Shopping for a young adult can sometimes be tricky. You want to find something that feels fun but is also useful—and preferably something they’ll still enjoy after the excitement of opening it wears off!
Whether you’re shopping for Christmas, a birthday, heading back to college, graduation, or just because, I put together a gift guide with a mix of practical items, fun finds, and a few things they might not buy for themselves. And honestly, many of these would make great gifts for teenagers, too.
LEGO Botanical Set
I don’t think you can ever really outgrow LEGO! The LEGO Botanical sets are especially fun because you get the experience of putting something together, but when you’re finished, it doubles as decor. They’re perfect for a dorm room, apartment, bedroom, or even an office.
This is one of those gifts that works for so many ages and personalities.
Link: Lego Botanicals
Compact Portable Charger
Maybe not the most exciting gift on the list—but definitely one of the most useful!
A compact charger is something a young adult can toss into a backpack, purse, or car and have ready whenever they need it. It’s especially handy for college students, travelers, concerts, long days out, or anyone who is constantly using their phone.
Pair it with a fun charging cord or little tech pouch if you want to turn it into a bigger gift.
Link: Charger
Portable Hammock
We’ve had a portable hammock for years, and it has gotten used so many times. They’re lightweight, don’t take up much room, and are easy to set up.
I love the idea of keeping one right in the car. If you’re at a park, camping, hanging out by a lake, or spending the afternoon outside, you can pull it out and have an instant place to relax.
This would be especially fun for a college student who loves being outdoors.
Link: Hammock
A Favorite Record
If they have a record player—or you’re giving them one—a vinyl record is always a fun gift. You can choose one from their favorite current artist or go with a classic.
And really, you can’t go wrong with The Beatles.
Records are also easy gifts to continue over time. Once you know someone enjoys vinyl, you have a built-in birthday or Christmas gift idea for years to come.
Link: Abbey Road Record
Record Player
I love the idea of giving a record player to a teenager or young adult. There’s something fun about slowing down, choosing an album, and listening to the entire thing.
It’s also a gift they can keep using as they build their record collection. Add one record to get them started, and you have a complete gift.
Link: Record player
Fun Cups or Tumblers
Cups are such an easy gift for almost anyone. Find one in their favorite color, add a fun pattern, or choose one that fits their personality.
For a college student, it’s something they can use every day for water, coffee, or taking a drink to class. You could even fill the cup with a few smaller gifts, candy, drink mixes, or a gift card.
Link: glass tumbler
Portable Table Tennis Set
This just looks like so much fun.
A portable table tennis set can turn an ordinary table into a game, making it great for a dorm, apartment, family gathering, or hanging out with friends. I especially like gifts that give young adults something to do rather than just another item to own.
Link: table tennis
A Really Good Backpack
This is one of the pricier items on the list, but I think a quality backpack can be worth spending a little more on.
A young adult could use it for college, work, weekend trips, or as a carry-on for years. This might be a good option for a parent or grandparent looking for one larger gift rather than several smaller ones.
Look for something durable with comfortable straps, plenty of organization, and a style that isn’t going to feel dated quickly.
Link: backpack
Unique Snacks
Food is almost always a win!
Instead of the usual candy, put together a collection of unique snacks they may not have tried before. You could choose international snacks, nostalgic favorites, sweet and salty options, or snacks from a favorite place.
This is also a fun gift for a college student because they can keep everything in their dorm or apartment—and share with friends if they’re willing!
Link: snacks
Sling Bag
Sling bags and crossbody bags are so popular right now, and I understand why. I’ve had one for a long time, and I love being able to keep my hands free.
They’re great for everyday errands, travel, concerts, sporting events, and college campuses. Pick a neutral color they’ll use all the time or go with something fun if you know their style.
sling (no longer available at Urban Outfitters, here is an Amazon link)
Rotating Fan With Remote
Here’s another practical gift that could end up being used all the time: a rotating fan with a remote.
This would be especially useful in a dorm room, first apartment, or bedroom. Being able to control it from across the room makes it even better. It’s one of those everyday items they might not think to buy themselves—which can make it a surprisingly good gift.
Link: Fan
A Gift Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
I think the best gifts for young adults are a combination of fun, useful, and a little unexpected. Something doesn’t have to be expensive to be a great gift.
You could choose one larger item, like the backpack or record player, or combine a few smaller things. A portable charger with a cup and snacks would make a great college gift. Pair a record player with a Beatles album for something special. Or combine the hammock with snacks and a portable charger for someone who loves being outdoors.
Whether you’re shopping for Christmas, a birthday, graduation, back-to-college, or another special occasion, hopefully this list gives you a few ideas for gifts a young adult—or even a teenager—will actually enjoy and use.
Here are this years gift guides (toddler gift guide, Kids, self-care gift guide, women’s gift guide, and men’s gift guide). Check out some of last years gift guides (baby/toddler, kids, and adult). For some other sling and purse ideas, check out this post.
*commission earned on amazon links
