Gifts for teens can often be the most frustrating part of holiday shopping. Ask anyone who needs to shop for any person between the age of 10 to 20!
This age group is very difficult to buy for due to a number of reasons. It’s not just that they’re picky, which is what many people believe. True, in some instances they can be very specific about what they like and don’t like. But that’s more to do with them still discovering their tastes rather than being difficult.
For some teens, it’s difficult to articulate what they want. For others, it’s hard for them to even ask. Again, this is a learning curve for them as much as it is for us. Instead of throwing up your hands and putting money in an envelope, consider these gift ideas that may not only surprise, but give them something they didn’t even know they wanted.
Gifts for Teens That are Unisex
One of the best gifts you can give is to create a special memory. What better way than to orchestrate an adventure like INDOOR SKYDIVING! With locations popping up all over Canada and the United States, iFly is soaring! It’s a simulated skydiving experience that will literally whisk you off your feet and is suitable for anyone aged 4 and up! A great (and safe) adventure for any kid.
Wearing BRACELETS is a great way for teens to show their personality and there are so many unisex options available from wonderful small businesses like The Pretty Little Things Shop. Personally, I love the wood bracelets but I’m also partial to the worded bracelets that can be customized to anything you like. She has morse code bracelets coming out soon so keep an eye open for those!
You can read more about The Pretty Little Things Shop in our Canadian Showcase interview with shop creator Ashley Murdoch.
For teens that like self-expression, a TEMPORARY TATOO may be the way to go! Tattoos are powerful symbols of identity but no one said you had to be inked for life. With brands like Inkbox on the market, you can select any sort of tattoo – geometric, animal, self-love, etc – and not have to live with it for the rest of your life. This is a fun gift idea for anyone on your list.
Gifts for Teen Girls
An INTIMATE GIFT can really show your love for a person, even teens. Driven by fuelling a girl’s confidence, Apricotton is dedicated to helping empower girls and take the awkwardness out of wearing a bra. Designed to grow as she grows, she’ll fit into the same bra as she changes cup sizes. The soft moisture-wicking fabric, adjustable straps, and removable padding make these bras the only ones she’ll need growing up.
You can read more about Apricotton in our Canadian Showcase interview with founders Chloe & Jessica.
If you have a girl in your life who loves makeup or beauty products, you might want to consider a GIFT CARD so that you don’t buy the wrong things. But, you can have fun with that gift card by wrapping it up in these super cute, sustainable MITTS from Preloved. Just pop the gift card in the glove, add a bow and ta-da, the perfect gift!
These gloves and many more sustainable gift ideas are available at Lemonberry. You can read more about this adorable shop in our Canadian Showcase interview with owner Lisa Simmons.
INSPIRATIONAL BOOKS are a great way to build a girl’s confidence and encourage them to be their best selves. With the “Good Night Stories For #RebelGirls” written by Elena Favilli you can send your precious lady to sleep with stories of powerful women, from Joan Jett to Zaha Hadid.
Gifts for Teen Boys
LIFESTYLE BOOKS aren’t just for girls, there are some great ones available for boys as well! In Jonathan Catherman’s book “The Manual To Manhood”, the teen boy in your life will learn valuable things like cooking, dating, and other important skills that help build character as he makes his way in life.
Do you have an active boy in your life? Consider giving the gift of OUTDOOR SPORTING GAMES for some added fun that doesn’t involve a video game! One such game is Spikeball that can be fun played individually or with a group.
My son is certainly on the list of hard-to-buy-for people! Recently, a family member bought his a FAMILY DNA KIT called Ancestry so he could learn more about his family history. I have to say, he was blown away with the idea! This present spiked his curiosity and will provide him with information he’ll have forever. A unique and wonderful gift.
There are certainly hundreds more ideas out there and if you’re looking for more, check out this article with more than 300 cool gift ideas. You may also find my post Online Gifts for Unique Individuals will also provide the inspiration you need with the added bonus of shopping from home.
Do you have a good idea to share with my readers? Please leave us a comment below. Sharing is caring!!
Happy shopping to you all. I hope you find the perfect gift 🎁
