Stocking filler ideas for teenagers

If you have a teenager, then chances are they will have been more than vocal about what they’d like to find under the tree this Christmas. Already lured by the latest in tech, fashion and beauty, it often means finding small extras for their stocking can turn into quite the head-scratcher.

When you get it right, seeing their faces light up with a new gadget or keepsake on Christmas morning is priceless. With this guide you’ll be sure to curate an enchanting (and bulging) stocking full of gifts they’ll treasure.

Whether you have one teenage daughter or four sons, there are a few universal buys that will delight everyone, regardless of their interests. First up is something edible, like a jar of beautifully presented sweets or a slab of artisan fudge. If they have a fondness for hot chocolate, there are unusual flavours like salted caramel to be enjoyed – much in the way mum and dad savour a coffee.

Next up: tech. Do they need a new set of headphones, a case for their phone or if they’ve been really good, their own Alexa? And finally, an inexpensive game for them to instigate with the whole family or to while away cold wet afternoons over the holidays is also a winner.

Whether it’s skincare, perfume or make-up, you can’t go far wrong with raiding the beauty counters for a teenage girl’s stocking. A fragrant shower gel is a good place to start for younger ones – you'll score brownie points with older teens with hard-working hero products from Benefit, like primers and setting sprays. Small accessories always go down well: stud or hoop earrings and a new purse or washbag will make her feel suitably grown-up. Not forgetting everyday essentials, like slippers, socks and bralettes – which, in a poppy colour or animal print, become a proper gift rather than a basic buy.

Start with practical but good-looking essentials that he won’t want to spend his pocket money on, like branded socks, slippers and simple T-shirts. And no teenager can ever have too many scarves or gloves. If he’s the sort who is glued to his screen, try a gentle distraction by way of an enormous puzzle or a notebook, the latter of which can be used as a diary, gratitude journal or just somewhere to jot down future plans. Elevated toiletries will also prove useful: treat him to a new deodorant or body cream that you wouldn’t pick up for him in the weekly shop.