Best Christmas gifts for teenagers: What to get a teenager for Christmas in 2021

Uncover the best Christmas gifts for teenagers with our foolproof guide, featuring cool and useful finds that'll impress them. 

Compared to finding Christmas gifts for parents, searching for teens can take you into uncharted waters. After all, teens have their own culture that hinges on prevailing trends. In other words, they define what's cool and hip. This, of course, complicates scoring the perfect gift that they'll love and use.

But fear not. We’ve compiled great Christmas gifts for teenagers that are unique and useful in their day-to-day lives. Our inspiration draws from popular TikTok trends, interests, and passions, whether your teen is into the summer-camp jewelry trend or vlogging.

What to get a teenager for Christmas, according to teenagers

To answer this question, it's important to examine what's currently on-trend. Recently, Pandora Jewelry conducted a survey that explored gifting habits among different age groups. They found that people between the ages of 16-24 years old generally want apparel. Males, in particular, prefer clothes, drinks, and technology, respectively. Females, however, especially want clothes, food, and drink gifts this holiday season. With this in mind, here's what we recommend as great gifts for teens:

• Tech gifts: As digital natives, teens love practical and cool finds. Focus on gifts that add value, like wireless headphones, selfie ring lights for content creation, and unique record consoles.
• Fashion: It's all about nostalgia, Y2K, and the '90s. In addition, today's teens are more sustainable and cause-driven than ever before. Think reusable water bottles, slow fashion brands, and more.
• Food and drinks: Since they're underage, stick to the best Christmas food gifts and Christmas hampers that'll delight their taste buds.

 Best Christmas gifts for teenagers 

From the latest gadgets to beauty bundles, we’ve narrowed down the items that they’ll be happy to show off on social.

1. Baublebar Custom Phonecase 

RRP: From $68/£50 | Delivery: 1-5 week shipping | Refundable?: No | Region: US and UK

Baublebar curates bright and whimsical phone cases that'll win over your trend-obsessed teen. Choose among dozens of styles, fonts, and sizes. Then, simply add your customization, be it the recipient's full name or initials. Your case will arrive in four weeks.

• Custom Phonecase at Baublebar from $68/£50

2. Dr. Martens 1460 Smooth Leather Ankle Boots

RRP: $150/£149 | Delivery: 3-7 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

A beloved classic since the '40s, the 1460 Ankle Boots come in a variety of sizes and colors. This iconic pair features an air-cushioned sole and durable Goodyear welt: the perfect marriage of comfort and support. Available in eight colors and US sizes 5-12/UK sizes 3-15.

• 1460 Smooth Leather Ankle Boots at Dr. Martens for $150/£149

3. Ugg "Oh Yeah" Slides

RRP: $100/£80 | Delivery: 3-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 35-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Backed by social media clout, the "Oh Yeah" slides are a reinvented iteration of the brand's best-selling Fluff Yeah Slide. Made of cozy sheepskin, they're like walking on a cloud. Plus, their strappy silhouette lends for versatile pairings. Case in point: They look great with the best women's Christmas pajamas and best cashmere sweaters. 

• "Oh Yeah" Slides at UGG for $100/£80

4. House of Sunny The Hockney Dress

RRP: $140/£98 | Delivery: 1-7 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

If they're a fashionista on the pulse of trends, then they know about The Hockney. Dubbed as "The Cult Dress," The Hockney boasts a viral legion of fans, with starlets like Kendall Jenner donning this style. Snag this lime-green gem for your chic teen, and they'll still be thanking you well after the holiday season. Available in sizes 6-14.

• The Hockney Dress at House of Sunny for $140/£98

5. Vans Old Skool Shoes

RRP: $60/£65 | Delivery: 5-7 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Debuting in 1977, this pair remains as timeless as ever. The shoes are crafted with hardwearing suede, canvas uppers, and thoughtful features, like reinforced toe caps and padded collars. What's more, it comes in a range of modern colorways (15 to be exact). Available in the following sizes:

US women's: 5-17.5

US men's: 3.5-16

UK sizes: 2.5-15

• Old Skool Shoes at Vans for $60/£65 

6. Luma Wireless Headphones

RRP: $99.99/£79.99 | Delivery: 5-7 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Available in four colors, these headphones offer crisp sound quality and 25 uninterrupted hours of playtime. They're ideal for your teen who listens to Olivia Rodrigo on repeat or enjoys podcasts.

• Luma Wireless Headphones at Urbanears for $99.99/£79.99

7. Fjallraven Classic Kånken Backpack

RRP: $80/£99 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

This iconic backpack is instantly recognizable among the Gen-Z cohort and with good reason. Made of lightweight and durable Vinylon F fabric, the Classic Kånken brims with pocket space and features adjustable straps. It may just become one of their best weekend bags yet. Available in one standard size and 10 colors. 

• Fjallraven Classic Kånken Backpack at Uran Outfitters for $80/£85

8. Flower Power Ring

RRP: $290/£185 | Delivery: 3-7 day shipping (2-3 weeks in the UK) | Refundable?: No | Region: US and UK

A standout ring made of 14-karat gold plated or silver plated material. This adorable accessory is hypoallergenic and made without nickel. 

If they want more variety, then they'll love our pick of the best jewelry advent calendars.

• Flower Power Ring at Evry Jewels for $33/£25

9. JW Pei Gabbi Bag

RRP: $89/£79 | Delivery: 10-20 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The Gabbi is all the rage, coined as this year's "It" bag among trendsetters and celebs alike. Made of vegan leather and recycled plastic, The Gabbi sports a compact, baguette-like profile. Even so, it's teeming with pocket space for small and large essentials. Best of all, it's available in bright and muted hues—the styling opportunities are endless.

• The Gabbi Bag at JW Pei for $89/£79

10. 8 Other Reasons Miss.Thang Necklace

RRP: $49/£44 | Delivery: 7-14 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

This summer's sartorial moment was nostalgic summer-camp jewelry. Think bright, colorful, and fun gems, from beaded necklaces to enameled rings. Cue: the Miss.Thang Necklace, a layered style with beaded florals and gold-tone metal. This necklace touts a playful vibe, with pearl and smiley face accents, and more. It's one of the best Christmas gifts for her, hands down.

• 8 Other Reasons Miss.Thang Necklace at Revolve for $49/£44

11. Columbia Cornell Woods Flannel Long Sleeve Shirt

RRP: From $24.99/£34.14 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

This plaid button-down is a tried-and-true staple offered in various colorways. Made of plush cotton, this top is elevated enough for everyday wear, but casual and cozy for lounging whilst binging (if that's the plan, we can recommend the best Christmas movies on Netflix btw). Available in sizes S-XXL.

• Columbia Men's Cornell Woods Flannel Long Sleeve Shirt at Amazon from $24.99/£34.14

12. Lolita Floral-print Faux-Fur Bucket Hat

RRP: $47/£40 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: UK and US

In theme with the '90s fashion revival, bucket hats have experienced a resurgence in mainstream culture. With an enduring appeal, they're celebrated for their flexible construction, relaxed aesthetic, and variety of textures.

Enter this ultra-plush find made of faux fur. This fun accessory incorporates a pull-on design and all-over contrast pattern, adding a bit of verve to the best winter coats. Your teen will love the sight of this under the Christmas tree.

• Lolita Floral-print Faux-Fur Bucket Hat at Selfridges for $47/£40

13. Audio-Technica Bluetooth Record Player

RRP: $299/£185 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

This record player checks all of the boxes for everyone on the list. It's one of the most fantastic Christmas gifts for friends, Christmas gifts for couples, and even a great Christmas gift for grandparents. Naturally, we love this for teens, too.

To start, it's Bluetooth-enabled, which your tech-native teen will understand how to use with ease. From there, they can choose between two speeds and enjoy great sound quality for years to come.

• Audio-Technica Bluetooth Record Player at Urban Outfitters for $299/£185

14. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: 3 Month Membership

RRP: $39.99/£32.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Sure, it's easy to buy one game—but why not give them a massive vault instead for a fraction of the price? Introduced by Microsoft, the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a subscription gaming service offering over 100 top-rated games (with new ones regularly added). The value is unmatched.

• Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: 3 Month Membership at Amazon for $39.99/£32.99

15. Mighty Bliss Large Electric Heating Pad

RRP: $29.95/£17.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Alleviate cramps and muscle tension with this electric heating pad and auto shut-off for safety. Thanks to its lightweight design, this pad can be easily transported whenever your teen is attending a sleepover or off on holiday.

• Mighty Bliss Large Electric Heating Pad at Amazon for $29.95/£17.99

16. Moon Juice Dream Dust

RRP: $38/£27.78 | Delivery: 7-14 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Just add the Dream Dust to hot milk with a little sweetener for a better night’s sleep. It features a calming blend of adaptogens such as ashwagandha, jujube, and chamomile—helping your teen destress from their daily anxieties. 

• Moon Juice Dream Dust at Revolve for $38/£27.78

17. LEVOIT Air Purifier

RRP: $129.99/£185 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Forget damp, fusty university bedrooms with this air purifier, designed to eliminate airborne allergens, dust mites, smoke, and lingering odors. This purifier features a range of features, including sleep mode and gentle night light. It also leverages a built-in LED indicator, which will light up when the filter is potentially polluted or incorrectly installed.  

• LEVOIT Air Purifier at Amazon for $129.99/£69.99

18. Lumie Bodyclock Alarm Clock

RRP: $99/£99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

A godsend for teens who struggle to get up in the morning. The Bodyclock features a 30-minute gradual sunrise light that can help regulate your sleep cycle as it mimics natural day-break. It also includes a fading sunset, which encourages wind down and relaxation at bedtime. 

• Lumie Bodyclock Alarm Clock at Amazon for $99/£99

19. S'well Stainless Steel Water Bottle

RRP: $290/£185 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

For the eco-friendly teen, the S'well is a great alternative to single-use plastic water bottles. It keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours and comes in many varieties. Undeniably, one of our favorite sustainable Christmas gifts of 2021.

• S'well Stainless Steel Water Bottle at Amazon for $33.75/£24.50

20. The Easy Cookbook By Editors of Cider Mill Press

RRP: $21.89/£18.95 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The Easy Cookbook features over 100 uncomplicated recipes with healthful and fresh ingredients. Given the mix of cuisines included, this title is one of the most unique Christmas gifts to snag ASAP. 

• The Easy Cookbook By Editors of Cider Mill Press at Amazon for $21.89/£18.95

21. EMART 10-inch Selfie Ring Light

RRP: $29.99/£38 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Upgrade their selfie game with the EMART 10-inch Ring Light, featuring a lightweight and easy-to-use design. This light offers plenty of adjustable options, making it compatible with a variety of cameras. Not to mention, one remote clicker controls all functions of the light. 

• EMART 10-inch Selfie Ring Light at Amazon for $29.99/£38

22. Polaroid Now i‑Type Instant Camera

RRP: $99.99/£119.99 |  Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable? 14-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Help them capture memories with the Polaroid Now. Pick from one of the vibrant vintage designs and make sure to stock up on i-Type film to start snapping. This instant-print camera is a party-hit, creating treasured keepsakes of people and places. 

• Polaroid Now i‑Type Instant Camera at Polaroid for $99.99/£119.99

23. Nintendo Switch Lite

RRP: $299/£189.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

If your teen is a gamer on the go, then they'll love this compact device for handheld play. This sleek console small boasts a high-resolution display screen and allows multiplayer gaming. And the snazzy color range is certainly a perk.

• Nintendo Switch Lite at Amazon for $299/£189.99

24. Starface Hydro-Stars Spot Treatment

RRP: $14.99/£19 | Delivery: 3-8 day shipping | Refundable?: No | Region: US and UK

Coming in the form of adorkable star patches, this spot treatment leverages hydrocolloid to absorb fluid and reduce inflammation. The patches protect pimples against outside bacteria, which, in turn, zaps them virtually overnight. It's an exceptional addition to your teen's best skincare routine for acne.

• Hydro-Stars Spot Treatment at Starface for $14.99/£19

25. Apple AirTag 4-Pack

RRP: $99/£99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The Apple AirTag is ideal for teens who constantly misplace their essentials. They can attach this tracker onto backpacks, keys, and more—then, they can monitor their location through the Find My app. Perfect for the forgetful parents out there too, if you need some practical Christmas gifts for mom and Christmas gift ideas for dad. 

• Apple AirTag 4-Pack at Amazon for $99/£99

26. Glossier The 3-Step Skincare Routine

RRP: $40/£35 | Delivery: 5-9 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Glossier's 3-Step bundle features the brand's bestsellers: the Milk Jelly Cleanser, Priming Moisturizer, and Balm Dotcom—one of the best lip balms to date. Despite their differences, each product has an effective formula to help users look and feel their best.

• The 3-Step Skincare Routine at Glossier for $40/£35

27. Fenty Beauty Gloss Goalz Universal Lip Luminizer 3-piece Set

RRP: $57/£42 | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 60-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Gen Z loves Rihanna’s beauty brand and this lip trio is perfect for teens that are always experimenting with their look. Pair this gift with one of the best beauty advent calendars they'll want to get their hands on this season.

• Gloss Goalz Universal Lip Luminizer 3-piece Set at Fenty Beauty for $57/£42 

28. Colourpop Party Like It's Y2K Eye & Tool Set

RRP: $29/£36 | Delivery: 3-21 day shipping | Refundable?: No | Region: US and UK

This "now-stalgia" gift is a modernized version of early 2000s makeup, featuring bright and bold hues you'd see from the era. From corals to periwinkles, this set will equip your teen with the essentials to upgrade their eyeshadow looks.

• Party Like It's Y2K Eye & Tool Set at Colourpop for $29/£36

29. Neom Christmas Wish Scented Candle

RRP: $49/£185 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: UK and US 

One of the best scented candles that's Christmas in a jar. The Christmas Wish candle imbues notes of cinnamon, tonka bean, and mandarin—an intoxicating trio that'll transport you under a festive fireplace. And while you're ahead, check out the season's best Candle advent calendars.

• Neom Christmas Wish Scented Candle at Selfridges for $38/£32

30. Seeing Stars: Harness the Power of the Zodiac By Stella Andromeda

RRP: $11.99/£7.05 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: UK and US

It's no secret that teens are astrology-obsessed. According to the stars, this manual lends insights on personality, love compatibility, career, money, and more—great for beginners looking to soak up knowledge. 

• Seeing Stars: Harness the Power of the Zodiac By Stella Andromeda at Urban Outfitters for $11.99 / at Amazon UK for £7.05

31. Levi's Trucker Jacket

RRP: From $24.99/£34.14 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: UK and US

The Levi's trucker jacket is a classic, featuring an adjustable button waistband for a comfortable fit. Since it's offered in a wide range of colors and washes, they're bound to find something they like. Available in sizes XS-6XL.

• Levi's Men's Trucker Jacket at Amazon from $26.85/£84

32. Aspinal of London Saffiano Leather Passport Cover

RRP: $71/£60 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: UK and US

Be it for their gap year of a family getaway, this passport cover is a convenient gift that'll simplify their travels. Crafted with leather and suede lining, it's ultra-luxe down to the granular deals—from the silver-tone hardware and embossed logo to the grosgrain ribbon marker.

• Aspinal of London Saffiano Leather Passport Cover at Selfridges for $71/£60 

33. Therabody Wave Solo Smart Vibrating Roller

RRP: $70/£59 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: UK and US

If your giftee has an active lifestyle, consider this smart roller as their perfect match. Backed by textured silicone, this gadget offers three customizable vibrations to alleviate sore muscles. It also connects with Bluetooth and boasts 120 minutes of battery life.

• Therabody Wave Solo Smart Vibrating Roller at Selfridges for $70/£59

34. Moleskin Smart Writing Set Ellipse

RRP: $235/£199 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: UK and US

A tech-savvy writing bundle that comes with a starter journal and dotted paper, plus smartpens, refills, and a charger. Thanks to the brand's Companion app, your giftee can transfer their notes from page to device. And from there, they can share, search, edit, and upload their work digitally. If they're an auditory learner, they can record audio to sync with their notes. 

• Moleskin Smart Writing Set Ellipse at Selfridges for $235/£199

35. Self-Love By Devi B. Dillard-Wright Ph.D.

RRP: $15.99/£9.75 | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Many teens grapple with self-esteem issues and feelings of inadequacy. Empower them with this guide, where they'll find 120 reflections and affirmations designed to boost self-compassion. These tools will build their confidence and help them nurture the most important relationship of all: the one with yourself.

• Self-Love By Devi B. Dillard-Wright Ph.D. at Urban Outfitters for $15.99 / at eBay for £9.75