37 Best Gifts for Gen Z in 2025
Finding gifts for Gen Z doesn’t require guesswork; it calls for presents that fit how they live. Above all, they treasure shared experiences, practical tools and brands that align with their values. Gen Z here refers to those born 1997–2012, spanning dorm move-ins, first apartments, and early careers. But what does Gen Z like as gifts?
Research from Stanford University points to a cohort that collaborates, solves problems pragmatically, and still values in-person connection, which is why classes, workshops, and small upgrades for home or campus land well.
Use that context to choose gifts for Gen Z that will get opened, used and shared. Whether you are looking for Christmas gifts for teens or just trying to answer the question “What is the most popular thing with Gen Z?” Zero in on a fit that matches their week: a Friday paint class with friends, cookware that will become décor or a card they’ll redeem together.
Jump to Section
- Creative Gifts for Gen Z
- Foodie Gifts for Gen Z
- Luxury Gifts for Gen Z
- Gifts for Gen Z Females
- Gifts for Gen Z Males
- Best Gift Cards for Gen Z
Creative Gifts for Gen Z
1. Art Classes
Art classes are a great way to engage Gen Z’s creative side and make for a great experience-based gift for Gen Z. Sign your teen or twenty-something up for art classes in Chicago, NYC, San Diego or even find art classes near you that fit the bill and let them express themselves through art.
This creative gift for Gen Z offers low-pressure hangouts where friends share a table and leave with new skills. If you're unsure which class they want to take, get them a creative gift card for artists so that they can choose.
2. Pottery Classes
Following on in the creative vein, book them into a local pottery class as a gift for Gen Z. They’ll work with their hands hand-building pottery as well as trying out wheel-throwing and glazing. Once they've got the hang of these pottery tools and techniques, they'll even come away with their very own unique ceramic pieces!
With pottery classes in Austin, Portland, Boston, and everywhere in between, this is one of the best gifts for Gen Z that can be enjoyed nearly anywhere.
3. Paint and Sip
You might see the birth years and think they are too young to enjoy a paint and sip class as a gift for Gen Z, but don't forget that many members of Gen Z are now in their mid to late twenties. Gifting them a paint and sip class allows them to enjoy a fun night out with their friends and put their artistic abilities to the test.
A local artist will guide them through each step of creating their very own artwork, while still leaving plenty of room for creative painting techniques. It makes the blank canvas feel a bit less intimidating and means the whole group can focus on enjoying the experience together. With options for paint and sip in Washington, D.C., Seattle, Houston and countless other areas, this is a reliable gift for Gen Z girls and guys nationwide.
4. Temporary Tattoos
If your Gen Z child or friend is thinking about getting inked but is not ready to take the plunge, give them a meaningful way to try it before they hit the tattoo parlor. Inkbox makes temporary tattoos that feel real but don't come with the usual commitment.
The ink fades in about ten days, which means no awkward cover-up at internships or family photos. Those with shifting styles will love how fast they can swap designs and it plays well for Gen Z gifts for guys who want subtle, clean looks.
5. Hand-Made Treasures
Many Gen Z-ers are concerned about the environment, so try thrifting or making something with sustainability in mind. Pick one craft and go deep. A cyanotype kit, for example, turns sunlight and a few pressed leaves into graphic blue prints they can frame or turn into cards.
There are plenty of other DIY gifts for Gen Z too, like homemade candle making, jewelry and more that are a wallet- and environment-friendly way to show them you care. Exactly the kind of hands-on projects that land on shortlists of gifts for Gen Z girl groups who swap what they make.
6. Game Night Staples
Gen Z values personal connection above all else. Give them a board game or card game they can enjoy with their closest friends at their next game night. From the raunchy Cards Against Humanity to classics like UNO, Jenga or Twister, games make a great gift for Gen Z to play with friends.
Foodie Gifts for Gen Z
7. Cooking Classes
A local cooking class gives structure to the curiosity that's been building across countless TikToks and produces techniques that hold up on busy weeknights. For gifts for Gen Z, it’s a confidence builder: sear a steak medium rare, roll maki that doesn’t unravel or nail a pan sauce without thinking.
Give your favorite member of Gen Z the opportunity to learn cooking skills from a real chef with cooking classes in Portland, Atlanta, Houston or cooking classes near you. If their schedule is too busy to make it to an in-person class, try giving them a certificate for online cooking classes so they can enjoy what is undoubtedly one of the best Gen Z gifts for men and women, from their very own kitchen.
8. Kitchen Gadgets
In a similar vein, gifts for adulting are very popular gifts for Gen Z. Pick the piece that solves a daily friction point so it gets used and doesn't become clutter. It's an easy gift for Gen Z girls in apartment kitchens short on space. Stock their kitchen with a stand mixer, new coffee maker or milk frother and allow them to up their cooking game. Kitchen hacks like these change habits for the better and take the nuisance out of everyday life.
9. High-End Cookware
Cooking gifts make great gifts for Gen Z. Many of these younger people are just starting out with their own careers and homes, so giving them quality cookware that will last a lifetime is a great gift for Gen Z. Le Creuset makes beautiful pots, pans and more that will really elevate any Gen Z kitchen.
10. Dinner Out
If you are looking for gifts for foodies, why not treat them to a fancy dinner out? Give your Gen Z family member or friend the gift of quality time by inviting and treating them to a delicious dinner. Try a new type of international cuisine or make a reservation at a nice restaurant in your area to make memories and enjoy good food together.
11. Unique Coffee Blends
Give your Gen Z friends coffee subscription boxes or a sample pack of unique coffee blends. Transparent sourcing matters to this generation; when choosing gifts for Gen Z men, include roasters that publish farm details and roast dates.
12. Gift Basket
Still struggling to think of a gift for Gen Z foodies? Why not try a gift basket? There are almost endless options available online, from charcuterie baskets to at-home movie night baskets. If you'd rather make one yourself, build with intent, not just volume.
Pick a theme — a self-care gift set with creams, DIY bath bombs and bath salts; or a ramen upgrade set with quality noodles, chili crisp, toasted sesame oil, and a deep bowl. A well-considered assortment can easily become a Gen Z gift for girls or guys that they'll never forget.
Luxury Gifts for Gen Z
13. Fresh Plants or Bouquets
If you’re looking for a high-end gift for a special occasion, Bouqs ships fresh bouquets and potted plants, with beautiful flower arrangements for every season and occasion. Pair a subscription with a virtual flower arranging workshop and their space will soon be teeming with color and life.
14. Style Subscription Service
Another luxury gift idea for Gen Z is a Stitch Fix custom style subscription. No matter their style or budget, Stitch Fix will pair the recipient with a stylist who will send them a curated box of clothing and accessories each month.
15. Luxury Pajamas
Self-care gifts are always a good idea, and a nice set of breathable cotton or smooth silk pajamas will leave any member of Gen Z feeling truly pampered. The Lunya Washable Silk Set uses weighty silk that doesn’t cling and a waistband that doesn’t dig. As a gift for Gen Z girls, this offers care for comfort without sacrificing style.
16. High-End Skincare
With TikTok trends changing all the time, the Gen Z skincare regimen is a big deal. Splurge on quality serums, night creams or cleansers and give the gift of self-care. A gentle leave-on exfoliant clears congestion without the grit of a scrub, which keeps barrier drama to a minimum. The Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant slips under any moisturizer and helps makeup sit smoother by morning.
17. Sunglasses
Another luxe item on the Gen Z wish list is high-end sunglasses. The Ray-Ban New Wayfarer keeps a familiar silhouette but tweaks it to make it feel a bit lighter on smaller faces. It's a luxury item that many might not buy for themselves, making sunglasses a great gift idea for Gen Z.
18. Designer Handbag
A designer handbag is often a luxury that many young women starting in their careers would hesitate to purchase. What better way to celebrate her new position or big promotion than with a luxury purse?
A compact shoulder bag that handles errands, events and interviews will find a permanent place in their life. The Coach Tabby 26 carries the day’s essentials without bulging and the leather softens in a way that only looks better with time. This luxury gift for Gen Z women will not go unnoticed.
19. Upgraded Headphones
Gen Z is without a doubt the most technologically advanced generation of adults, so why not acknowledge that with a new pair of noise-canceling headphones? The Sony WH-1000XM5 takes the edge off without sacrificing sound quality. This gift idea for Gen Z is a great option for those working in loud offices or at home with loud roommates.
20. Record Player
Add to the Gen Z fixation on vinyl by giving a high-quality record player or a collection of unique vinyl records to the music-loving Gen Z-er in your home. The Audio-Technica AT-LP60X pairs with small speakers and starts with one button, so the ritual doesn't completely take over. It's a great choice for a friend curating their first shelf of records.
Gifts for Gen Z Females
21. Unique Candles or Quirky Trinkets
What do Gen Z girls want? It’s a question that can be tricky to answer, but you won’t go wrong by gifting them a unique candle or other trinket from the quirky and unique online retailer Coming Soon. If you consider yourself crafty, you could always try your hand at candle-making, or book a candle-making workshop for you to enjoy together.
22. Astrology-Themed Gifts
Astrology gifts are all the rage with Gen Z. If you’re unfamiliar with all the astrological options, try something like a mindful subscription box full of crystals and aromatherapy from Mindful Souls.
23. Environment-Friendly Haircare
Gen Z is a very socially conscious generation. Give the gift of hair care that’s good for the scalp and the environment. The Earthling Co. is a hair-care company that sells plastic-free shampoos and conditioners, making it an environmentally-friendly gift that also makes a great gift for minimalists.
24. Home Décor
If your daughter or niece is starting out in her first apartment, home décor gifts are a wonderful gift idea for Gen Z. Anthropologie is a great place to find home décor and accessories that are sure to match her style.
25. A New Planner or Journal
Paper still beats apps for mapping the week. For the busy Gen Z member in your life, Papier makes beautiful planners, gratitude and wellness journals, and personalized stationery. Pair with a set of beautiful pens for an easy gift idea for Gen Z.
26. Trending Cosmetics
From budget-friendly dupes of luxury goods to trending bronzers and mascaras, social media has made the sharing of new cosmetic trends easier than ever. If you're looking to pick just one, the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch blends with fingertips and locks in without patching, which makes it friendly for beginners and pros. Gifts for Gen Z girls like this one show you're paying attention and let them get in on the fun.
27. Hair Styling Tools
Cheap hair styling tools can often cause intense damage when used for long periods of time. Give your Gen Z friends and family the gift of a good hair day by purchasing the latest in curling iron or blow-drying technology. If you're feeling generous, there's no beating the Dyson Airwrap.
Gifts for Gen Z Males
28. Skincare
Gen Z males don’t have to be difficult to shop for! They still need self-care products to keep their skin looking fresh and bright. Try Lumin for men’s cleansers, moisturizers and more. Smart, low-effort skincare like this suits gifts for Gen Z men who want results without a bathroom shelf crowded with experiments.
29. Luxury Fire Pit
For the outdoorsy Gen Z guy on your list, splurge on a Solo Stove fire pit or table-top s’more maker. This is a great gift idea for Gen Z guys who love to be outside with their friends and family. The best part is, the Solo Stove drafts air so efficiently that clothes won't reek of smoke afterwards.
30. Haircare
Don’t forget about their hair! Gen Z males need hair products, too! From styling balms to mousse or even a quality shave kit, this gift for Gen Z allows them to pamper themselves. The Olaplex Healthy Hair Essentials bundles a bond-building treatment with everyday wash-and-condition and a light oil. When they see the results, they'll be hooked.
31. Portable Speakers
Allow your Gen Z men to bring their favorite tunes wherever they go with portable outdoor Bluetooth speakers that will weather all types of environments. The JBL Charge 5 is loud and can handle sand and splashes. It even doubles as a power bank in a pinch. This is a gift for Gen Z men that will stand the test of time.
32. Trending Sneakers
Up their shoe game by splurging for the latest and greatest sneakers on the market. Retro silhouettes are great because they go with everything. The adidas Samba OG can be worn well with wide-leg trousers, cargos or bike shorts and looks better after they're a little scuffed. Unique or collector’s item shoes also make a great gift for Gen Z.
33. Cologne
Cologne makes a great special occasion gift for Gen Z males. Go with a Scentbox subscription to help them find a fragrance that represents their personality and style to make this gift feel more personal. It’s a low-risk gift for Gen Z men that might even lead to a signature scent.
34. Gaming Equipment
Video games make great gifts for millennials and Gen Zers alike, but for Gen Z guys, they help them stay connected with their friends, even across long distances. Upgrade their gaming setup with a new console, controllers or even chairs and TV tables to bring their game room to the next level.
Best Gift Cards for Gen Z
35. Unforgettable Experiences
Since Gen Z values person-to-person connection, an experience gift card can be a great way to foster connection and to create great memories. With a gift for Gen Z like this, there’s no worry about the gift fitting in with their style — you can curate an experience guaranteed to match their tastes!
36. Dinner In
It might seem like a simple gift for Gen Z, but a restaurant gift card is a top choice. A DoorDash gift card is a great option that lets a Gen Z-er know you care while leaving the choice in their hands. They’ll be able to order food from their favorite restaurant without leaving the comfort of home.
37. Spa Gift Card
If you are looking for relaxation gifts, give a gift card to a local spa or a gift card for a manicure or pedicure. Gen Z nail trends are all the rage, so a gift card like this will enable them to feel pampered and on-trend thanks to your generosity.
We hope this list of the best gifts for Gen Z has helped you figure out what to shop for. Whether you are looking for holiday gifts or a birthday gift idea, be sure to find something as unique and special as the members of Gen Z. With their unique sense of humor and desire for personal connection, they truly have a lot to offer the world.
For even more fun gift ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
