23 best Christmas gifts for teenagers
It can be very hard to get the right Christmas gift for your teenager. They're at the stage of their life where they are very much trying to figure what sort of person they are and what sort of person they'd like to be.
Despite this, there are certain gifts that are trendy even with the changes they may be going through: from puffer jackets and Nike Air Force 1s to faux Game Boys and street art tours.
While nobody knows your teen like you do, we think we've got Gen-Z down, so here are the best Christmas gifts for the teenagers of 2019.
For inspiration on what to get the younger ages, see our guide on the best Christmas gifts for kids or babies and toddlers.
1. Urban Outfitters Shearling Boo Pillow
Teenage bedrooms can often become, well, how shall we put this? Like they've been sucked into a vortex from hell and thrown back out again? At least this cushion will mean they're nice and cosy among their mess.
2. Nike Air Force 1 '07
Trainers are always a welcome present if you're a teen. These 'creps' (slang for sneakers) in white will become a staple item in their wardrobe. Just don't expect them to stay this colour for long.
3. Eric The Memo Elephant
If they're always forgetting things, your teen will love this little ceramic elephant. Its a sleek aesthetic touch in any room, and you can scribble felt tip all over it, as needed. Pen and dry erase cloth included.
4. Take Better Selfies Lens Kit
Do we want them to spend yet more time taking selfies? Not really. But will they love this handy kit? Yes... It's time for you to give up on the idea of their phone not being an extension of themselves.
5. Topshop Faux Leather Padded Puffer Jacket
A puffer jacket is a teenager-approved way to stay warm this winter. They'll look cool and original (despite the fact their friends will also have puffer jackets).
6. No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference By Greta Thunberg
There's a new kind of 'it' girl in town and it's no longer about fashion and parties. It's about change, making real change. Greta Thunberg writes this inspirational guide on how to make societal changes on the simplest level possible. A must-read for your young'un.
7. App Store and iTunes Gift Card
Don't even try to buy them any music, apps or games. They know what they like and they don't need you to get involved, so let them choose what to download with the help of an Apple gift card.
8. ASOS DESIGN Small Cat Eye Sunglasses
Teeny tiny sunglasses are a huge trend. It may be winter but that won't stop the style conscious teen in your life from wearing these cat eye shades.
9. The School of Life Am I Normal? Cards
We all remember that feeling of not being sure of who we are so this little stocking filler will help them figure it all out.
10. My Clarins Collection Kit
Teenagers are all about their skin and also about the environment, so get this My Clarins gift set which has fruit and plant-based ingredients in all their natural and nourishing glory.
11. Emirates Stadium Tour for Two
Football fans will love the chance to see behind the scenes at their team's stadium. Exchange Arsenal, of course, for whichever team they actually support.
12. Missoma Gold Claw Celestial Ear Cuff
Missoma is a jewellery brand with influencer approval, and while it's a treat, isn't overly expensive. This cuff is perfect for someone who hasn't yet had their ears pierced.
13. Polaroid OneStep+ Instant Camera
The Polaroid OneStep+ was chosen by Telegraph Recommended as the best instant camera thanks to its retro styling, ease of use and the nostalgic pictures it takes. Instant gratification shall be theirs.
14. 31st State New Starter Set with Wash Bag
They'll appreciate this gift set that comes complete with face wash, hair and body wash, clearing pads, deodorant and hair putty, all developed with the specific needs of teenage boys in mind.
15. Buffalo Classic White Sneakers
Don't you love it when the brands from your own teenage years come back around? Buffalo's huge flatform sneakers are a thing once more. Just don't tell your teen that you wore them first.
16. Ticketmaster Gift Card
Whatever they're into, whether it's music, theatre, sports or the arts, a Ticketmaster gift card will allow them to experience it up close.
17. Carhartt WIP Phil Backpack
Traditional workwear brands like Dickies and Carhartt are go-tos for teens and this mustard hued backpack will take them from school to college to a festival.
18. Love Inc Bespoke Name LED Neon Light
From £375, Not On The High Street
Light up their lives (and gloomy bedrooms) with a bespoke neon LED light. Best to leave ample time when ordering this one as delivery can take about around six to eight weeks.
19. London Street Art Photography Tour
Another gift that'll make them popular on Instagram. They'll get an expert tour of the most photo worthy street art in London.
20. & Other Stories Cropped Mock Neck Sweater
Cosy, a high neck and cropped? Perfect for a fashionable teen. This one has an elegant ribbed finish too which they'll love the look of.
21. A Little Lovely Company LED Lightbox
Let your teen can express themselves with this cool lightbox. Or you can use it to leave messages for them. They may even start leaving messages back. In the run up to Christmas, it's also been massively reduced.
22. Cloud Nine The Alchemy Collection Original Iron Gift Set
Teens love to experiment with their look, so give them a helping hand with the Cloud Nine Original Iron. With its Kinder Heat Technology and Signature Mineral Infused Ceramic plates, they'll be able to style their hair every day without causing too much damage. This limited edition set comes with a style case and texture comb too.
23. LIKEtoKNOW.it: Stories from the Influencer Next Door
Teenagers know all about influencers and bloggers so if they're a fan of both, or of fashion, then they'll love this book from LIKEtoKNOW.it
For more Christmas features and gift guides, see www.telegraph.co.uk/christmas.
This year the Telegraph's Christmas Charity Appeal is supporting the Fire Fighters charity, YoungMinds and Changing Faces. To make a donation, click here or call 0151 284 1927.
