IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Lost in translation? Decode the Gen Z wish list with these 51 gifts that won’t break the bank

These presents are way better than a gift card.

Chances are someone in your life has referenced #tiktokmademebuyit. In recent years, TikTok has, undoubtedly, become the place to discover the latest trends and hacks for all things beauty, fashion, tech and just about everything else.

If you're shopping for a Gen Zer and don't want to comb through TikTok yourself, we've done the hard work and rounded up some of the top Gen Z gifts of the year. This list includes some of TikTok's most viral products, creator's faves as well as a few from our personal wish lists.

From Apple AirPods and portable tiny mics to the viral Revlon One-Step Volumizer and the Ugg Classic Ultra Mini Platform boot, these gifts are sure to please the Zoomer in your life.

Apparel and accessories | Tech accessories | Shoes | Gifts for relaxation | Other Gen Z gifts | FAQs

Gen Z apparel and accessories

Carhartt Beanie

Beanies are a staple piece to add to their wardrobe during colder months. The classic hat comes in over 20 colors, making the possibilities of styling it endless.

Satina High Waisted Leggings

These high-waisted leggings have a handy pocket for keys or a phone when you're going for a run or doing errands. Reviews say these are some of the softest leggings on the market, and all for under $20. One verified reviewer said, "I love the material and the fit is just perfect! I’m looking forward to wearing them as often as possible because they are so comfortable!"

Lululemon Skinny Scrunchies


These scrunchies help to the reduce hair breakage that often happens with traditional hair ties. Offered in a bunch of different colors, they keep ponytails and topknots firmly in place whether you're exercising, washing your face or just lounging around the house.

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack

We love these lightweight belt bags. They're convenient to carry around, can fit a lot inside of them (despite their small size) and come in a ton of colorways. They're similar to the always-popular Lululemon belt bag (which is currently out of stock) but at a lower price point.

'47 Brand Historic Sierra Hat

For game days, bad hair days and everything in between, this hat features a trendy rope at the back of the bill that separates the two colors. Available in a number of different teams across baseball, collegiate sports, football and basketball, gift them the one they're always rooting for.

Aerie Flare Legging

Yes, #tiktokmademebuyit and I don’t regret it. The Aerie High Waisted Crossover Leggings are so comfortable and flattering that I’m impatiently waiting for the medium brown to come back in stock so I can add it to my cart. The pants come in XXS to XXL, and in short and long in a variety of colors.

Wear by Erin Andrews Chicago Cubs T-Shirt

Help them cheer for their team even in the off-season with this MLB-themed tee from Erin Andrews's collection. Andrews is a sports reporter and sought out to create a line of women's tees to celebrate their love for sports. This tee features the phrase "Greetings from Chicago" and features some of the city's most notable spots like Michigan Ave.

Lululemon Dual Pouch Wristlet

Lululemon has been a Gen Z favorite for years and this new drop is no exception. The new dual pouch wristlet took TikTok by storm with over 25 million people already adding this to their holiday wish list.

Reviewers say this wristlet is perfect for those with a busy lifestyle. "Does a great job holding all of my cards," one reviewer said. "I use the curved pouch to hold my AirPods and they fit nicely!"

Tech accessories for Gen Z

Pearl Phone Charm

No Gen Z phone is complete without a unique phone accessory like these phone charms. This phone charm is customizable and reviews say it can hold the weight of an iPhone 14 Pro Max.

Mini Portable Microphone

Take their TikTok content up a notch with this mini microphone that can be used to improve sound quality on videos. With this phone attachment, they will be on their way to becoming a content creator in no time.

AirPod Max Headphone Silicone Covers

Help your Gen Z'er protect their tech with these silicone covers compatible with Apple's AirPod Max headphones. These anti-scratch covers slip over the ear pad, ear cups and headband to protect your headphones from sweat and dirt when working out, traveling or just trekking through the week.

"I loved the product, put it on immediately after delivery and they fit so well on the headphones! I like that they are sleek and fit nicely on the AirPod max," one reviewer said. "These are expensive headphones and I want to make them last so I think for the price they will maintain them clean and away from stains. Also does not interfere with Bluetooth or sound."

AirPods Pro Case

Keep their AirPods safe and secure with this case that offers all-around protection against bumps and drops, according to the brand. The outer waterproof surface will keep their earbuds dust- and scratch-free.

Casely Abstract Retro Case

This Magsafe iPhone case has an on-trend, '70s-inspired print with a modern twist. It's the perfect way for them to upgrade the look of their phone without actually, well, upgrading their actual phone.

MagSafe Compatible Popsocket

Now compatible with MagSafe iPhones, Popsocket offers 11 different colors and designs to still customize their phone to match a case or add a pop of personality.

Shoes for Gen Z

Cushionaire Slides

Give them the gift of comfort with these “pillow-like” cloud slides. Various celebs have been seen sporting the trendy shoe as part of an “off-duty” model look. Why not hop on the trend with this bestselling pair that has over 23,000 verified five-star ratings and several colorways available? One customer raved that it’s “like walking on a cloud from the moment I put them on!”

New Balance 480

These trendy leather New Balances are all the rave this year. The low-cut design spotlights the shoe's retro style. Some reviews suggest ordering a half size smaller since these shoes are a bit bulky. These are the perfect buy for your Gen Z with wide feet.

Adidas Samba Classic Shoes

These Adidas are the "it girls'" current favorite sneakers. The low profile and simple design make them the perfect every day shoe to complete any errand in style. This sneaker modeled after a 1950s version gives a retro touch to any Gen Z outfit. One reviewer said they keep rebuying these shoes, "My whole family owns a pair. Classic and comfy could never go wrong."

Ugg Tasman Slippers

Gen Z-ers will love these Ugg slippers, which are equal parts fashion and function. The exterior is suede and has a cozy sheepskin lining making the extra-comfy and warm for the winter months. With 7 colors to choose from, you can grab a versatile neutral (like chestnut or black) or choose a more statement-making color like purple or bright green for the Gen Z-er in your life.

Hoka One One Clifton

These popular running shoes are great for keeping comfortable when you're on your feet a lot, according to many reviews, with one verified shopper saying it was like "walking on a cloud."

Ugg Classic Ultra Mini Platform

Without a doubt Ugg is a top brand when it comes to a fall/winter staple shoe. The Classic Ultra Mini Boot was the “it” shoe when it came out two years ago. To stay on top of the chunky trend we’ve been seeing this year, Ugg took the shoe we love to new heights by adding a platform. I personally love the look and think makes a basic piece more elevated.

Gen Z gifts for relaxation

Scalp Massager

Gift them a scalp massager to transform their at-home hair care regimen into a salon visit. This affordable option from Amazon deep cleans and exfoliates the scalp while stimulating blood flow to the oil glands.

PureGlow USB Salt Lamp

A salt lamp is a stellar gift to set the mood after a long day of school or work. This salt lamp is crafted from 100% pink Himalayan salt rocks and offers five levels of brightness to create the ideal ambiance, according to the brand.

The Five-Minute Journal

Sometimes the best gift to give is gratitude. With over 1.3 million guided journals sold worldwide, according to the brand, weekly challenges, daily affirmations, inspiring quotes and end-of-day reflections are endless. It'll last for six months of daily journaling and is made with sustainable materials.

Lush Sleepy Lotion

The perfect antidote for winding down after a long day, this lotion is made with lavender, oat milk and almond oil to provide soothing and relaxing benefits. It's available in three different sizes, so you can choose to stock up how you please.

Aroma Diffuser

An aroma diffuser is a wonderful gift to give to someone as a token of your affection. They are believed to promote calmness, relaxation and boost your overall mood. Pair it with an essential oil of their favorite scent to set the vibe after a long day of work or school.

Other Gen Z gifts

Satin Pillowcase

For the person in your life who needs a new pillowcase, gift them the No. 1 bestseller in Amazon's "bed pillow pillowcases" category. They will elevate their beauty sleep while protecting their hair and skin all in one.

Touchland Hand Sanitizer

You can’t go wrong with this chic hand sanitizer. According to the brand, the award-winning hand sanitizer power mist kills up to 99 percent of most common germs and bacteria, hydrates and softens, all while leaving hands delicately scented. It comes in a variety of different aromas including aloe vera, velvet peach, berry bliss and more.

As Cooked on TikTok Cookbook

TikTok is my go-to platform for finding new, easy-to-follow recipes. This cookbook features over 60 viral (and fan favorite) dishes from over 40 culinary creators on the app.

What's Your Sign?: A Guide to Astrology Book

For that person who always asks for your astrological sign, why not gift them this book? It'll guide beginners and enthusiasts alike through rising signs, planets and other astrology basics.

Slushy Maker Cup

Another foodie item on the list is this slushy cup that turns your favorite beverages into a cool sip before your eyes. All you have to do is freeze the slushy maker a few hours in advance, add your choice of beverage, squeeze the slushy cup for three to five minutes and you have a frozen drink!

Areaware Little Puzzle Thing

This cute little food puzzle (which comes in 19 different styles, like a Chicago-style hotdog and bowl of cereal) is meant to get the Gen Z guy in your life away from his screen and focused on putting this together. Each of these are meant to only take around 20 minutes or less to put together so it's not a huge time commitment.

Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set

If they love to prioritize their hair care routine, this overnight beauty hack may be one that they can't live without. This satin curling set produces effortless curls without the use of heat. Two scrunchies that delicately secure your hair and can be used day or night are included in the package, along with a satin curling rod to keep it all together.

Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook

This reusable notebook is the perfect match for the sustainable Gen Zer. The Rocketbook still has the same feel of a traditional notebook, but it's reusable when connected to the cloud services of your choice. According to the brand, just add a drop of water to the pad and the notebook erases like magic.

Top 100 Movies Scratch-Off Poster

Get your Gen Zer into movies with this bucket list movie scratch-off poster. This poster has a list of 100 top-rated fan favorites and has a simple, classic design. One reviewer said this poster is a fun and unique gift, "We hung this right by the TV and have it easily accessible when we are at a loss as to what to watch, it creates good memories when we have to all figure out if we’ve seen a movie and the scratch off gives us a chance to guess what it will be."

"The Summer I Turned Pretty" Boxed Set

If they can't wait until next summer to continue keeping up with their favorite characters at Cousins Beach, gift them with the complete set of books to keep them company in the meantime.

Drinking Glasses

Is it just me or does drinking out of a cute glass makes the drink taste 10 times better? For the iced coffee enthusiast in your life, gift them this set to take their fave drink with them on the move. The set includes four glass cups with matching bamboo lids, four reusable glass straws and two cleaning brushes.

Dash Mini Waffle Maker

Who said waffle makers are just for cooking waffles? I was gifted a similar mini waffle maker in the past and let me tell you the possibilities are truly endless. I've cooked mini cinnamon rolls, hash browns and pizza in mine. This two-pack waffle maker will allow them to create their favorite breakfast staples.

Kodak M35 35mm Camera

Gen Z is obsessed with the nostalgia from decades that we didn't get to experience ourselves. Gift them this Kodak camera to create endless in-the-moment memories that appear vintage. You can choose from three pastel colors. The camera also comes with a built-in flash.

GUTS Vinyl Album

Get in on the buzz! While this vinyl record has has the internet and Gen Z buzzing with excitement. One reviewer said, "I love this vinyl. The color was beautiful and the poster was too. No skips or anything."

Stanley 30oz Tumbler

Everyone is on the Stanley gravy train and this bold orange color matches Gen Z's energy. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps your drink cold all day.

Revlon One-Step Volumizer

Looking for an affordable alternative to the Dyson Airwrap? This is the next best thing that TikTok raves about. The Revlon One-Step Volumizer is the no. 1 bestseller in Amazon's "hot-air hairbrush" category and gives users a voluminous salon-quality blowout at home, while cutting drying time in half.

Soft Serve Dessert Maker

Treat them with the gift to create gourmet soft serve desserts from frozen fruits in minutes. It comes with 36 recipes for their sweet-tooth cravings.

Bubble Tea Kit

Bubble tea is one of the most popular drinks amongst Gen Z — and now they can create their own version at home! The kit includes royal milk loose leaf tea, rooibos chai loose leaf tea, boba tapioca pearls and two reusable stainless steel straws.

e.l.f. cosmetics 19-Piece Brush Set

E.l.f. makeup brushes are high-quality without the huge price point. This 19-piece set is $40, meaning each brush is only about $2. The beauty-obsessed Zoomer in your life will love these, especially if they've been looking to upgrade their current brushes after a beauty video binge on TikTok.

Fenty Beauty Butta Drop Whipped Oil Body Cream

I layer this buttery body cream with my fave perfume during the colder months. It's infused with shea butter, tropical oils, mango butter and glycerin to lock in moisture for all-day hydration. Looking for a new scent? The brand also whipped up a limited-edition warm cinnamon scent (that I couldn't pass on) with the same silky formula, topped with a gold shimmery finish.

Archive By Sofia Coppola

TikTokers are raving about this film archive book -- 368 million people to be exact. The collection from Sofia Coppola looks back at the scripts, costumes, set design and planning of iconic films that Gen Z love. Order fast to make sure to snag a copy for the Gen Z'er in your life because this book frequently sells out.

Truff Bestseller Set

This sauce has been seen all over social media and was handpicked for last year's Oprah’s Favorite Things list. The Truff starter pack includes the brand’s original hot sauce, along with their black truffle oil and black truffle salt.

Drunk Elephant "The Littles" Kit

Stocked with miniature versions of some of their bestselling products, this pouch features a night cream, moisturizer, SPF, facial oil and more to help keep their skin looking youthful. Even better is that they can test these products to see how they like them and how their skin reacts to them before splurging on the full-sized versions.

Bissell Little Green Deep Cleaner

This deep cleaning gadget from Bissell went viral on #cleantok and it's not hard to see why. According to the brand, the machine permanently removes tough spots and stains from stairs, upholstery, area rugs, pet stains and auto interiors.

Audio-Technica LP60X-BT Bluetooth Record Player

This highly-rated record player sounds as good as it looks. With its smaller footprint, it won't take a ton of space up in their room but doesn't sacrifice sound quality despite its sleek silhouette.

Air Pods Max

One of the top tech gifts last holiday season has 20 hours of listening time with a single charge, according to the brand, along with active noise cancellation. Anyone who is constantly listening to music will love receiving this.

FAQs about Gen Z

What is the age range for Gen Z?

The Gen Z generation are classified as being born between the mid-to-late 1990s to the early 2010s. This means that they are currently in the approximate age range of 11-26 years old, according to the Pew Research Center.

What kind of gifts does Gen Z like?

Gen Z enjoys gifts that are trendy but useful.

What to gift a Gen Z girl

Gifts like Stanley water bottles, record players or the trendy sneakers will be sure to wow the Gen Z girl in your life this holiday season.

What to gift a Gen Z boy

Gen Z boys enjoy playing video games, watching TV or movies and listening to music.

What items represent Gen Z?

Any tech products that can bring out creativity are perfect for the Gen Z in your life.