Everyone faces challenges when getting through their holiday shopping. For a lot of people, it's tough buying for teens.
Teens present an interesting challenge. On one hand, you want to get them something they'll genuinely like. On the other hand, most of the things teens genuinely like come with some hefty price tags. You want to get something good, but you also don’t want to go broke doing it.
The good news is there are still options. Accept that you probably won't get the No. 1 gift on their list, but that's OK. Kids will always remember the big-ticket items like game systems, but those are not the only gifts they make memories with. It's all about keeping the recipient and their interests in mind.
Here are some creative ideas for gifts that will impress teens and leave you with money to spare for the rest of your list!
Bic BodyMark Temporary Tattoo Markers
If your teen is flirting with the idea of body art, let them experiment safely. The Bic BodyMark temporary tattoo markers allow for a skin-safe way for teens to draw or write on themselves. They also work great for being theatrical — for the budding actor or beauty blogger who regularly switches between dynamic looks. The easy-to-remove designs can be washed off in a matter of hours or days.
Penguin Slippers
$13.98
from
Aeropostale
Sometimes, teens are a little reluctant to be playful in the seriousness of Figuring Themselves Out. Remind them that it's OK to be a little silly with these fuzzy animal slippers. They're comfy and warm, which is perfect for the long winter ahead.
Lime Crime Holiday Remix Mini Lip Set
$10
from
Lime Crime
This cute lip set will be a big win with any beauty fan. It features a deep hot pink, bubblegum pink, and mauve nude. The playful packaging makes it stand out from mundane beauty products.
Ziptop Waistpack
$41.25
from
Chrome Industries
If you know a teen who likes to travel light, this is a great gift. It'll help them keep everything important on them while leaving their hands free for hiking, raving, or anything else. The small, durable bag will keep up with all their adventures.
UBeesize 10-Inch Selfie Ring Light With 50-Inch Extendable Tripod Stand and Flexible Phone Holder
These ring lights are a great buy for teens. It's good for makeup, video chats with friends, making YouTube or TikTok videos, and so much more. It's a simple but sweet setup.
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
This crazy word game is fun enough to engage teens but simple enough to play with kids just under that age range as well. If you celebrate Christmas, there's also a holiday version called Santa Cookie Elf Candy Snowman.
The Comfy Blanket Sweatshirt
Check out the best gift for the teen who can fall asleep anywhere! Despite it being one size, reviewers rave that it fits people of all shapes and sizes. It'll make for great binge-watching wear.
Engraved Quote Necklace
This necklace is great for the fashionista who can always use more confidence. The necklace is coin-medallion style, which is definitely hot right now. The quote — "She believed she could so she did" — is timeless.
LED Bluetooth Speaker
Speakers are a solid gift for any teen who loves music. This light-up LED model makes it easier to match the environment to the musical vibes.
Wool Texting Gloves
These buttery soft wool gloves are sleek and easy to pair with any look. They're available in three colors: Almost Black, Faded Rust, and Desert Moss. Conductive threads in the thumbs and index fingers make them smartphone-friendly.
Glossier 3-Step Skin Care Routine
Glossier is one of the biggest brands out there right now, and with good reason. This skin care set is the saving grace of countless beauty vloggers and brand devotees. The face wash, moisturizer, lip balm combo brings you the best of the basics to keep your skin balanced and clear.
Create Your Own Comic Book Kit
$30
from
Uncommon Goods
Whether they're just getting the hang of drawing and writing stories or they've been at it for years, this gift can truly bring their talent to life. Teens get the opportunity to write and draw out their own comic. Then you can get it published by following some simple instructions. It's a great project for anyone who is passionate about art and writing.
Rit Indigo Shibori Tie-Dye Kit
Tie-dye is kind of a thing again, everyone. DIYing is definitely a thing, so a combination of the two is surprisingly on trend. Grab some white items for them to dye to bring it all together!
Psst: If you choose to purchase an item on this list, LittleThings may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
