What is a stocking stuffer?

A stocking stuffer is a small, usually inexpensive gift placed that is placed into a Christmas stocking to be retrieved on Christmas morning. Since you want to load up or “stuff” the stocking, gift-givers typically include multiple items inside. Stocking stuffers can range in price, too, and anywhere from $5 to $15 for each item is standard.

What makes a good stocking stuffer?

A good stocking stuffer is something small that elicits a positive response from the giftee. Maybe it's something they need, maybe it's something they want, or maybe it's just something silly—as long as it’s appreciated by the receiver, you’ve done a good job. The stocking is the perfect place to mix useful items and pure gag gifts, just for fun.

Where did stocking stuffers come from?

The history of the stocking stuffer dates back centuries to a tale of Saint Nicholas filling stockings with gold. It was further popularized by the 1823 poem by Clement Clarke Moore “The Night Before Christmas.” The poem cites the famous line: "the stockings were hung by the chimney with care" which then gets filled by Saint Nick. Now, we continue to honor the tradition as an essential part of Christmas festivities by hanging our own stockings each year and filling them up with knick-knacks and small gifts.

The 50 Best Stocking Stuffers of 2022

A stocking stuffer is a small gift (usually fits within a stocking) that is useful, fun, and doesn't necessarily have to cost a ton of money.

We researched the best stocking stuffers for everyone on your list, considering the size, age-appropriateness, and functionality of each pick. Our favorite picks include a portable Bluetooth speaker from Sanag, a fun game for the whole family from Bananagrams, and stress-relieving therapy dough from Uncommon Goods.

Here are the best stocking stuffers.

4.2

Amazon

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This pint-size Bluetooth speaker is smaller than most cell phones but can be used at home, by the pool, or on your next camping trip. In addition to having stellar sound quality, the speaker is also waterproof and a single charge can last up to 18 hours. This is one small, thoughtful gift a recipient will get tons of use from.

You can even clip the speaker onto your purse, keyring, or belt loop to always keep it on hand. It barely takes up any space in your room or junk drawer, making it perfect for apartments or small spaces. For such an affordable price, this is a no-brainer for a stocking, no matter the recipient.

Price at time of publish: $31

Mounia

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Gift a scalp massage at home with this tool from Mounia Haircare. Scalp massages ease tension, stimulate hair growth, reduce build-up, and provide luxurious stress relief. This scalp massager is the perfect addition to any shower routine and once you try it, you won't go back.

Price at time of publish: $18

Birthdate Co.

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Birthdate Co. makes stunning personalized gifts for a spiritual friend or astrology-lover in your life. The brand's newest launch, the birthdate pendant, feels equally personal and beautiful. There's a different pendant available for every day of the year customized with gemstones and crystals based on your astrology.

Price at time of publish: $199

Etsy

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Have someone who's really shown you love and support? Say thanks with this dainty necklace that features two interlocking circles. The necklace measures 18 inches and is available in gold, rose gold, or silver finish. Also, it comes perfectly packaged in a gold foil-stamped jewelry gift box.

Price at time of publish: $30

Sleep Number

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While it may not technically fit in a stocking, we love this travel pillow from Sleep Number. The memory foam conforms to your neck for optimal comfort on planes, trains, or even just sitting at your desk during work. The clasp easily connects to luggage and we also love that the cover is removable and machine-washable.

Price at time of publish: $50

Mark & Graham

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Every adult needs a functional wallet and it's even better if it's made from quality material and is personalized. Mark & Graham's leather money clip wallet comes in black, tan, or chocolate and holds a few cards, and has a magnetic clip on the back for cash. For a few extra bucks, it can even be monogrammed.

Price at time of publish: $59

Flourish

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Plant parents need this organic plant food from Flourish. Just combine a few drops of the blend of essential nutrients and microbes with water and feed your plants for optimal health and growth. Flourish uses sustainable sources in its plant food and it even emits a minty fresh aroma from the included essential oils. You can even subscribe, so you'll never run out of food for your plant babies.

Price at time of publish: $20

Amazon

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With so many of us having wireless devices, we also spend time charging those necessary gadgets and searching for the accompanying cables. That's where this charging station comes in handy. It simultaneously juices a phone, watch, and AirPods. This takes up minimal space and is also a great way to keep track of essential, expensive items.

Price at time of publish: $71

TUSHY

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For the bougie friend that swears by a bidet in their bathroom, consider this portable option from Tushy. There are no batteries, installation, or charging required. While it may seem like a strange gifts, a portable bidet limits toilet paper use, which is good for the environment, and ensures everyone in your life is as clean and fresh as possible.

Price at time of publish: $29

West Elm

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These West Elm coasters aren't just functional, but they're stylish as well. The set of four, octagon white marble coasters are sure to keep countertops and tables protected. Also, the bottom features a rubber backing to prevent any scratches.

Price at time of publish: $32

AlwaysFits

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We could all use an occasional pep talk, right? Here's a set of 20 postcards that feature inspirational and funny phrases. The recipient can refer back to these when they're having a rough day or just want to laugh. They're also so colorful and fun, they'd make a great addition to a gallery wall.

Price at time of publish: $15

P.F. Candle Co

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You can't go wrong with a festive candle, whether shopping for your boss, coworker, grandma, or father-in-law. This mini one from P.F. Candle Co fits perfectly in a stocking at just 3.5-ounces. There are tons of amazing scents to choose from, but teakwood and tobacco provides the perfect warm, leathery smell for everyday use.

Price at time of publish: $14

Anthropologie

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A candle is a natural gift for anyone who loves candles, but you should also throw in this candle lighter. Instead of the usual matchbook, this is a USB-powered lighter. A single charge has up to 130 lights. This is also way more eco-friendly that striking and throwing away matches.

Price at time of publish: $30

The 13 Best Scented Candles of 2023 to Create a Relaxing Ambiance

Hog Wild

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Kids and adults alike will flip over this miniature festive toy that shoots balls up to 20 feet. The soft foam won't cause any injuries, but will definitely make for some fun on Christmas morning. See who can pop their ball the farthest then add the adorable elf to your holiday decor.

Price at time of publish: $17

3.8

Amazon

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What Do You Meme? Review

Take one of your favorite pastimes—scrolling through hilarious memes—offline with this fun party game. The game challenges players to create the funniest memes with the cards they're dealt. Each round, a rotating judge draws a photo card, the rest of the players put down their funniest caption card, and the judge chooses their favorite as the winner. This game is tons of fun, but note it's definitely for adults and can get a little racy.

Price at time of publish: $30

What Do You Meme — Courtesy of Sage McHugh

Ekster

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No more digging around your purse or backpack to find your keys. The Ekster Key Case makes it easy to keep up to eight keys organized in a sleek stainless steel and leather case. It also stops your keys from scratching your phone or other devices while in a bag.

Price at time of publish: $49

Courtesy of Amazon

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You've probably heard a lot about blue light blocking glasses and for good reason. They're said to help reduce the eye strain that comes from staring at a screen all day. So naturally, anyone who's attached to their laptop or who sits in front of a desktop will love these glasses, which come in a range of colors and a two-pack.

Price at time of publish: $16

The 34 Best Gifts for College Students That They Can Use

Partake

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Sweet treats always make a great stocking stuffer for every recipient. Partake's limited-edition holiday cookies feature fudgy chocolate with hints of peppermint. All Partake cookies are gluten-free, vegan, top 9 allergen-free, and non-GMO, so they're perfect for everyone on your list.

Price at time of publish: $16

4.9

Amazon

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Counting Z's just got a lot easier, or at least a bit more chic, with this Brooklinen eye mask. The silk is easy on the skin, which is especially important around the eyes, and the elastic band is gentle on tresses. This comes in a case so it can be stored by the bedside.

Price at time of publish: $29

Just Enough Wines

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For a wine that can fit in your stocking, we love Just Enough Wine's canned collection. The collection set features a wine set with chardonnay, rosé, and pinot noir, and a bubbly set with brut bubbles and rosé bubbles. Stick the whole set in a stocking or divide them up between friends and family. Each six-pack of wine equates to two full bottles, perfect for nights inside during chilly weather.

Price at time of publish: $82

Amazon

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This is a great set for anyone who appreciates the versatility of natural essential oils, which can be used in everything from a diffuser to cleaning to relaxation. The DoTerra kit has three 5mL bottles of lemon, lavender, and peppermint oils. The handy box also has a rundown of how each oil can be used.

Price at time of publish: $27

The 7 Best Essential Oil Diffusers of 2023

Courtesy of Sephora

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A face roller is the perfect stocking stuffer for skin-care junkies or newbies looking to update their routine. This jade pick from Herbivore Botanicals provides a stimulating massage designed to reduce puffiness and wrinkles. It's a relaxing ritual anyone can appreciate stemming from ancient practices in China.

Price at time of publish: $32

Amazon

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Socks might seem like a boring or even typical stocking stuffer gift, but there's no denying how useful they are. And this unisex pair from Happy Socks is just downright fun. The large polka dot print comes in almost every color imaginable and the cotton is breathable, so no sweaty feet.

Price at time of publish: $17+

Snow

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Spoil friends and family with a mouthwash that feels luxurious and effective. Snow's whitening mouthwash is made with aloe and hydrogen peroxide to freshen your breath and tackle stains. Plus, it tastes like a strawberry mojito for a refreshing, modern take on oral care.

Price at time of publish: $25

View On T2tea.com

Instead of sipping regular 'ol eggnog, gift this box of loose tea that's eggnog flavored. The black tea leaves are topped off with nutmeg for a warm treat that's like Christmas in a cup. But this is a creamy drink that can be enjoyed year-round.

Price at time of publish: $3

Uncommon Goods

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Everyone can benefit from stress-relieving activities and this therapy dough from Uncommon Goods is perfect. Kids and kids-at-heart will love squishing and molding the colorful dough during meetings, while doing homework, or after a tough day. You can choose from four scents: lavender, orange, eucalyptus, and north woods pine.

Price at time of publish: $15

Amazon

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This reed diffuser from Homesick has a truly holiday feel, well, smell. It has notes of eucalyptus and mistletoe wreath and contains no lead, parabens, phthalates, or synthetic dyes. The scent can linger for up to three months, so even long after the holidays are over, that cheery smell will still be in the air.

Price at time of publish: $30

Davek

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A functional gift for any college student, teen, coworker, or family member, we love the mini umbrella from Davek. Available in 10 fun colors, the compact umbrella fits easily in purses and pockets and weighs under one pound, while keeping you dry and protected.

Price at time of publish: $59

FEEL BETTER DE-STRESS BALL - DUSTY RAINBOW

Courtesy by ban.do

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A stress ball is something that pretty much everyone can use. This option from Ban.do isn't actually shaped like a ball, but rather a book! This squishy 3D self-help book can be squeezed to de-stress. This would look great on a desk or a bedside table.

Price at time of publish: $9

Bananagrams

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For a perfect family game that fits under the tree or in a stocking, we love Bananagrams. The take on Scrabble challenges players to build their own board with random tiles until there's none left. It's suitable for players ages 7 years and up, so get the whole family together for a night of strategic fun.

Price at time of publish: $15

SWAIR

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SWAIR keeps your hair looking healthy and clean all week long, even without showers. This two-pack sampler features SweatShield, a protective conditioning spray, and Showerless Shampoo, which refreshes your hair without water or soap. This beauty set is perfect for those with an active or busy lifestyle, who still want to look their best.

Price at time of publish: $24

SlooMoo Institute

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Kids and adults alike can enjoy squishing, molding, and fidgeting with slime. The SlooMoo Institute has slimes for every occasion, including this adorable melting snowman that's perfect for the holiday season. The pillowy slime smells like delicious hot chocolate to help set a cozy mood. It also comes with a jar of snowman parts including eyes, a carrot nose, and buttons to build a wintery friend without going out in the cold.

Price at time of publish: $12

Allbirds

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Stick a winter accessory in your partner's stocking, so they're ready for adventures in the snow. We love this beanie from Allbirds that comes at an affordable price and in neutral colors to suit anyone on your list. It's made from 100 percent merino wool with a textured look to keep you warm and stylish all winter long.

Price at time of publish: $38

Amazon

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Indulge in some nostalgia this Christmastime with a new iteration of the iconic Bop It game. The travel-friendly button makes for a high-energy game of problem-solving for all ages. The tiny game incorporates hundreds of sound clips from the 25 years the game has been around and some never-before-heard studio outtakes.

Price at time of publish: $25

4.5

Amazon

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Choose a functional stocking stuffer this year to avoid disasters during Christmas dinner. Tide to go stain remover pens easily absorb and remove stains from clothes and other surfaces. Now, your recipients will have a few on hand to save those gorgeous holiday outfits from spills.

Price at time of publish: $8

Kate Spade

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Just because the gift has to be small to fit in a stocking doesn't mean it can't be luxurious. We love the idea of a small wallet or cardholder nestled in a stocking for a sweet surprise on Christmas morning. This one from Kate Spade has four exterior card slots and a central pocket for extra storage with an adorable colorful candy pattern on the front.

Price at time of publish: $78

Stephanie Gottlieb

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The perfect accompaniment to a fine jewelry gift, Stephanie Gottlieb's arm candy keeps all of your valuables safe during those moments when they may get lost or damaged. Whether you're working out, getting a manicure, cooking, or painting, arm candy keeps your valuables close and secure without them ever having to leave your body.

Price at time of publish: $30

JVN Complete Hydrating Air Dry Hair Cream

Sephora

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For the friend who can't be bothered with a full haircare and styling routine, gift them this simple product from JVN that's great for all hair types and textures. The air dry cream fights frizz and moisturizes your hair for natural styles. The vegan and cruelty-free product also protects your hair from UV damage, leading to effortless styles for holiday parties.

Price at time of publish: $26

Uncommon Goods

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If you don't know where to start when it comes to stocking stuffers for the little ones in your life, Uncommon Goods made shopping easy with this set specifically for creative kids. The five gifts included are aimed at kids ages 5 and up and include a plush friend with sprawling hair, a drawing passport, a set of bath bombs, a pack of crayons, and an essential oils-powered "monster repellent."

Price at time of publish: $49

Hair Tie Hub

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This practical device makes sure you're never without a hair tie when on the go. The hair tie holder comes with three matching elastics and acts as a keychain to easily attach to a backpack or purse. It's the perfect way to keep your favorite scrunchies safe while avoiding tangling and stretching.

Price at time of publish: $8

Dove

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You're never too old to receive a special sweet treat as a gift. Candy reminds a popular option for stocking stuffers and we can't complain. Think outside the box by choosing a limited-edition flavor of a fan-favorite, like this pick from Dove. The festive flavor features milk chocolate filled with creamy brownie batter for the perfect bite every time.

Price at time of publish: $4

Paume

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As the weather gets colder, our skin needs a bit of extra pampering. Kickstart your winter self-care routine with a hand care kit from Paume. The set comes with probiotic hand balm, cuticle cream, and overnight hydration gloves. Throw the balm in your purse for hydration on the go or use the gloves throughout the night to wake up with beautifully moisturized hands, even on the coldest days.

Price at time of publish: $58

Oral-B

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While it's not the most luxurious gift, a yearly toothbrush tucked in your stocking sets you up for a great oral care routine for the new year. This new release from Oral-B called Clic targets plaque removal with its uniquely shaped brush head. The manual toothbrush also features a removable head to swap out every three months to save plastic and reduce waste.

Price at time of publish: $25

Amazon

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Add some sparkle to your daily life with this shimmering syrup from Runamok. The sparkle syrup features high-quality, locally-made Vermont maple syrup infused with sustainably-sourced edible glitter. A great eco-friendly gift option, all of Runamok's products are produced in a 100 percent solar-powered facility, that is certified Bird Friendly through the National Audubon Society. Plus, the delicious taste and stunning appearance are sure to please kids and adults alike.

Price at time of publish: $19

Compartes

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Enjoy Compartés' delicious gourmet chocolate now infused with 818 tequila. The delicious collaboration arrives just in time for the holidays and features a milk chocolate bar with bits of toffee and sea salt that's infused with tequila reposado from Kendall Jenner's brand, 818. The budget-friendly treat is the perfect addition to a gift basket or a simple choice for a stocking stuffer.

Price at time of publish: $10

Hearth & Hand

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Prepare for tons of fun in the snow as winter dredges on past Christmas and New Year's with a build-your-own snowman kit from Hearth & Hand. The adorable kit includes a hat, eyes, carrot-shaped nose, pipe, and buttons, along with a convenient carrying case to use year after year. Just add snow!

Price at time of publish: $20

Anecdote Candles

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Star the new year on the right note with Anecdote Candles' 2023 candle of the year. Expressing the uncertainty of the year to come, the candle's scent is aptly named "who even knows." It features notes of orange and ginger flower with bright orange packaging for a hopeful and fresh start to your year.

Price at time of publish: $26

Tip Top

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Tip Top Proper Cocktails are the perfect ready-to-drink canned cocktail that comes in a small package, ideal for stockings. Snag some of your favorite cocktails including negronis, margaritas, manhattans, and more for an easy gift for a coworker, boss, or partner.

Price at time of publish: $6 each

Solawave Advanced Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy

Amazon

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Try out the newest skincare trend with the Solawave red light therapy wand. Meant to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles, and blemishes, the wand combines red light therapy with the benefits of a facial massage for a spa-like at-home ritual. Just apply a serum to your freshly washed face and glide the wand over your face for at least five minutes every day to start seeing results.

Price at time of publish: $149

Melissa & Doug Water Wow! - Water Reveal Pad Bundle - Farm, Safari & Under The Sea

Amazon

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For a kids' stocking stuffer that doubles as a car time activity, opt for these water-based activity books from Melissa & Doug. Designed for kids ages 3 and up, the reusable pads come with a refillable water pen that writes and draws on the activity book and easily wipes away. The activities promote problem-solving and fine motor skills for an educational screen-free activity they can do anywhere.

Price at time of publish: $17

Size

The whole point of a stocking stuffer is that it is able to fit inside of the stocking, so make sure you’re selecting small enough items. Travel-sized products, candles, keychains, jewelry, and other small objects usually work well. If it’s big enough to be wrapped, it probably belongs under the tree instead.

Age-Appropriateness

As with all gifts, think about who you’re shopping for. You’ll likely want to get different items for your parent or spouse than your kids, so be thoughtful about what goes into each stocking. For adults, sentimental and useful items make great stockings stuffers, whereas kids will enjoy tiny trinkets and toys more.

Functionality

Stocking stuffers are a great way to give gifts people will actually use. Think about what that person really needs, and how functional the item will be in his or her life. For example, if their feet are always cold, socks are an excellent gift. Maybe they’re always misplacing their phone charger, in which case an extra would be worth stuffing in their stocking. Having a healthy mix of fun and useful items inside is the best way to stuff a stocking.

FAQ

What is a stocking stuffer?

A stocking stuffer is a small, usually inexpensive gift placed that is placed into a Christmas stocking to be retrieved on Christmas morning. Since you want to load up or “stuff” the stocking, gift-givers typically include multiple items inside. Stocking stuffers can range in price, too, and anywhere from $5 to $15 for each item is standard.
What makes a good stocking stuffer?

A good stocking stuffer is something small that elicits a positive response from the giftee. Maybe it's something they need, maybe it's something they want, or maybe it's just something silly—as long as it’s appreciated by the receiver, you’ve done a good job. The stocking is the perfect place to mix useful items and pure gag gifts, just for fun.
Where did stocking stuffers come from?

The history of the stocking stuffer dates back centuries to a tale of Saint Nicholas filling stockings with gold. It was further popularized by the 1823 poem by Clement Clarke Moore “The Night Before Christmas.” The poem cites the famous line: "the stockings were hung by the chimney with care" which then gets filled by Saint Nick. Now, we continue to honor the tradition as an essential part of Christmas festivities by hanging our own stockings each year and filling them up with knick-knacks and small gifts.

This article was written by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays since October 2021. Before that, she covered similar topics including toy reviews, product roundups, expert-focused articles, and more.