What People Actually Want For Christmas: Gen-Z Edition
As you’re reading this, Mariah Carey has defrosted, year-end Christmas and New Year’s festivities are in full swing — and many of us are still racking our brains to figure out what presents to buy.
We’ve sourced for gift ideas for those who have everything, people who love personalised touches, and even the workplace Secret Santa gift exchange. But what about the Gen Zs in your life?
We asked around and rounded up the best gifts that Gen Zs actually want. You’re welcome.
Grace, 22, Early Childhood Educator
“I would like to receive board and card games such as We’re Not Really Strangers, Moose Master, and Hues and Cues. These games are my favourite way to spend time with loved ones and friends because they provide opportunities for fun moments and good memories. I enjoy learning about others through We’re Not Really Strangers and the chaos of Moose Master.”
Sean, 26, photographer
“My current Apple Watch battery can’t last a full day after many years of use, so I’ve been considering the SE 3 because it’s affordable and reliable - exactly what I need, as I’m always on the move. A simple, go-to watch that can survive long shoots is more than enough for me, especially during overseas assignments where I've to stay connected all the time.”
Dhreeti, 25, Software Engineer
“What I would like for Christmas is either dark chocolate truffles from Royce, socks with quirky designs from The Green Collective, or interesting hummus flavours available at Little Farms. I like gifts like these because they are practical and fun. They show that someone actually thought about what would make me happy. It’s these little things that make you feel warm and cared for during the festive season.”
Rutile, 24, Nurse
“I was previously using the Jabra Elite 4 and really enjoyed the bass on that model. It would be nice to upgrade to the Jabra Elite 8 Active, which is the latest model in the series. Besides the amazing bass, the shape fits my ear nicely and stays put as I work out.”
Preetpal, 27, Classroom Assistant and Home Cafe Owner
“I would like to use the Soundcore Space One Pro Headphones to shut down the world around me when it is getting too much. The noise-cancellation will also help while travelling, or to help me focus on my tasks. Another gift I would like to receive is the No.1 Analog Totepack from The Analog Company. They are a local company and I have seen their design process on TikTok. It is a pretty cool design that can transition from work to leisure.”
Sabrina, 27, Medical Records Team Lead
“Because of the nature of my work, I am seated most of the day. My body is always aching and in need of relief as a result. And so, a massager seat would be great to massage my neck, shoulders, and back without taking up too much space.”
Louis, 22, Tuition Teacher
“I love cycling and would like to upgrade to this Decathlon bike. I like the colour of this bicycle and that it has suspension to cushion the impact of rocky roads. Mountain bikes are more fun to ride than pure road bikes or my old hybrid bikes, as the added suspension and larger tyres allow me to ride rougher terrain.”
Semco Adjustable Sewing Dressmaker Mannequin Red ($250). Buy here
Audrey, 22, Student
“My current hobbies are designing clothes and making pottery. I don’t have a mannequin or a pottery wheel at the moment, so it will be nice to have them. I like the Semco mannequin from Spotlight, as it allows you to adjust the measurements to correspond with the body for which you’re designing clothes.”
Clare, 19, Student
“For Christmas, I'd prefer receiving money as a gift. It may sound simple, but it's honestly the most practical choice. Having cash gives me flexibility to spend it on something meaningful to me later — whether that's new clothes, skincare, or savings for a trip. It feels more thoughtful than receiving something that might not suit me. Cash via Grab Gift is a convenient option and it can be easily used for various purchases.”
Joan, 22, Business Owner
“Anything with food, especially if it is a sit-down and enjoy, fine dining type experience, would work for me. The food can even be handmade! Food is a bonding activity for me and I enjoy spending time with people I care about. Also, I just love to eat. If I were to create a list of restaurants and bars to check out, it would be places such as Le Bon Funk, Cicheti, and Jigger & Pony.”
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