woodsy, and just the right amount of bold—it’s a cologne that makes any teen guy feel a little more confident. But seriously, remind them it’s a spritz, not a shower. Glamour’s commerce editor, Jake Smith, spent months researching the most popular cologne for teen guys, and this topped the list.