It may only be August, but there’s no better time than the present to start shopping for, well, Christmas presents. Even after the bigger gifts are bought, it’s sometimes the smallest gifts that can stump the best of us. If you’re struggling to think of what kind of stocking stuffers to get for your husband, wife, teenagers, or kids, here are some ideas to help you fill their stockings with goodies they’re sure to enjoy.
First off–candy. Everyone loves a little something sweet, especially around the holidays. Take the time to find out what your loved ones’ favorite kinds of candy are and pick some up to put in their stocking.
Books are another universal stocking stuffer for all ages. For adults, pick up a book or two from their favorite author. For children, choose a classic that you remember from your own childhood to share with them.
In the age of electronic gadgetry, there’s no stocking stuffer more important or useful than batteries. Pick up some common sizes like AAs and AAAs, or if you are getting that person a gift that requires batteries, make sure you buy some extras.
Don’t overlook simple and cheap toiletry items that everyone needs, like toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs and hairbrushes, perfume or cologne, makeup, nail polish, lotion, and hand sanitizer.
For younger children, school supplies will be a welcome and useful gift, while a disposable camera will allow them to record the holiday festivities in their own way. (A mini photo album is also a nice bonus for after the pictures are developed.) Travel-sized board games can be found for $5 or less, fit perfectly in a stocking, and will help abate the “Are we there yet?” on the way home from grandma’s.
For teens, gift cards are always a good choice, and they don’t have to be expensive. A $5 gift certificate to Starbucks will buy a coffee and a snack-a very nice treat that’s sure to be appreciated. Movie tickets or a gift certificate to a theatre will provide a night out with friends. If your teen is driving, how about some inexpensive car accessories, like an air freshener or license plate frame?
The key to all of these gifts is simplicity–think of something that your gift recipient uses on an everyday basis or would enjoy as a treat. It doesn’t have to be extravagant to be appreciated.