Giving gifts can be one of the best parts of the Christmas season, but finding something truly thoughtful and useful for everyone on your list can be a challenge. So here’s our handy guide on how to avoid giving bad gifts.
We’ve all received gifts that felt like misses. Whether they were generic, impractical, or just didn’t fit our style. To help you navigate the Christmas shopping season with ease, here are some of the most common “bad gift” traps and what you can give instead to make sure your gifts are genuinely appreciated.
1. Overly Generic Gift Cards
Gift cards can be convenient, but when they’re too generic (like an all-purpose prepaid card) or from a store the recipient never shops at, they can feel impersonal. It’s like saying, “I didn’t know what to get you, so I went with the easiest option.” Plus, many gift cards go unused.
What to Give Instead: Opt for gift cards with a personal twist. Consider their favorite local coffee shop, a beloved bookstore, or a digital streaming service if you know they’re into movies or music. Alternatively, choose an experience gift card, such as for a local restaurant, concert, or a workshop. This approach shows that you’ve thought about their interests and hobbies, even with a practical gift.
2. Self-Help Books or “Life Advice” Gifts
While some people might appreciate a motivational book or personal development planner, these gifts can unintentionally come across as judgmental. Unless someone has specifically asked for a book about habits or career advice, it can feel like you’re suggesting they need to “improve” themselves.
What to Give Instead: Opt for a book or subscription related to their personal interests, like a novel in a genre they love, a cooking magazine, or an audiobook subscription. If they’re into wellness, consider a spa day kit with essential oils, face masks, and bath bombs that promotes relaxation rather than self-improvement.
3. Knick-Knacks and Dust Collectors
Decorative items like generic figurines, random candles, and quirky mugs often end up as dust collectors. Many people prefer to choose their own decor, as style is highly personal. These items are difficult to return and can quickly clutter a home.
What to Give Instead: Go for practical yet stylish home items that people are more likely to use. For example, consider a high-quality set of kitchen towels, a versatile indoor plant (like a low-maintenance succulent), or a set of beautiful but practical storage baskets. These options are useful without cluttering up their space with non-functional items.
4. Cheap Gadgets and Novelty Items
Gimmicky gadgets, such as mini-blenders, novelty tools, or quirky kitchen items, can be fun in the moment but rarely stand the test of time. These items often don’t work as well as their high-quality counterparts and can end up in the “junk drawer.”
What to Give Instead: Stick with gadgets that provide real value, like a sturdy portable phone charger, a high-quality water bottle, or a set of wireless earphones if they’re a tech lover. For the kitchen enthusiast, go for something classic like a durable cutting board or a well-reviewed chef’s knife—gifts they’ll actually use and appreciate.
5. Scented Gifts in Overpowering Scents
Scented candles, perfumes, and bath products can be tricky because scent preferences are deeply personal, and some people are sensitive to certain fragrances. An overpowering candle scent, for instance, might not just miss the mark but also be unpleasant or unusable.
What to Give Instead: Opt for neutral or universally appealing scents if you know they enjoy candles or bath products—think light vanilla, eucalyptus, or lavender. Another safe choice is unscented products, such as a set of luxury bath towels, a soft robe, or high-quality skincare essentials like hand cream. If they’re into scents, try a subscription to an essential oil service where they can choose their favorite blends.
6. Clothing in Generic Styles or Wrong Sizes
Clothing is a notoriously tricky gift because it’s so personal. Getting the size or style wrong can leave the recipient feeling uncomfortable or frustrated with having to return it. Unless you know their specific size and style, it’s often safer to avoid clothing altogether.
What to Give Instead: Consider accessories that are one-size-fits-all, like a soft scarf, a cozy blanket, or high-quality winter gloves. If you’re shopping for someone who loves fashion, a gift card to their favorite clothing store can let them choose something they love without the stress of returns.
7. Mugs and Reusable Water Bottles (Again)
Mugs and reusable bottles are fantastic—up to a point. Chances are, many people already have a collection of reusable water bottles and mugs, so adding to the pile may feel redundant. A mug with a clever quote can be fun, but not everyone has the space or desire for more drinkware.
What to Give Instead: Consider an insulated travel mug or thermos if they’re always on the go, or upgrade their coffee experience with a premium coffee or tea sampler. For coffee lovers, a high-quality grinder, a set of artisanal coffee beans, or a compact pour-over coffee maker can be thoughtful alternatives that enhance their daily routine.
8. Overly Practical Gifts That Feel Like Chores
Everyday items like cleaning supplies or basic household items are useful, but they don’t typically bring joy as holiday gifts. Unless someone specifically asks for a new vacuum, it can come across as impersonal or too practical, especially during the festive season.
What to Give Instead: Try adding a bit of fun and indulgence with a twist on practical items. For example, instead of regular cleaning supplies, consider a stylish and eco-friendly cleaning kit with natural products and scents. Alternatively, give a cooking-themed gift basket with gourmet oils, spices, and a recipe book for a fun twist on a practical gift.
9. “Funny” or Gimmicky Gift Items
Gifts like humorous books, gag gifts, and novelty items can be amusing for a moment but quickly lose their appeal. These gifts often end up being re-gifted or stashed away because they don’t offer any lasting value.
What to Give Instead: If your recipient has a great sense of humor, choose something useful with a fun twist. For instance, opt for quirky but high-quality socks with playful patterns, a fun board game they can enjoy with friends, or even a “subscription to surprises” box, which lets them receive curated gifts that match their sense of humor and interests.
10. “Re-Gifted” or Last-Minute Generic Gifts
When you re-gift or pick up something generic last-minute, it can often show. Gifts that feel rushed or thoughtless may unintentionally make someone feel unappreciated.
What to Give Instead: If you’re short on time, go with a thoughtfully crafted “favourite things” box. Fill it with a mix of items like a favourite local snack, a small candle, and a handwritten note or Christmas card. Even simple items can feel meaningful if they’re curated with care, and this approach helps you create a custom gift without spending a fortune.
Final Thoughts: Putting Thought Back into Gift-Giving
Giving great gifts isn’t about spending the most money or finding the trendiest item. Instead, it’s about putting thought into each gift so the recipient feels seen and appreciated. By avoiding common gifting pitfalls and choosing items that reflect their interests, hobbies, and style, you’re far more likely to make a positive impact and spread joy.
This year, try out these alternative gift ideas, and you’ll be well on your way to avoiding “bad gift” territory and hitting a home run with each present under the tree!
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