Best gifts for Gen Z under $50
Scandinordica Disco Ball Planter
This disco ball planter is not only all over TikTok, but it’s also right now in the homes of people I know. I've personally purchased several as gifts for friends and it's always a hit. Your Gen Z giftee can either hang their planter from the ceiling or place it on their desk or nightstand. It also makes a great dinner table centerpiece. They come in six-, eight- and 10-inch sizes in silver, gold and rose gold, so you can choose the one your gift recipient would most like (or get them all three sizes, which look cool hanging at different lengths).
Pair Eyewear’s mixed material frames will elevate your Gen Z giftee’s style. Available in gold with a black base and in silver with crystal clear base, they'll let you take Pair’s customizability to the next level and even match your jewelry to your glasses. Designed with ease in mind, they’re compatible with any top frames in the same base shape. And now you can get new limited-edition holiday collection toppers. These frames come in Pair’s iconic Kirby, Murphy, Wanda, Larkin and Finley styles, combining sleek new metal temples with the same acetate front you already know and love. Your Gen Z giftee is sure to love it.
AndSons Signature Chocolate Collection
If you're searching for a sweet treat, check out AndSons' unique, delicious chocolates. The Signature Chocolate Collection includes a wide variety of colorful, flavorful confections that will make a fun addition to any occasion. The box comes in several sizes, with pricing starting at $25 for six pieces (and if they really love chocolate, you can get them a box with as many as 84 pieces in it!).
Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler
This is the TikTok tumbler everyone has been talking about (Gen Z or not), and after getting one, I understand the hype. This Stanley Tumbler keeps drinks insulated for hours or even days. It comes in tons of colors too -- many more than what's pictured here -- so you can find one that suits your giftee's style.
CalPak Water Bottle Holder
Water bottles are great until there's nowhere to put them. The CalPak Water Bottle Holder will fit your Gen Zer's water bottle, keys, wallet and other small items. This TikTok sensation is amazing for hikers, college students and other hydration enthusiasts. The bag also comes in a lot of fun colors, from black to orchid to rouge -- and many more.
The Whatever Party Game is guaranteed to spice up every game night. I love card games, especially ones that bring out people's more adventurous sides, and this game does just that. From revealing questions to bizarre dares, the Whatever Party Game will be unlike any other one your Gen Z giftee has played.
If you're searching for a simple gift for Gen Z friends or family who recently turned 21, look no further than Owen's Craft Mixers. The company offers a wide array of mixers -- from espresso martini to ginger beer ones -- that go with all sorts of alcohol. There's truly something for everyone. This one is the Transfusion Mix, which is a combo of grape juice and ginger ale that they can pair with their favorite spirit. And if you add a bottle of that spirit to your gift, even better.
Best gifts for Gen Z under $100
Funko Pop! Yourself (set of two)
This is a super unique gift that the Gen Zer in your life will love. In less than five minutes, you can create a Funko Pop! character of them and someone else, whether it’s their best friend, person they’re dating or you. When I tested it out, it came to $60 for a set of two, though there are certain themes and accessories you can add -- like a pet -- that will up the cost.
Polaroid Go Instant Camera
Remember when Polaroid cameras were all the rage? Well, they're back and bigger than ever. Correction, smaller than ever. The new Polaroid Go Instant Camera takes the same instant film photos we all know and love, but in a more compact package. It can also now be charged via USB and includes a self-timer flash. In any case, your Gen Z giftee is sure to love it.
JBL Clip 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
With the JBL Clip 4 Portable Speaker, your giftee can bring music anywhere and everywhere. And don't let its light weight and small size deceive you: The speaker is louder than you'd expect. In addition, it's waterproof and dust-proof, can play for up to 10 hours before it needs charging and comes in lots of cool colors. It also made our pick for the best portable mini Bluetooth speaker. No doubt, it'll make a great gift for any Gen Z gift recipient on your shopping list. If you order it from JBL, you can personalize it too, which is a nice added touch.
I've always been a fan of Eastpak products, and I absolutely love this iconic, high-quality backpack -- and so will your Gen Z giftee. The Padded Pak'r is quite spacious, whether it's being filled with things for a day on campus or an overnight trip, and it comes in dozens of different colors and designs. Pro tip: If you see one you like, get it ASAP, as they tend to sell out quickly. Also check various websites, as each retailer has different colors and styles.