Finding the perfect 18th birthday present for a young teen can be a real challenge. With so much to think about and a birthday party to arrange, how can you find that cool gift?
To make your life easier, we’ve compiled the top 18th birthday gifts that anyone celebrating their eighteenth birthday will want. From AirPods to candy, we’ve asked hundreds of teenagers to tell us their favorite 18th birthday ideas.
If you know someone celebrating their eighteenth birthday soon, then you’ve come to the right place! No matter if you’re searching for birthday presents for him or her, discover all of our top 18th birthday present ideas below and make their party extra special.
1. 18th Birthday Necklace
Product Features
- Features 18 individual beads
- Sterling silver construction
- Includes 18.5” necklace
Pros
- Beautiful jewelry for any outfit
- Offers amazing sparkle in the light
Cons
- Necklace isn’t adjustable
- Not Tiffany & Co
Help them cherish their special birthday with this incredibly cute 18th birthday sterling silver necklace. Featuring 18 individual beads, each for one year of their life, this necklace is made out of 925 sterling silver along with the necklace chain. A must buy for any daughter, niece, or sister, they’re sure to love it. Complete with a 5 year manufacturer’s warranty, this is an excellent gift for her eighteenth birthday. The manufacturer EFYTAL also offers a range of other jewelry pieces suitable for any personality.
2. Giant Gummy Bear
Product Features
- 5 lbs of gummy bear
- Made in the USA
- 10” tall
Pros
- Funny and delicious!
- Excellent gift idea
- 50 times bigger than normal
Cons
- Lots of sugar
- Only one flavor
They might be turning 18 years old, but the chances are they still have a massive sweet tooth! Satisfy their candy cravings with this huge 5 pound cherry-flavored gummy bear. Made in the USA & gluten free, this giant gummy bear is sure to last them several weeks! A great gift for any 18 year old guy, they are sure to enjoy demolishing this.
3. Apple AirPods
Product Features
- 24 hours battery life
- Include rechargeable storage case
- Wireless
Pros
- Essential fashion accessory
- Loyal best friend
Cons
- For Apple devices only
- Expensive
- Only one color
Make their dreams come true with these must-have Apple AirPods. One of the hottest fashion accessories, these AirPods are in high demand by every 18 year old girl and guy. Wireless and compatible with iPhones (sorry Android users!) these AirPods also feature a charging case to keep them safe. A practical gift, any teenager is sure to enjoy this on their special day. Features a 24 hours battery life. Compared to other earphones they are much more user friendly.
4. Manual to Manhood
Product Features
- 97 essential skill for any guy
- Full of educational tips
- 288 pages long
Pros
- Hundreds of step-by-step instructions
- Awesome illustrations
Cons
- For guys only
- Doesn’t teach them how to read
Wish any 18th birthday boy a happy birthday this essential gift idea for him. Ensure any young man on the right path to becoming successful with this highly educational manual to manhood book. Featuring 288 pages of step-by-step tutorials on how to do over 100 basic skills such as cooking the perfect steak, this book is sure to set them on the right path to manhood. Compared to other books, they’re likely to actually learn something!
5. Swiss Army Knife
Product Features
- 15 functional tools
- Durable metal construction
- 3.6” long
Pros
- Bound to come in handy
- Super portable and lightweight
Cons
- Other models have more tools
- Some tools hard to deploy
An essential for anyone who’s a big fan of the outdoors, hunting, or DIY, a Swiss army knife is the perfect multifunctional tool that will last them their entire life. Featuring 15 different tools including a screwdriver, bottle opener, wood saw and scissors, a Swiss army knife is perfect for camping, keeping around the house, or having in an office. The Swiss army knife is also super portable making it an essential 18th birthday gift.
6. Extra Large Scratch Off World Map
Product Features
- Features all 197 countries
- Easy to scratch off countries
- Measures 36” by 24”
Pros
- Great conversation starter
- Amazing art for any home
Cons
- Can only scratch countries once
- Borders not 100% accurate
Perfect for any young adventurers, this scratch off world map is great for helping them keep tracking of where they’ve been in the world. Measuring 36” by 24”, this huge poster looks great on any wall and is a great showcase of all the countries they’ve visited. Featuring 197 countries, they can simply scratch off the countries they’ve been to and keep track of how many they’ve got left.
7. CraveBox Care Package
Product Features
- Contains different 60 snacks
- Includes popular snack brands
- Weighs over 3 lbs
Pros
- Great for eating and watching Netflix
- Perfect for any occasion
Cons
- Not the healthiest snacks
- Not suitable for all dietary requirements
What better way to celebrate them turning 18 than to shower them with lots of candy and snacks? Give them plenty of Netflix food with this huge CraveBox care package. Featuring 60 different snacks, this care package contains everything from chocolate bars to cookies, candy and more! With so many tasty presents, this care package weights over 3 lbs and is ideal for anyone turning 18.
8. Nintendo Mini SNES
Product Features
- Suitable for 2 players
- Features 21 classic arcade games
- 6.5” by 9”
Pros
- Great for family bonding
- Introduce them to some classic games
Cons
- Can’t compete with the PS5
- Not compatible with every TV
Give them a blast from the past with this old skool yet modern super Nintendo entertainment system console. The console that gave birth to PlayStation and Xbox is now available in a classic mini edition. Revamped and updated, this console features 21 different games built-in making it the ultimate entertainment system. Ideal for family bonding, the console also comes with 2 control pads.
9. Prank Gift Box
Product Features
- Hilarious cover
- Convincing exterior print
- 11” by 9”
Pros
- Guaranteed to prank anyone!
- Ideal for hiding any present
- Bound to cause confusion
Cons
- Some might think its real
- Assembly required
Looking to prank somebody and make it a birthday to remember? Make them laugh with this hilarious Roto Wipe prank kit. Featuring professional pictures on the box, anyone who opens this will think they’re getting some bizarre contraption. But once they open it up and find the real present inside, they’ll truly know that they’ve been pranked! Measures 11” by 9” and large enough to hide most gifts.
10. Apple Watch
Product Features
- 38mm retina display
- Waterproof construction
- 8GB storage capacity
Pros
- Super functional watch
- Essential lifestyle device
Cons
- Best for Apple phones
- Not for the non-techy
Give them something special for their birthday with this state of the art Apple watch. Perfect for anyone who already has an iPhone, this watch syncs up with their phone to make managing their life even easier. Featuring pop up notifications, this phone also helps with fitness tracking and will monitor their heartbeat, and tell them how many calories they’ve burned. Includes 8GB storage capacity and 38mm screen.
11. Unisex Charging Bracelet
Product Features
- USB Type-C plug
- Beautiful & portable
- 8.9” long
Pros
- Super handy
- Very incognito
Cons
- Doesn’t work with all phones
- Doesn’t come with battery
Forgetting your cell phone charger is one of the biggest first world problems. Without a cell phone charger, they risk your battery running out and not being able to check their Instagram and Facebook likes! Ensure they never forget their cell charger with this stylish charging bracelet. Functional and fashionable, this unisex design is perfect for anyone turning 18. Features a USB Type-C plug and fits wrists 6 to 7”.
12. Beard Grooming Kit
Product Features
- 12 in 1 beard care kit
- Ideal for beginners & experts
- Includes free eBook
Pros
- Everything included for a great beard
- Easy to use for anyone
- Results in a thicker beard
Cons
- Requires regular use
- Razor could be better
If they’ve got a beard, then it’s time to start teaching them how to take care of it properly. What better way to welcome them into manhood than with their very own beard grooming kit. Featuring 12 different tools, this kit comes complete with scissors, brushes, oil, beard wash and more to ensure they have a healthy beard at all times. Free downloadable eBook also included.
13. Portable Pizza Cooker
Product Features
- Also makes omelets & cookies
- Non-stick plates for easy cleaning
- Makes up to 12” pizzas
Pros
- Super easy & quick to use
- Convenient for any 18 year old
Cons
- Can be hard to store
- No temperature control
If they’re off to college or moving into their own place, then they definitely need this. Perfect for those 18 year olds who aren’t ready to grow up yet, this pizza cooker will save them plenty of time and trouble. Also suitable for nachos, croissants, giant cookies, quesadillas and more, this cooker is sure to become their new favorite pizza gift. Makes pizzas up to 12”. Features durable non-stick cooking plates for easy cleaning.
14. Cards Against Humanity
Product Features
- Includes 600 cards
- Lots of replayability
- Hours of fun!
Pros
- Perfect for teenagers
- Portable fun everywhere
Cons
- Not for the easily offended
- Definitely for adults!
There’s no better way to celebrate turning 18 then with this hilarious cards against humanity card game. Suited for all 18 year olds and older, this card game is sure to have everyone laughing. Featuring over 500 unique cards included, this game has plenty of replayability and is perfect for anyone who’s just turned 18.
15. Pac Man Heat Changing Mug
Product Features
- 11 ounce capacity
- Heat activated decals
- Officially license merchandise
Pros
- Watch Pac man come to life!
- Loyal best friend
Cons
- Not microwave or dishwasher safe
- Doesn’t make Pac man noises
Suitable for every diehard gamer out there, this heat changing Pac man mug is an excellent gift idea for anyone turning 18. Straight out of the box, the mug contains just the Pac man background and nothing else. But as soon as hot liquid is added, characters and ghosts suddenly start to appear everywhere. Features heat activated decals and holds up to 11 ounces of liquid.
16. GoPro Hero5 Camera
Product Features
- 4K video & 12MP photos
- Extremely durable design
- 2” touch display
Pros
- Perfect for extreme sports
- Capture amazing footage anywhere
Cons
- Base model can be bare
- Battery life could be better
If you know someone who’s planning on making their own YouTube channel or just wants to record their upcoming travel adventures or extreme sports, then this is the perfect gift ideas. Incredibly portable, durable and waterproof, this GoPro Hero5 features 4K video, 12MP photos and a time-lapse video mode. Also features a 2” screen and voice control.
17. Fender Acoustic Guitar
Product Features
- Includes everything for beginners
- Durable rosewood construction
- Full size 20 frets
Pros
- Help anyone learn guitar
- Includes a beginners guide
Cons
- Requires practice!
- Much bigger than a ukulele
Ideal for both guys and girls, this Fender acoustic guitar kit comes with everything a budding musician needs. Featuring a strap, picks, beginner’s chords guide, notes and songs to play, this kit truly has everything they need to take their music to the next level. Fully sized and includes 20 frets.
18. Ergonomic Gaming Chair
Product Features
- Holds up to 300 lbs
- PU leather construction
- Wireless Bluetooth speakers
Pros
- Ideal for gamers
- Adjustable into any position
- 90 to 165 degree reclining
Cons
- Not for super tall people
- No padding on arm rests
They might just be turning 18, but the chances are they’re still a big kid at heart. No matter if they’re a gamer, streamer, or aspiring YouTuber, this gaming chair is perfect for anyone who loves spending time in front of their computer. Featuring Bluetooth speakers, this ergonomic chair is super comfy and great for long sessions. Made from PU leather and includes wireless speakers.
19. Mini Drone
Product Features
- 2.7K HD video & 12MP photos
- Weighs only 250 grams
- 30 minutes of fly time
Pros
- Perfect for aerial shots
- Super easy to operate
- No legal registration required
Cons
- No collision detection
- Requires a bit of practice
Set their sights higher than they can imagine with this incredible miniature drone. Weighing less than 250 grams, this drone is super light and legal to fly without any registration. Featuring a 2.7K HD camera on the front, this drone is great for taking aerial footage, birds-eye pictures, and for recording any sports, vacations or landscapes.
20. Giant Bean Bag
Product Features
- Made in the USA
- Memory foam construction
- 5 feet tall
Pros
- Perfect for teenagers
- Much comfier than a chair
- Lots of colors to choose from
Cons
- Takes 48 hours to fully expand
- No outliner lining for washing
Help them relax with this enormous ultra-soft bean bag. Great for relaxing on after a long day of work or school, this bean bag is the perfect addition to any room. With over 11 different colors to choose from, they’ll love spending time on this giant fluffy seat. Made in the USA from memory foam.
21. Bose Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones
Product Features
- Fully Bluetooth wireless
- Immersive sound & built in microphone
- 15 hours battery time
Pros
- 30 feet of wireless range
- Super portable
- Compatible with most devices
Cons
- Lack of bass
- Volume not loud enough for some
Studying at school can be a difficult task with constant noise and distractions everywhere. Help them stay focused on their studies with these noise-cancelling Bose headphones. Designed to block out distracting noises, these wireless headphones can easily be synced with any Bluetooth device and last up to 15 hours per charge. Features a built in microphone and 30 feet of wireless range.
22. Calvin Klein ck one Eau de Toilette
Product Features
- Unisex fragrance
- Citrus fruity fragrance
- Contains 3.4 ounces
Pros
- Great for any occasion
- Perfect for young teens
Cons
- Fragrance could last longer
- Fragrance not for everyone
Help them smell good wherever they go with this Calvin Klein eau de toilette fragrance spray. Suitable for both guys and girls, this unisex fragrances has been a huge hit since it was released in 1994. A well-known designer brand, Calvin Klein, creates a range of modern clothing, accessories, and fragrances perfect for any 18 year old. Features a fruity scent that is sure to grab anyone’s attention.
23. Two Man Tent
Product Features
- Sleeps 2 to 3 people
- Polyester construction
- Assembled in 2 minutes
Pros
- Perfect for taking on adventures
- Camp out anywhere
Cons
- Assembly required
- Can be small for some adults
Anyone who loves camping out in the wilderness or attending festivals will love this two man tent. Easy to assemble and waterproof, this tent is a must-have for anyone who likes to spend time outdoors. With enough room to fit two people inside, this makes it perfect for taking to music festivals, camping out under the stars, or going on adventures. Features a polyester construction and 2 minute assembly time.
24. Exploding Kittens
Product Features
- For 2 to 5 players
- 15 minutes per game
- Hours of fun
Pros
- Perfect for every age
- Easy to learn and play
- Lots of replayability
Cons
- Might need to keep checking the rules
- Better with the expansion pack
An incredibly easy to learn and fun card game, exploding kittens can be picked up in just 2 minutes. A fast paced game, this card game is great for playing with family and friends. Suitable for two to five players, this popular game has sold over nine million copies, which only shows how good it is! Features 15 minutes games and lots of replayability.
25. Hoverboard
Product Features
- Suitable for all ages
- Available in 7 colors
- LED flashing wheels
Pros
- Travel in style
- Great for lazy teenagers!
Cons
- 45 minutes on full charge
- Can easily fall off
Give them hours of fun with this super handy and cool hoverboard! Perfect for anyone who dislikes walking or just wants to travel around in style, this thing has all the lights and whistles. Featuring fancy LED flashing wheels and a chrome finish, this gift is sure to bring them hours of fun. Available in 7 colors and has around 45 minutes of battery life per charge.
26. Mobile Lens Kit
Product Features
- 9 lenses included
- Compatible with most phones
- Lightweight lenses
Pros
- Better Instagram shots
- No filters required
- Upgrade their camera
Cons
- Can be hard to attach
- Have to carry the case around
Help them up their selfie game with these range of lenses for their mobile phone. Ideal for anyone interested in photography or who just enjoys taking pictures, this set will allow them to take even better pictures. Featuring 9 different lenses including macro, micro and fish eye lenses, they’re sure to take some interesting pictures with these new accessories. Suitable for most smart phones.
27. Electric Scooter
Product Features
- 17 mile range
- Durable metal construction
- Weighs 30 lbs
Pros
- Great for traveling
- Good bike alternative
Cons
- Helmet not included
- Not the best suspension
Give them the transport they always wish they had with electric scooter. Perfect for commuting from school or work, this scooter will do up to 17 miles on a single charge. Features a max speed of 19 miles per hour and two different driving modes, they can say bye-bye to having to walk everywhere.
28. Power Bank Portable Charger
Product Features
- 3 USB ports
- Weighs 0.83 lbs
- 25,000mAh capacity
Pros
- Can charge multiple devices simultaneously
- As portable as a phone
Cons
- Takes a while to recharge
- Fairly heavy
Make sure their precious cell phone never dies with this life-saving power bank. With 25,000mAh of power inside, this portable charger can charge an iPhone to full battery around five times. Suitable for festivals or when travelling outdoors for long periods of time, this power bank can also be used to charge tablets. Features 3 high speed USB ports for simultaneous charging.
29. 100 Movies Scratch Off Poster
Product Features
- 100 scratch off movies
- Supreme print quality
- Measures 16.5” by 23.4”
Pros
- Keep track of their watched movies
- Makes a great piece of art
Cons
- Can only use once
- Missing some classics!
They might think they’re a movie fan, but if they haven’t watched these top 100 movies, then they’ve got a bit of catching up to do. Ensure they’ve seen all the classics with this awesome scratch off movies poster. Filled with 100 must-see movies, this post gives them an interactive scratch-off list that they can work their way through. Measures 16.5” by 23.4” (A2 size).
Beth Noll
Beth Noll is a gift editor at Gift Observer. She loves shopping for friends and sharing her top gift recommendations on the blog. With 9 years of blogging experience, she's always up to date with the latest trends and best gift ideas.
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