My oldest son turned 18 years old this year and I struggle with gift ideas as my kids as they get older! Teenagers are so hard to shop for! I hate giving gift cards or money for Christmas or birthdays and prefer to give something meaningful and special. Here are my best gift ideas for 18-year-olds.
Turning 18 is a special time in their lives and I want gifts that reflect that as well. I like to stick to the adage – Something they need, something to wear, something to read, and something they want when getting gifts for my kids.
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Gift Ideas for 18-Year-Olds
Best Gifts for 18 Year Olds
My son became an adult! Scary! While he hasn't graduated from high school yet, he will soon and then launch into the world. I'll still be there to guide him as he needs but I won't necessarily be a daily part of his life. I wanted a few things to give him that would help him stay organized and be his best self.
I stuck with the adage something they need, something to wear, something to read, and something they want!
AMBOR File Box with Lock, Fireproof Document Box with 5 Tabs, Collapsible File Organizer with Handle for Letter & Legal Size Folder/Certifications/Books/Toys Storage, Black
He's getting so many documents lately! Bank statements, tax documents, and all the adult things he needs to organize and keep. A small portable filing cabinet to get him started with all his important documents will help him stay organized and be ready when he eventually leaves the nest! I choose this one here!
Is this a fun gift? Nope. Is this a very practical gift? Yup - will he like it probably not at first but I think he'll learn to appreciate it more as he gets older.
I'm an Adult Technically New Adult Funny 18th Birthday T-Shirt
mean it is hilarious! He is technically an adult but there is really so much left for him to learn! Grab this shirt here - it comes in a variety of colors too! I know my son will get a good laugh out of this one!
Grow the F*ck Up - White Elephant & Yankee Swap gift, gag gift for men, birthday gift for him, novelty book, Secret Santa exchange, teenage & young adult how-to, high school & college graduation gift
I went with a little humor and choose this book hoping he'll actually read it! Although I usually get a book from their favorite author, I thought adding something useful would be best here.
Money Maze Puzzle Box, Twister.CK Unique Money Gift Holder Box, Fun Maze Puzzle Games for Kids and Adult Birthday
I put the money in this fun Money Maze! Now he has to work to get his funds and find out how much is in there! After all, we are trying to teach our kids that hard work pays off!
What are your favorite gifts for 18-year-olds? Let me know in the comments!
Don’t worry I also have a great gift guide for Bluey fans too or check out my Pinterest for even more ideas!
I love your list and everything you said is just right! But woooow, what an amazing Money Maze! I have never seen something like that! This is such a great gift! Thanks for sharing it with us!
I love the “something to read” idea. Thanks for sharing
I love all the ideas… A small cheque that might help with college funding might also be a good idea. And unless it’s your own kid, I wouldn’t suggest a CAR! LOL
LOL no definitely not a car unless it’s your own kid! I love the idea of a check to go towards a college fund though!
Great List of gift ideas for young adults. I own one of those filling cabinets and it was the best item I git to organize all my important documents in one place. In the case of a fire, it is an easy grab-and-run. I will look into getting that hilarious titled book suggestion for a family member.
I saw that book and knew my son would laugh especially since he’ll probably roll his eyes at the filing cabinet…at least for now!
I appreciate the categories! Makes it helpful to find something for everyone.
I love a good list with categories!
Very cool ideas, thank you so much for sharing – this demographic can be so challenging to buy for LOL!
Great ideas!
That money maze is SO cool! What are smart idea. Thanks for sharing!
I’m sure he’ll laugh and that’s the best part!