The best 18th birthday gifts that they'll actually use and appreciate

Meet the best 18th birthday gifts for every type of soon-to-be adult, whether they're tech-obsessed or have a penchant for perfumes.

Turning 18 is a major milestone—it's the first stage of adulthood where you can finally vote, get a tattoo, and even skydive. Inevitably, gift-givers are responsible for finding a present that's several notches above what their teen already has. (Because let's be real, most teens already have everything that's cool and chic.)

Sadly, it's not always assured that the present you choose will be loved by the recipient—what do teenagers want for their birthday anyway? 

That's why we've put together our pick of the best 18th birthday gifts, which can be purchased online and shipped to your front door. Our curation offers timeless and trendy finds for their pursuits—from starting university and attending frat parties to filming the latest TikTok dance. With our guidance, your beloved Gen-Zer won't deem you as cheugy (aka out with the times). 

RETAILERS WITH THE BEST 18TH BIRTHDAY GIFTS

We've scoured far and wide to compile the best destinations for 18th birthday gifts across categories, from fashion finds and travel essentials.

• Best retailers for fashion 18th birthday gifts: Amazon, Farfetch, Gucci, Herschel Supply Co., Kate Spade, Mejuri, Nike, Selfridges, and Trouva
• Best retailers for beauty 18th birthday gifts: Amazon, Chanel Beauty, Dyson, and Erborian
• Best retailers for travel 18th birthday gifts: Amazon, Airbnb, Aspinal of London, and Polaroid
• Best retailers for tech 18th birthday gifts: Amazon and Apple
• Best retailers for books for 18th birthday: Amazon
• Best retailers for last-minute 18th birthday gifts: Amazon, Airbnb, and Aspinal of London
• Best retailers for virtual 18th birthday gifts: Masterclass, Nest Candle Subscription, and Nuuly Fashion Subscription
• Best retailers for vouchers for 18th birthday: Amazon

Fashion Gifts

Tiffany & Co.1837 Ring 

RRP: $183/£155 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy

A timeless accessory that will endure the fickle trend cycle. Made of premium sterling silver, this ring pairs nicely with a variety of outfits, from flattering jumpsuits to best shirt dresses. And unlike cheap jewelry, it won't irritate the skin or diminish in quality with time. Available in sizes U.S. G-W/U.K. 3-11.

• Tiffany & Co.1837 Ring at Selfridges for $183/£155

Stella McCartney Kids Red star-appliquéd shoulder bag

RRP: $135/£115 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 30-day return policy

Sponsored

If you want to treat your young loved one to fancy designer bag but don't want to spend over the odds, then shopping in the kids department (no, we're not kidding), could be a great way to find a product that ticks both the boxes. This stylish Stella McCartney bag will add a bit of fun to any outfit with its bright colors and striking design.

• Stella McCartney Kids Red star-appliquéd shoulder bag at Harvey Nichols for $135/£115

BELLROY HIDE & SEEK WALLET

RRP: $89/ £75 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

With a modern profile and convenient perks, the Bellroy wallet is ideal for the 18-year-old who wants to level up their style without sacrificing practicality. The thin billfold design adds pocket space and fits cards, coins, and 12 cards with room to spare. It is available in eight colors, made from environmentally certified leather, and backed by a 3-year warranty.

• Bellroy Hide & Seek Wallet at Amazon for $89/£75

Ray-Ban Round Double Bridge Sunglasses

RRP: $172/ £128.73 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 45-day return policy

As an industry leader, Ray-Ban offers the best sunglasses on the market, reconciling durability with trendy aesthetics. Naturally, the Double Bridge sunnies are a universal staple across households, coming in 19 unique colorways. Chic factor aside, they're non-polarized and incorporate a UV-protection coating for your peepers.

• Ray-Ban Round Double Bridge Sunglasses at Amazon for $172/£128.73

GUCCI BEE-EMBROIDERED LEATHER TRAINERS

RRP: $680/£480 | Delivery: 3-8 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

Elevate their shoe game with leather Gucci trainers: a crisp white pair with a whimsical bee embellishment and contrast metallic panel at the heel. And don't be fooled: They're as comfortable as they are trendy, featuring a soft interior that cushions your feet. Available in sizes U.S. 4-12/U.K. 34-42.

• Gucci Bee-Embroidered Leather Trainers at Gucci for $680/£480

GAUCHO TECHPACK MOBILE PHONE ACCESSORIES KIT + POWER BANK

RRP: $179.49/£171.99 | Delivery: 1-5 day shipping | Refundable? 28-day return policy

This practical (yet undeniably stylish) tech pack can hold gadgets and wires aplenty for the 18-year-old who is always on the go at home, college, and more. Use Gaucho's embossing service to add their initials to the leather pouch for a thoughtful, personalized touch.

• Gaucho Techpack Mobile Phone Accessories Kit + Power Bank at Trouva for $179.49/£171.99

Nike Men's Air Force 1 ’07 Sneakers

RRP: $90/ £105 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable? 60-day return policy

The Nike Air Force sneakers are timeless, featuring durable stitched overlays, soft cushioning, and a clean, low-cut silhouette. The versatile pair complements casual outfits and night-out ensembles, making onlookers develop some serious sneaker envy. Available in two colors and men's U.S. sizes 6-18 and the U.K. sizes 10-20.

• Nike Men's Air Force 1 '07 sneakers at Nike for $90/£105

Kate Spade spencer chain wallet

RRP: $188/£165 | Delivery: 5-7 day shipping | Refundable?: 14-day return policy

Kate Spade offers affordable luxury bags that are effortlessly chic and will last for years to come with proper care. This soft leather bag is spacious for the essentials, and the delicate gold chain makes it an ideal accessory for day and night.

• Kate Spade Spencer Chain Wallet at Kate Spade for $188/£165

ETON TEXTURED COTTON-BLEND TIE

RRP: $183/£155 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy

Truth be told, men know that not all ties are created equally. That's why they appreciate this high-quality option by ETON, made of plush cotton, silk, and nylon fabric. It features self-tie fastening, a wide blade, and a distinctive branded label at back. Available in one color and size.

• ETON Textured Cotton-Blend Tie at Selfridges for $96/£79

MULBERRY MEDIUM CONTINENTAL FRENCH PURSE

RRP: $410/£310 | Delivery: 3-7 day shipping | Refundable?: 14-day return policy

Debit card, credit card, driver's license, student ID, and more—keep all the important cards safe and in one place in this smart and stylish card wallet by luxury leather goods brand Mulberry. Pair it with minimalist wardrobe essentials, and you're good to go. A classic 18th gift from an iconic British brand that will last for years to come.

• Mulberry Medium Continental French Purse at Farfetch for $410/£310

Herschel Supply Co. Retreat Backpack

RRP: $89.99/£85 | Delivery: 3-5 day shipping | Refundable 30-day return policy

Herschel Supply Co. is renowned for its quality backpacks and their products come with a lifetime guarantee, meaning this is a gift that should last forever. Hailed for its versatility and large size, the bag is ideal for an 18-year-old embarking on international travel, preparing for university life, or urban commuting.

• Herschel Supply Co. Retreat Backpack at Herschel for $89.99/£85

Pavé Diamond Round Bracelet

RRP: $375/£375 | Delivery: 1-5 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

As the adage goes, diamonds are forever, and this keepsake certainly lives up to that reputation. Made of 14k gold, this classic will not oxidize or discolor over time, even with wild adventures. Needless to say, it's the perfect present for any 18-year-old trendsetter eager to make a statement. Available in sizes 6-7 / 7-8 in.

Editor's Note: Mejuri has extended its 30-day return policy to 60 days.

• Pavé Diamond Round Bracelet at Mejuri for $375/£375

Beauty gifts

Dyson AirWrap Complete Styler

RRP: $549/£449.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

The latest in hair technology, the Dyson Airwrap styler has been making waves (pun intended) in the beauty industry for its engineering, specifically designed by Dyson to curl, wave, smooth, or volumize. The Airdrop styles and dries simultaneously, serving as one of the best hair dryers. Simply put, it'll become a mainstay in your 18-year-old's hair routine.

• Dyson Airwrap Complete Styler at Dyson from $549/£449.99

GILLETTE HEATED RAZOR STARTER KIT

RRP: $199.94/£124.99 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

New adults need an upgraded razor that exceeds the reusables that got them through high school. Enter: the Gillette Heated Razor Starter Kit, featuring first-of-its-kind technology. This razor quickly heats up and soothes the skin as you trim. It also boasts a waterproof design and durable lifespan, providing up to six shaves from a single charge. The bundle comes with a heated razor handle, 2-5 blade refills, a magnetic wireless charging dock, and a smart plug.

• Gillette Heated Razor Starter Kit at Amazon for $199.94/£124.99

FOREO LUNA MINI 2

RRP: $119/£99 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

It's never too early to begin an anti-aging beauty routine, and this sphere-shaped gadget is one of the best skincare devices that tightens and brightens the complexion. Made of FDA-grade premium silicone, it's primarily designed to unclog pores of residue and boost circulation. 

• Foreo Luna 2 at Amazon for $119/£99

Oral-B iO Series 9 Electric Toothbrush

RRP: $297.99/£249.99 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 60-day return policy

The Oral-B iO Series 9 Electric Toothbrush features all of the bells and whistles: a display screen for customizable brushing, a round brush head with twisted bristles that reach every tooth, and a signal that turns red when you're brushing too hard. Available in three colors, it comes with a convenient charging travel case, so your 18-year-old can get the perfect clean whenever, wherever. If the price tag seems daunting, fear not: There are plenty of best electric toothbrush deals out there.

• Oral-B iO Series 9 Electric Toothbrush at Amazon for $297.99/£249.99

REVLON ONE-STEP HAIR DRYER AND VOLUMIZER HOT AIR BRUSH

RRP: $59.99/£59.99 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

Give the gift of an at-home salon blowout with the Revlon One-Step Volumizer, acclaimed as one of the best hair dryer brushes by experts, beginners, and top-tier media. This tool glides through thin and coarse hair textures with ease and finesse; while its oval shape helps to tame frizz and add body to every strand. It's also backed by variable heat and speed settings, a cool-down setting, tufted bristles for detangling, and a generous 4-year warranty. Available in six colors.

• Revlon One-Step Volumizer at Amazon for $59.99/£59.99

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum

RRP: $82/£93.66 | Delivery: 3-6 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

It's not every day that the average person can treat themselves to a Chanel perfume, so gifting one to someone will always be special and well-received. There's a reason why Coco Mademoiselle is one of the best-selling perfumes in the world, and you can't really go wrong when picking this classic fragrance as a present. Available in sizes 1.2, 1.7, 3.4, and 6.8 fl. oz.

• Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum at Chanel from $82/‎£93.66

Penhaligon's Gentlemen's Fragrance Collection 

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

Help them find their signature scent with this travel-friendly fragrance collection. This bundle highlights Penhaligon's legacy best-sellers in petite capsules, including Halfeti Eau de Parfum, Quercus Cologne, Endymion Cologne, Blenheim Bouquet Eau de Toilette, and Juniper Sling Eau de Toilette. Compared to his Axe Body Spray, these fragrances emit rich and unique aromas, from basil and sweet jasmine notes to bergamot, suede, coffee, and geranium scents.

• Penhaligon's Gentlemen's Fragrance Collection at Selfridges for $47/£40

Cooluli Skincare Mini Fridge 

RRP: $49.99/£124.63 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy

For your college-bound 18-year-old, the Cooluli Mini Fridge organizes beauty essentials of varying sizes and keeps them cool. As one of the best skincare fridges, it maintains a crisp 35°F/1.67°C when powered on, thanks to the brand's unique EcoMax Technology. Additionally, it features a removable inner shelf and container basket to help streamline your space. Available in seven styles.

• Cooluli Skin Care Mini Fridge at Amazon for $49.99/£124.63

Erborian CC CREAM CLAIR

RRP: $18/£18 | Delivery: 3-8 day shipping | Refundable? 45-day return policy

Sponsored

Whether your 18-year-old is heading off to college or looking to spruce up their beauty routine, they'll need Erborian's top-rated CC Cream on hand. Formulated with SPF 25 protection, this versatile formula is a perfect hybrid of skincare and makeup, designed to enhance your complexion's texture. It leverages a nourishing medley of Tiger Grass, Honey Extract, and Vitamin E, which restore dull, dehydrated skin to optimal health.

Initially, it'll appear a bit sheer in color; however, the cream will adapt to match your skin tone for a natural finish. Available in sizes 15 and 45 ml.

• Erborian CC Cream Clair at Erborian from £18

LE LABO Grooming Bundle Gift Set

RRP: $197/£167 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy

The Le Labo Grooming Bundle is ultra-luxe, a far cry from the 4-in-1 body wash of his adolescent youth. This Selfridges exclusive comes with Le Labo's Santal fragrance, Hinoki and Sesame shower gel, Basil and Chamomile face lotion, and nourishing beard oil. Best of all, it's suitable for all skin types and delivers fresh scents, like papyrus and cedarwood.

• Le Labo Grooming Bundle gift set at Selfridges for $197/£167

Travel gifts

Aspinal of London Burgundy Saffiano & Navy Suede Passport Cover

RRP: $75/£65 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 14-day return policy

Treat the intrepid jetsetter heading off abroad with a special passport cover, designed to keep their travel documents safe. Emboss the leather cover with their initials for the ultimate personalized gift and unique touch. Available in 16 colors.

• Aspinal of London Burgundy Saffiano & Navy Suede Passport Cover at Aspinal of London for $75/£65

AIRBNB GIFT CARD

RRP: $25/£25-$500/£500 | Delivery: Immediate | Refundable? No

For any destination, your globetrotting 18-year-year old will need an Airbnb gift card. Airbnb is an online marketplace for vacation rentals and tourism activities, offering nearly 5.6 million places to stay and thousands of experiences. Send this gift via text or email, and it'll never expire. However, your gift card cannot be resold, reloaded, transferred for value, or redeemed for cash.

• Airbnb Gift card at Airbnb for $25/£25-$500/£500

BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Travel Bag

RRP: $22.99/£46.50 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

This cleverly designed bag is Amazon's #1 best-seller in toiletry bags and with sound reason. It's vast and deep, streamlining small and large items in one place. And with convenience in mind, it comes inner main pockets with elastic straps, double zipper compartments, a non-slip metal hook, and more. Plus, it features a waterproof exterior.

• Bagsmart Toiletry Bag Travel Bag at Amazon from $22.99/£46.50

Polaroid Now i‑Type Instant Camera

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

Capture memories and have them printed instantly with a Polaroid camera. This present is a fun and trendy alternative to snapping photos on a phone and uploading them straight to social media. Though ideal for any teen, it's great for those with a creative eye, using each shot to create collages, scrapbooks, or picture displays as tokens.

• Polaroid Now iType Instant Camera at Polaroid for $99.99/£119.99

Tech gifts

Tile Pro Bluetooth Item Finder 2-pack

RRP: $59.99/£84.98 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

The Tile Pro Tracker monitors important belongings, perfect for the 18-year-old who regularly says "Have you seen my *insert important item here*?" Simply attach the Pro to your keys, bag, phone, etc. When something goes missing, use the Tile app to uncover its location—the Pro tracker has a speaker that'll ring when it's within 400 feet. It's also water-resistant and Bluetooth-compatible. 

• Tile Pro Bluetooth Item Finder 2-pack at Amazon from $59.99/£84.98

Apple AirPods

RRP: $249/£249 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 14-day return policy

AirPods might seem expensive for something so small, but these portable, wireless earbuds certainly make life easier and more flexible. They're especially great for the 18-year-old melomaniac whenever they're on the go or exercising in their best running shoes. 

• Apple AirPods Pro at Apple for $249/£249

Anker Portable Charger

RRP: $21.99/£19.99 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

Though slender, this portable charger is hardwearing against scratches and abuse—ideal for your 18-year-old's social adventures. Compatible with Apple and Samsung Galaxy devices, it lasts for 10 hours on a single charge and offers overcharge protection, short circuit protection, and heat control.

• Anker Portable Charger at Amazon for $21.99/£19.99

JBL CLIP 3 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

RRP: $49.95/£36.76 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

The ultimate gadget for shower-time jam sessions, available in twelve styles and colors. This Bluetooth speaker is powered by a 10-hour lifespan on a single charge and clasps onto doorknobs and entryways with ease. Unsurprisingly, it's a resounding best-seller, with over 36,000 positive reviews on Amazon alone.

• JBL Clip 3 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker at Amazon for $49.95/£36.76 

SONIX BEYOND UV SANITIZING BOX 

RRP: $74.99/£55 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

Sanitize your gadgets with this disinfecting box—a practical find with an Antimicrobial exterior that doesn't sacrifice aesthetics. Available in three colors, the Beyond UV Sanitizing Box kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, targeting hard-to-reach places with eco-friendly (but potent) chemicals. Plus, it features a built-in USB-A and USB-C power port for charging phones during their deep clean.

• Sonix Beyond UV Sanitizing Box at Amazon for $74.99/£55

Books

Almost Adulting: All You Need to Know to Get it Together

RRP: $12.17/£8.95 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

Described as one "for fans of Grace Helbig and Alexa Chung" comes a fresh, hilarious guide to growing up your way from social media influencer and lifestyle vlogger Arden Rose. This light-hearted read caters to 'budding adults, failing adults, and eaters of microwave mug brownies' in need of advice on how to survive impending adulthood. It's easily one of the best books for your 18-year-old.

• Almost Adulting: All You Need to Know to Get it Together at Amazon for $12.17/£8.95

The How-To Cookbook for Teens

RRP: $14/£11.41 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

With this beginner-friendly cookbook, your college dorm dweller can craft culinary delights—right in their 180-square-feet space. As a stepping stone, it's equipped with 100 simple, foolproof recipes that help your teen prevent microwave catastrophes and 3 a.m. fire drills.

• The How-To Cookbook for Teens at Amazon for $14/£11.41

He’s Just Not That Into You: The No-Excuses Truth to Understanding Guys

RRP: $14.49/£11.44 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

Authors Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo are venerable sages with timeless relationship advice your 18-year-old will carry into the future. It's a tough, but necessary guide that'll prevent them from experiencing heartbreak, along with dead-end situationships and relationships.

• He’s Just Not That Into You: The No-Excuses Truth to Understanding Guys at Amazon for $14.49/£11.44

Adulting 101: #Wisdom4Life 

RRP: $10.27/£13.99 | Delivery: 2-4 day shipping | Refundable? 30-day return policy

Perhaps the most important gift on our list, this book provides life skills to help your 18-year-old navigate adulthood—from effective communication and career advice to money management and insurance plans.

• Adulting 101: #Wisdom4Life at Amazon for $10.27/£13.99