This holiday season, Gen Z is switching up their wish lists. While a cozy sweater or a new accessory is always appreciated, the generation is increasingly prioritizing meaningful connections and shared experiences over just tangible goods. This shift reflects a broader trend among young adults who value intentionality, sustainability, and mental well-being—all things that can be fostered through a truly thoughtful gift from a loved one. Forget the frantic dash for the hottest new tech gadget; this year, Gen Z is asking their partners for gifts that say, “I see you, and I want to spend time with you.”
The desire for quality time as a gift is especially significant for many in this generation. In a world saturated with digital communication and busy schedules, dedicated, uninterrupted time with a partner feels like a true luxury. For many, the ultimate gift isn’t something wrapped up in a box, but a planned date, an adventurous trip, or simply a focused, cozy day together. This focus on connection is particularly evident in long-distance relationships, where physical gifts can’t replace the need for emotional presence. Whether you’re looking for the perfect present for a long-term SO, or trying to find a gift for a newer partner you deeply care about, understanding this preference for connection can help you nail the perfect holiday gift.
The wish list for Gen Z partners this holiday season is less about dollar signs and more about intentional thought and understanding one another’s needs. Here are the main things Gen Z hopes their partners consider this year.
- Experiences That Become Memories
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For partners in long-term relationships, the move away from physical gifts is often driven by a desire to create new shared memories. Julianna, 25, who has been with her partner for 10 years, tells Her Campus, “At this point in our relationship, I value things like experiences and quality time over tangible gifts! Things like concert tickets or a weekend trip where we can spend time together are priceless to me, and always make the best gifts.”
Similarly, Lily, a 23-year-old grad student at Emerson College, emphasizes the same sentiment for her first official Christmas with her partner. “One of our love languages is definitely quality time, so I would love anything experience-wise, whether it’s a cozy weekend getaway, a fun class we can take together, or even just a day planned around our favorite things.” These types of gifts show a deep understanding of the relationship’s dynamic and a commitment to nurturing it.
- Â The Priceless Gift Of Quality Time (Even Long Distance)
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For many college students, the holidays mean navigating a long-distance relationship. In this situation, the true gift isn’t what’s under the tree, but the effort put into bridging the gap. Olivia Armstead, 20, a student at Hampton University, highlights this reality. She says, “Since my boyfriend and I will be in separate states for the holidays, just planned virtual dates, letters and personalized notes, and simply quality time means the most to me. I’m not a person who’s really huge on receiving gifts, I really cherish quality time.” This underscores that intentional, focused time — even if it’s over video chat — is valued far more than a material item.
- Support For Hobbies & Self-Care
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Another key theme for Gen Z is a request for gifts that acknowledge their mental well-being and support their personal pursuits. As many navigate the stress of college or the beginning of their careers, gifts that encourage hobbies and self-care are seen as a thoughtful gesture.
University of Windsor student Liv, 23, puts it simply: “This year I really hope that my boyfriend gets me something related to my hobbies. Since starting my master’s, and to not go off the deep end, I’ve been really focused on utilizing my hobbies to help with stress instead of doomscrolling.” Liv notes that a thoughtful gift could be anything from “new colouring books, a new game or accessory for my console, or even some cute workout clothes.” Even the desire for cozy items — a blanket, a matching set, or socks — falls into this category, representing comfort and a nudge toward relaxation during a busy time of year.
Ultimately, the best present a Gen Z partner can receive this holiday season isn’t found on a store shelf, but in the effort of their partner. Whether it’s a planned vacation, or a simple thoughtful note, these holiday gifts secure an emotional connection that will truly last long after the holiday season into the new year!Â