15 “STOCKING STUFFER” GIFTS UNDER $50

If you’re a believer in the adage “good things come in small packages,” then this is the gift list is for you. When it comes to Giving Season between us alleged adults, it really is more about knowing that someone took the time to think about you during the craziest time of year. Smaller gifts can result in big moments between the giver and the recipient. So even if they never see the inside of a stocking, these little treasures are the stuff of season’s feelings.

1. Start With a Sparkle. “Jewelry always makes for a nice gift,” is something I grew up hearing my mom say. She was (mostly) joking, and meant a rock from Tiffany’s. But you don’t have to break the bank to add something pretty to a friend’s jewelry box. A personalized charm necklace is a one-size-fits-all gift that will never go out of style. There are plenty of options, but I love the friendship bracelet look of the Personalize Me Crystal Cube necklace from KC Chic Designs, which starts at $48.
   
   

2. Make It Make Scents. Everyone loves pretty things that smell nice, but that means different things to different noses. Scented candles are an evergreen gift for anyone’s home, but it’s essential to know your recipient’s favorite scents–and evergreen might not be included. France Luxe offers a variety of candles with various notes that will match any decor, all packaged beautifully and priced at just $32. The Amber and Patchouli is my personal favorite.

3. & 4. Work Your Way From Head…

Ah, the scalp massage. It’s something you don’t think about until you get your hair shampooed before a haircut, and then you wonder why you can’t get someone to rub your head all the time (without it getting creepy or expensive). The stylish and ergonomic Stimulating Scalp Tool from KYIR is made from bamboo, works in and out of the shower, and is priced at just $32–far less than what a stylist charges.

If you’re feeling extra generous, pair that with Calista’s Satin-Wrapped Microfiber Hair Towel to add an extra spa-like vibe. Double-sided to first gently dry, then protect freshly washed hair, it’s a bargain at just $22.

5….To Toes…“Wicked” is dominating the box office right now, and OPI has partnered with the smash musical to create a line of polishes just in time for the holidays. From individual bottle to gift sets, the eye-catching colors will defy expectations and get anyone pedi (and mani)-ready to party!

5. …and All the Places In-Between. The Nourish Collection from Honest will have them covered–in a classic and light sweet almond scent that delivers some bonus aromatherapy along with its moisturizing benefits for the whole body.

6. Oil’s Well That Ends Well. This gift set from Seasons Taproom packs a lot of flavor into each of its 2 oz bottles of flavored extra virgin olive oils and vinegars. Oil also plays a prominent role in the story of Hanukkah, so gift a friend who’s frying up the goodness to add some extra zing to their Eight Crazy Nights.

7. Elevate a Trend. The ubiquitous tumbler that everyone seems to have won’t get accidentally picked up by someone else if it’s personalized. This insulated version is offered in multiple colors and fonts, so have fun making one for your bestie (or yourself, there’s no judgement here).

8. Stay Measured. Oh, how I love these Nesting Doll measuring cups by Fred Matryoshka! A perfect and nostalgic gift for your favorite baker at only $13.99.

9. Take A Picture, It’ll Last Longer. Anyone pining for the glory days of the Polaroid will love Kodak’s Printomatic Full-Color Instant Print Digital Camera. It’s a breeze to use: just point, shoot, click, and print! Cartridge and ink-free, there’s no mess thanks to Kodak’s Zink Photo Paper. Shake it, baby!

10. Up Their Game…by keeping them from getting too gamey. Pickleball is all the rage, so this 9-piece stocking stuffer set is the perfect gift for your paddle-toting pals out there on the court. Containing a cooling wristband, electrolytes tablets, deodorant towelette, sunscreen, and more, it also comes in “a vegan pouch,” which sounds like a punchline from Portlandia. And yes, you can steal that reference from me, because I’m a giver like that.

11. Only the Strong Survive. What if a Swiss Army Knife could fit into your wallet? That seems to be the genius idea behind the “Survival Credit Card” by GUARDMAN, a brand so tough its name is in all-caps. Whether you’re gifting a manly outdoorsy dude, or your bestie just wants to keep it tight when she’s out and about, this sleek little gadget is right there at their fingertips.

12. Sing It! This LED-lit Bluetooth karaoke microphone might appeal to kids, but every single one of my GenX friends would want one of these. Don’t lie, your friends would too. It can be used as a microphone, speaker, and recorder, which means singers can save their voices layered over music to listen to later! And it comes in multiple colors, because JUST GO BUY A FUN THING.

13. To Sleep, Perchance to Dream. Sleeping is the best. But not everyone can get it as easily as others. For your restless pal who complains about insomnia, the Dream to Sleep kit from ThisWorks is a perfect gift. Currently on sale at just over $13, the Deep Sleep Pillow Spray and Stress Check Mood Manager will send them off into Dreamland and have them waking up refreshed.

14. De-Grump Your Grinch. The packaging alone for this set of six single-serve coffee packets was enough for me, but you’ll get their eyes extra open with the freshly ground Arabica goodness from Café Grumpy. Small batch coffee made by a women-owned and Brooklyn-based company is a big YES from this East Coast native.

15. Cheer The F Up! A well-placed swear word can boost your mood. Give your favorite f-word enthusiast Effin Birds, aka the world’s funniest desk calendar. Most of the daily hilarity can’t be shared here, but I guarantee 365 laughs out loud, as the kids say.