Crack the code on gifts for tweens, teens and college students with Kohl’s.
Holiday shopping for tweens, teens and college students can feel like solving a riddle with no hints—except the riddle keeps changing, and the punchline is rolling its eyes at you. What do you buy for the kid who’s picky, trendy or just plain impossible to impress? How do you stay on budget while doing all of the above? Relax. Kohl’s is here with a master cheat sheet. From tech gifts that earn instant street cred to top holiday gifts and 2025’s popular electronics that make you look like a gifting genius, we’ve got your back. Think less stress, more success and way fewer returns.
Tween gifts: fun meets function.
Tweens are at that in-between stage where toys feel too young but adult gifts don’t quite fit either. Kohl’s is the sweet spot: fun gifts with a dash of function (and usually a sale). Check out our top picks for ages 9 to 12.
These gifts guarantee I’m the cool parent … at least for 48 hours.
Tween gifts: fun meets function.
Tweens are at that in-between stage where toys feel too young but adult gifts don’t quite fit either. Kohl’s is the sweet spot: fun gifts with a dash of function (and usually a sale). Check out our top picks for ages 9 to 12.
Tech gadgets: JBL Tune Buds and Flex headphones are perfect for streaming their favorite playlists. Pair with a camera bundle for instant photo ops.
Self-expression picks: A SO® waffle top or Sol de Janeiro perfume mist set lets them experiment with style that’s Kohl’s-approved cool without being too grown-up.
Activity-ready gifts: A Nike Club fleece or Tek Gear® fleece keeps them cozy, while a grab-and-go scooter brings the thrill factor.
PRO TIP: The best tween gifts aren’t just things, they’re experiences waiting to happen. Pick items you can enjoy with them, whether it’s snapping photos on an Instax or riding scooters side by side. Kohl’s makes it easy to give gifts that double as memory makers.
Teen gifts: on-trend and practical.
Teen gifts: on-trend and practical.
Teens are pros at letting you know what’s cool and what’s not. Luckily, Kohl’s has gifts that pass the test on being trendy and practical. (Bonus: Watch for Kohl’s Cash® earn windows to stretch your wallet. Earn it on gifts for them and spend it on gifts for you.)
Gear for chilling out or working out: You can’t lose with FLX® sweaters and athleisure clothing or Nike running and walking shoes.
Beauty and accessories: Bag charms and Sephora Favorites fragrance and lip kits are popular gift ideas worthy of their social feed.
Fitness gifts for active people and workout accessories: Kohl’s has plenty of gear for the teen who’s always on the move.
PRO TIP: Need to figure out how to choose a holiday gift for a picky person? Stick with items that balance trend with everyday use—sneakers or electronic gifts for Christmas (the latest models of course) always do the trick.
College-age gifts: stylish independence.
College-age gifts: stylish independence.
College life is all about creating a space that feels like their own while juggling late-night study sessions, coffee-fueled mornings and weekend adventures. The best Christmas gifts for university students support their independence while keeping them stylish and comfortable. (Spoiler: Kohl’s delivers big on all three.)
Dorm room gifts: Single-serve coffee makers are the perfect kitchen gadgets for holiday gifts when it comes to dorm dwellers. If your student is in their first apartment, go for Bobby Flay ceramic cookware. Smart appliances and modern pots and pans like these make small spaces feel like home.
Travel-ready picks: Samsonite weekender bags and luggage sets are gifts the travel fan will love. They’re perfect for weekend trips, holiday breaks and backpacking across Europe. (A student can dream.)
Tech must-haves: Smartwatches from Garmin or Fitbit keep them on top of school, fitness and fun. (Bonus: They can use some of them to call you more often.)
Style upgrades: Sneakers, like the Nike Pacific, or cozy fleece tops and joggers give their wardrobe a boost. Kohl’s is the go-to for the staples they’ll actually wear.
PRO TIP: When in doubt, lean toward gifts that make daily life on campus smoother, cooler and a little more like “their place.”
Unique gift ideas that’ll earn you extra credit.
Normal can be overrated. Sometimes the best gifts aren’t the ones you’ll find on the usual shopping list—they’re the curveballs that become legends. Kohl’s has the classics covered, but here are some quirky ideas to inspire you to go off script:
A karaoke machine so you can hear the song they have on repeat 47 more times—but this time with disco lights.
A lava lamp big enough to double as a nightlight and a conversation starter.
A weighted blanket that is the ultimate excuse for not leaving the couch.
A coupon for one uninterrupted nap.
A funky neon sign that makes their dorm or room feel Instagram-worthy.
The trick: Lean into the fun. A gift that makes them laugh, gasp or text their friends “OMG look at this!” is a win.
Quick gifting tips for any age.
Some gifts are universally loved—whether you’re shopping for tweens, teens or college students —so, don’t be afraid to mix crossover items like tech gadgets or sneakers from Kohl’s. Here are some of our go-tos for gift recipients from age 9 to 99.
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Tech gifts under $100 dollars: Kohl’s offers budget-friendly gadgets that still wow.
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Nike shoes at Kohl’s: Running, walking or lounging, these are always in demand.
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Best deals on holiday items including electronics: Kohl’s keeps your budget intact while still landing big-ticket smiles. (Think small appliance holiday sales on coffee makers and more gift ideas for new homeowners, like kitchen essentials.)
Pro tip: Always balance fun and function—a gift should make life easier, more stylish or more fun. Count on Kohl’s to help you hit the mark while also earning major cool points.
FAQs about tween, teen and college student gifting.
What are the best Christmas gifts for dorm rooms?
If it makes ramen taste gourmet or coffee appear faster, it’s a hit. Small appliances, like coffee makers and blenders, and cookware are always appreciated. We even has small appliance holiday sales that let you look generous without maxing your credit card.
What are the best tech gadget gifts for teenagers this year?
Short answer: the ones that won’t end up forgotten in a drawer by New Year’s. Think JBL earbuds and portable speakers. These are some of the best electronic gifts for Christmas in all the latest models.
How do I choose a holiday gift for a picky person?
Channel your inner pragmatist. Sneakers, smart tech gadgets, fitness gifts for active people and workout accessories from Kohl’s are safe bets because nobody complains about gifts they’ll actually use.
Are there affordable tech gifts under $100 dollars?
Yes … and you don’t have to sacrifice quality. From headphones to compact speakers, we have tech gifts that look like you spent way more. (Your secret’s safe with us.)
What are the best Christmas gifts for university students?
Anything that makes the semester feel less like a survival show. Think luggage sets for a gift that hints at traveling home. You also can’t lose with stylish Nike shoes at Kohl’s. Bonus with either of these: They’ll actually thank you, which is basically winning the lottery.
Where can I find the best deals on holiday items like electronics?
At Kohl’s, your budget and your gift list can finally be friends. Shop top holiday gifts, including 2025 popular electronics, throughout the holiday season for so many chances to save.