Amazon Has That Viral Travel Backpack From TikTok on Sale (2024)

Birthdays are always special, but turning 16 is one of the books. Turning 16 signifies more independence, responsibility and maturity (or at least, one can hope). And because of this importance (and often the hoopla a.k.a a sweet 16 party), any old birthday gift simply won't do. Luckily, we're kind of experts in the gift area, especially when it comes to gifts for teens and what Gen-Zers really want. So we've done the leg work to find you the best sweet 16 gift ideas for girls and boys.

Our top picks for sweet 16 gifts:

• Personalized Cake Knife and Server Set, $19 at Amazon
• Personalized Leather Dopp Kit, $34 at Amazon
• Square Cut Necklace, $90 at Swarovski
• Custom Neon Signs, $27 at Amazon

Our editors spent hours on TikTok, scoured the internet, sourced recommendations from our product-testing experts and spoke with real 16-year-olds (and parents who frequently buy things for them) to compile a best-of-the-best list, with everything from tech gadgets and beauty buys to bedroom essentials and cozy apparel. And if you're not familiar with some of the latest hot ticket items in this roundup, rest assured, your Gen Zer will think you have plenty of rizz if you get them one of these.

Regardless of how big of a party they are having, cake will be served. Gifting them an engraved set to cut and serve a piece is not only practical, but also sentimental. We know someone who is well into her 40s who still have the knife from her sweet 16. Bonus: There are a ton of different styles to pick from.

We know you might think it's impersonal, but it's actually considerate. Let them finally get the thing they've been eyeing for months, or use it towards other gift cards (like Roblox or Starbucks).

He's getting older now, so he probably has a few everyday essentials he needs with him when he's on-the-go. This beautiful leather case can be personalized with his name or initials.

There are so many reasons to choose preserved roses, like these, over a regular bouquet. They come in so many colors and styles, but also, they last at least three years, according to the brand.

She might not be ready for real diamonds yet, but you can still give her some shine. The square-cut Swarovski stone absolutely sparkles, and looks just like the real thing.

With almost 23,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, this galaxy moon globe is a one-of-a-kind gift that we can guarantee no one else will be getting the birthday girl or boy. According to the brand, the hollow sphere uses actual data by NASA satellite to project a 3D effect on the moon's surface. The included remote allows you to choose which colors you want to project once the lights are turned off.

This is a gift for both you and your teen. Cut down on the clutter by eliminating the need for multiple charging cords with this 3-in-1 wireless charging stand. They'll really appreciate a one-stop place to charge their phone, AirPods and Apple Watch.

Teens might not tear up magazines and cut up their colorful pages to create collages the way we used to, but that doesn't mean they can't create their own versions thanks to this DIY wall collage kit. The kit features 154 design cutouts, 66 letter cutouts, 769 stickers, 41 quote sticks, 10 markers, string, paint-safe double-sided tape, and foams squares, so the collage can create wall art that's reflective of her personality and style. The kit even encourages adding your own personal photographers to give it a more personal touch, so perhaps you print out some of her favorite memories to give with her in addition to the kit.

Although one of the pricier gift picks on this list, these Beats Solo3 headphones are certainly worth the investment. Not only do these wireless Bluetooth headphones have up to 40 hours of battery life, but according to the brand, with the Fast Fuel five-minute charge, the listener can easily juice up the headphones for up to three hours of play when the battery is low.

A teen's bedroom isn't just where they sleep. It's their sanctuary, a cozy space for homework, hangouts with friends and overall relaxation. These color-changing LED strip lights, which can be attached along the baseboard, under a bed frame or frankly anywhere they want, can easily transform a room at the click of a button into the ultimate oasis. All they need now is some fluffy pillows and snacks and a laptop to cue up their favorite TV show on.

Honestly, what is more fun than a custom neon sign they can hang or mount on their wall? One that you can customize! Personalize a neon sign with a name, logo, group of words or emoji of your choice. You can even choose the font, color and backboard shape to create a sign that is as unique as the birthday boy or girl themselves! You can even get a mock-up of your design before it's made so you can make any last-minute changes.

Available in a variety of colors and bundles (including a holiday bundle, gift bundle and bundle with 120 pieces of film), you can personalize this camera for any teen. It's perfect for a novice photographer — or one who's just looking to capture some cute pics with their friends.

This cute belt bag from Lululemon is the perfect understated piece for trendsetters who don't want to sacrifice style for comfort. The Good Housekeeping Institute even rated it as one of the best fanny packs out there. Plus, teens can wear it however they want: over the shoulder, across the body, around the waist and more.

Makeup gurus will be obsessed with this trifold vanity mirror that has three different magnification options, LED lights with adjustable brightness and a space in the base to hold jewelry, makeup products or hair ties. Our GH Institute testers appreciated the fold-up design and that it can swivel 180 degrees.