11 gifts
Teenagers have firm opinions and they change fast. The safest approach is to ask. If that spoils the surprise, ask a sibling or a parent what they've been talking about lately, or look at what they already use every day.
Tech and gaming
Headphones, a phone case, a portable speaker for the beach or a game for their console are the usual picks. Cases and chargers have to match the phone model, and games have to match the console. Every game has an age rating on the box, and the store can explain it if you're unsure.
A bigger tech gift, like a tablet or a laptop for school, is worth seeing in person. Ask the store about the warranty and whether they can set it up before you take it home. For a laptop, check with a parent whether the school asks for a particular model or operating system.
Gaming headsets, a second controller or a gift card for their console's online store are easier to get right than a game, because they don't depend on taste.
Clothes and shoes
Clothes are risky without a size and a clear idea of the brand they like. If you're set on it, buy from a store with a simple exchange policy and ask for a gift receipt. Sunglasses, caps and slides are easier, because fit matters less.
Experiences
Older teens often get more out of an experience than a thing. A snorkelling trip to the reef, a day on Magnetic Island with friends, a concert ticket or a cooking class all count. Check whether the activity has an age limit or needs a parent to sign.
For a teen who's learning to drive, a car phone mount, a sunshade for the windscreen or a fuel voucher are practical gifts that get used every week. A good set of sunglasses for driving into the afternoon sun is another.
Budgets
Many teens would happily take a store voucher, and there's nothing wrong with that. A voucher from a shop they already go to works better than a general one. If you'd rather give something they can unwrap, our gifts under $100 page is a good place to look. Each price there comes from the store selling it.
When two or three relatives are buying for the same teen, it's worth talking first. Pooling money for one good pair of headphones beats three small gifts that don't get used.
Gifts for teens FAQs
What do you buy a teenager who has everything?
An experience with friends, like a reef snorkelling trip, a day on Magnetic Island or a concert ticket. Or a voucher from the store they already shop at.
What is a good gift for a 16 year old?
Quality headphones, a portable speaker, a game for their console or a driving-related gift if they have their learner licence. Check the phone or console model first.
Are gift cards a good gift for teenagers?
Yes. Teens often have specific tastes, and a voucher lets them choose. A voucher from a store they already like works better than a general one.
What gifts suit a teen who loves the beach?
A boogie board, a waterproof phone pouch, a portable speaker, polarised sunglasses or a rash shirt. During stinger season, a stinger suit is a practical gift too.