Your go-to guide for stocking stuffers this Christmas

Nail your Christmas shopping with 15 stocking stuffer ideas for every budget, plus tips to keep your finances in check this holiday season.

What is a stocking stuffer?

Stocking stuffers, or stocking fillers, are small, thoughtful gifts that fit perfectly into a Christmas stocking and add a touch of surprise to Christmas Day. Whether you’re looking for practical picks, quirky trinkets, or personal touches, these gifts show you really know your loved ones. From kids’ Christmas gifts to work’s Secret Santa or even Aunty June who’s just impossible to buy for, the right stocking filler will light up anyone’s day. With options ranging from under $10 to $50, we’ve rounded up a range of Christmas stocking ideas that will keep everyone smiling.

Let’s make this part of your holiday season easy with 15 fun, practical, and budget-friendly gift ideas that won’t strain your budget.

15 fun and memorable Christmas stocking stuffer ideas for every budget

$10 and under: low cost Christmas gift ideas, stocking stuffers and Secret Santa picks

1. Framed photo: a photo of their furbaby in a Christmas hat or a treasured family portrait for the grandparents, it’s sweet, personal, and guaranteed to be a keepsake they’ll love.
2. Christmas socks: they’re a holiday staple for a reason! Go festive with quirky patterns that spread cheer long after the season is done, think socks that are even more festive than your Christmas jumper.
3. Keyrings: keyrings are perfect for all ages. Like a Bluey keyring for the kids, they’ll love having their favourite character dangling from their backpack. For grown-ups, opt for a sleek, multi-functional keyring with a mini tool or light. It’s a small gift with big a personality that suits everyone.
4. Bath bomb set: turn any bath into a luxury spa experience. These fizzy wonders come in every scent imaginable, perfect for a pamper session and adding a touch of festive cheer. Kmart has plenty of Christmas presents under $10 including affordable gift sets and essentials like candles and essential oils.
5. Sensory toys: keep the kids (or fidgety adults) engaged with fun, tactile toys that are both playful and stress-relieving, ideal for hours of fun.

Want to set up a Christmas budget? Here’s how to create a Christmas budget in under 30 minutes.

$20 and under: Christmas gift ideas for mum, dad and your Secret Santa

1. Reusable coffee cup: for anyone who loves their morning brew, a reusable cup is a win-win. Whether it’s tea, hot chocolate, or even a sneaky flat white, this eco-friendly gift is the perfect stocking-sized reminder that saving the planet (and looking good while doing it) is always in style.
2. Christmas decorations: what about a personalised bauble with a message for mum or dad? It’s something they can hang proudly on the Christmas Tree that very day and cherish for years to come.
3. Scented candles and essential oils: set the mood with scents that turn any room into a cosy wonderland. Think festive fragrances like cinnamon, vanilla, or caramel, perfect for adding warmth and holiday cheer.
4. Jibbitz for your Crocs: love them or hate them, Crocs are here to stay, and Jibbitz charms make them even more fun. From festive holiday designs to pop culture icons, these little charms are unique, playful stocking stuffers that everyone can enjoy.
5. Video game gift cards: Minecraft, Roblox, PlayStation, you name it. Gift cards make great stocking fillers for teens and gamers.

Need help planning Christmas lunch? Don’t miss our guide to Christmas lunch under $100.

$50 and under: great Christmas gifts for mum, dad and loved ones

1. Portable charger: no one likes a ‘battery low’ alert, especially when capturing holiday memories. A pocket-sized lifesaver they’ll actually use, ideal for the holiday season.
2. Wireless earbuds case: a stylish and protective case for wireless earbuds is a practical gift for anyone who loves their tech. Choose one with a personalised touch or a fun design to make it unique and useful for daily life.
3. Skincare gift sets: spoil them with luxury skincare products from Mecca. From hydrating face masks to nourishing lip gloss, these pampering presents bring relaxation and make self-care a must this Christmas.
4. Board games & puzzles: a classic board game or jigsaw puzzle makes for a thoughtful gift that encourages quality time. These are perfect gifts for kids, parents and even Kris Kringle swaps.
5. Subscription box: give a gift that keeps on giving with a subscription box tailored to their interests. Whether it’s coffee, wine tasting packs, or chocolate hampers, this present offers ongoing surprises and joy well beyond Christmas.

With holiday cheer comes holiday spending. According to Finder, the average Aussie is expected to spend $1,479 this Christmas, an amount that can sneak up on anyone.

So, how do you keep your holiday shopping on track? Let’s talk budgeting:

Budget planning: the gift that keeps on giving

Bring practicality and joy back to your holiday shopping with a touch of planning. Here are a few ways budgeting can make the season brighter:

• Prevent financial strain in the new year: with a solid budget in place, you can enjoy the holiday cheer without money worries carrying over into January
• Set a clear budget for gifts: know exactly how much you want to spend on stocking stuffers, Christmas presents and Secret Santa gifts
• Keep spending in check: avoid overspending by planning ahead and tracking your purchases
• Focus on what matters most: allocate money towards gifts that create joy and memories for loved ones.

MyBudget: trusted by Australians for over 25 years

If you need help making your Christmas spending stress-free, MyBudget is here to help. With over 25 years of experience, supporting more than 130,000 Aussies, we provide tailored budgeting solutions to help you manage your finances effectively. Whether it’s budgeting for Christmas, tackling debt or saving for the big things in life, we’re here to make managing your finances easier. Enquire online or give us a call at 1300 300 922.

Looking for more festive money-saving ideas? Check out our blog: Christmas shopping on a budget.