8 Traditional Stocking Stuffer Ideas That Won’t Break The Bank

Whether you call them stocking stuffers or fillers, this Christmas tradition has been a prominent part of European culture for centuries. A quick internet search will return thousands of stocking stuffer lists with Amazon-sold, single purpose plastic gadgets that will fill a need you didn’t even know you had. Others will suggest products that, though they are a little higher quality, are at a price point much higher than most are willing to spend on a stocking stuffer. 

Note: This is a contributed post. Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I receive a commission if you make a purchase. Affiliate relationships include, but are not limited to, Amazon Associates, Walmart.com, and Etsy.

This Christmas, why not go the more traditional route and fill that stocking with items that would have been popular in Christmases past? While you’re at it, try to support local businesses that have been hit hard this year. Here are 8 ideas to get you started! 

Photo by Any Lane from Pexels

1) Puzzles and Games

For adults, logic & math puzzles are a great gift to keep minds sharp. Small jigsaw puzzles are also a good option, especially for the little ones. These also give everyone something to do later on in the day while they’re waiting for Christmas dinner to be served. 

2) Sweet Treats

No one has ever complained about receiving treats! Homemade baking is always a hit, or you can put together dry-ingredient cookie jars that can be baked later. For the more health-conscious people in your life, replace the sweets with mandarins and nuts.  

3) Stick Candy

In reading the Laura Ingalls Wilder “Little House on the Prairie” series of books to my children, it seemed that stick candy was a common stocking stuffer back then. And why not, it's absolutely beautiful, as well as delicious!

4) Books

Regardless of age group, you can’t go wrong with books. Small, pocket-sized books are perfect for children. For the readers in your life, pick up a full-length novel. Don’t discount books for those who aren’t big readers either! Are they interested in cooking? Gardening? Sewing? Instructional books are the way to go. 

Photo by fotografierende from Pexels

5) Nutcrackers

Probably the most traditional on this list are nutcrackers. These were believed to protect your home and bring good luck. What more could you ask for? This little gift is also a fun callback to E.T.A. Hoffmann’s The Nutcracker and the Mouse King. 

6) Soap

This essential item won’t go to waste. To take it up to the next level, look for locally-made, artisanal soaps with essential oils and herbs. If you’re a crafty person yourself, you can also make your own soap bars, or even foaming hand soap. 

7) Socks and Knits

There’s nothing quite like pulling on a new pair of warm, fuzzy socks on Christmas morning. The same goes for knitted hats, scarves, and gloves. Purchase these from a local business, or make them yourself if you have the time and skill to knit or crochet. 

8) Personalized Ornaments

Sentimental gifts are often the most cherished. Personalizing ornaments with names, messages, and dates will allow your gift to be displayed for years to come. A quick browse on Etsy will reveal endless options for all age groups. You can also visit a local craft market, where you’re more than likely to find some. 

Are there any stocking stuffers that are traditional for you and your family? 

This is a contributed post.

Related

• • BUDGET FRIENDLY CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS CLOTHING

  • MAKE A WRAPPING STATION IN YOUR LAUNDRY ROOM

  • 10 GREAT GIFTS FOR FUN DADS TO ENJOY WITH THEIR KIDS

  • GREAT GIFTS FOR A SIX YEAR OLD BOY

  • WHAT TO GET THE ESSENTIAL OILS LADY FOR CHRISTMAS

  • MATCHING CHRISTMAS PAJAMAS FOUND AT JANE

  • WALUIGI GIFT IDEAS FOR YOUR TEEN

  • FANDOM MIRACULOUS LADYBUG AND CAT NOIR GIFTS

  • UNIQUE STOCKING STUFFERS FOR YOUR ADULT CHILDREN

  • DIY WHITE ELEPHANT CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS UNDER FIVE DOLLARS

  • DIY NO SEW SNOWMAN PILLOW CHRISTMAS DECORATION FOR THE HOME

  • CUTE CREATIVE PRACTICAL GIFT IDEA DIY MICROWAVE POPCORN BAG (TUTORIAL)

  • MASON JAR CRAFTS TUTORIAL FOR A PAINTED GLASS JAR

  • EDUCATIONAL GIFTS FOR CHILDREN

  • KIDS ACTIVITIES TO PACK FOR A LONG STAY HOLIDAY VACATION

  • JOURNALS

Subscribe so you never miss a post.

If you find my tips useful, feel free to buy me a coffee to support my efforts. Thank you in advance!

Want to remember this? Pin it to your favorite Pinterest Board!