Christmas is right around the corner, and it's time to start stuffing those stockings. But coming up with smaller items that everyone will love can be a challenge. Luckily, whether you're a strategic planner or a two-days-before buyer, I've come up with a list of 10 items that everyone on your list can appreciate in their stocking this holiday season.
1. Headphones.
Personally, I look forward to this every year. Headphones are a super easy stocking-stuffer because you can find them almost anywhere, in tons of different styles, for great prices. These are especially great gifts for the people in your life who are constantly losing or breaking their headphones. You can never have enough pairs; when your friend/relative has broken their last pair, they'll be glad you thought to get them a replacement for Christmas.
2. Gloves.
Christmas is the perfect time to bundle up. Warm weather essentials are great presents to give to almost anyone on your list, especially if you live in a colder climate. Thinking about traveling this break? Hitting the slopes with the family? Gloves and scarves are a great way to get everyone in your family ready for the snow in style.
3. Chargers.
Another thing that's always breaking, chargers are an absolute must for anyone with a technological device. So unless you're shopping for your Great Uncle who's been removed from the technological world for the last 20 years, this works for everyone. Pick up an extra USB cable, phone charger or battery pack for the people on your list who could totally use them.
4. Gift cards.
Now, this one needs a little bit of personalization, but is pretty much good for everyone. Gift cards are great for those moments when you don't quite know what to get someone, but you know what they'd like to get for themselves. With a little detective work, it's easy to find a few stores they love and let them have a fun shopping spree later in the year.
5. Hats.
Another great winter weather essential, hats and beanies are a great thing to stuff at the bottom of anyone's stocking. Plus, it's super easy to personalize them by finding hats that match your friend or relative's style, and in colors they'll love.
6. Kitchen gear.
My grandparents refer to this one as "the gift of Christmas," and for good reason. Kitchen gadgets are super easy to find and are crazy useful. Meat thermometers, spiralizers, and lemon zesters make great stocking additions. Plus you can get them for more than one member of the family, so each person has one for their place.
7. Candy.
Almost every year, my mom adds a few chocolate Santas to our stockings. Last year, she even got little maple syrups for each of us (they were from Buddy the Elf, of course). They're gone almost immediately, because we all have pretty sizable sweet tooths, but sweets are a great way to add a little something to a stocking. If you know someone's favorite candy, even better. Toss in a bag of their favorite and it's sure to be a hit.
8. Socks.
Now, most people think this is a super overrated stocking-stuffer, but I totally disagree. As one who has a drawer full of mismatched pairs of socks where one has little cupcakes and the other is pink and yellow striped, a few new pairs of actually matching socks are much appreciated. They're super easy to pick up, so they're ideal if you're running a little too close to the wire. And they work for almost every member of your friends and family! Who doesn't love dinosaur socks?
9. Speakers.
Similar to headphones, small speakers are a great option if you're looking to get someone on your list some gadgets. Little Bluetooth speakers are supper easy to find and are pretty affordable these days, as well. You can find them in a variety of sizes, styles and shapes -- perfect for whoever you need to tick off your list.
10. Lottery tickets.
My grandmother's personal favorite. While it's a long shot, adding in a lottery ticket or two to anyone's stocking is a fun little surprise. Who knows, you might get a much bigger present than you, or they, were ever expecting.
