Some of my all-time favorite gifts for teens and college-age kids would have to be surprise concert tickets for a band they love, a family vacation, or an activity they would love (like zip-lining or snow skiing or hiking, etc). You could even wrap up the trail map or brochure for the activity. ‘Experience gifts’ can be the best to give and the most fun to participate in . . . and they’re perfect for the teen who has everything. For kids away at school, it’s always fun to purchase branded items from the bookstore and/or a gift cards for local restaurants and coffee places.
See below for gift ideas from current teen/college-aged kids. This is a collection based on items that they currently have (and love!) or what’s on their current wish list.
Inflatable Lounger by Fatboy Lamzac
$30 – $49
Buy It Here: Fatboy Lamzac the Original Version 1 Inflatable Lounger with Carry Bag, Inflatable Couch for Indoor or Outdoor Hangout or Inflatable Lounge Air Chair
Teens and college kids just love these inflatable loungers. They use them in the dorm room, tailgating, at the beach, at sports events — anywhere they want to have a seat and lounge around. I’ve seen teenagers fight over these loungers and I remember thinking “you each need your own if you can’t share!” I have noticed that they inflate better on windy days. Prices have come down on these — right now, on Amazon, they range from $30 – $49 depending on color. That’s pretty affordable for a what I consider a ‘wow’ gift.
Faux Fur Trim Hooded Quilted Vest by Dorothy Perkins
$63
Portable Charger External Electronic Battery by Anker
Starting at $13.99
How often do you hear someone say “My phone is dead?” I can’t think of anyone who doesn’t need to charge their phone while they are our and about or traveling. Now that we have seen how well Anker’s charger works — and how quickly it charges — we never leave home without it. One tip — remember to keep your Anker charged. At just $13.99 this is an excellent stocking stuffer.
Nail Polish Set of 6 with Case by Butter London
$36
Playing Favorites Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer Set – $36 ($60 value)
Have you tried Butter London nail polish yet? It truly does go on as smooth as butter. You’ll also feel better about using this nail polish because this company uses such high quality ingredients. This is an American company with an English name; the colors are current, beautiful and you’ll keep coming back to them. Another bonus is that you don’t need a base or top coat. Just 2 coats of Butter lacquer and you are good to go.
Buy It Here: Butter London Playing Favorites Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer Set –
24 Hour Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker by Vava
$35.99
This speaker seems to be pretty much indestructible and that can be a good thing for kids who like to take their music to the beach, the quad, the park and anywhere in between — including the shower. It sounds great, plus it’s waterproof. Fully charged, it lasts up to 24 hours. All of this for under $40.
Hunter Plaid Shirt by Rails
$148
Girls of any age love a nice casual, yet stylish, plaid shirt. Rails, by far, designs the softest and best patterns we have seen. They’re a little bit more of an investment, but, trust us, this will be a go-to shirt for layering in the winter or even wear this alone in the evenings in the warmer months.
Buy It Here: Women’s Rails Hunter Plaid Shirt
Affordable Replacement Earphones by AOKII
$15.99
Kids, teens and adults are forever always losing or breaking their headphones. Each year we add an extra pair of headphones to each stocking (even my own!). Everyone needs an extra pair on hand, for the car, your purse, by your bedside, for travel, etc.
UGG Slippers for Guys
$109.95
For the guy who wear slippers, these are hands down the coziest and warmest. Perfect for wearing around home or even packing them for a trip to the lodge. These have the signature shearling inside (UGGpure) and the outside is a rich suede with rubber traction soles.
Buy It Here: Men’s Ugg Ascot Suede Slipper, Size 13 M – Black
Hand-stitched Belts by Smathers and Branson
Starting at $144
These belts are perfect for the preppy guy who likes a little bit of personality around his waist. They’re definitely a splurge, but they are hand stitched and will last as long as your guy stays the same waist size. Smathers and Branson recommends adding 2 inches to the men’s pant size to obtain the best fit. Be sure to check out their college logo collection is an extra special gift.
Buy It Here:
Smathers & Branson East Coast Fish Needlepoint Belt in Melon – SZ 38 (B-161-38)
Smathers and Branson Men’s American Flag Needlepoint Belt, Navy, 36
Smathers & Branson Men’s New England Patriots Needlepoint Belt 36 Dark Navy
Holiday Novelty Ugly Sweaters, Jumpsuits, Suits (and more!) by Tipsy Elves
Starting at $39.95
Millennials love Tipsy Elves, and these sweaters and onesies are so much fun. Why not put some laughter in your holiday parties by wearing or gifting your favorite style.
Buy It Here: Tipsy Elves Black and Red Fair Isle Reindeer Jumpsuit – Ugly Christmas Sweater Party Adult Onesie: Medium
Click Here to Purchase: Tipsy Elves Women’s Christmas Tree Ugly Christmas Sweater Medium
Women’s Ugly Christmas Sweater – Cat Sweater with Bells by Tipsy Elves Size L
Women’s Ugly Christmas Sweater – Snowman Nose Thief Sweater Size M
Buy It Here:
Tipsy Elves Men’s Santa and Jesus Christmas Sweater: Large
Tipsy Elves The Rage Deer Christmas Suit – Ugly Christmas Sweater Party Suit: 42J/33P
Secret Gift Closet 