The countdown is on for Christmas! You may have a few people left to shop for on your list. And while you hustle and bustle, don’t settle for just any old gift. Instead, challenge yourself this year to gift something your special someone really wants and needs. These 7 practical Christmas gift ideas may not seem glamorous, but in a year when everyone seems to be stretched beyond belief, they may bring both comfort and joy.
Grocery Store and Gas Gift Cards
Everyone needs food and everyone needs gas. Go practical this year and pick up gift cards that will likely be used before the week ends. If you know where your recipient shops most often or which gas stations are near their homes, go with those options. Even if you’re unsure, they’ll find a way to use those practical dollars. I would encourage you to check out the Kroger Fuel Reward Program and see if you can clip the 4x Fuel Rewards coupon when it’s available.
Postage
I posed the question, “What sorts of practical gifts do you love to give and receive?” on my Facebook page this week and I LOVED this one. Many people commented that they love receiving stamps so that they can mail everything from cards to bills.
State Park Passes
I love receiving experience gifts. After all, doing something together with the people you love makes memories without taking up space. But I love this idea because it encourages you to be active together, too!
Flashlights
I love the large packages of flashlights that Sam’s Club and Costco sell this time of the year. It’s a great gift for anyone really. Kids can play with them like toys and adults can put them in their cars or stash them somewhere for an emergency.
Snow Related Supplies
Like it or not, winter weather is on its way. So a few great practical gifts may include ice scrapers or ice melt. One year, my daughter brought home a 2 liter bottle decorated as a snowman filled with ice melt and it made me love her teacher even more. Whether it’s a pair of winter gloves, fuzzy socks, or a new hat, anything to help us survive the winter is always good.
Memberships & Subscriptions
Often, we think of memberships to museums or the zoo, but even a practical membership to somewhere like Costco or Sam’s Club could be a great practical gift for someone you love. You may also consider subscriptions or gift cards toward subscriptions like Netflix or Spotify.
Household Items
Laundry detergent, household cleaners, towels, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste – they don’t hit the same as high end headphones, but when you need them, they sure do feel loving and worthwhile. Put together a laundry basket filled with the items everyone needs.
I’d love to hear your favorite ideas, too! Leave them in the comments.
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
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