We researched the most popular picks for this age group, considering each pick’s recommended age, safety features, and educational value, as well as your teen’s interests to narrow down your search. Etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore offers a simple tip: “Tailor the gift to the teen’s personality, style, and taste.” Based on these factors, we selected the Flybold Slackline Kit, the Homall gaming chair, and Hydro Flask water bottle as some of our favorite picks. Here, the best gifts for a teenager in your life. The kit is also equipped with safety features for beginners, which our tester loves. The slackline is wider than normal for first-time users and uses high-quality materials that are stretchy and sturdy. Our tester reported that setup was a breeze after reading through the instructions, but take note that you have to be cautious when dismantling the line due to high tension. Spikeball is accessible to all fitness levels and all ages, which our tester loved. The rules are easy to follow, but also malleable to be super competitive or more low-key and chill, making this perfect for all teens. The game, which can accommodate 4-8 players, includes 100 cards, 7 cardboard mats, 2 answer pads, and 1 scoresheet. At the end of each round, each player gets to pick an answer they want to reveal to the group—and if you pick yours, you’ll be making your own confession.
Educational Value
A gift that teaches or develops a new skill, such as music or cooking, is great for a teenager. It is even better if these skills can grow to a lifelong passion or hobby.
Safety
Teenagers can be risk-takers, but it’s still important to keep their safety in mind. If you’re considering a gift that requires safety gear, add a helmet or knee pads into the gift bag to make it easy for your teen to stay safe as they go extreme. Internet safety is another important consideration and conversation to have before you give them any gifts that include an online component.
Interests
Your teen may change interests faster than you can keep up, but try to get a feel for the things that they like when choosing a gift. Choosing a gift that works for a group is a great way to connect with your teen while participating in their favorite activities and interests.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This roundup was written by Patrice J. Williams. She has contributed gift guides to The Spruce since 2020 and included a few of her personal favorites like the mini fridge and portable chargers on this well-researched list. In addition to her work for The Spruce, she writes commerce articles, including product suggestions and reviews, for other outlets as well as appearing on air for The Today Show, WEtv, and she was the Savvy Shopper reporter for WPIX in New York City. Expert advice was provided by etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore.
