21+ Thoughtful Gifts for Adult Children

Finding the best gifts for adult children can pose a rather particular challenge.

On one hand, you could probably get them a whole host of practical gifts for their home or apartment that are both wanted and needed. On the other hand, you kinda want to get something personal just for them. 

Both are great and acceptable options, and the final decision is totally up to you. Or you could always do a little of both! But the question remains, where do you even start?

Nowadays, gifting your grown-up son or daughter something they’ll actually use is a feat unto itself. But lucky for you, we’re gift experts and have curated the perfect ideas.

Let’s take a look.

Need a quick guide? Our pleasure…

• Top 21 Gifts for Adult Children
• Gifts for Adult Sons
• Gifts for Adult Daughters
• More Gifts for Adult Children
• What to Get Adult Children for Christmas?

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Top 21 Gifts for Adult Children

While adult kids can be a challenge to shop for, there are still a lot of great ideas out there for cool and meaningful gifts.

We’ve hunted down over 21 of them for you to peruse and hopefully you can get an idea (or THE idea) of what you want to run with!

That’s our hope since, ya know, that’s kinda what we’re here for…

1. An Experience Gift or Getaway

Experiences are the ultimate gift these days, and don’t appear to be going away any time soon.

Give your adult child the gift of an experience, and you’re really gifting them new memories that will last them for the rest of their lives.

Tinggly makes an experience a super easy thing to give by offering easy to navigate categories and experience types.  There is a plethora of options for your son or daughter to pick from, from a hot air balloon ride in Vegas to surfing lessons in Santa Monica.

There really is a little something for everybody!

Related: 50+ More Experience Gift Ideas

2. Leather Daily Planner

This incredibly cool planner has everything they will need to keep their daily life organized.

Handcrafted of beautiful, full grained leather, this planner has convenient pockets to store note cards, pens, credit cards, school ID — whatever they wish.

The best part is it’s also refillable, so when the year changes or they run out of pages they can easily replace as many as they need. 

Heavy duty snaps provide a super secure closure, and the top grade cow leather will last a lifetime.

3. Cozy Heavyweight Cable Knit Throw

Movie nights and winter evenings by the fire just got that much cozier! This attractive cable knit blanket is just what they didn’t know they needed.

Snuggley to the max and prettily monogrammed on a custom leather patch, it will look lovely tossed over their favorite armchair or loveseat.

4. Personalized Bamboo Wood Cutting Board

When you become a grown-up, you start to like grown-up things and practical items. Vacuum cleaners, new towels, quality glassware, cleaning and cooking products, and… why yes, even cutting boards.

This spacious personalized cutting board is one that your adult child can either utilize while cooking or display as an impressive piece of kitchen décor.

It’s made from bamboo wood, and comes laser-engraved with their first or family name (or both). It measures a spacious 18″ x 12″ x .75″ and includes the decorative leaf accents you see above.

Related: Why a vacuum sealer may actually be the greatest gift, like, ever

5. Hopped Up Coffee Gift Box

It’s a fact of nature that once you’re grown, you become a coffee lover (or tea, or kombucha or…you know, caffeine). So if your adult daughter or son is a big fan of coffee, you already know they’ll really appreciate something like this gift idea.

The Hopped Up Coffee gift box contains specialty grounds hand-blended by coffee connoisseurs. Mimicking the crisp flavors of malted beverages, each sampler is full of body and a slight kick.

Four flavors are included per gift box: Chocolate Stout, Black IPA, Winter Warmer, and Scottish Ale.

Related: 16 Creative Coffee Bar Decor Ideas

6. A Top Notch Coffee Pot

Pair the coffee box above with this awesome coffee pot! You can easily save them money (those trips to Starbs add up quick) by getting them a quality pot that will knock their socks off with how deliciously smooth its brew tastes.

The Café Specialty Drip Coffee Maker is wifi-enabled to be compatible with Google and Alexa for voice commands, and also received the Great Design Award for its fine looks and brewing capabilities.

7. Personalized Whiskey Decanter Set

A nice decanter set is a classic gift and something that your kids will be able to use for years. And when it comes personalized like this one (with name and date), it’s even better.

This fine glassware set includes a custom engraved 27-oz decanter, perfect for whiskey or any other spirit, and four matching personalized glasses.

And with nine different design options to choose from, you have the ability to really customize it to your child’s particular taste. A gift box is optional.

8. Trees for a Change

Often times, when searching for gifts for adult children, it really helps to think outside the (gift) box.

In other words, think outside the tangible: instead of a physical present, consider a donation to a charity, a gift given in honor or memory of someone special, etc.

Trees for a Change is a great organization to consider “gifting” your adult child.

You dedicate a tree in their name, and it will be planted in a U.S National Forest that has been devastated by wildfire. Your loved one will receive a certificate or card letting them know of your thoughtful gift.

Related: 5 Tree Gifts That Make a Difference

9. Lamp Candle Warmer

While candles make wonderful gifts for just about anyone, take their gift to the next level with this great candle warmer lamp instead!

These beautiful lamps are a clever and eye catching way to extend the life of their their favorite jar candles.

Designed to safely warm and release fragrance for hours at a time, they feature a timer so you never have to worry about it being out of sight, out of mind.

10. Quality Bedding Set

If your kids are in the young adult/just married age range, consider getting them a quality set of bedding that will really last. Bedding is one of those home items that can get really pricey, really quick.

Lots of young adults or newlyweds don’t have the money to invest in a nice set, so they end up piecing together lower quality sets that don’t last and need to be replaced frequently.

This beautiful set from Vera Wang is simple, elegant, and versatile. The 100% cotton surface makes it both cozy and breathable, while also being durable. Available in four beautifully subtle colors.

11. Mark 12:30 Wood Scripture Plaque

The words of Christ from Mark 12:30 are engraved with careful precision into the wood of this stunning Scripture plaque from Northwest Gifts.

Personalization of your child’s family name, est. date, and floral background will make for a beautiful, meaningful addition to any room in their home.

This plaque is available in two different sizes and comes ready to hang. See here for more wood Scripture plaques, or to customize your own.

12. Safe-T Fire Extinguisher

It doesn’t matter how old they get, they’ll always be your baby and you’re always going to worry about them.

Now you can rest a little easier at night knowing that if they have a fire emergency, they’ll be prepared to handle it.

When you give them a Safe-T fire extinguisher, they’ll have a CE 0029 tank (meeting EN 3-8 technical standards) at their disposal, without the boring that would otherwise come with a regular old extinguisher.

Check out all the other cool designs Safe-T has to offer here.

13. Ring Home Security

Speaking of safety, getting them a home security system is a wonderfully practical gift that keeps on giving in the form of peace of mind.

The Ring Home Alarm system is praised for its ease of use and quality assurance.

It allows you to easily monitor your home and receive updates via the Ring App on your phone, while also being compatible with Alexa to make voice commands and system activation an absolute breeze.

14. Custom Portrait Print

When in doubt, turn to art! ‘Cause with a little creative help, gifts for adult children aren’t hard at all to find (or make).

Here’s a wonderful example: This stunning portrait print.

You send the artist all the elements of the mom-daughter/mom-son portrait you want created (hair color, body type, skin tone, etc.) and they’ll create a lovely reminder of your close-knit relationship in art form.

It’s a gift your grown child will always treasure.

Choose between digital download or printed copy, and be sure to get a nice frame for it.

You may also like… 15 Family Volunteer Opportunities (for ALL ages)

15. UV Portable Sanitizer

The era we’re living in dictates that we do whatever we can to minimize contact with harmful germs.

UV sanitation (officially referred to as ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, learn more here) is starting to gain traction as a way to keep schools, hospitals and even homes clean.

We all know that our phones harbor a ton of disgusting germs, and should probably be the first thing we clean at the start and end of each day.

By using this HoMedics UV portable sanitizer to clean their phone, your child will be taking extra precaution to keep not only themselves but everyone else around them healthy.

16. Dyson Stick Vacuum

Because who doesn’t want a Dyson stick vacuum? These bad boys have a reputation for good reason, and it’s because they’re at the top of their game.

Cordless, powerful, and easily convertible to a handheld vacuum for cars or upholstery, there are too many pros to these machines to list.

Sure, you might technically be buying them cleaning supplies, but we guarantee they won’t be disappointed.

17. Personalized Cedar Wood Bird Feeder

This isn’t Grandad’s old bird feeder! The premium personalized cedar wood bird feeder from Northwest Gifts is a beautiful yet practical piece of yard décor your adult child will be proud to display in their tree or porch.

This feeder can be personalized on the front acrylic panel (included; additional personalization on the back panel is optional) to say “Best Son Ever” or “Best Daughter Ever.”

Built to last for years against the outdoor elements, this USA-made bird feeder measures 10.5″ x 7″ x 4.75″.

18. Bonsai Starter Kit

Do they love nature? Trees? Maybe just tiny things? Then these fun, Bonsai starter kits are perfect for them!

Let’s be honest, there are few things cuter than a perfectly manicured little Bonsai tree. And can you say therapeutic?

This full kit has everything they need to start growing their own tree, and it will save them lots of $$$ because pre-established trees can get pricey. A unique and educational way to help them melt away their stress at the end of a long day.

19. 23 and Me Ancestry Kit

23 and Me is a fantastic gift for anyone really, but especially those interested in their family history!

This full kit (plus membership!) gives insight to not only family background and lineage, but also your health and how your body receives different foods, medications and more.

Over 2,000 geographic regions are sourced to give you targeted information, discover more about yourself, and even find and connect with relatives.

20. Outdoor Picnic/Beach Blanket

Give the gift of time outdoors with this neat blanket!

This high quality lawn or beach throw is perfect for all their favorite activities: watching the little league games, warm summer days on the beach, picnics in the meadow… you name it.

Its attractive design and convenient bundle design make it a perfect gift.

21. Little Hug Keychain

Sometimes it really is just the little things. And in this case, it’s a little hug! These sweet keychains are one of the next best things to being there in person to give them a hug.

They can hook it to their keys, their backpack or briefcase, or anywhere else they can see it on the daily to remind them of your love.

Gifts for Adult Son

Since a Tonka truck is (most likely) not a gift option at this point in his life, and you don’t wanna give him a gift card again, you need some inspiration.

Congratulations! You’re in the right spot. If you’re scratching your head wondering what guys his age would even look twice at, we’re here to satisfy the itch.

CapStak Ball Cap Organizer

Hats on the doorhandles, hats on the floor, hats on the bed, hats…not in the drawer. Dr. Seuss rhyme? Or maybe just a description of your son’s apartment?

Young men seem to be in dire need of ways to keep all of their favorite hats in one spot and easily accessible, so these organizers by Stak definitely make great, unique gifts for grown sons.

Personalized Spirits Tap

Perfect for his home bar or man cave (or just anywhere really), this custom wooden “tap” for spirits will really bring some class and sophistication to his space.

Each of these neat pieces is crafted to order from 100% natural Pine wood and finished with his name or the personalization of your choice.

Ab Roller Wheel

For the fitness guru, consider adding this great tool to his home gym arsenal. These ab rollers have been taking the fitness world by storm for a few years now due to how quickly they tend to yield results, all while minimizing the chance of injury.

This one also includes a knee pad for comfort and to reduce the stress on his joints. Definitely a great pick of gifts for adult sons.

Solo Stove

If he’s the outdoorsy type or even just enjoys a good ole s’mores night in the backyard, then this signature Campfire stove from Solo Stoves would make an excellent gift!

It’s lightweight, sturdy, and easily portable all without compromising on power.

Whether he’s cooking up a whole mess of delicious dishes for him and his camping buddies, or having a romantic evening on the porch with his sweetie, this is the stove to have.

Custom Gamer Headphone Stand

For the gamer, you can’t beat a cool, custom stand like this one.

With custom gamer tag engraving on the acrylic stand, the wooden base can also be equipped with a light and built in bluetooth speaker.

Take his game to new levels and he’ll love you for it.

Gifts for Adult Daughters

Let’s be honest, she miiiight still enjoy getting a cute and snuggly stuffed animal as a gift.

But. She also might prefer getting something a little more well-suited to her age. Below, we’ve got some fantastic gifts for adult daughters for your consideration that we think she’ll love.

At Home Facial Masks

Give her the results of a trip to the facial spa from the comfort of her own home! This set of 12 incredible sheet masks is packed full treatments for all types of skin disruptions.

She’s going to love how glowy and refreshed her skin looks after every treatment.

Flower Drop Earrings

These gorgeous earrings are so unique and would make an excellent gift for an adult daughter.

Made from real flower blossoms, these drop earrings also feature 18kt gold plate over sterling wires, so they won’t irritate her skin. A lovely addition to any jewelry collection.

Swivel Bath Shelf

She’s going to love this swivel tray for her tub! Way more convenient than a traditional bath tray, this one mounts to the side of the tub and can easily swing out of the way.

Crafted from 100% natural Bamboo wood so it fairs well in damp situations, this is one great addition to her bath time that she won’t know how she ever lived without.

Folding Stationary Bike

Does she love to ride, but perhaps is low on space at home? Well, enter this fantastic folding stationary bike from Xterra. It has all the benefits of a traditional bike, but easily folds away for storage.

Features include 8 levels of resistance, a large anatomical seat, padded handlebars, and mounted pulse sensors to monitor your heart rate as you ride.

Ember Smart Mug

Take her coffee and tea game to a whole new level with this awesome smart mug from Ember!

She’ll wonder how she ever got by without this little gem! Whether at home or at work, this smart mug will keep her hot beverage hot all day on the specialty coaster, or up to 80 minutes on its own!

She can easily adjust her preferred temperature via the Ember smartphone app, and it also features a smart sleep mode that senses when the mug has been inactive for more than two hours.

More Gift Ideas for Adult Children

But wait…there’s more!

Seriously, there are a lot more great gift ideas below, as well as some neat tips for finding and/or dreaming up awesome gifts for your beloved son or daughter.

Digital Photo Frame by Skylight

Because what makes a better gift than all of their favorite memories, old and new?!

These fabulous digital picture frames are perfect for home or the office, and you can upload new photos remotely whenever you want! It’s not limited to one administrator, either, so the whole family can join in on the fun.

Udemy Classes

Maybe they’ve always wanted to pick up a second (or third, or fourth) language? Or maybe they want to get into music production? How about knitting? Maybe golf? 

Well you name it and Udemy is sure to have classes on it! Give the gift of learning with a chosen course, or let them pick out the one they’ve been pining for.

I can say from experience that an Udemy course makes a great gift idea for anyone who has a continued thirst for learning.

Luggage Sets

For those world travelers in your family (or maybe just frequent visits to mom and dad’s house *wink*) these beautiful luggage sets from Tote&Carry are a must have.

Choose from the Apollo travel backpack or the duffle — or both — and they’ll have stylish and durable totes to take with them wherever they roam. Made from quality, water and scratch resistant leather, these totes will stand up to years of adventuring.

Luxury Plush Towel Set

Towel sets are one of those items that everyone needs, but yet we rarely buy them for ourselves. Maybe they’re still using the set you bought them when they left for college? Or maybe when they got married…ten years ago.

Then it’s definitely time for a new, pretty set like these high performance towels from Luxome. Their specially designed, loop terry absorbs more water than your average bath sheet, but also dries quicker.

They’re available in five beautiful colors, too! Oder a set for them and maybe one for you while you’re at it!

8. Custom Engraved Glencairn Glass

This idea makes a great accompaniment gift to the whiskey decanter set (#7) mentioned above.

This high-quality (made in the USA) custom-engraved Glencairn glass will feature your child’s name in your choice of four different fonts. It’s dishwasher safe and holds up to 6 ounces of whiskey, bourbon, or anything else.

Browse more personalized Glencairn glasses (and other types of glassware) here.

10. Custom Stationery Cards

Everyone knows that you’re not officially an adult until you own your own fancy stationery!

Okay, that’s not entirely true… but stationery is still (or should still be) a staple to any respectable desktop. And if you’re going to give your son or daughter a nice stationery set, go ahead and ensure that it’s personalized, too.

This set of cards is simple yet elegant enough to deserve a place of honor on the desk of your hardworking adult child.

Whether they could use them for official business communications or just to jot down notes or ideas, they’re sure to enjoy the highbrow ambiance of it all.

Includes 10 matte cards and envelopes. Gift wrapping is included.

You may also want to include some fancy accessories, like a set of calligraphy pens or a wax seal stamp kit.

Silver ID Bracelet

A beautiful ID bracelet always makes a tasteful gift.

These bracelets are made from high quality, durable stainless steel and can be engraved on one or both sides.

Maybe engrave their name on one side and their birthday on the other! A classic and timeless style, they can wear this bracelet all day, everyday and with any outfit.

Suitable for men and women alike, they’ll love this thoughtful present.

Handthrown Personalized Mug

These lovely mugs are as prettily unique as their recipient. Each mug is hand thrown on the potter’s wheel in a small studio and expertly glazed for a beautiful finish.

A true piece of art! Add names, inscriptions, logos or your choice of pattern to make it extra special.

Cashmere Clothing

Who could say no to these beautiful luxury pieces from GentleHerd? Not us, that’s for sure.

With tons of styles and variety for both men and women, these sustainably sourced, luxury clothes have something to offer just about everyone.

Stylish, responsible, cozy, and comfortable they may just have found their new favorite brand.

What to Get Adult Children for Christmas?

Still stuck in a gift-giving rut? Here are just a few more “outside of the box” gifts for adult children to consider:

Offer to help around the house. You remember the good ol’ days of endless dishes, laundry, errands… just a lot of WORK! Offering to take some of the load off your kids’ backs for a day, or even a few hours, may be the best gift you could give them.

Offer to watch the little ones for awhile, if they have their own kids. Let them enjoy a little getaway, or even a date night all to themselves.

Take your adult daughter out for a mom-daughter mani-pedi. Or a girls’ day at the mall, to the hair salon, even a relaxing movie day at her place (or yours!) We guarantee she’d love to spend some quality time with you still, just as much as you want to with her.

Write your adult son a heartfelt letter telling him just how proud of him you really are. It would mean the world for him to know how much he’s loved and respected as a grown man (and that he’s actually doin’ okay in your eyes).

Make your kids a home-cooked meal. Remember that one dish they constantly asked for growing up? The one you were secretly sick of eating all the time to the point that it had to become a “special occasion only” dish? Yeah, that one. Make it and take it on over to them, they’re going to love the surprise of it.

Pay a bill or two for them. We all know times ain’t easy right now, and sometimes independent, grown-up kids have a hard time asking for help when they need it. So even though you’ve raised them to fend for themselves, this offer alone may be greatly appreciated.

More Gift Guides

Before you go, you may also find these articles helpful:

• 21 Thoughtful Gifts for the Woman Who Wants Nothing
• How to Give Thoughtful Gifts
• Quirky Gift Ideas for Your Weirdo Friends