When your kids hit their late teens or twenties, it suddenly gets a lot harder to buy for them. They’ve outgrown toys, they’ve got their own taste, and sometimes what they really want can’t be wrapped up in a box.
That’s where printable gift certificates come in — thoughtful, personal and perfect for giving experiences instead of more stuff.
For a few years now I’ve been making my own printable gift certificates for my grown-up kids, and honestly, they’ve been a hit every single time. They’re fun to create, lovely to give, and a great way to show you care without spending a fortune.
I have some free printable gift certificates that you can print out and use if you don’t fancy making your own or you can buy some from Amazon (aff link) but they’re not nearly as pretty as mine!
Here are some of my favourite ideas you can include to make your own set…
Self-Care and Chill-Out Time
Everyone needs a bit of downtime, and these ideas make perfect low-cost gifts that still feel like a treat.
One Lazy Day – no chores, no responsibilities, just chill.
Spa Day (at home or out!) – facemask, candles, and total relaxation.
Treat-Yourself Fund – £20 towards something that makes you happy.
Early Finish Pass – clock off early from studying, cleaning, or helping out.
Food and Fun
Good food and quality time are always appreciated. These ideas are simple but special.
Mum’s Homemade Dinner – your choice, cooked with love.
Takeaway Night on Me – you pick, I pay.
Coffee Date Voucher – one catch-up, my treat.
Brunch and Chat – a proper grown-up catch-up somewhere nice.
Entertainment and Adventures
Perfect for making new memories together.
Movie Night – you choose the film, I’ll bring the snacks.
Day Trip Anywhere (within reason!) – just us exploring.
Concert or Event Ticket – pick something you’d love to go to.
Escape Room, Bowling, or Mini Golf – my treat for a fun night out.
Home Comforts
These make brilliant tongue-in-cheek ideas for students or anyone living away from home!
Laundry Fairy Voucher – I’ll wash, dry and fold one full load 😂
Dinner Delivered – I’ll drop off your favourite meal.
Free House clean – one full house reset, no questions asked.
Practical and Supportive Gifts
Sometimes the best gifts are the useful ones.
Job or Uni Application Help – one session to get it perfect.
Budget Boost – a one-hour money session with me (with snacks).
New Skill Fund – £20 towards a course, hobby, or lesson.
Just Because
These are the little emotional ones – the “I see you and I’m here for you” kind of gifts…
One Hug and Chat – no judgement, just me and tea.
Memory Day – a day to recreate a childhood favourite activity.
Surprise Outing – I’ll plan something special, you just turn up.
You Day – everything planned around what you want to do.
Making It Special
Print your certificates on nice paper, pop them in envelopes, and tie them with ribbon or twine. You can even add a little note explaining what inspired each one if you want to.
It’s such a meaningful way to give from the heart – and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to make someone smile 😊
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