Ten Great Gifts for Teen Boys Under $20

If you have a teenage boy on your holiday list, chances are you are a little confused about what to purchase, but there are many great gifts under $20 for that teenager on your list that don't necessarily require purchasing a small rectangular piece of plastic (in most cases.) You might be tempted to cave and buy that gift card, but if you're not into purchasing a parcel of generic buying power, here are ten great gifts for teen boys for under $20.

1. The Gift of Movie Tickets - This gift is usually in a form similar to the dreaded gift card, but unlike gift cards, this item is guaranteed entertainment for your teen. The best part of it is, the teen can plan how to use it, but it's not as boring as a cash-style gift card. And, movie theatres offer a variety of films for your teen to choose from.

2. Beanbag-Style Gaming Chair - The latest thing this year for teens is a spin on the popular beanbag chairs from the seventies. This updated beanbag chair is made with gamers in mind, and it comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Teen boys will love veg'-ing out in front of their favorite game or television program in their portable chair, which usually retails under $20.

3. Gas Cards - Another spin on the cash card is the gas card. This type of card assures that your teen will have fuel to transport themselves to their job, a date, or school. Gas cards can be purchased for nearly any amount, and can be packaged with a Matchbox car to keep 'em guessing.

4. Magazine Subscriptions - If your teen loves gaming, there are plenty of magazines under $20 for a year subscription. Nintendo Power offers a bonus gift of anything from a game guide to a T-shirt for those who purchase a yearly subscription. Not into games? Consider a sports or gossip magazine. There are even art magazines for those artists out there.

5. Gag Gifts - Most teens love humorous gifts. From trendy boxer shorts to Christmas jokes, the possibilities are endless. Just be sure to choose the funny gift appropriate for your teen; there is no need to offend anyone. Of course, the best rule of thumb is two serious gifts for every joke gift.

6. Savings Bonds - The savings bond is a great gift for a teen's future. It teaches your teen about the power of bonds and patience, and it is an investment in the country at the same time. Savings bonds can be used in the future as part of a down payment on a car, a house, or to provide a little extra college money.

7. Fitness - Fitness sessions are a great gift for teens on the go. If you can't purchase sessions at the local gym, consider a set of hand weights, pedometer, and fitness gear. This gift is tops for teens looking to improve physique. Just be sure that you have a fitness conscious teen in mind when considering this gift.

8. Sports or Event Tickets - Buy your teen tickets to see his favorite team or favorite event. For an added bonus, if you and your teen are close, consider tagging along. Sporting events are a great way to open up with your teen. And yes, if they prefer the amusement of fake wrestling, that too is an amusement some parents enjoy sharing with their children, as long as there is little concern of violence or reality issues.

9. Tech Gadgets - Some of the best tech gadgets are popular choices for teen boys. From a roll up calculator to a howling mouse pad (or a croaking one), there are a plethora of tech gadgets out there to keep your teen busy and entertaining. Tech gadgets are often created at a humor level few of us who are non-geeks understand, but for techies, these toys are essentials of everyday enjoyment.

10. Quirky T-Shirts - At about $20 each, you can find a quirky t-shirt just about anywhere you look. Like bumper stickers of old, the quirky tees are methods of expression, often with an amusing result. Be sure to keep the teen's personality in mind when you choose wearing apparel. If the personality of the shirt doesn't fit the teen, it won't get worn and it can be considered offensive.

Teenage boys can be some of the hardest people to buy for, but if you can't decide on a gift, it is far better to purchase a gift card than look like you didn't care. Be careful when buying a gift card to find one without an expiration date, or your gift could dwindle if it gets lost temporarily. And, if all else fails, buy something edible. Teens typically don't mind getting beef jerky or nuts, even if they are vocal with protests about it when they first unwrap it.