The gifts teens are actually asking for this year, according to shopping editors and real teens - NBC News

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Looking for gifts for teenage girls and boys? Discover our picks for stylish, practical and personalized presents, with recommendations from real teens.

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Shopping for teenagers can be tricky. Trends come and go, interests change seemingly overnight and what was considered cool a few months ago might already be out of style. And while teenagers are often pretty vocal about what they like (and especially what they don’t like), finding a gift they’ll actually use and appreciate long term can still feel like a guessing game.

Luckily, I have a few teenagers in my corner. As the oldest of three siblings, including a 16-year-old girl, and as an occasional tutor for high schoolers, I’ve had a front-row seat to the changing trends of today’s teens. I am very good at giving gifts, according to everyone I know. Every year, I arrange dozens of gifts for my large family across many age groups and they all ask me, “how do you do it?” Shopping and testing products for a living helps, but I truly take pride in giving people gifts that make them feel special, and won’t just get added to piles of clutter somewhere. Whether you’re shopping for a fashion-obsessed 13-year-old, a high school athlete or a soon-to-be college student, these are some of the best gifts for teens to consider this year.

With trends coming and going faster than ever, teens are constantly being told what they should want next. As a big sister, I want my siblings to discover their own taste and understand that the best things aren’t always the trendiest. These gifts strike that balance, with picks that feel exciting now but are useful and special enough to enjoy long after the hype fades.

Selected.Our top picks

• Best overallCrocs Classic Clog$undefined$49.99AmazonLearn more
• Best apparel giftLululemon Define Jacket $99.00$128.00LululemonLearn more
• Best shoeUGG Women's Classic Ultra Mini Boot$undefined$164.95AmazonLearn more
• Best accessoryBaubleBar Fine Line Custom iPhone Case$undefined$75.00Bauble BarLearn more
• Best hair toolShark Silki Straight Wet to Dry Straightener + Blow Dryer$undefined$229.99UltaLearn more
• Best gameGrand Theft Auto VI: Ultimate Edition$undefined$99.99PlayStationLearn more

Lululemon Define Jacket

My 16-year-old sister owns this jacket in three colors and hopes to collect more like they’re Infinity Stones. It’s one of her favorite pieces to wear to school, sports practice and just about everywhere else. Made from Lululemon’s soft, stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric, the Define Jacket has a fitted silhouette, zippered pockets and thumbholes with fold-over cuffs to help keep hands warm. For teens who prefer something roomier, my sister also recommends the brand’s Scuba Evolve Hoodie, which is great for lounging, running errands or layering over workout clothes.

Etam Boat Neck Thermal T-Shirt with Cashmere

Growing up, my mother would make us wear the thickest long johns underneath our school uniforms during the winter. Between the sweating, chafing and bulkiness, I dreaded putting them on. Thankfully, thermal wear has come a long way. I own this cashmere-blend top from Etam in black and blue, and it’s become a cold-weather essential for me. It’s lightweight enough to wear underneath sweaters and jackets without adding bulk, but stylish enough to wear on its own. Think of it as an elevated alternative to traditional thermals.

Duer Tech Fleece Denim Utility Pant

I hate layering leggings or thermals underneath my jeans when it’s cold outside, which is why I’ve become such a fan of Duer’s fleece-lined denim. The brand’s Tech Fleece fabric combines the look of denim with the comfort and warmth of an insulating layer, keeping me cozy without needing to double up on pants. I own a pair and have found them particularly useful during colder months.

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UGG Women's Classic Ultra Mini Boot

Ugg’s Classic Ultra Mini boots are a great gift for teens who love cozy footwear. Their low-cut silhouette makes them easy to slip on and style with leggings, jeans or sweatpants, while the sheepskin lining adds warmth. They’re especially useful for casual outings, long travel days, quick errands and lounging between activities.

Adidas Samba OG Shoes

For the teen who’s always keeping up with sneaker trends, Adidas’ Samba OG is an option they can always wear. Originally designed as an indoor soccer shoe, the low-profile sneaker has become a casual wardrobe staple that pairs easily with jeans, skirts and wide-leg trousers. If the recipient already owns a pair, consider another Adidas style like the Barreda Lo, Japan or Gazelle Indoor shoes.

Crocs Classic Clog

Every teen has a pair of Crocs and their special collection of Jibbitz. My sister and I have multiples and we welcome new ones every year with gratitude. They’re just so practical.

Aritzia The Super Puff Shorty Jacket

Aritzia’s Super Puff is a splurge, but its serious warmth and stylish, oversized look make it a teen gift worth considering. Toronto native and NBC Selected associate reporter Ashley Morris says, “I’ve never had a coat this warm before,” noting she can brave freezing temperatures with just a t-shirt underneath. With multiple lengths, colors and finishes, plus deep pockets for their phone, keys and lip gloss, it’s as practical as it is cool-looking.

The North Face Retro 1996 Nuptse Jacket

The North Face is a reliable option for winter outerwear, and I own a jacket from the brand. The 1996 Retro Nuptse is one of its most recognizable styles, with a boxy silhouette, oversized quilted sections and 700-fill recycled down insulation for warmth. It also has a water-repellent finish and a stowable hood. For teens who want a jacket they can wear to school, on weekend outings and during cold-weather activities, it’s an option that will pair well with most things in their wardrobe.

Hollister Peyton Reversible Puffer Jacket

My 16-year-old sister bought this jacket from Hollister for herself, and it’s become one of her favorite winter purchases. I can see why: The reversible design gives her two different looks in one, with a classic quilted puffer on one side and cozy faux fur on the other. It also has a hood with removable faux fur trim, lined pockets and thumbholes at the cuffs. It’s an especially good gift for fashion-conscious teens who enjoy switching up their style without having to own multiple winter coats.

Nike Varsity Elite Backpack

When I asked my 16-year-old sister what teenagers actually wanted for Christmas, this backpack was the first thing she mentioned. As a student athlete, it was at the very top of her wish list. It has a spacious main compartment that can accommodate a full-size basketball, plus a separate bottom compartment for shoes or sweaty clothes. It’s a practical option for teens balancing school, sports and extracurricular activities, especially those who need something roomy enough to carry their gear throughout the day.

Coach Plaza Bag

In my opinion, Coach has had one of the best brand revivals in recent years, and my sister agrees. She sends links to Coach handbags, shoes and accessories to our family group chat practically every week. For teens interested in starting a handbag collection, I recommend the Coach Plaza Bag. Its simple, streamlined design makes it easy to dress up or down, while its compact size is convenient for carrying everyday essentials. Another option I love is the Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 28, which has a more relaxed silhouette and offers more space inside.

Coach Utility Tote

For teens who prefer a structured, functional bag, the Coach Utility Tote is worth considering. Made with canvas, leather and other durable materials, it has a spacious interior that can accommodate a laptop up to 16 inches, along with books, documents and other everyday essentials. The interior snap pocket provides extra organization, while the graphic design adds personality to it. I also recommend the Coach Harrison Pouch for someone who prefers carrying fewer belongings.

Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote

Practically every woman in my family owns a Longchamp Le Pliage tote, and for good reason. Its lightweight, foldable design makes it incredibly convenient, whether you’re carrying school supplies, work essentials, a change of clothes or items for an overnight trip. It’s one of those bags that can remain useful long after the teenage years. For teens who prefer keeping their hands free, I also recommend the Longchamp Le Pliage Original M Backpack.

New Balance Urban Backpack

My sister uses the New Balance Urban Backpack, and it’s a great under-$100 gift for teens who need to carry a little bit of everything. The unisex design has dedicated storage for a laptop, phone and water bottles, plus plenty of room for a change of shoes. Its durable nylon construction makes it a practical pick for school, sports and travel.

Adidas Defender Duffel Bag

The Adidas Defender Duffel Bag is a practical gift for student athletes and teens who are constantly on the go. Its roomy design provides space for workout clothes, sneakers, sports equipment and everyday essentials, making it useful for everything from after school practices to weekend trips. It’s also a more affordable alternative to some premium sports and travel bags.

BaubleBar Fine Line Custom iPhone Case

I once spotted someone in my office carrying this phone case and immediately stopped her to ask where it was from. I liked it so much that I attended a BaubleBar event to see more of the brand’s personalized accessories and couldn’t wait to get one of my own. The Fine Line Custom iPhone Case can be personalized with a name, making it a fun way for teens to express their style through something they use every day. It’s a particularly good gift if you want something thoughtful without having to guess their clothing or shoe size.

BaubleBar The Ultimate Custom Bead Kit

Nowadays, even backpacks and handbags seem to need their own accessories, and this customizable bead kit lets teens create charms that reflect their personal style. It has supplies for making up to six bag charms, including colorful beads, alphabet letters, decorative motifs and paracord bases with carabiner clasps. Teens can spell out names, initials and inside jokes, or mix different designs to match their bags. It’s a fun activity for creative teens to enjoy alone or with friends, and I also recommend checking out BaubleBar’s ready-made bag charms.

Weatherman Travel Umbrella

An umbrella might not sound like the most exciting gift, but I own Weatherman’s Travel Umbrella and genuinely can’t recommend it enough. It’s stylish, compact and convenient to carry around, especially if you live in a place where the weather changes throughout the day. Instead of repeatedly replacing flimsy umbrellas that break during storms, I think investing in a high-quality one is worth it. It’s an especially practical gift for teens who commute to school on the train or bus.

Gemi Hand Santizer + Serum with Key Ring

Hand sanitizer is something most teens already carry, so why not make it feel like a cute accessory? We’ve been testing Gemi’s Hand Sanitizer + Serum in the office, and I’ve already received compliments on the scent. The bottle has a sleek, capless design that opens and locks with a simple twist, while the attached key ring makes it easy to put on a backpack, purse or set of keys. It’s a small, practical gift that feels more thoughtful than your average bottle of sanitizer, and if you get your teen a bedazzling kit, they can bling it out however they like.

Made By Mary Birthstone Stacking Ring

Personalized jewelry is one of my favorite things to give because it feels thoughtful without necessarily requiring an extravagant budget. I own this birthstone stacking ring from Made by Mary, and it’s such a beautiful, meaningful piece. Each ring features a stone representing a birth month, making it a great option for teens who are starting to build their jewelry collection. Its delicate design also makes it easy to stack with other rings.

Demarson Eva Pavé Pink Ear Cuff

My sister is constantly begging our parents for more ear piercings, but since they have yet to give in, I’ve been encouraging her to experiment with ear cuffs instead. I’ve tried plenty myself, and Demarson’s are among the most comfortable I’ve worn. This pink pavé cuff adds a fun pop of color without requiring an additional piercing, and it’s so lightweight that I sometimes forget I’m wearing it. I’ve even fallen asleep with one on. It’s a great gift for teens who want to experiment with their jewelry without committing to another piercing.

Shark Silki Straight Wet to Dry Straightener + Blow Dryer

Wash days can take hours, especially if you have thick, curly or coily hair. My 16-year-old sister and I both have type 4 natural hair, and Shark’s SilkiPro has made our wash days significantly easier and faster. We use it constantly because it combines drying and straightening in one tool, so we don’t have to switch between multiple devices. It also comes with interchangeable comb attachments to help detangle, stretch and smooth hair. While we particularly appreciate how well it works on our natural hair, it’s designed for different hair types, making it a versatile gift for teens who enjoy styling their hair.

Dazzle Dry Build Your System Kit

For teens who love getting their nails done, Dazzle Dry’s Build Your System Kit makes it easier to experiment with manicures at home. The system includes nail prep, base coat, lacquer, top coat and a Revive solution to help maintain the products. Unlike gel manicures, it doesn’t require a UV or LED lamp, and the brand says nails dry completely in five minutes after applying the top coat. It also comes off with regular nail polish remover, making it a convenient alternative to acrylics and gel manicures.

My sister and I are currently testing the kit, and I think it’s an especially fun option for teens who want their nails done but whose parents don’t want paying ever-increasing salon prices. The average manicure lasts me about two to three weeks.

Saie The Vanity Case

If the teen you’re shopping for is anything like my sister, they’re probably spending a good portion of their allowance on makeup and skin care without having much of an organizational system in place. That’s where Saie’s Vanity Case comes in handy. The structured case has a carrying handle, zippered closure and removable interior organizer to keep beauty products from getting lost or scattered across a bathroom counter.

NBC Selected commerce editor Mili Godio has this case, and she loves that it keeps her makeup and tools orderly so they don’t get mixed up and hard to find during travel. It’s a useful gift for teens building their makeup collection, and it’s convenient for sleepovers, trips and getting ready in the car or on the train. You can also get a mini version of the case.

Lofree Flow Lite 84 Keys Mechanical Keyboard

Whether they use their setup for gaming, tutoring or homework, this low-profile mechanical keyboard can make time at their desk more enjoyable. The keys have a satisfying “creamy” sound without being too loud, and I find them easy to type on, especially since my hands are prone to finger fatigue. Bluetooth is also simple to set up, and the compact 84-key layout won’t overwhelm their desk.

Kodak Printomatic + Instant Print Digital Camera

Kodak’s Printomatic+ Instant Print Digital Camera combines the fun of digital photography with the nostalgia of physical prints. It lets users snap photos and print them on ink-free, sticky-backed paper, which is perfect for decorating journals, lockers, scrapbooks and bedroom walls. My sister and I have been testing the camera and have really enjoyed using it so far. It’s a fun way to make memories feel a little more tangible instead of leaving all your favorite photos buried in your camera roll.

Kodak Step Instant Smartphone Photo Printer

If the teen you’re shopping for already takes plenty of photos on their phone, the Kodak Step Instant Smartphone Photo Printer is another great gift option. The compact printer connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth and produces 2-by-3-inch prints using Kodak’s ink-free technology. The prints have adhesive backs, so teens can use them to decorate photo albums, journals and other personal belongings. My sister and I have also been testing this printer and have liked it so far. I particularly recommend it for teens who love scrapbooking, journaling or decorating their spaces with photos.

Sony Stranger Things USB-C Wired Headphones (Pre-order)

“Stranger Things” has introduced a new generation to ’80s style, and these limited-edition Sony headphones lean all the way into the nostalgia. Inspired by Max’s signature headphones and the Upside Down, they have interchangeable earpads in different colors and an engraved “Stranger Things” logo. They’re wired with USB-C, so teens can plug them directly into compatible phones, tablets and laptops without worrying about charging or Bluetooth pairing. And while they nod to the Walkman headphones of the past, the sound has been enhanced to meet the listening quality of today, according to Sony. The $79.99 headphones are available for pre-order now.

JBL PartyBox 330 Portable Party Speaker Bundle with Microphones

For teens who love music, singing or hosting friends, I can’t recommend a JBL PartyBox speaker and EasySing microphones enough. I go to karaoke almost every week, but paying for karaoke rooms in New York City gets expensive. Having this setup at home lets me sing with my friends whenever I want without the extra expense.

The PartyBox I’ve used has wheels and a handle for easy transportation, while its powerful sound and built-in light show make any room feel like a party. The microphones make you feel like you’re performing in a stadium, and I love that I can set the volume for use in my apartment without overwhelming my neighbors. It’s a gift I wish I’d had in college, and one that’s just as fun for teens as it is for the whole family.

Beats Studio Pro Headphones

I own the Beats Studio Pro headphones, and I love how stylish and versatile they are. They offer active noise cancellation and wireless connectivity, and they’re compatible with both Apple and Android devices, so they’re a great option regardless of which phone the recipient uses. They’re particularly useful for teens who want to block out distractions while studying or listen to their favorite playlists on the go.

OpenAI ChatGPT Gift Card

According to my brother and his friends, AI tools are becoming an increasingly useful part of how they study, especially for subjects involving data, coding and complex concepts. For older teens who enjoy learning new skills, an OpenAI gift card can help cover eligible ChatGPT subscriptions and features. It can be a useful gift for students who want help practicing concepts, organizing study materials or working through programming problems. For teens who prefer a more structured study tool, I also recommend considering a Quizlet gift card.

Lola Blanket Original

I’ve tried plenty of blankets, but my Lola Blanket is genuinely one of the best I’ve ever owned. It’s incredibly soft, comes in beautiful, rich colors and has become a staple of my nighttime routine. Although Lola Blankets have become popular, I think their appeal goes beyond the trend. Mine feels luxurious, and I reach for it constantly, whether I’m watching a movie, reading or winding down for bed. The blankets are definitely a splurge, so I’d recommend looking out for a sale. For teens who love cozying up at home, it’s a gift they’re likely to use every day.

P.J. Salvage 3-Piece Flannel PJ Set

You can never go wrong with a cozy pair of pajamas, especially during the colder months. Our team tested popular pajamas from P.J. Salvage last year, and we absolutely loved them. This three-piece flannel set is a great gift for teens who enjoy spending their evenings lounging, watching movies or having sleepovers with friends. It includes a long-sleeve shirt, matching drawstring pants and a matching hair wrap.

Owala FreeSip Holiday Collection

Reusable water bottles have practically become fashion accessories, and Owala is one of the brands you’ll see teens carrying around school. The FreeSip bottle has a unique lid that allows users to drink through a built-in straw or take a larger sip through the same opening. It’s convenient for school, sports practice and everyday outings, and the brand’s holiday collection comes in fun seasonal colors, including Sugar Plum and Poinsettia. It’s a practical gift that still feels exciting to unwrap.

Coop Cool+ Sheet Set

I personally tested these sheets, and they might be the best I’ve ever slept on. They’re unbelievably cool and silky-soft, with fabric designed to pull excess heat away from the body, making them especially great for hot sleepers. And at around $100 (depending on the size you get), they prove you don’t have to shell out a small fortune to get amazing sheets.

Weezie On the Go Bundle

For the teen who loves a good getting-ready routine, this set is such a treat. We tested Weezie and loved the soft, fluffy feel of the towels. The bundle comes with two navy makeup towels, a towel wrap with a pocket and snap buttons, and a hair towel. You can even add their name or initials for a personalized touch, making it an especially cute gift for college, vacations, or everyday home use.

Grand Theft Auto VI: Ultimate Edition

My brother has been talking about Grand Theft Auto VI for more than six months, so it’s safe to say this is one of his most anticipated releases. The latest installment of Rockstar Games’ blockbuster franchise takes players back to Vice City and the fictional state of Leonida. It’s scheduled for release on November 19, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. If the adult gamer in your life has been eagerly awaiting its arrival, a preorder could make a memorable gift. Just make sure you’re purchasing the correct console edition.

Note: This game is rated Mature 17+ by the ESRB due to mature content, including intense violence and strong sexual themes. I am recommending it exclusively for recipients ages 18 and older.

Amazon Basics Mini Indoor Basketball Hoop

For basketball-loving teens, a mini indoor hoop is an easy way to bring the game home. It’s a fun addition to a bedroom, dorm room or playroom, giving teens something to do during study breaks or when friends come over. It’s also a relatively affordable gift that encourages some off-screen entertainment.

Say It Do It Card Game

I own this card game and love playing it with my sister. It’s a fun way to spend time together without everyone retreating to their phones, making it a great option for family game nights, sleepovers or gatherings with friends. It’s the kind of gift that can be enjoyed by more than just the person receiving it.

Cozie Games Talking Hearts for Family

For families who want to spend more quality time together, Cozie Games’ Talking Hearts is a thoughtful option. The conversation-based game encourages players to share stories, answer questions and learn more about one another. It’s particularly useful for getting everyone talking during family nights or holiday gatherings, and it can help create meaningful conversations beyond the usual small talk.

Lego Twilight The Cullen House

Yes, Lego made a set inspired by the Cullen family home from “Twilight,” and yes, it’s the kind of gift that would delight a devoted fan of the franchise. The collectible building set recreates the modern glass-fronted house from the film (and its sequels) and offers an activity for teens who love both Lego and pop culture. It’s a particularly fun gift for older teens who grew up with the movies or have discovered the franchise more recently.

Dreams Smiski Glow in the Dark Figure Blind Box

I am a proud Smiski mama, though it was not my intention at first. The cute little green guys fit so perfectly in small spaces and corners around my desk and room, and I especially love the glow in the dark ones that act as a cooler version of a night light for your teen. Smiski’s come in many versions including a work, exercise, and dressing series. They make a great blind box gift for any teen that’s into these type of collectibles.

• Kodak Charmera Blind Box Digital Camera Keychain

• Sonny Angel Vegetable Series
• Miffy Room Blind Box Toy
• Popmart Peach Riot Rise Up Figures
• Squishmallows Kellytoy Plush Mystery Pack
• Pop Mart Hirono The Other One Blind Box Figures
• Popmart Skullpanda Warmth Series Figures
• Popmart Crybaby x Powerpuff Girls Figures
• Smiski Glow in the Dark Yoga Series Figure
• Minions Blind Box Figures
• The Monsters Lazy Yoga Series Figurines

To put together this guide, I consulted my 16-year-old sister and the teens I work with about the gifts they’d genuinely be excited to receive. Throughout the year, my sister and I have been putting several of these gifts to the test, from beauty tools that make our wash days easier to instant cameras and nail kits. I also drew from my own experience researching, testing and recommending products as an editorial operations associate for NBC Selected.

The result is a mix of trendy accessories, practical everyday essentials, beauty favorites, games and epic bigger-ticket items the teen in your life will cherish.

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I’m an editorial operations associate for NBC Selected, where I work closely with shopping editors on product research, testing and recommendations. I’ve helped coordinate some of our largest testing and shopping stories, including our Wellness Awards and 100 best sunscreens. For this guide, I combined my experience evaluating many of the products featured with recommendations from teenagers I know, as well as NBC Selected’s team of shopping experts. My goal was to recommend gifts that are not only exciting to receive but also useful beyond the holidays.

Catch up on NBC Selected’s in-depth coverage of tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok to stay up to date.

Jem is the editorial operations associate for NBC Selected.

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