No matter how well you know someone, we all need inspiration when it comes to birthday presents - even more so when it comes to big ones, like a 21st.
It’s a biggie; the age many uni-leavers will graduate, when you can legally qualify for a pilot’s licence and get a round in on your next trip to the US.
We won’t deny it: turning 21 is also a great excuse to throw the kind of party that would make Jay Gatsby blush.
Whether it’s you blowing out the birthday candles, or you’re helping someone you love celebrate in style, we’ve gathered the nicest and coolest gifts around.
From keepsake jewels to personalised bottles of bubbles, check out the greatest gifts for a 21 year old.
See our favourites below
Samsung Galaxy Flip and Fold phones
Banish all thoughts of chunky retro flip phones - they’re back and better than ever. Samsung has launched two new flippable devices, the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, both boasting incredible tech and capabilities.
The Flip3 folds down to the size of a compact and can take selfies when closed, while the Fold3 opens up to sizes to rival a tablet and can split screen so they can type and video call at the same time. Both are complemented with wearables in the form of watches and wireless Galaxy Buds, with all options making a pretty formidable birthday gift.
Yellowpop neon signs
Whether your birthday boy or girl is flying the nest or staying at home, help them begin a new chapter by updating their bedroom walls. Out with the posters, and in with a chic piece of neon wall art. Yellowpop does it best with a range of cool designs, but you can have one made with specific wording and motifs if you like too.
See the full Yellowpop range here
Pandora 21st Birthday Gift Set
Add some treasure to their jewellery box with Pandora’s set of 21st birthday charms, designed to slide onto a Pandora bracelet. The trio can be worn as a set or separately as they prefer.
£100 | Pandora *On sale from £130
Oculus Quest 2
Any gaming addict would love nothing more than to get their hands on a VR headset, and Facebook-owned Oculus Quest 2 is the best there is.
The cordless design is lightweight and comfortable, and complemented with two motion controllers with wrist straps, should the virtual world become too much.
Florence London Personalised Special Date Bangle Handmade 18 Ct Gold
Roman numerals have a knack of making things look that extra bit polished. They’re used here in this 18ct gold, enamel and stainless steel bracelet, which come in two sizes for a better fit. Simply enter the recipient’s D.O.B and Florence London will take care of the rest.
Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote
Let them catch up with their favourite shows wherever they are with Amazon’s streaming Fire TV Stick. The small device plugs into the back of any TV and once signed in, allows them to pick up their favourite movie or box set from where they left off. Apps include Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Netflix, TEDTalks and more. This latest edition of the Fire Stick comes with Alexa Voice Remote enabled, so they can control their viewing solely with the sound of their voice. Their wish, its command.
Moët & Chandon’s Imperial Rosé
Who wouldn’t be thrilled with a supersized bottle of champers? This bottle of Moet’s crisp pink champagne is twice the size of normal ones at 150cl. When it comes to bubbles, bigger is always better.
£80.96 | 31Dover *On sale from £99.95
The Urban Botanist Birthday Biome Ecosystem limited-edition recycled-glass terrarium 30cm
This terrarium is so low maintenance, it’s practically impossible to kill, but just in case, there’s a QR code that links to plant care instructions. The large glass jar is a self-contained ecosystem and is a great way for budding gardeners to develop their green fingers.
Chefanie Handmade Parrafin Wax Flower Candle
Birthday candles are all good and well, but for show stopping wax pieces to keep long after the cake has gone, look to Chefanie, maker of this Oaxaca-inspired candle that’s used for big celebrations in Mexico. Pair with a quirky tapered candle holder for the complete gift - it’s an ideal offering for someone moving into their own space. Also available in white with multi-hued flowers.
Festival in a Bag
Festivals are back, but preparing for them can be expensive. Give them a headstart with Festival in a Bag, which packs all the essentials into one backpack for easy carry. Available in a slew of colours, each kit contains a warm sleeping bag, foam roll mat, waterless toiletries, a reusable water bottle and a decent sized tent they can curl up in once they've had their fill of the main stage. Everything can be carried on the shoulders, leaving hands free for extra bags. It may be tough to wrap, but we're seriously impressed with the value for money and high quality gear of this bundle.
