Published on Nov 12, 2024 at 1:41 PM
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Turning 30 is a big deal and such a major milestone calls for an equally special gift for the loved one in your life. Don't stress, though; no matter your budget, there's an option they'll love, whether it's a practical restock of a favorite lip balm, treating them to dinner at their go-to restaurant, or planning a night out filled with love (and maybe a cocktail or two) to toast the end of their twenties.
We've rounded up a variety of thoughtful picks for every soon-to-be 30-year-old, whether they're obsessed with wellness and self-care, home decor, beauty products, cooking, or all of the above. Some of our top choices include Skims pajamas that'll make them feel like a million bucks (and might improve their sleep!), Aesop hand soap that'll give their home that hotel-worthy feel, and a locket so special it might just make them tear up. Keep scrolling to shop our 30th birthday gift guide — including 25 items they'll adore in this new decade.
Best Card Game
We're Not Really Strangers Card Game ($25)
This isn't your typical card game. It's more of a conversation starter or icebreaker, perfect for pairing with a glass of wine and your closest loved ones or partner. Consider gifting it with their favorite special beverage for an extra-thoughtful touch.
Best Weighted Eye Mask
Nodpod Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask ($34)
For the 30-year-old who could use better sleep, this weighted sleep mask could be a game-changer. After all, thousands of Amazon shoppers rave that it helps them relax and fall asleep faster. "The Nodpod Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask has completely transformed my sleep routine," wrote a reviewer who rated it a perfect five stars. "I didn't realize how much I needed this product until I tried it — and now, I can't fall asleep without it! The gentle pressure and light-blocking design create the perfect environment for deep relaxation, whether I'm at home, traveling, or just needing a quick nap."
Best Blow-Dryer Brush
Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus ($37, originally $70)
We're living in the golden age of blow-dryer brushes, and Revlon's is hands-down one of the all-time favorites. It's a time-saver, leaves hair smooth and sleek, and has been described by hundreds of Amazon shoppers as life-changing. One of our editors is a fan, too; read her Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus review for more on what makes the tool so cult-famous.
Editor Quote: "The biggest difference I noticed between this brush and others I've used in the past is how well my hairstyle stayed put. Although I think I've pretty much mastered the '90s blowout, I've often found that the look can fall throughout the day if I don't use a ton of hairspray or texture spray. I didn't use either after the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer, and my flipped-in ends lasted even after a night of sleeping on them." — Renee Rodriguez, staff writer and social producer
Best Board Game
WS Game Company Clue Vintage Bookshelf Edition ($39)
It seems like everyone is buzzing about WS Game Company's vintage bookshelf-edition board games lately. Unlike your typical board games that can look a bit chaotic stacked up, these are designed to be proudly displayed — lined up neatly side by side with others from the collection. You can grab them one by one (à la carte style) or gift a set to that friend who loves a good game night and an organized shelf. Check out this four-pack if they love a pop of color.
Best Hand Wash
Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash ($43)
If your loved one has a soft spot for little luxuries but rarely splurges on themselves, this Aesop hand soap is the perfect gift. It's more than just sink decor; the tiny exfoliating granules leave hands feeling silky smooth, and the essential oil-infused scent is nothing short of heavenly. Read more by checking out our Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash review.
Editor Quote: "I loved Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash before I even pressed my fingers down on the dispenser for the first time. But hey, before you think I hastily pledged my allegiance, hear me out: the presentation was just that good. The bottle arrived in a sleek linen mesh drawstring bag that I could reuse for travel, and it made the unboxing process feel like a luxury experience. Pulling it out of the bag was more like twisting up a brand new bullet of lipstick than the usual meh feeling of pumping up a new hand soap." — MP
Best Tumbler
Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler ($45)
We're truly sorry if you've seen this tumbler recommended as a gift ad nauseam, but we're only adding to the hype because people genuinely love it. That includes one of our editors, who shared that keeping this water bottle close has made them the "most hydrated" they've ever been. Discover what makes it so special in our Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler review.
Editor Quote: "What don't I like about this Stanley tumbler is the real question. I've had it for about a while now, and it's become my day-to-day companion, which is saying something because I'm the dehydrated one of the friend group. I'm low-key shocked to admit that it's earned a spot on my bedside table in case I wake up thirsty in the night, it spends all day on my desk throughout the day (filled with sparkling water from my apartment building), and I've even been bringing it to Orangetheory classes in the evening. Thanks to this water bottle, I'm confident I'm the most hydrated I've ever been." — MP
Best Press-On Nails
Chillhouse Chill Tips Signatures Press-On Nails Kit ($48)
If they've already sung the praises of press-on nails, you can bet they'll love a restock. These sets from Chill Tips are well-made and come in so many different styles. It's a gift that'll be just as fun to choose as it is to receive.
Best Lip Balm Duo
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm ($50, originally $52)
Summer Fridays is one of the most talked-about lip balm brands for a reason: Its formulas aren't sticky and truly hydrate and soothe dry lips with nourishing shea and murumuru seed butter, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and protective vitamin E. Swipe it on for a hint of tint or shine during the day, or use it as an overnight lip mask for extra softness by morning.
Best Pendant Necklace
Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace ($56, originally $70)
The beauty of this necklace is that it works for all ages, from teens to those in their 20s, 30s, and beyond. It's practically made for gifting, arriving in an adorable little box and available in your choice of gold or silver plating. With a wide range of colored stones, you can match it to their birthstone or favorite color. Plus, the brand offers matching Elisa Earrings ($56, originally $70) if you'd like to complete the set. Learn why one of our editors loves the necklace in our Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace review.
Editor Quote: "Another thing I love is how easy it is to style. That might just be the case for me since I went with a neutral-colored stone, but I've found that it looks good with everything. I've worn it with casual everyday attire like a long-sleeve turtleneck or a T-shirt, and dressier ensembles as well." — MP
Best Smart Diffuser
Pura Smart Home Plug-in Diffuser Kit ($69, originally $86)
The Pura Diffuser Kit is a perfect gift for the homebody and tech-lover alike. This set includes two scents — Tinsel & Spice and Volcano — that you load into the smart diffuser. Through the connected app, you can control the scent intensity, set daily schedules, and switch between the two scents depending on your mood — all from your phone. Learn more in our editor's comprehensive Pura Smart Home Plug-in Diffuser Kit review.
Editor Quote: "Unlike traditional essential-oil diffusers, the Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser is truly low maintenance — no daily water changes, essential-oil fiddling, or cleaning necessary. With other essential-oil diffusers I've owned, I've found that mildew buildup can happen easily if I don't properly clean it after each use, which is a huge pain." — Angela Elias, contributing editor, Shopping
Best Vera Bradley Bag
Vera Bradley Women's Cotton Hathaway Tote ($70, originally $100)
Vera Bradley is back, according to our shopping editor, and this bag is a smart buy for the 30-something in your life. It fits so much, making it ideal for everything from a weekend getaway to a stylish shopping trip to the farmer's market. Learn more via our Vera Bradley Women's Cotton Hathaway Tote review.
Editor Quote: "What I love about the Vera Bradley Women's Cotton Hathaway Tote is, first and foremost, its understated autumnal hues. I chose the Marrakesh Cinnamon design, which features a warm brown base topped with a rich floral pattern. It has a subtly bohemian vibe and feels quintessentially autumn. Unlike the bold pink bags I used to carry back in 2010, this one's easy to style with my everyday wardrobe. I honestly can't remember if Vera Bradley offered anything this toned down back then, but back in the day, it felt like their unofficial motto was 'the brighter, the better.'" — MP
Best Luxury Candle
Diptyque Baies (Berries) Scented Candle ($74)
Unless you're one of the lucky few, it's not exactly common to have an overflowing collection of luxury candles, which is exactly why gifting one feels so special. And what better way to celebrate turning 30 than by lighting up one of Diptyque's most iconic scents?
Best Fragrance
Merit Retrospect™ L'Extrait de Parfum ($92)
Merit is one of the buzziest beauty brands right now, so when it launched its first-ever fragrance, Merit Retrospect L'Extrait de Parfum, this past October, it was a big deal. With notes of bergamot, jasmine, and musk, this scent is sophisticated, long-lasting, and perfect for day or night. Plus, it'll look effortlessly chic on any vanity.
Best Multipurpose Pan
Our Place Always Pan 2.0 Set ($95, originally $150)
If they're diving into cooking or their cookware could use a serious upgrade, the Our Place Always Pan 2.0 is a top pick, as it's designed to replace 10 different pieces of cookware in one. It's perfect for braising, searing, steaming, baking — you name it. Get the full scoop on how it works in our Our Place Always Pan 2.0 Set review.
Editor Quote: "The versatility of the Our Place Always Pan 2.0 is unmatched; you can cook breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert all in one place. I've been experimenting with this pan for a little while, and I've made everything, including fried eggs, chicken curry, pasta, and baked cinnamon rolls. I use this pan so much that it's perpetually sitting on my drying rack. I love that I can use it for most of my cooking needs, especially because I live in an apartment with limited kitchen storage space." — Anvita Reddy, assistant editor, Shopping
Best Slippers
Birkenstock Zermatt Genuine Shearling Lined Slipper ($100)
These Birkenstock slippers feature a cushy shearling lining and the brand's beloved cork-and-latex footbed, which contours to their unique foot shape over time. The best part is that you can wear them both indoors and outdoors, so there's no need to switch shoes just to take out the trash or grab the mail.
Best Smart Coffee Mug
Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug ($120, originally $150)
Coffee enthusiasts need this temperature-controlled mug. With the accompanying Ember app, they can set their preferred temperature and enjoy perfectly hot coffee for up to 90 minutes — or keep it warm all day long with the charging coaster. No more lukewarm sips, ever.
Best Pajamas
Skims Soft Lounge Rib Sleep Set ($120)
A fresh pair of pajamas can turn any 30-year-old's day around, especially when it's Skims. Known for its buttery-soft, stretchy ribbed fabric that's often duped but never quite matched, this brand delivers comfort and style in one. Choose from minimalist neutrals like gray and black, or add a splash of personality with brighter hues such as bright red or pale blue.
Best Locket
Isla Locket Birthstone Layering Set ($150+)
It doesn't get more sentimental — or stylish — than this personalized locket with a custom birthstone. This isn't your average locket; it's a modern twist on a classic that's bound to garner endless compliments. Most importantly, they'll cherish it for their 30th birthday.
Best Ice Cream Maker
Ninja NC301 Creami Ice Cream Maker ($180, originally $230)
Trust us when we say the sweet-toothed 30-year-old (or soon-to-be!) foodie in your life needs this ice cream maker. It's TikTok-famous for a reason — it makes crafting delicious ice-cream-shop-worthy flavors at home a total breeze. One of our editors confirmed it's worth the hype — see it in action in our Ninja NC301 Creami Ice Cream Maker review.
Editor Quote: "Not to be overly dramatic, but I couldn't stop smiling after diving into this ice cream. This machine is great for ice cream aficionados of all kinds. My fiancé and I are most excited about creating healthy-ish ice cream alternatives that don't cost 10 bucks a pint." - MP
Best Bracelet Watch
Breda Jane Bracelet Watch ($195)
This Breda bracelet watch is the definition of minimalist elegance. We're obsessed with the gold, silver, and pearl detailing. It's hard to beat, but it also comes in other options, like an all-gold version with a sky-blue dial.
Best Weighted Blanket
Bearaby Cotton Hand-Knit Weighted Blanket ($199)
A classic blanket is a solid gift, but a weighted blanket might be a game-changer for the 30-year-old in your life. This hand-knit one from Bearaby is one of our all-time favorites, thanks to its cooling, breathable fabric that's also machine washable. As previously reported by PS, this blanket isn't just about aesthetics and coziness; the fact that it's weighted might help with stress relief. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that a weighted blanket can help regulate cortisol — the primary stress hormone — while you sleep.
Best Designer Bag
Staud Women's Moon Tote Bag ($295)
If they're into fashion and don't already own this iconic Staud bag, it's bound to be a gasp-worthy gift. One of our editors uses hers constantly — just read her review on why it's so covetable and you'll see why the 30-year-old in your life will be just as obsessed. And for pet parents, Staud's Custom Pet Handbag is another great idea; you can get this bag (and others) hand-painted with their furry friend for a unique and personalized gift they'll never forget.
Editor Quote: "What I love about the Staud Moon Bag is that it manages to be both timeless and unique — a rare combination in the world of handbags. I have the black leather version, and it's truly a chameleon piece. No matter what outfit I'm wearing, no matter the season, this bag complements it perfectly, adding a special touch without overpowering the look. I've probably worn it over 100 times by now and it never fails to spark compliments; I've had more than a few people ask where it's from." — MP
Best Health Tracker
Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon ($299, originally $349)
If they're serious about health and wellness, an Oura Ring is a must-have. This sleek wearable tracks everything from their sleep and activity to stress and heart rate, all through an accompanying app. It comes in several colors, too. Learn more about it in our Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon review.
Editor Quote: "This product is best for people who want access to their own health data. The ring also tracks patterns over time, so you get a good sense of your typical heart rate, calorie burn, and sleep patterns. If you want to make a change, it becomes that much easier to pinpoint the problem with the Oura Ring. If you're already an active person or want to become more active, this is a high-quality tracker. It also has great battery life; it can go without charge for up to seven days." — India Yaffe, former associate editor, Shopping
Best Cocktail Maker
Bartesian Premium Cocktail and Margarita Machine ($324)
If you're eager and willing to splurge on your soon-to-be 30-year-old loved one who lives for an end-of-week cocktail, the Bartesian could be the ultimate upgrade to their home bar. Think of it as a Keurig — but for cocktails. Genius, right? Learn more in our Bartesian Premium Cocktail and Margarita Machine review.
Editor Quote: "I highly recommend getting the Bartesian Premium Cocktail Machine if you love to drink and entertain. It makes for a great gift, whether it's for the holiday season, Mother's Day, Father's Day, a recent grad, newlyweds, or birthdays. Honestly, just treat yourself too! Although it's a splurge, it's something that will get used often if you love a good drink. It's a gadget that everyone can enjoy." — AR
Best LED Face Mask
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite™ FaceWare Pro LED Light Therapy Device ($455)
Celebrities aren't the only ones using this LED light-therapy treatment mask before red carpet events. We editors are known to pop it on while binge-watching our favorite shows. It does take consistent use to see long-term results like smoother skin or reduced acne, but we have a feeling your giftee won't mind reaching for this selfie-approved device on the reg. For more on how it works, read our Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite™ FaceWare Pro LED Light Therapy Device review.
Editor Quote: "I like to use the LED mask as part of my nighttime skin-care routine after cleansing. I put it on, then occupy myself for three minutes while the lights do their thing. After the time is up, I finish the rest of the steps in my regimen. I was once recommended by an aesthetician to use it like this: three nights on, one night rest, and repeat. I rotate through the different colors and choose the treatment based on what my skin needs on that given day. If I feel a breakout coming on, I use the blue light; if my skin feels pretty balanced, I'll use the red and blue; if I'm already having a great skin day, I'll do the red." — Jessica Harrington, senior beauty editor
Marisa Petrarca (she/her) is a contributing editor for PS Shopping and has over seven years of experience writing and editing beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content. She was previously the senior beauty editor at Grazia USA and the style and beauty editor at Us Weekly. Now freelancing, her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Allure, Marie Claire, and more. When she's not working on a story, you can probably find her testing the latest makeup, skin-care, or hair launches. Marisa lives in Saint Paul, MN, with her husband and their corgi, Cooper.