A Guide To Buying Gifts For Teenagers
Of all the recipient categories, teenagers are arguably the most challenging to buy for. If you have a teenage son, daughter, grandchild or sibling, choosing the perfect gift can be a nightmare, particularly if they’ve given you little-to-no indication of what they want. However, following these simple tricks and tips could help save the day and earn you much-deserved brownie points as the cool family member you already know you are. Read on to find out more.
Ask Them To Make A List
Arguably the best way to ensure a gift is well received is to ask the recipient what they want. However, if you're having trouble getting this information out of your teen, it may be a better option to have them write a list of smaller “stocking fillers” rather than focusing on one grand present. You can then choose several items depending on availability and your budget. Your recipient’s list might include clothing, jewellery, cosmetics, toiletries and smart device accessories like headphones.
Check Their Social Media
Determining the perfect gift for your teenage recipient may involve doing some research; in other words, snooping. It’s highly likely that they will have social media accounts on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, where you can gather important information about their likes and dislikes. For example, they may have recently entered a giveaway contest hosted by one of their favourite clothing brands or gaming companies. You can use this as a starting point to get them something they’ll truly appreciate.
Ask Their Friends
If you’re the parent of a teenager, you’ll understand how hard it is to get them to open up. However, when it comes to close friends, it’s likely a different story. If you have no idea what they want, their best friends will probably have a better idea - this is an excellent idea if you want to keep your gift a surprise, although it would be unwise to expect their mates to keep things secretive.
Avoid Trends
While your teen is almost undoubtedly passionate about the latest trends and crazes, what’s cool this week is generally outmoded the next. After all, trend cycles develop and move rapidly. Avoid wasting your hard-earned money on short-lived fads. Of course, most young people want to feel included and part of the crowd, but if they wish for something you suspect to be nothing more than a valueless microtrend, advise them to save up their pocket money at their own risk.
Make It Personal
Personalising a gift is an excellent way to make it thoughtful and memorable, and there are many different routes you could take. For instance, you could choose personalised gifts, such as a reusable coffee cup or water bottle featuring your recipient’s name. Alternatively, you could purchase a hamper and fill it with your teen’s favourite snacks, drinks, cosmetics and skincare products. You could even go the extra mile and order customised gift boxes your recipient can then reuse as storage.
Consider Vouchers
You may be almost 100% certain that the gift you’ve selected for your teenage recipient is something they’ll love, only to be proven wrong. However, a gift voucher ensures they can choose their gift for themselves. Alternatively, you could take them to their favourite shop and give them a budget for a small shopping spree. While money and vouchers may seem like an impersonal gift, you can rest assured that your recipient will ultimately get something they genuinely want.
Experience Gifts
Experience gifts are excellent alternatives to physical objects for any recipient, regardless of age or preferences. For example, if your teen has a passion for supercars, you could buy them a driving experience at a local race track. You could even offer to take them to their favourite theme park or attraction with a friend, followed by a fancy dinner at a local top-rated restaurant to make them feel fancy and grown-up.
Don’t Expect A Big Reaction
If you’re expecting a tear-jerking, film-worthy reaction from your teenage recipient upon presenting them with your gift, don’t hold your breath. Teenagers typically don’t enjoy showcasing big emotions in front of family members; instead, they may show their gratitude in their own way. It may be wise to keep the receipt and express that they can exchange their gift if they wish to.