Christmas stockings are one of my favorite parts of Christmas morning. Not necessarily because of what’s inside them, but because they buy me a little time to drink my coffee before the manic present unwrapping begins.
With five kids, Christmas morning can get a little chaotic. In our house, stockings are the first thing the kids open, and they’re filled with just about anything that fits. Go Fish card games, squishy toys, small LEGO bags, Hot Wheels, bath bombs, candy, gift cards, socks, underwear…you name it.
One thing that always goes in everyone’s stocking is a Christmas ornament. Every year, Santa (wink, wink) takes special care to choose an ornament for each person based on their interests, hobbies or something special they did that year. It’s become one of my favorite traditions because each ornament tells a little story about that year in their life.
Of course, with five kids and a new ornament for everyone each Christmas, we’re going to need a bigger tree soon!
And here’s where I might lose some of you: We wrap everything in the stockings.
Yes, everything.
I know some families think wrapping stocking stuffers is completely unnecessary, but hear me out. It makes the surprises last longer, gives the kids more to open and, most importantly, buys me a few more minutes with that hot cup of coffee.
The exception? Babies under a year old. We usually skip wrapping their stocking stuffers because they either need help opening everything or just want to eat the wrapping paper anyway.
Of course, there’s no right or wrong way to do stockings. Some families spend $20 filling them with little treats and practical items. Others spend $300 or more because stockings are their main gifts from Santa. Some fill them with necessities, others with toys, gift cards or bigger surprises.
Whatever your family’s tradition or budget, I’ve rounded up stocking stuffer ideas for everyone on your Christmas list, from babies and toddlers to teenagers, moms and dads.
Table of Contents
- Stocking Stuffers for Babies (0–12 Months)
- Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers (Ages 1–3)
- Stocking Stuffers for Preschoolers (Ages 3–5)
- Stocking Stuffers for Early Elementary Kids (Ages 5–8)
- Stocking Stuffers for Upper Elementary Kids (Ages 8–10)
- Stocking Stuffers for Preteens (Ages 10–12)
- Stocking Stuffers for Teens (Ages 13–18)
- Stocking Stuffers for Moms
- Stocking Stuffers for Dads
- Stocking Stuffers for Trivia Lovers
- Practical Stocking Stuffers for Any Age
- Food and Candy Stocking Stuffers
- Experience-Based Stocking Stuffers
- Stocking Stuffers That Add to Collections
- Unique Stocking Stuffers You Might Not Have Thought Of
- Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Every Budget
- Making Christmas Stockings Your Own
Stocking Stuffers for Babies (0–12 Months)
When it comes to filling stockings for babies, I think practicality wins! Babies don’t know the difference between a stocking full of toys and one filled with everyday essentials. Especially during that first year, I’d rather fill their stocking with things we’ll actually use, like baby lotion, diaper cream, bath products, teethers and feeding supplies.
You can still throw in a few fun surprises, but there’s no reason to spend money on things just to fill the stocking.
Baby Toys and Play
- Silicone teethers
- Soft rattles
- Crinkle books
- Small board books
- Soft sensory balls
- Stacking cups
- Baby-safe sensory toys
- Soft finger puppets
- Teething mitts
- Textured bath toys
- Fabric photo books
- Soft activity cubes
- Soft stacking rings
- High-contrast baby cards
- Soft baby mirrors designed for supervised play
- Teething rings
- Baby-safe textured blocks
Baby Bath, Skincare and Diapering
- Baby lotion
- Gentle baby body wash
- Baby shampoo
- Baby soap bars
- Cradle cap brushes
- Silicone scalp brushes
- Soft baby hairbrushes
- Baby combs
- Diaper rash cream
- Diaper cream applicator spatulas
- Baby moisturizing balm
- Soft baby washcloths
- Baby nail clippers
- Electric baby nail files
- Baby nail scissors
- Finger toothbrushes
- Silicone baby bath brushes
- Baby bath thermometers
- Travel-size baby wipes
- Pacifier wipes
- Saline nasal drops
- Nasal aspirators
- Baby medicine syringes
- Small diaper bag wet bags
- Baby sunscreen for babies 6 months and older
Practical Baby Stocking Stuffers
- Baby Food Purees
- Baby puffs
- Baby socks
- Soft booties
- Knit winter hats
- Baby mittens
- Bibs
- Silicone feeding spoons
- Sleeved feeding bibs
- Baby toothbrushes
- Straw cups for babies ready to use them
- Snack cups
- Baby sunglasses
- Pacifiers, if used
- Baby hair bows
- Replacement bottle nipples
- Bottle-cleaning brushes
- Silicone feeding accessories
- Soft baby leggings
- Baby washcloth sets
Baby Keepsakes
- Personalized Christmas ornaments
- Baby’s first Christmas ornaments
- Small family photo books
- Baby footprint ornament kits
- Special Christmas board books
- Personalized name keepsakes
Choose age-appropriate toys without small parts, loose magnets or accessible button batteries. Keep soft toys out of infant sleep spaces.
Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers (Ages 1–3)
Toddlers are at such a fun age for stockings because they’re excited about almost everything. A new toothbrush? Amazing. A toy car? Even better.
Toddler Toys and Play
- Age-appropriate toy cars
- Chunky monster trucks
- Large animal figurines
- Stacking cups
- Wooden figures
- Soft squishy toys
- Mini bubble bottles
- Bubble wands
- Finger puppets
- Board books
- Water-reveal coloring books
- Large sorting toys
- Bath toys
- Chunky crayons
- Play dough
- Toy binoculars
- Toddler-safe night-lights
- Soft balls
- Large stacking rings
- Chunky puzzles
- Mini play food
- Toy doctor accessories
- Reusable sticker scenes
- Soft finger puppets
- Toniebox audio player
- Tonies characters
- Yoto Player or Yoto Mini
- Yoto cards
Toddler Bath and Practical Gifts
- Toddler underwear
- Character socks
- Knit winter hats
- Warm mittens
- Fleece gloves
- Toothbrushes
- Toddler toothpaste
- Bubble bath
- Bath crayons
- Bath color tablets
- Toddler utensils
- Sippy cups
- Straw cups
- Small insulated water bottles
- Snack containers
- Silicone straws
- Sunglasses
- Hair bows
- Soft hair ties
- Fun bandages
- Washcloths
- Bath sponges
- Small hairbrushes
- Toddler swim goggles
- Rolled-up swimsuits
- Swim trunks
Toddler Snacks
- Applesauce pouches
- Freeze-dried fruit
- Favorite crackers
- Toddler snack bars
- Age-appropriate cookies
- Other favorite toddler snacks
Avoid hard candy, popcorn, whole nuts and other choking hazards. Check the recommended ages for audio players, accessories and toys.
Stocking Stuffers for Preschoolers (Ages 3–5)
Preschoolers are one of my favorite ages to shop for because there are so many little toys that fit perfectly into stockings.
Preschool Toys and Games
- Hot Wheels cars
- Mini monster trucks
- Toy dinosaurs
- Animal figurines
- Little People figures
- LEGO DUPLO sets
- Play-Doh
- Squishy toys
- Go Fish cards
- Matching games
- Small puzzles
- Finger puppets
- Mini construction vehicles
- Dress-up accessories
- Toy binoculars
- Mini flashlights
- Kaleidoscopes
- Slinkies
- Wind-up toys
- Mini parachute toys
- Pop tubes
- Pop-it toys
- Fidget toys
- Whoopee cushions
- Fake mustaches
- Toy walkie-talkies
- Small bouncy balls
- Mini Frisbees
- Toy traffic signs
- Road tape for toy cars
- Small magnetic drawing boards
- Mini tic-tac-toe games
- Mini Simon games
- Mini Bop It games, when age-appropriate
- Water ring toss games
- Toniebox
- Tonies characters
- Yoto Player or Yoto Mini
- Yoto cards
- Preschool trivia cards
- Would You Rather? cards
Preschool Art and Creative Gifts
- Stickers
- Dishwasher-safe water bottle stickers
- Temporary tattoos
- Mini coloring books
- Washable markers
- Sidewalk chalk
- Glitter sidewalk chalk
- Chalk holders
- Chalk paint
- Small wooden stamps
- Scented stamp pads
- Water-reveal books
- Scratch-art sheets
- Small craft kits
- Character notebooks
- Scratch-and-sniff stickers
- Crayola Twistables
- Gel crayons
- Mini dot-marker sets
- Paint sticks
- Color-changing markers
- Reusable window clings
- Small rolls of washi tape
- Novelty erasers
- Palm-grip crayons
- Small watercolor sets
Preschool Practical Gifts
- Underwear
- Character socks
- Knit winter hats
- Waterproof mittens
- Fleece gloves
- Toothbrushes
- Bubble bath
- Bath bombs
- Bath color tablets
- Bath crayons
- Fun bandages
- Hair clips
- Hair bows
- Scrunchies
- Sunglasses
- Water bottles
- Replacement straws
- Personalized name labels
- Swimsuits
- Swim trunks
- Swim goggles
- Swim caps
- Lightweight rash guards
- Slippers
Preschool Treats
- Chocolate
- Fruit snacks
- Cookies
- Crackers
- Pretzels
- Age-appropriate holiday candy
Stocking Stuffers for Early Elementary Kids (Ages 5–8)
At this age, stockings can be filled with toys, games, collectibles, art supplies and practical items. And don’t underestimate the appeal of something silly. A whoopee cushion is practically guaranteed to get laughs in our house!
Toys and Collectibles
- Hot Wheels
- Monster trucks
- LEGO polybags
- LEGO minifigures
- LEGO brick separators
- Pokémon cards
- Sports trading cards
- Mini action figures
- Squishy toys
- Thinking putty
- Slime
- Collectible figures
- Mini plush toys
- Yo-yos
- Jump ropes
- Slinkies
- Finger skateboards
- Finger scooters
- Mini skateboard ramps
- Foam gliders
- Paper airplane kits
- Wind-up toys
- Mini magic trick kits
- Spy decoder rings
- Toy walkie-talkies
- Bubble bottles
- Bubble wands
- Whoopee cushions
- Fake bugs
- Mini prank kits
- Mini pop tubes
- Pop-it toys
- Fidget cubes
- Fidget spinners
- Monkey noodles
- Marble mesh fidgets
- Infinity cubes
- Stress balls
- NeeDoh sensory toys
- Mini gardening kits
- Bug viewers
- Magnifying glasses
- Pocket nature guides
- Small fossil specimens
- Mini fossil excavation kits
- Mini crystal-growing kits
Games and Activities
- Go Fish
- UNO
- Spot It!
- Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
- Brain Quest decks
- Kids’ trivia cards
- Animal trivia
- Geography trivia
- Would You Rather? cards
- Riddle cards
- Mini puzzles
- Joke books
- Mad Libs
- Small science kits
- Puzzle books
- Card games
- Glow-in-the-dark stars
- Mini scavenger-hunt games
- Mini Bop It
- Mini Simon
- Pocket electronic games
- Mini pinball games
- Handheld basketball games
- Water ring toss games
- Mini electronic memory games
- Mini tic-tac-toe
- Small dice games
- Mini tabletop games
- Paper airplane launchers
- Marble maze puzzles
- Magic trick cards
- Secret message notebooks
- Wikki Stix
Art and School Supplies
- Gel pens
- Invisible ink pens
- Mini sketchbooks
- Watercolor sets
- Origami kits
- Scratch-art notes
- Stickers
- Dishwasher-safe water bottle stickers
- Bookmarks
- Book lights
- Small notebooks
- Washable hair chalk
- Friendship bracelet supplies
- Scented pencils
- Multicolor click pens
- Erasable gel pens
- Pencil grips
- Mini pencil sharpeners
- Rainbow scratch paper
- Coloring postcards
- Mini comic books
- Kids’ magazines
- Small weaving kits
- Decorative washi tape
- Novelty erasers
Practical Gifts
- Underwear
- Fun socks
- Knit winter hats
- Gloves
- Mittens
- Toothbrushes
- Bubble bath
- Bath bombs
- Hair ties
- Scrunchies
- Fun bandages
- Flashlights
- Headlamps
- Water bottles
- Water bottle accessories
- Gift cards
- Sunglasses
- Swimsuits
- Swim trunks
- Swim goggles
- Swim caps
- Small pool diving toys
- Slippers
Stocking Stuffers for Upper Elementary Kids (Ages 8–10)
As kids get older, they start developing more specific interests. Stockings are a great opportunity to add to collections or introduce new hobbies without committing to a huge gift.
Games, Toys and Collectibles
- LEGO mini sets
- Pokémon cards
- Sports cards
- Rubik’s Cubes
- Brain teasers
- Small strategy games
- Mini building kits
- Model kits
- Fidget cubes
- Thinking putty
- Collectible figures
- Card games
- Puzzle books
- Yoto cards
- Pocket microscopes
- Metal puzzles
- Trivia decks
- Sports trivia
- Geography trivia
- Logic puzzle books
- Miniature building kits
- Tamagotchi digital pets
- Finger skateboards
- Mini skateboard ramps
- Hacky sacks
- Mini magic trick sets
- Spy decoder wheels
- Paper airplane launchers
- Small fossil kits
- Geodes to crack open
- Mini crystal-growing kits
- Small magnetic travel games
- Mini handheld electronic games
- Mini Bop It
- Mini Simon
- Mini pinball games
- Retro handheld arcade games
- Whoopee cushions
- Slinkies
- Silly String
- Mini Frisbees
- Bubbles
- Walkie-talkies
Creative Gifts
- Origami paper
- Friendship bracelet supplies
- Embroidery starter kits
- Quality colored pencils
- Gel pens
- Sketchbooks
- Mechanical pencils
- Mini journals
- Small craft kits
- Sticker-by-number books
- Mini crochet kits
- Small diamond-painting kits
- Watercolor pencils
- Small comic books
- Kids’ magazines
- Miniature wax seal kits
- Decorative journaling tape
- Small scrapbooking supplies
- Secret message notebooks
- Paper airplane instruction books
Practical Gifts
- Underwear
- Athletic socks
- Knit beanies
- Touchscreen gloves
- Fleece-lined mittens
- Neck warmers
- Hand warmers
- Sports wristbands
- Dishwasher-safe stickers
- Water bottles
- Water bottle boots
- Shoe charms
- Keychains
- Book lights
- Mini flashlights
- Hair accessories
- Lip balm
- Gift cards
- Sunglasses
- Swimsuits
- Swim trunks
- Swim goggles
- Swim earplugs
- Small waterproof swim bags
Snacks and Treats
- Freeze-dried candy
- Chocolate oranges
- Favorite candy bars
- Sour candy
- Beef jerky
- Specialty snacks
- Hot cocoa packets
Stocking Stuffers for Preteens (Ages 10–12)
Preteens can be tricky to shop for because they’re starting to outgrow some toys but aren’t quite teenagers yet.
I like looking for things that match their hobbies, interests and growing independence.
Tech and Accessories
- Phone charms
- Phone grips
- Charging cables
- Charging blocks
- Portable charging banks
- Wireless earbuds
- Earbud cases
- Earbud cleaning kits
- Water bottle accessories
- Dishwasher-safe stickers
- Keychains
- Mini flashlights
- Gift cards
- Mini digital cameras
- Bluetooth speakers
- Mini photo printers
- Phone wrist straps
- Mini phone tripods
- Clip-on phone ring lights
- Compact phone stands
- Mini keychain power banks
- Magnetic wireless power banks
- Compact Bluetooth tracker holders
Personal Care and Style
- Lip balm
- Deodorant
- Body spray
- Gentle skincare basics
- Pimple patches
- Nail polish
- Nail polish strips
- Press-on nails
- Nail stickers
- Hair clips
- Satin scrunchies
- Spiral hair ties
- Claw clips
- Headbands
- Jewelry
- Fragrance samples
- Knit beanies
- Touchscreen gloves
- Hidden-pocket scrunchies
- Shoe deodorizer balls
- Sneaker cleaning wipes
- Small jewelry pouches
- Compact makeup mirrors
- Sunglasses
- Swimwear
Games and Hobbies
- LEGO sets
- Trading cards
- Collectible figures
- Card games
- Puzzle cubes
- Journals
- Nice pens
- Craft kits
- Sports accessories
- Instant camera film
- Yoto cards
- Trivia games
- Pop culture trivia
- Sports trivia
- Metal brainteasers
- Money puzzle boxes
- Sticker-by-number books
- Tamagotchi digital pets
- Blind-box collectibles
- Mini plush bag charms
- Crocs shoe charms
- Shoelace charms
- Hacky sacks
- Magnetic fidget sliders
- Fidget pens
- Mini crochet kits
- Small diamond-painting kits
- Mini desk fidget toys
- Movie bingo cards
- Decorative journaling supplies
- Collectible enamel pins
- Mini magic trick sets
- Handheld electronic games
- Mini Bop It
- Mini Simon
Practical Gifts and Treats
- Underwear
- Favorite socks
- Beanies
- Wallets
- Candy
- Specialty snacks
- Gift cards
- Hair ties and scrunchies
- Sunglasses
- Swimsuits
- Swim trunks
- Swim goggles
Stocking Stuffers for Teens (Ages 13–18)
Teen stockings can look a little different. The toys might be replaced with gift cards, electronics accessories, personal care products and favorite snacks, but that doesn’t mean stockings have to become boring.
And if your family does bigger gifts in stockings, this is a great age to include something they’ve really been wanting.
Teen Tech and Gadgets
- Apple AirPods
- Wireless earbuds
- Charging cables
- Charging blocks
- Portable charging banks
- Slim power banks
- Magnetic wireless power banks
- Power banks with built-in cables
- Phone stands
- Retractable car chargers
- Multiport USB adapters
- Bluetooth trackers
- Gaming gift cards
- Phone accessories
- Bluetooth speakers
- Smartwatch bands
- Mini photo printers
- Instant camera film
- Mini digital cameras
- Mini phone tripods
- Clip-on phone camera lenses
- Mini phone ring lights
- Phone wrist straps
- Suction phone mounts for photos
- Earbud cleaning kits
- Compact gaming thumb grips
- Controller joystick caps
- Gaming headset accessories
- Disposable cameras
- Mini disco ball USB lights
Teen Beauty, Style and Self-Care
- Lighted compact makeup mirrors
- Foldable travel makeup mirrors
- Mini magnifying mirrors
- Makeup brush cleaning mats
- Mini makeup brush sets
- Makeup sponges
- Travel makeup bags
- Lip balm
- Lip oils
- Deodorant
- Skincare products
- Pimple patches
- Shaving supplies
- Hair styling products
- Travel-size cologne
- Travel-size perfume
- Makeup
- Mini makeup setting sprays
- Eyelash curlers
- Nail polish
- Nail polish strips
- Press-on nails
- Nail stickers
- Nail art pens
- Mini nail files
- Cuticle oil
- Jewelry
- Earrings
- Sunglasses
- Knit beanies
- Touchscreen gloves
- Cozy socks
- Hair ties
- Satin scrunchies
- Claw clips
- Headbands
- Mini perfume atomizers
- Tiny jewelry organizers
- Sneaker cleaning wipes
- Sneaker crease protectors
- Compact lint rollers
- Travel-size wrinkle-release spray
- Concert earplugs
- Photo strips of friends or family
Stocking Stuffers for Teen Drivers
- Car air fresheners
- Silicone cup holder coasters
- Small car trash bags
- Sunglasses visor clips
- Car headrest hooks
- Car tissue holders
- Cable organizers
- Car cleaning gel
- Microfiber cleaning cloths
- Dashboard cleaning wipes
- Interior detailing brushes
- Tire pressure gauges
- Digital tire tread gauges
- Mini ice scrapers
- Small windshield de-icer sprays
- Car wash gift cards
- Magnetic phone mounts
- Retractable car chargers
- Multiport USB car chargers
- Extra-long charging cables
- Bluetooth audio adapters
- Key finders
- Keychain flashlights
- Gas station gift cards
- Drive-through restaurant gift cards
- Personalized keychains
- License plate frames
- Emergency window breakers and seat belt cutters
- Compact first-aid kits
- Reflective safety vests
- Emergency contact cards
- Roadside assistance membership cards
Teen Hobbies and Fun
- Sports accessories
- Guitar picks
- Small LEGO sets
- Card games
- Trivia games
- Books
- Water bottle accessories
- Dishwasher-safe stickers
- Hobby supplies
- Money puzzle boxes
- Mini electronic games
- Collectible enamel pins
- Mini desk fidget toys
- Small sports-team accessories
- Concert tickets
- Movie passes
- Sporting event tickets
Teen Practical Gifts and Treats
- Underwear
- Athletic socks
- Wallets
- Gift cards
- Cash
- Hand warmers
- Rechargeable hand warmers
- Favorite candy
- Beef jerky
- Specialty chips
- Chocolate
- Coffee shop gift cards
- Restaurant gift cards
- Favorite drinks and snacks
Creative Ways to Give Cash to Teens
Let’s face it, sometimes cash is exactly what teenagers want for Christmas. But that doesn’t mean you have to hand them an envelope!
- Money puzzle boxes
- Money mazes
- Cash-filled Christmas ornaments
- Money pull boxes
- Cash hidden in a candy box
- Money origami
- Cash tucked inside new socks
- Scratch-off cash reveal cards
- Mini treasure hunts
- Cash inside a new wallet
- Money in gift card holders
- Clear ornaments filled with rolled bills and confetti
It’s an easy way to turn something practical into another fun Christmas morning surprise.
Stocking Stuffers for Moms
Moms deserve stockings, too!
Whether you’re filling one for your wife, mom, grandmother or another special woman in your life, think about the little things she enjoys but might not always buy for herself.
Jewelry and Sentimental Gifts
- Earrings
- Birthstone rings
- Necklaces with children’s initials
- Breastmilk keepsake jewelry
- Engraved bracelets
- Charm bracelets
- Personalized jewelry
- Jewelry cleaner
- Photo keychains
- Custom photo magnets
- Handwritten notes from the kids
And remember, jewelry doesn’t have to represent motherhood. Sometimes a pair of earrings or a necklace she’s had her eye on is the perfect gift.
Beauty and Self-Care
- Hand cream
- Lip balm
- Cuticle oil
- Shower steamers
- Bath bombs
- Bubble bath
- Skincare minis
- Makeup
- Travel-size perfume
- Hair clips
- Satin or silk scrunchies
- Hair ties
- Claw clips
- Headbands
- Nail polish
- Nail polish strips
- Press-on nails
- Nail stickers
- Mini manicure kits
- Nail files and buffers
- Sleep masks
- Weighted sleep masks
- Solid lotion bars
- Travel-size hair masks
- Mini UV nail lamps
- Gift certificates for manicures
- Gift certificates for pedicures
- Gift certificates for massages
- Spa gift cards
Last year, some of my favorite stocking gifts were nail polish, nail strips and gift certificates for pedicures and massages. They’re things I enjoy but don’t always think to buy or schedule for myself. A little pampering is always a welcome surprise!
Cozy and Practical
- Cozy socks
- Underwear
- Knit winter hats
- Gloves
- Hand warmers
- Phone chargers
- Extra charging cables
- Charging blocks
- Portable charging banks
- Retractable charging cables
- Magnetic wireless power banks
- Bluetooth trackers
- Car accessories
- Mini candles
- Nice pens
- Journals
- Book lights
- Foldable reusable shopping bags
- Stain-remover pens
- Compact eyeglass cleaners
- Screen-cleaning kits
- Reusable earplugs
- Mini fabric shavers
- Travel jewelry cases
- Compact lint rollers
Phone chargers are always a welcome stocking stuffer in our house. I don’t know where they all go, but mine are constantly disappearing or dying. Between extra cords for the car and portable charging banks for when we’re away from home, they’re things I’ll always appreciate.
Kitchen Gadgets
I’m a sucker for little kitchen gadgets. Measuring spoons, kitchen timers, mini spatulas, cookie cutters, specialty whisks—if it’s useful in the kitchen and small enough to fit in a stocking, I’m probably going to love it.
- Magnetic kitchen timers
- Digital timers
- Magnetic measuring spoons
- Adjustable measuring spoons
- Mini silicone spatulas
- Jar-scraping spatulas
- Mini whisks
- Milk frothers
- Citrus zesters
- Microplanes
- Silicone pastry brushes
- Dough scrapers
- Bread lames
- Mini cookie cutters
- Cookie stamps
- Compact clip-on pot strainers
- Herb strippers
- Garlic peelers
- Egg separators
- Tea infusers
- Measuring conversion magnets
- Mini meat thermometers
- Tiny serving tongs
- Mini angled measuring cups
- Strawberry hullers
- Mushroom brushes
- Compact chip bag sealers
- Magnetic cable ties
- Mini kitchen scissors
- Small silicone jar openers
- Mini spice funnels
- Reusable food bag clips
Food and Drinks
- Favorite coffee
- Espresso pods
- Tea
- Chocolate
- Specialty snacks
- Coffee shop gift cards
- Favorite seasonings
- Flavored nuts
- Gourmet crackers
- Specialty olive oil
- Specialty vanilla
- Spice blends
- Gourmet mustard
- Chili crisp
- Infused honey
- Specialty jams
- Mini hot sauce bottles
- Favorite candy
More Fun Ideas
- Lottery scratch-off tickets for adults
- Bookstore gift cards
- Mini devotionals
- Small books
- Mini cocktail kits
- Cocktail recipe cards
- Whiskey stones
- Wine stoppers
- Nonalcoholic cocktail mixers
- Personalized photo gifts
- Mini watercolor sets
- Small craft kits
Stocking Stuffers for Dads
Dads can be surprisingly easy to shop for once you start thinking about the things they use every day, their hobbies and their favorite snacks.
Tools and Handy Gadgets
I’ve given my husband a few multipurpose tools over the years, including a flashlight pen with built-in tools that was a definite winner. Another fun find was a universal socket wrench that adjusts to different sizes of nuts and bolts.
- Mini multitools
- Universal socket wrenches
- Gator Grip-style socket tools
- Flashlight pens with built-in tools
- Magnetic wristbands for holding screws
- Telescoping magnetic pickup tools
- Compact tape measures
- Precision screwdriver sets
- Pocket flashlights
- Rechargeable headlamps
- Magnetic work lights
- Folding utility knives
- Hex key sets
- Small ratcheting screwdrivers
- Pocket levels
- Work gloves
- Hand warmers
- Car charging adapters
- Keychain tools
- Mini pocket screwdrivers
- Compact tool bit sets
- Magnetic cable ties
- Telescoping keychain pens
Food and Drinks
- Favorite coffee
- Espresso pods
- Beef jerky
- Candy
- Mini hot sauce bottles
- Hot sauce samplers
- BBQ sauces
- Dry rubs
- Grilling seasonings
- Gourmet mustard
- Flavored salts
- Flavored nuts
- Smoked almonds
- Pistachios
- Specialty crackers
- Cheese spreads
- Cheez Whiz
- Gourmet popcorn
- Spicy pickles
- Specialty snacks
- Restaurant gift cards
- Specialty spice blends
- Gourmet snack mixes
My dad loved Cheez Whiz and crackers, which is a good reminder that sometimes the best stocking stuffer isn’t fancy or expensive. It’s just something you know they’ll enjoy.
Practical Gifts
- Underwear
- Quality socks
- Work socks
- Knit winter hats
- Insulated gloves
- Touchscreen gloves
- Lip balm
- Beard oil
- Shaving supplies
- Travel-size cologne
- Wallets
- Keychains
- Car cleaning supplies
- Silicone car cup holder coasters
- Tire pressure gauges
- Interior detailing brushes
- Car wash gift cards
- Phone charging cables
- Portable charging banks
- Retractable car chargers
- Eyeglass cleaning tools
- Compact fabric shavers
- Small shoe-cleaning kits
Hobbies and Fun
- Golf balls
- Golf tees
- Fishing accessories
- Sports accessories
- Playing cards
- Small puzzles
- Trivia games
- Pocket notebooks
- Nice pens
- Gift cards
- Lottery scratch-off tickets for adults
- Mini strategy games
- Sports trivia
- Small hobby accessories
Personalized Gifts
- Custom photo socks
- Personalized keychains
- Engraved pocket tools
- Photo magnets
- Small framed photos
- Handwritten notes from the kids
One year I gave my husband socks with photos printed on them, and they’re still one of my favorite stocking gift ideas. Personalized gifts don’t have to be expensive to be fun.
Cocktail Accessories
- Mini cocktail kits
- Whiskey stones
- Reusable drink chillers
- Cocktail recipe cards
- Whiskey glass accessories
- Wine stoppers
- Specialty cocktail syrups
- Nonalcoholic mixers
- Small cocktail smoker accessories
Stocking Stuffers for Trivia Lovers
My kids love trivia, so small trivia decks, question-and-answer books, riddle cards and pocket-sized games are great stocking options in our house.
Look for topics your kids already enjoy, whether that’s animals, sports, science, geography or movies.
- Brain Quest decks
- Kids’ trivia card games
- Would You Rather? cards
- Sports trivia
- Animal trivia
- Geography trivia
- State trivia
- Disney trivia
- Movie trivia
- Pop culture trivia
- Riddle cards
- Minute-to-win-it challenge cards
- Road trip trivia
- Conversation starter cards
- Mini logic puzzles
- Trivia books organized by age
- Skillmatics Guess in 10
- Mini strategy games
- Metal brainteasers
- Puzzle boxes
- Joke books
- Fact books
- Mini brain game decks
They’re also easy to pull out at dinner, on road trips or while waiting at a restaurant.
Practical Stocking Stuffers for Any Age
I’m all for fun surprises, but stockings are also a great place to include things your kids actually need.
Underwear, socks, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, hair accessories, gloves, winter hats and school supplies might not be the most exciting gifts on their own, but mixed in with toys and treats, they’re perfect stocking stuffers.
And honestly, when you have multiple kids, it’s nice to check a few necessities off the shopping list while you’re at it.
- Underwear
- Socks
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
- Hairbrushes
- Combs
- Lip balm
- Deodorant
- Hair ties
- Scrunchies
- Claw clips
- Gloves
- Mittens
- Knit winter hats
- Neck warmers
- Water bottles
- Sippy cups
- Dishwasher-safe water bottle stickers
- Water bottle boots
- Water bottle straps
- Replacement straws
- School supplies
- Charging cables
- Charging blocks
- Portable power banks
- Reusable snack bags
- Lunchbox accessories
- Hand warmers
- Mini first-aid supplies
- Fun bandages
- Sunglasses
- Swimsuits
- Swim trunks
- Swim goggles
- Slippers
- Mini lint rollers
- Stain-remover pens
- Small reusable shopping bags
Water bottles, cups and accessories are particularly useful. My kids love decorating their water bottles with dishwasher-safe stickers. It’s such an inexpensive way to personalize something they use every day, and you can find stickers for just about any interest.
Food and Candy Stocking Stuffers
Not every stocking needs to be filled with toys or gifts. Sometimes the favorite candy or snack is the first thing kids reach for.
Sweet Treats
- Chocolate oranges
- Chocolate coins
- Candy canes
- Favorite candy bars
- Gummies
- Sour candy
- Freeze-dried candy
- Holiday chocolates
- Cookies
- Snack cakes
- Hot cocoa packets
- Marshmallows
- International candy
- Chocolate-covered espresso beans
- Honey sticks
- Flavored marshmallows
- Maple candy
- Nostalgic childhood candy
- Cookie butter
- Gourmet peanut butter
- Chocolate-covered pretzels
- Mini jars of jam
- Specialty chocolate bars
- Flavored caramels
Savory Treats
- Beef jerky
- Pretzels
- Popcorn
- Favorite chips
- Crackers
- Trail mix
- Roasted nuts
- Flavored nuts
- Smoked almonds
- Chili-lime cashews
- Pistachios
- Flavored pecans
- Specialty snack mixes
- Granola bars
- Spicy pickles
- Cheese spreads
- Cheez Whiz
- Gourmet mustard
- Hot sauce samplers
- Specialty seasonings
- Mini BBQ sauces
- Flavored popcorn seasonings
- International snacks
You can also add a few treats your family doesn’t usually buy. Stockings are a fun excuse to splurge on a favorite snack or try something new.
For babies and younger children, choose foods appropriate for their age and development, and avoid common choking hazards.
Experience-Based Stocking Stuffers
Some of the best stocking stuffers don’t take up much room at all!
Our younger kids love playing at McDonald’s when it’s too cold (or too hot!) to spend much time outside. A McDonald’s gift card means lunch and some time on the indoor playground, which is a win for everyone!
We also love giving gift cards to our local Red Barn Creamery. An ice cream outing is always a fun treat, and it’s something the kids can look forward to using.
And for bigger surprises, tickets to a show or attraction are easy to slip into a stocking. Hot Wheels is even coming to the Phoenix area in March, which would make a fun Christmas gift for kids who love cars and monster trucks.
Tickets and Experience Gift Ideas
- Movie theater passes
- Zoo tickets
- Aquarium tickets
- Monster truck show tickets
- Hot Wheels show tickets
- Children’s theater tickets
- Concert tickets
- Sporting event tickets
- Amusement park passes
- Water park tickets
- Indoor trampoline park passes
- Mini golf gift cards
- Bowling passes
- Roller-skating passes
- Ice-skating passes
- Arcade game cards
- Laser tag passes
- Escape room gift certificates
- Horseback riding lessons
- Pottery-painting certificates
- Cooking classes
- Baking classes
- Art classes
- Museum tickets
- Children’s museum tickets
- Indoor playground passes
- Ice cream gift cards
- Frozen yogurt gift cards
- Bookstore gift cards
- Coffee shop gift cards
- Smoothie shop gift cards
- Special breakfast with Mom or Dad
- One-on-one outings with a parent or grandparent
- Family game night coupons
- Special dessert dates
- Movie night at home coupons
- Tickets to a local festival
- Botanical garden admission
- Science center admission
- Membership cards for favorite attractions
I love that experience gifts give kids something to look forward to after Christmas. Whether it’s a $10 ice cream outing or tickets to a big event, it’s a gift that doesn’t add more toys to the house.
Stocking Stuffers That Add to Collections
If your child already has a collection they love, Christmas stockings are a great opportunity to add one or two new pieces without purchasing an entirely new toy.
- Hot Wheels cars
- Monster Jam trucks
- LEGO minifigures
- LEGO polybags
- Pokémon cards
- Sports trading cards
- Toy dinosaurs
- Farm animal figures
- Dollhouse furniture
- Wooden train accessories
- Calico Critters
- Collectible figurines
- Miniature play food
- Tonies characters
- Yoto cards
- Favorite book series
- Art supplies for existing collections
- Blind-box collectibles
- Mini plush bag charms
- Enamel pins
- Shoe charms
- Trading card sleeves
- Trading card storage accessories
- Mini collectible figures
This is one of my favorite ways to shop because I already know the kids will use what I’m buying.
Unique Stocking Stuffers You Might Not Have Thought Of
Sometimes it’s fun to include something a little different.
- Personalized photo keychains
- Mini snow globes
- Invisible ink pens
- Picture-projecting flashlights
- Glow-in-the-dark shoelaces
- Mini tabletop games
- Tiny terrarium kits
- Geodes to crack open
- Personalized ornaments
- Pocket microscopes
- Small sewing kits
- Reusable sticker scenes
- Mini building kits
- Scratch-off activity cards
- Mini puzzles
- Magnetic travel games
- Custom bookmarks
- Personalized luggage tags
- Pocket nature guides
- Collectible coins
- Mini digital keychain cameras
- Money puzzle boxes
- Tiny desk vacuums
- Mini photo printers
- Pocket-sized digital writing tablets
- Mini electric candle lighters for adults
- Pocket back scratchers
- Nail-care kits
- Foldable shopping bags
- Stain-remover pens
- Secret decoder rings
- Mini fossil excavation kits
- Mini wax seal kits
- Novelty erasers
- Snow globe pens
- Tiny desk toys
- Slinkies
- Whoopee cushions
- Silly String
- Mini tic-tac-toe games
- Travel chess sets
- Small dice sets
- Mini nesting dolls
- Balancing stone sets
- Small decorative string lights
- Mini crystal-growing kits
- Pocket-sized reusable drawing tablets
- Mini crochet kits
- Small magnetic building sets
- Funny novelty pens
- Hidden-pocket scrunchies
- Sneaker deodorizer balls
- Compact personal safety alarms
- Compact cooling towels
- Small chip bag sealers
- Telescoping keychain pens
- Mini fabric shavers
- Mini phone tripods
- Compact eyeglass cleaners
These can be especially fun for older kids and adults who might already have plenty of toys.
Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Every Budget
Some families fill stockings with a few small surprises. Others use stockings as their main Christmas gifts from Santa.
There’s no reason to set a dollar limit on what belongs in a stocking.
Under $5: Candy, snacks, Hot Wheels, stickers, crayons, lip balm, toothbrushes, small notebooks, hair ties, whoopee cushions, bubbles and other little surprises.
Under $15: Card games, small LEGO sets, bath bombs, squishy toys, books, craft supplies, trading cards, mini puzzles, kitchen gadgets, small fidgets and gift cards.
Under $30: Portable chargers, larger LEGO sets, quality art supplies, collectible toys, personal care gift sets, small gadgets, mini tool kits, compact makeup mirrors and experience gift cards.
Bigger Stocking Gifts: AirPods, wireless earbuds, Yoto players, Tonieboxes, jewelry, watches, compact electronics, higher-value gift cards, specialty hobby supplies, tickets to events or anything else that fits your family’s Christmas traditions.
And don’t forget that stocking stuffers can be purchased throughout the year. Keep an eye out for clearance deals, after-holiday sales, multipacks and discounted gift cards.
Making Christmas Stockings Your Own
There’s no perfect formula for filling a Christmas stocking.
Some families stick with the traditional orange, candy and a few small gifts. Others include practical necessities, toys, gift cards or bigger presents. Some stockings cost $20, others cost hundreds.
And while it’s easy to get caught up in making every stocking look perfectly full, you don’t need to fill every inch with things your family doesn’t actually want or need.
For us, stockings are a mix of practical items, favorite snacks, little toys and surprises that fit. They’re also our way of slowing Christmas morning down just a little before the chaos begins.
And if wrapping a toothbrush buys me another five minutes with a hot cup of coffee, I’m going to keep doing it!
