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Best Gifts Under $100 for Gen Z

Don't stress over what to get younger family members and friends. Here are some of the best gifts for teens and young adults.

Charlotte Maracina Associate Writer
Charlotte Maracina is an associate writer for CNET based in Long Island, New York. When not writing about top products on the market, she's traveling, binging Love Island or following Harry Styles on tour.
Expertise Charlotte has two years of experience tracking different travel, fashion and lifestyle trends among 18-24 year olds. She studied Communications and Sociology at Belmont University.
Charlotte Maracina
3 min read
$25 at AndSons
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AndSons Signature Chocolate Collection
$45 at Stanley
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Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler
$81 at Amazon
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Polaroid Go Instant Mini Camera
$42 at Amazon
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Owen's Craft Mixers
$80 at Amazon
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JBL Clip 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
$25 at Amazon
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Whatever Party Game
$48 at Calpak
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Calpak Water Bottle Holder
$52 at Eastpak
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Eastpak Padded Pak'r

When you're shopping for the perfect present, knowing your recipient's tastes and preferences can help with decision-making. What if you're on the gift hunt for someone much younger than you? That can be a more stressful situation if you're not up to speed on what's trending. If there's a Gen Z giftee in your life, I'm here to guide you through the chaos and help you find something they'll truly like.

I was born in 2001, and that makes me part of Generation Z, which runs from 1997 to 2012. To be clear, I'm not the person to seek out if you're looking for gift suggestions for 11-year-olds born in 2012. If you're struggling to find gifts for the older Gen Zs in your life, I can help. Read on for our guide to the best gifts under $100 for Gen Z teens and young adults. 

andSons

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 signature box comes in several sizes, with pricing starting at $25.

Stanley

This is the TikTok tumbler everyone has been talking about, and after getting one, I understand the hype. Stanley's Quencher FlowState tumbler will keep your drink insulated for hours or even days. It comes in tons of colors, several of which are sold out online.

Read more: I Can't Drink Water From Any Other Cup Now That I Own a Stanley Tumbler

Bespoke Post

Remember when Polaroid cameras were all the rage a couple of years ago? Well, they're back and bigger than ever. Correction, smaller than ever. The new Polaroid Go Instant Mini Camera takes the same instant film photos we all know and love but in a more compact package. It can now be charged via USB and includes a self-timer flash. 

Amazon

This one goes out to everyone born between 1997 and 2002. If you're searching for a simple gift for friends or family who recently turned 21, look no further than Owen's Mixers. The company offers a wide array of mixers that go with all sorts of alcohol. From espresso martini mix to ginger beer mixers, there's something for everyone. Add a bottle of liquor and you're good to go.

Amazon

From simple hangouts to wild pregames, a speaker elevates every event. The JBL Clip 4 Portable Speaker can bring music everywhere. Don't let the light weight and small size deceive you: This speaker is louder than you'd expect. It makes a great gift for every high school and college student.

Amazon

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 they've played before. 

CalPak

Water bottles are great until there's nowhere to put them. The Calpak Water Bottle Holder will fit their water bottle, keys, wallet and other small items. This TikTok sensation is amazing for hikers, college students and other hydration enthusiasts. 

EastPak

The Padded Pak'r fits just enough for a day on campus or an overnight trip. I've always been a fan of Eastpak products, and I absolutely love this iconic, high-quality backpack. It includes a smaller front pocket to store more easily lost belongings, like keys or phones. 

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