Your go-to guide for stocking stuffers this Christmas

15 fun and memorable gifts for every budget

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 one. From kids 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 easy with 15 fun, practical, and budget-friendly ideas that won’t strain your budget.

$10 and under: budget-friendly stocking stuffers for everyone

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 is a great option to keep it under $10.
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.

$20 and under: quality stocking stuffers without going over budget

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: sure, Christmas decorations as a gift on Christmas might sound a bit odd, but hear us out, what about a personalised bauble for your someone special? It’s something they can hang proudly on the tree that very day and cherish for years to come.
3. Scented candles: set the mood with scented candles that turn any room into a cosy wonderland. Think festive holiday fragrances like cinnamon, vanilla, or caramel, perfect for adding warmth and that nostalgic holiday vibe. These little mood-makers make any space feel inviting and are sure to be a hit well beyond Christmas day.
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. Give the gift of choice for hours of gaming fun. A must-have stocking filler for the gamer in your life.

$50 and under: budget for something special

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: spoil them with luxury skincare products from Mecca or consider their in-store spa experiences for an extra touch of luxury. From hydrating face masks to nourishing lip gloss, these gifts bring relaxation and make self-care a must this holiday season.
4. Board games & puzzles: a classic board game or a jigsaw puzzle makes for a thoughtful gift that encourages quality time and fun for all ages. Whether it’s an intricate jigsaw or a fast-paced game, these gifts are sure to bring everyone together during the holiday season.
5. Subscription box: give a gift that keeps on giving with a subscription box tailored to their interests. Whether it’s a local coffee selection, a monthly magazine delivery, or a craft kit, 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. Budgeting ensures stocking stuffers stay thoughtful without breaking the bank. The excitement of Christmas can lead to overspending, but a solid budget helps keep purchases in check. By setting a clear budget for gifts, you can focus on what matters most and avoid financial strain in the new year. Budgeting keeps you in control, so your spending spreads joy, not stress. With a little planning, you can enjoy the season without financial regrets.

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 and having supported 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.

Cheryl is part of the MyBudget Corporate Finance team, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. A big fan of side hustles, her own is writing for MyBudget, where she shares insights from her personal journey through separation, single parenting, and surviving cancer.