I have only one teenager to buy a Christmas gift for, yet I struggle to choose what to get him and end up just asking him or his parents for inspiration. (There’s a lot to be said for that approach!)
Here are some ideas of what to get teenagers for Christmas, ranging from “the big gift” to stocking fillers.
Remember, all teenagers are different so it’s not one-size-fits all, use this guide as inspiration only.
And to be clear, I am a voucher fan, they get a lot of stick as being a thoughtless gift, but the right voucher for the right place can be the most thoughtful. Yes, there are lots of vouchers on this list. Did I mention vouchers?
Here are my suggestions for what to buy teenagers for Christmas.
Cash – we all know that what they want is to buy the stuff that they want themselves, so cash is always well received, if the gift of last resort for many.
Voucher for a meal – it doesn’t have to be somewhere fancy – you can get Milano vouchers in Tesco, Eddie Rockets sell their vouchers online, pick their favourite place to eat with friends.
Phone Accessories – portable battery packs or wireless charging pads, cool cases.
Makeup and makeup brushes take note of which palettes or brands that they favour also consider or beauty, nail or hair salon vouchers.
Cinema Voucher – give the gift of an evening out with friends.
Bowling Voucher – see previous entry!
Jewellery – Alex & Ani,* Betty & Biddy are both popular with this age group,
Tickets to a gig or a ticketmaster voucher so that they can get their own. Ticketmaster vouchers are available in Tesco stores.
Sports gear – A team jersey, club half-zip, or bobble hat. Extra skins always come in handy, or a wetsuit if they’re into watersports. (Decathlon have great deals) If your teen is into GAA check out my GAA fan gift guide.
The gift of a hot drink and muffin. My way of subtly suggesting another voucher- Give a voucher for a local cafe or if you don’t live nearby you can buy gift cards in many chains like Insomnia and Costa
Clothes – go for a brand/shop they love, and get a gift receipt – or chance something funny like this hoodie from hairybaby. Or, ahem, a voucher. Look at places like Hollister, Penneys, Jack & Jones, H&M for clothing vouchers.
Gaming Accessories – A new headset, gaming chair, gaming voucher, extra controllers, or this tongue in cheek hoodie that says what they are thinking*.
Beauty Equipment – An epilator may not seem festive but a new hairdryer, straightener or curler might fit the bill. This is my favourite curler* that provides loose waves.
Cosy things – Christmas is a time for cosiness for all, so consider a fleecy blanket, a snuggly pyjamas or a hot water bottle, or an extra big hot water bottle!
Music accessories – Spotify voucher, musical instruments or lessons, devices to play music, speakers, wireless headphones, music stand.
Sports equipment – weights, kettlebells, a yoga mat, a gym or pool voucher or short membership.
Books – or book tokens. It’s difficult to chose a book for someone else but think outside the box, look at sporting or music biographies, cookbooks, and photography books, as well as the humorous books that come out at Christmas.
Experiences – a trip away with one parent, city break, airline voucher, tickets to a show or play, a helicopter ride (starts at €39), paintballing, windsurfing lesson, rock-climbing,
Food – a food mixer, a cookery course, smoothie maker, donut maker, chocolate, hot chocolate kits, vouchers for food.
Hamper – make a hamper of their favourite things, chocolate, crisps, drinks, make-up, memorabilia, bath bombs, lip balm, whatever you know they love.
A voucher – or better still cash
Hope you’re inspired, do share any ideas you’d add.
With thanks to my instagram followers for their contributions.
*Post contains some affiliate links
