Teenagers are hard to buy for because their tastes change fast and they are quick to spot anything that tries too hard. The safest approach is to choose something useful for their daily routine and avoid labels such as boy or girl, as plenty of the best presents suit everyone.
The ideas below cover tech, bedrooms, style and experiences, plus one section for gifts that money cannot buy. Use the price bands to match your budget, and keep a receipt in case they would rather swap it.
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Our three favourites
Tech they will use daily
Everyday gadgets that make life easier.
For the always-at-15%A portable power bank
A slim power bank keeps a phone going through a long day at school or a festival. Check the capacity and the connector type for their phone.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For music in the bedroom or gardenA portable Bluetooth speaker
A compact speaker is good for revision playlists and sitting outside with friends. Check the battery life and whether it is splash-resistant.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
For the budding creatorA phone tripod with a remote
A small tripod lets them film videos or take photos without help. Check that it holds their phone size and that the remote is included.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
Bedroom upgrades
A space that feels like theirs.
For a cosier roomA set of fairy lights
Warm white lights around a bed or desk change the mood of a room at low cost. Choose a battery or plug-in version to suit the room, and check the length.
Expect to pay Under £10 in most UK shops.
A bean bag chair
A large bean bag is easy to move and doubles up as extra seating for friends. Measure the space first and check the cover is washable.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
A desk lamp with USB charging
A lamp with adjustable brightness makes homework easier on the eyes, and a USB port keeps the phone charged. Check the plug and the height of the lamp.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
Style
Things they can wear without feeling like a costume.
For the comfort dresserA heavyweight hoodie
A plain, thick hoodie in a neutral colour is useful all year round. Ask a parent or friend for the right size and keep the receipt.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
For school and weekendsA canvas backpack
A sturdy bag with a laptop sleeve will last well beyond one school year. Check the dimensions and that it fits their school’s requirements.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
Experiences
Time out that does not come in a box.
For the active teenAn indoor climbing session voucher
A climbing session lets them try something new with a friend, usually with equipment and instruction provided. Check the minimum age and whether an adult must come along.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For a night out with friendsA cinema gift card
A gift card means they can pick the film and the day. Check where it can be used and the expiry date.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
Gifts money cannot buy
For the teenager who is quietly trying not to need anything.
For quality timeA book of adventure coupons
A little booklet of promises, such as a lift home, a takeaway night or a day out of their choice, shows you care without being cheesy. Make sure you honour them.
Expect to pay Under £10 in most UK shops.
For the quietly sentimentalA framed photo of a shared memory
A picture from a holiday, match or family day out says you remember the good bits. Choose a photo they would not be embarrassed to have on a shelf, and check the frame size.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
Good to know
Online safety
If you give a gadget with an internet connection, talk with them about privacy settings and screen time. It is a good chance for a quick chat.
FAQ: questions people ask
What is a good gift for a 15-year-old?
Useful tech such as a speaker or power bank, bedroom items like lights and a lamp, or an experience with friends all work well. Ask a parent what they already own to avoid duplicates.
How much should I spend on a teenager?
There is no set amount, and many teenagers are happy with a modest present that shows you listened. Choose a budget that suits you, and add a card with a few words.
What can I get a teenager who has everything?
An experience, a contribution towards something they are saving for, or time together tends to feel fresh. A gift card for a favourite shop or cinema is also easy to use.
Are gift cards a good gift for teens?
Yes, when they are for somewhere the teenager really shops. Check the expiry date and add a handwritten note to make it feel less impersonal.
What should I avoid buying a teenager?
Avoid clothes without a size check, anything that shouts about their age, or items that look too childish. If you are unsure, choose something neutral or give a receipt.
