Ultimate Gift Guide for Tweens and Teens: Ideas They’ll Actually Love
Let’s be honest—the most requested gift by tweens and teens these days is cold hard cash. Especially for boys, gift cards or prepaid Visa cards are usually top of the list. While it may feel boring to give, it’s exactly what they want. But if you love the experience of shopping for a physical present, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
We asked real moms of kids ages 11–17 and even polled some tweens and teens directly to compile the ultimate teen gift guide. Whether you’re shopping for your own children, a babysitter, or a distant relative, these ideas span various price ranges and styles.
Personalized & Monogrammed Gifts for Teens
Many girls love anything monogrammed—from accessories to decor. Personalized gifts feel more thoughtful and unique.
- Monogrammed handbags, bath wraps, belts, or lunch bags
- Car decals or monogrammed water bottles
- Custom fleece throws or towels
- Great stores for personalized gifts: Paper Sassy, Kim Taylor & Co, Swoozies, The Gilded Lily by Patra, Invitations Only
Tech Gifts for Tweens and Teens
Tech is always a hit, especially among teen boys and girls who love to stay connected or stream their favorite music.
- iPods or iPod speakers
- Apple laptops or tablets
- Compact digital cameras
- Webcams for chatting and school projects
- 4×6 photo printers for their room or dorm
- Eco-friendly water bottles for school and sports
Gift Cards They’ll Actually Use
Not sure what size or style they like? Go with a gift card. Teens prefer the freedom to choose.
- iTunes or Apple gift cards
- Movie theater gift certificates
- Starbucks gift cards (a hot trading item among teens!)
- Clothing store gift cards: Abercrombie, Hollister, Gap, American Eagle, Delia’s, Aeropostale
Fashion & Accessories Teens Want
Teens are all about style. These are some of their top picks:
- North Face or Mountain Hardware jackets
- Rainbow flip-flops in every color
- Scarves (Delia’s is a fave for this!)
- Hair straighteners
- Manicure or pedicure gift certificates
- Jewelry—especially silver styles from Francesca’s, American Eagle, The Jewel Box, Rock Paper Scissors
Room Decor & Accessories for Tweens
Help them personalize their space with these fun and functional items:
- Funky lamps or string lights
- Bright colored storage bins or closet organizers
- Mirrors (yes, plural!)
- Memory boards or bulletin boards
- Photo collage frames or mini photo printers
- Room accessories from Target, Pier 1, Pottery Barn Teen
Creative & Unique Tween Gift Ideas
These gifts are quirky, useful, and definitely not boring.
- Electric scooters
- Paintball gear or remote control airplanes
- Beta fish in a cool bowl
- Scrapbook kits or craft supplies
- College t-shirts or retro design tees
- Scene It: Twilight Deluxe Edition (great for teens still obsessed with the saga)
What Not to Buy (According to Teens)
Straight from the mouths of actual tweens and teens:
- No cheap drugstore makeup
- No socks or boring basics
- No board games
- No clothes—unless you really know their style or it’s from Mom
When in doubt, go for a gift card or something functional yet fun. The more personalized and on-trend, the better.
Shopping for this age group doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the ideas above, you’re sure to find something that brings out a smile instead of a sigh. Whether you’re putting together a holiday gift list, shopping for a birthday, or grabbing a last-minute item for a babysitter, these teen-approved gifts are sure to be a hit.
By Rachel Hoeing
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