Traditional Christmas stockings, chock-full of useful gifts, are still a favorite for many people, children and adults alike. You don’t need to spend a fortune to end up with a stocking that will bring a smile to the faces of the recipients. If you stick to reasonably priced, practical items, you can’t go wrong. Lots of items that are ideal for Christmas stockings can be equally practical for gift baskets at other times of the year. Here are some ideas to help you delight your family.
Apparel
Practical clothing is always welcome. Gloves, mittens and scarves are ideal presents for the Christmas period. Socks and underwear are also good choices, and you do not have to worry about making a fashion faux pas with these. If you are looking for something nice to go in a gift basket, you can choose larger items of clothing. Sweaters are always popular and practical in winter, while shirts, blouses, t-shirts and shorts are good choices when the weather is warmer. When you buy clothing, hold on to your receipts in case the person to whom you give the gift basket wants to change the item.
Gadgets
Most people associate gadgets with the men in their lives, but there are plenty of gadgets that females also like. Dental hygiene has been revolutionized with the introduction of the electric toothbrush. You don’t have to buy the best electronic toothbrush, as even bargain electronic toothbrushes deliver superior cleaning performance. An electronic toothbrush is a great choice for a stocking-filler. It’s practical and can cut down on expensive dental treatment.
Portable DVD and MP4 players are another excellent choice that appeal to both sexes of all ages. The modern versions of these players are slim and compact, making them a perfect choice as a stocking filler. If you don’t mind spending a bit more on stocking fillers, check out games consoles, also popular with both males and females.
Miscellaneous
Cookies and chocolates are always welcome in Christmas stockings or gift baskets. Complement these with soda for kids or a nice bottle of wine for adults. For the ladies, flowers, potpourri and perfumes are a popular choice, while men like after-shave and shaving accessories. Men also like anything to do with cars. Coloring books and crayons, sticker books and notepads are popular choices for kids.
If you are unsure about what a person might like best, then think about popping some gift vouchers into the Christmas stocking or gift basket. Nearly every store and restaurant offers gift vouchers, so you should not be limited for choice. Theater and movie tickets are also good ideas. If you buy tickets for a particular performance, you will need to make sure that the recipient will be free to attend that show.
There is really no limit to what type of gift you can put in a Christmas stocking or gift basket. The key is to try to find items that will appeal to the recipient rather than to you. Do not be afraid to think outside the box. People are always delighted by pleasant surprises.
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