Some people enjoy thinking about what to buy for gifts, going out to buy gifts, getting home and wrapping gifts, going out to deliver gifts or mail gifts . . .
I am not that person.
Don’t get me wrong. I love it when I happen to see something in a shop or online and think, “That would be perfect” for a certain person in my life.
Does this happen often? No, it does not.
In our family, we solve the problem by sharing wish lists, with agreed-upon budgets, for holidays and birthdays. But some people find this awkward or off-putting, or think that it ruins the joy of giving the perfectly considered surprise gift.
If you find yourself needing some help in choosing an inexpensive gift that’s also sure to be appreciated, you’ve come to the right place. We have gift guides for all kinds of recipients, and we’ve rounded them up for you in one spot: Here.
Photo: Deposit Photos
Stocking stuffers for grownups
If you’re going to spend the money to brighten someone’s day with a stocking, make it count. Here are some favorites that make good stocking stuffers for grownups. Also check out our article on practical gifts for the holidays. Not all of them will fit in a stocking, but some (like gift cards and books of stamps) will. And don’t forget to buy the stockings.
Gifts for Mom
Photo: Deposit Photos
Remember the days when teachers helped you out by having you make crafts to give as gifts? Sadly, the days when you could hand mom your classroom creations — and count on a big hug and a smile — are long gone. And if you ask mom for ideas, you’ll very likely hear these dreaded words: “Oh, I don’t need anything.” Well, we have the solution: A list of gifts to give mom when you’re all grown up.
Gifts for kids
Here’s an assortment of great, inexpensive gift ideas for kids. You can choose one of them or, if your budget allows and you want to splurge, buy several and wrap them separately to multiply the fun for the recipient.
Gift for teachers
Photo: Deposit Photos
What not to buy: Mugs, ornaments, statues, desk decor. What to give instead: Any of these gifts, based on your child’s age and a teacher’s likely likes and dislikes, taking your budget into consideration.
Gifts for less than $10
When price is the main consideration, take a look at these great ideas for folks of almost every age, including digital gifts that don’t have to be wrapped or shipped (priceless!).
Gifts for white elephant parties
Though the original idea behind a white elephant exchange was to regift something you already had at home, nowadays participants are often expected to bring a new item. Here is a list of 50 perfect, or not-so-perfect but funny, white elephant gift ideas geared for specific groups.
Gifts for cooks
Here are great gift ideas for the amateur chef in your life — or that person who spends a lot of time watching the Food Network and wants to spend more time in the kitchen. All of the items on this list come in at $25 or less.
Gifts for gardeners
Photo: Deposit Photos
You can give a thoughtful gift to someone with a green thumb and still keep your bank balance in the black. Here’s a list of great ideas for people who like to garden.
Gifts for pets
Don’t forget the furbabies! Here are cheap gifts to buy or make for the companion animals on your list.
Gifts that keep on giving (and don’t need to be shipped)
When it comes time to choose holiday gifts, there are times you just don’t want to buy any more things. Her are 10 ways to give your friends and family the gift of experiences that will keep giving all year. Some can be expensive, so why not suggest going in on the gift with other friends or family members? A bonus: None of them need to be wrapped or shipped, so you’re giving yourselves the gift of extra time in a busy season!
Food gifts you can make yourself
These easy recipes for food gifts make thoughtful hostess and teacher holiday gifts, or for anyone on your Christmas list who enjoys something homemade. We also have a whole article about homemade soups as gifts. Mmmmmm!
Gifts for the gadget lover
This list of gifts would make perfect stocking stuffers or gifts for guys and girls who love gadgets. Most are less than $35, and you can get free shipping if your order total is over a certain amount.
Gifts for people who have everything
Here’s where you have to get creative. Try some of these ideas for the hard-to-buy for people on your list.
Last-minute gifts
If you’re reading this on Christmas Eve, there still may be hope! Check out our list of cheap but thoughtful gifts that you can probably find without too much trouble.
For more great holiday tips, read these articles:
