These fun Christmas Gift Ideas for Teens will load you up on Teen gift inspiration!
Fun Christmas Gift Ideas for Teens
So do you need some fun Christmas Gift Ideas for Teens or are searching for the perfect Christmas Gifts for Tweens? Or are you just wondering what’s cool right now in the world of teenagers?
As a mom of 2 teens, I know that giving our teenagers an amazing Christmas is really important, but the question is… what do they want?!?
Our kids are growing up fast, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make Christmas an unforgettable and really fun time for them!
So I received the following question from frugal friend Christine… “I am looking for frugal gift ideas for my oldest son. He will turn 18 on Christmas Eve, and I’m lost as to what to get or do for him. His wish list is expensive, but finances are tight. Any fun Christmas gift ideas for teens?”
With the help of your frugal friends, I’ve put together some fun and creative Gift Ideas for your teens. What you’ll find is a HUGE list of cool gifts your guys and girls will LOVE!
So go check some more gifts off your list with these seriously fun Christmas Gift Ideas for Teens…
Funny Gifts for Teens
So are you looking for some hilariously creative gifts for tweens and teenagers?
These gift ideas will help you add a Christmas twinkle of deviousness to your Christmas celebrations this year.
Here are some of my favorite jolly fun tween and teen Christmas gift ideas…
- Prank Pack Gift Boxes or Decoy Boxes
- Crazy Flavored Candy Canes (Fruit Loops, Dr. Pepper, Dill Pickle, Bacon, Possum, Caesar Salad, etc.)
- Wacky Fake Pimple Popping Toy
- Ludicrous Silly Socks (Goat, Taco, Bob Ross, Poop Emoji, etc.)
- Mischievous Naughty/Nice Socks
- Seinfeld Festivus Games, Celebration Kit, or Ornaments
- Seinfeld “NO Soup For You” Novelty Soup Spoon
- The Office Dundie Award
- Bob Ross Toys (bobblehead, micro figure, talking keychain, games, books, etc.)
- Chucklesome Mr. Rogers Coffee Mug or T-shirt
- Pink Mermaid Tail Blanket for Movie Nights
- Unicorn Head Mask for Dress Up
- Slingshot Flying Screaming Monkeys
- Spectacularly Corny Christmas Tree Ornaments
- Lump of Coal
- Absurdly Ugly Christmas Sweaters
Related:
- The Very Best Teenage Girl Stocking Ideas
- Totally Hilarious Teenage Guy Stocking Stuffers
More Creative Gift Ideas for Teens
Rebecca writes: “Boba gift cards, flaming hot Cheetos, premium music subscriptions, cordless headphones, new sketch book for the artist along with Copic markers, gift cards to favorite stores and CASH”
Harold writes: “Stanley cup, cash, phone, American Eagle gift card.”
Sandra writes: “Art supplies, makeup, nail polish, jewelery making kits, sporting items. Just some ideas!”
Abigail writes: “Carhartt beanies and portable chargers”
Cathy writes: “A Hoodie”
Jill writes: “I never run out of ideas for them… Socks, toothpaste, other toiletries, ponytail holders, lip balm, gum, nail polish, deodorant, even shampoo and conditioner! They love not having to buy things they need and use often!”
DIY Coconut Oil Lip Balm
T.K. writes: “Blue screen glasses, weighted blanket, squishy/stretchy/popit fidget toys, fuzzy socks and slippers, art supplies, gaming in-ear headset, board games, and big candy bars.”
Laura writes: “Lyft gift cards, concert tickets, season passes for 6 flags”
Esmerelda writes: “Any accesssory for their phone especially a multi phone chargig block or cable.. they are so handy.”
Brian writes: “If they are driving get them a AAA subscription”
Kary writes: “I’m getting mine a dash cam”
Jody writes: ‘Theatre tickets, sporting equipment, pass to water park for the Summer, clothes, ear pods, music subscription, slippers, perfume”
Tiffani writes: “Video games, books, iTunes card”
Judy writes: “Lush bath fizzies! Even just one would be a hit. Makeup, lotion from a Bath and Body Works sale, candles.”
Bath and Body Works Coupons
Heidi writes: “Anything Lulu”
Julie writes: “New bedding, L.L. Bean moccasins, clothes, gift cards to shop after Christmas”
Larry writes: “Clothes, or clothing store gift cards”
Barb writes: “Earbuds are always appreciated! I know that my two teens go through earbuds like crazy. The wires are so fragile and break easily. You can get pretty good ones on sale for $10 to $15.”
Heather writes: “My teens love Dr. Squatch stuff.”
Kate writes: “You can get packs of discounted movie tickets to your local movie theater at your local AAA office.”
Rhonda writes: “Fast food gift cards are always a hit!”
Brittany writes: “If he is into video games and doesn’t have a console, check out GameStop, they sell certified used consoles at discounted prices. Some places have the Wii for $99, the 360 for $140, and so on.
They sell discounted games and accessories as well. Check Craigslist to see if anyone is selling one of the items on the list for a good price.”
Sandra writes: “Cash or experiences”
Sharon writes: “Wrap each item in stockings individually, so they’ll have more to unwrap! For teen boys, I love giving shave gel, razors, toothbrushes, etc.”
Judy writes: “All of my young peeps love gift cards. Wrap them in beautiful boxes and decorate as usual. Add something for weight (candy bar or a book) just to throw them off, and you still get to have some fun!”
Myra writes: “I’ve purchased items on Craigslist that are brand new and giftable for a fraction of retail price. When searching Craigslist, type the item you are looking for, and then the words “new” or ”brand new” or a similar search string of that nature. It is possible someone in your area got what your son wants as a gift, and would rather have the cash so you can get a great deal! Otherwise, get all your gifts through Ebates and at least get a little bit of cash back!”
Patti writes: “They always want cash AND/OR gift cards to their favorite stores and restaurants.”
Jolette writes: “I have 5 kids and at one time they were all teens at the same time! Yes I know I am crazy! I wanted to get them something they liked, but was not too expensive.
I used coupons to buy yarn a little at a time, then used the yard to make them all an Afghan.
They loved them, and their boyfriends and husbands liked them so much I am working on getting more yarn to make them all one. Even my husband wants one.”
Karen writes: “Try an iTunes Gift Card, cool winter hat from their favorite store (like Hot Topic or Rue21), nice Thinsulate gloves, a Homemade Scarf, warm wool socks, or a nice leather wallet. I usually try to get accessories that the teens want for their expensive hobbies: a headlight or lock for biking, new weights or stainless waterbottle for weightlifting, protective case or car charger for cell phone. If he gives you hints, you can usually find well-priced deals on Amazon! Good luck!”
Michelle writes: “iTunes Gift Cards and fast food gift cards. Kids are naturally thrifty with their own stuff, so they’d prefer the cheap place with the same amount as an expensive one, where they’ll be able to get less.
Platos Closet is great, Aeropostale is fabulous, and check local consignment shops. These work great for taking care of needs for after school activities and school”
Michelle writes: “Gift cards for car washes OR gas gift cards!!”
Barb writes: “How about practical, but fun ideas such as Car Wash Accessories, key chains, cool Car Air Fresheners, etc.”
Lora writes: “Last year we noticed some restaurants offering a free gift card in a small amount (maybe $10) with the purchase of a $50 gift card.
Since we were there to eat out with our family of 4, generally to celebrate birthdays, we knew we would likely spend close to $50 anyway.
We bought the $50 gift card before we were seated at our table and got the free $10 to give as a gift to someone else. Our kids have also benefitted from the “change” left on the bigger gift cards.”
Inexpensive Christmas Gift Ideas for Teens
Kristin writes: “Groupon, LivingSocial and Half Off Depot are great resources for gift certificates for stores and activities for at least 1/2 off.
My son is a hiker and a runner, so I also go to specialty stores for affordable “extras” to support his interests. I ’ve gotten really good prices on these extras and on books about his interests on Amazon.
Other family members will sometimes go in together and buy something a little pricier than any of them could spend individually.”
Gael writes: “I go to eBay for pricey things for my teens. I picked up a gently used 60 gb iPod for more than $100 less than it costs new. Last year I also got a deal on 2 Zunes.”
Deanne writes: “The last few years money has been really tight in our household and I ask my kids with Birthdays that fall shortly after Christmas, what is the ONE gift you would like the most for Christmas?
If that item is out of reach, I explain they need to be a little more realistic and then I work to obtain that goal. My kids are only 12 and 13, and they understand they can’t have everything, but seem to be thrilled to get that ONE special gift.
I then fill in the blanks with more needed things like clothes, shoes, etc.
For a teen, gas cards and such would be great. This year for my 13 year old son, I got a toolbox and a screwdriver. Now every Christmas to follow he will get a new tool to put in the toolbox. When he moves out on his own, he will have something to start out with!”
Kayla writes: “Fun Christmas Gift Ideas for Teens? Get him stuff for college–it’s not too exciting, but it takes pressure off last minute move-in needs. Like a laundry basket, laundry soap, dryer sheets, rolls of quarters, bath towels and bed sheets, a new pair of shoes, etc. Cash is always nice too.”
Jessi writes: “Since he has given you a wish list, you could give him a gift card to go towards one of the items on the list. That way you help him afford something that he wants, while letting him earn the rest.”
Lena writes: “Books are ALWAYS a hit… stock them up on books and they will be happy campers. Fill their stocking with samples of shampoo, toothpaste, etc. Get them a travel bag and razor + shaving cream…”
Frugal and Homemade Christmas Gifts for Teens
Pamper Yourself Gift in a Jar
Homemade Soy Candles
An Elf on the Shelf
When you need to make your teens smile, an Elf on the Shelf can keep them in line, and make sure they stay on the nice list! 🙂
Energy Boost Gift in a Jar
Here’s a fun Gift in a Jar for your teens that needs a little boost… of ENERGY! Last minute cramming for exams need some morning reinforcements!
We Wash You a Merry Christmas Soaps
(+ Free Printable Tags)
Bath and Body Works Lotion
Homemade Lotion Bars
Hot Chocolate Mix in a Jar Recipe
French Vanilla Cocoa Mix in a Jar
Mexican Hot Chocolate Mix
Chocolate Covered Spoons for Cocoa
Ugly Christmas Sweater from Marshalls
Cranberry Trail Mix Recipe
Chocolate Trail Mix Recipe
Movie Night at Home Gift
No Sew Fleece Blanket
Kitchen Essentials at TJ Maxx
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans Recipe
Cinnamon Sugar Almonds Recipe
Candied Walnuts Recipe
Spicy Walnuts Recipe
Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts Recipe
Snickerdoodle Cake Mix Cookie Recipe
Easy Ginger Snap Recipe
Candy Cane Bark Recipe
Easy Peanut Brittle Recipe
Cute Marble Magnets
Pretty Bedroom DIY Flower Poms
Marshalls and HomeGoods Room Decor
DIY Rice Sock Heating Pad
RingBoost Custom Vanity Phone Number
Thanks a Latte Gift Card Holder
Summer in a Bucket
College Survival Kit
Drawing Names Gift Exchange
Becky writes: “We do a cousins gift exchange and draw names. If you have 3 kids then all you buy is 3 gifts.”
Kathy writes: “Started last few years with my kids – something you want, something you need, something to wear, something to read. It’s a work in progress for me because I still want to do a yearly ornament, a little Lego set (they are 19 and almost 16 
), stocking stuffers, a family gift, etc. Plus something from Santa… I know, I know. Maybe I’ll work on aging some of the extras out as they reach 20. But, if I stuck to the 4 then those could work on any budget and be a good balance.”
Whitney writes: “We buy birthday/Christmas presents all year long. We look at yard sales for like new items, resale shops, and clearance items. I have a closet full of presents for the kiddos, so that means we don’t have to spend anything for Christmas this year.”
Lauren writes: “When my kids got to be school-age and Christmas started getting very expensive having to buy for all the kid cousins, we started a new tradition. At Thanksgiving when all of us got together, the kids would draw a name from a basket and would have to buy or make that child a Christmas ornament. The kids loved this idea. They put a lot of thought into the ornament selection (or construction) and by the time they got to be college age they would have a nice collection to take with them to start their own homes.”
Holly writes: “We do this as well. We cannot afford to buy everyone in our families presents during just November and December. We instead buy gifts throughout the year and put them up. This way when the holiday season comes, we can see what we already have, and just buy a couple of items to finish up. I also only shop end of season clearance, outlet stores, sales… and never pay full price!”
Elizabeth writes: “We live in a major metropolitan area and that means we have a great selection of thrift stores (Goodwill, Salvation Army, independent stores).
By trial and error, I have learned that in certain locations you can find beautiful designer apparel for a song (e.g. impeccable Ralph Lauren sweaters for $2, like-new Anne Taylor dresses for $4). A spin in the washing machine erases all traces of “used.”
My teenage daughter thinks there is nothing finer than a “surprise box” of eight or ten carefully selected thrift clothing items, some of them quirky vintage items she can use as costumes. Also, I scout around for a couple months before Christmas, taking advantage of half-price sales.
I like the idea of reusing, rather than buying retail. I have also learned (as a former Macy’s gift wrapper) that if you wrap something like this up beautifully, it has a lot of grandeur.”
Frugal Gift Ideas for Everyone on your List!
Get ready for list after list of Creative Ways to Keep Christmas Gift Exchanges Thrifty!
Christy writes: “The key is to keep Christmas in mind all year. When you see something that is a great deal, and you know someone will love it – get it! Even if that means buying it in March. I have a Christmas budget spreadsheet, and I love totally how much under budget I am each year.”
LeaAnn writes: “We have decided for each adult and teen will bring something you already have that you don’t need any more, something nice, and play a game similar to the ones mentioned where you pick a present and then are able to steal one if you want, and for the children each person will bring a dollar store present for each child and then each child will have several things to open and each person can decide how much they can afford for each child.”
Nicole writes: “I shop the day after Christmas clearance sales, for gifts to give the next year. That’s how I’m able to get all sorts of gifts for my Christmas shopping list and check off the names as I go. I keep a list of gifts I have purchased on a document in my computer to update and change as needed.”
Sara writes: “We have done a ‘family’ exchange, so instead of buying one gift for each member in a family, we buy one gift for the whole family to use. We’ve given board games, gift certificates to restaurants, family friendly movies, etc.”
The Ultimate List of Gifts in a Jar Recipe {101 ideas}
Bee writes: “If you’re at all into knitting or crocheting, check out ravelry.com – they have tons of free patterns for just about anyone’s needs.”
Pam writes: “I saw this cute idea at a craft show. Make a fleece scarf, but add an extra piece of fabric on the bottom, to use as hand warmers. The scarf can be tied up like the popular blankets.”
How to Make a Fleece Scarf
Shannon writes: “My siblings and I all have children that we like to buy for but over the years, the children keep multiplying. My family decided that we will buy a Christmas ornament $5.oo or less. If you have one child, you buy one ornament. Ornaments go on sale after Christmas and you can get a beautiful ornament so cheap! What a better way to start an ornament keepsake box for your children. When they move out, they will have plenty to decorate a tree. I figure they have school ornaments and other ornaments along the way. It is future frugal planning. When they are young and on their own, trimming a tree will not be a burden. You could also make an ornament if you wish!”
Nellie writes: “I know what you mean! I’ve got 4 children. Before drawing names with cousins, we agree on a price limit we can live with, like $5-$10. Then we get creative with meaningful gifts, such as homemade baking mixes (blank-in-a-jar), photo collages of great memories, supplies for a favorite hobby, books, a diary book, etc.”
Kelly writes: “We focus on the kids as much as possible… I do like to put a price limit on gifts though… usually only $10 and under… (this doesn’t apply to our children though). Also, in past years we’ve gotten family pictures done or pictures of the kids. I love those package coupons for JC Penny. Then we go to the dollar store and pick out frames. This is a particularly great gift for grandparents! They always love the pictures and this way all they have to do is hang it or set it out on a shelf.”
Kristin writes: “My family has recently started drawing names. We set a low limit ($20) and have to get 3 items. One is to be practical, one is to be edible, and one is to be recycled (something from your own home or purchased at a thrift store). Even my grandparents have fun trying to get the best gifts they can with their $20.”
Beth writes: “Some ideas that might work would be to draw names but everyone has to get the same item like a Christmas ornament or slippers for the other person with the goal being to make it as personal as possible. Another idea is to have a stocking for each person and everyone buys the same item for each persons sock such as a special holiday candy, lip balm, hand sanitizer, ect. You could of course do toys and such for the kids. Have it so no one puts who it’s to or from, then no one feels like they have to impress. Talk to them this year about possible changes for next year just in case you have people who shop in January for the next Christmas, they will be more receptive to change if they don’t already have presents bought. The important thing is to enjoy the Christmas season and the time you get with your loved ones.”
How to Save Money on Christmas Gifts for Teens:
Looking for some simple ways to save BIG on your gifts this year? Check out these tips from your frugal friends…
Kathy writes: “Start your Christmas shopping in September/October so you can have less stress in December and enjoy the month. “
Heather writes: “In “Notes” on your phone, make a ‘Gifts’ note, then list everyone you get gifts for…throughout the year as you see/think of something or hear them talk about something they like/want, type it under their name immediately. It took a lot of guess-work/stress away! Game-changer for my husband, too, who used to always forget ideas he had”
Cynthia writes: “Start putting back money for Christmas in January. Even if you can only put back a little each month, it will grow and you will have it to spend at Christmas.”
Cara writes: “Save $10 a week starting Christmas week. Each week put in an envelope or have a separate savings account and transfer into it. Plus make list in January of people you buy for, allocate a spend for each one and either order on line each month or pick up stocking fillers as part of a weekly shop. Keep to a minimum and maximum but buy practical and useful or luxury gifts such as an expensive face or and cream when you see it discounted. Never pay full price for anything. If you can sew or knit, start projects now.”
Linda writes: “Purchase potential presents after Christmas when there are great sales.”
Linda writes: “I make a Master Christmas List after the first of the New Year. I put names of people I buy for on it. All through the yr. When I find something on clearance & buy, I put it on my list & tuck gift away till I bring out my goodies to wrap at Christmas. This way..I can see what I have for who and not forget what I bought. I shop Cracker Barrel for my Grandchildren pretty clothes when put on clearance for next yr.”
Jenny writes: “My husband and I have a lot of people to buy for during the holidays and sometimes “a small leak can sink a great ship” really fast, so we try to make it a minimum. For the families, we are making a movie night baskets. There are so many great family movies at Target for $4.00 – $9.00… we buy a movie, box of popcorn, candy bars, place them in a red & white “popcorn” box and wrap them up with clear red/green wrapping and tie a bow at the top. The pop-corn, candy, popcorn box and wrapping can be found at The Dollar Tree. Also board games are fun too! Wal-Mart sells board games (Monopoly, Sorry, etc..) for at least $7-$10 if you want to stay around that price range and it’s great for a family present! You can probably add some candy with the game, etc… there is so much to do for gifts and the season is for giving, not “who bought the most expensive present” people will like your gift, I know we would! There are a lot of ways you can create a fun holiday without breaking your budget. Hope that helps “
Raven writes: “I use coupons to buy shampoo, conditioner, body wash, razors very cheap all year long. This Christmas I will be wrapping them up in Beauty Baskets!”
Vickey writes: “The best “helper” for me was to get the “Santa’s Bag” app. With this app, I was able to set a budget and I stayed within my budget for buying gifts for my 6 grandchildren. And I actually came in $90 below budget. I was able to list each of the gifts along with the price, where purchased and most important, where I hid them. I could also mark the gifts as purchased, in-transit or wrapped. Even though it took time to input the information, I updated the information at night while watching TV. This was so much better than pen to paper lists I had used in the past. I plan to use this app for gifts I purchase ahead of time for birthdays next year.”
More Related Gift Ideas
Now that you’ve checked some Fun Christmas Gift Ideas for Teens off your list, get even more Gift Ideas and stocking stuffer inspiration here…
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BIG List of Best Stocking Stuffers for Men
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Are you wondering what to Get Grandma? Check out this HUGE list of Fun Grandma Gift Ideas she’ll love!
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BIG List of Creative CoWorker Gift Ideas
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Frugal Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List!
From unique birthday gifts to hilarious stocking stuffers, and sweet keepsakes to romantic surprise gifts, there’s something fun for everyone! Finding the perfect gift has never been so fun!
I’ve included creative ideas for Dad, Boyfriends, Kids, Teen Girls, Teen Boys, Grandpa, Grandma, Teachers, Coworkers, Foodies, Coffee Lovers, Dogs and more!
So do you have any favorite Fun Christmas Gift Ideas for Teens?
Leave a comment and share!
As a teen, I can say Aeropostale is out. But almost every girl at my school loves Miss Me jeans. I know they can be expensive so normally I buy them on Amazon. But if you really want to get your teen something they’ll love, think like them. Look in there room and try to piece something together. Gas cards and gift cards are nice too, I love that.
Help! I thought you had a poem about ” we love how
Much you “light up” our lives… Now, I can’t find it!
Teens get bord with there style of clothes and there room so mabye get some new clothes ,and paint or get supplies or get a new bed. Also get a Vera Bradley purse for a touch of style.
Also(!) Teens can get bored with their bedroom style. A new comforter, cool chair, desk or vanity, and light fixtures can be a breath of fresh air. Some matching decor works as well.
No aeropostale shirts, those are not popular anymore. iTunes giftcards, gas cards,and giftcards to any restaurant are great for them to go out with their friends. Guys always appreciate a new pair of Nike tennis shoes and if they have a sport of interest, gear for the sport is popular. Girls are really into Vera Bradley, urban decay makeup, the PINK brand store, forever21, and similar stores. College items are always appreciated. Stocking stuffers like lotions, razors, GUM(!), etc. You can never go wrong with a book.
You must have teenagers – because your reply totally reflected my two!!