Disclosure: I’m a compensated member of the U.S. Cellular blogger brigade, but all tips, opinions, and attempts at humor are my own.
I can’t believe I’m bringing this up, but have you started your holiday shopping yet? As in, have you actually bought any presents for anyone on your gift list? If you have then yay for you, you over- achieving showoff, you. If you haven’t then thank you for making me feel like less of a failure. Honestly, though, I wish I was one of those planner types who has a hidden closet in their house where they keep gifts they’ve bought throughout the year. You know the people I’m talking about because either you’re one of them or you secretly wish you could be like them. You know they’re so organized that they have all their gifts purchased before Thanksgiving and their entire house decorated that weekend, so all they have left to do is put their feet up, crank up some fa-la-la-la-la music, and guzzle eggnogg while the rest of us run around feeling frazzled. Okay, maybe it’s just me who runs around feeling frazzled, but there’s also a small part of me that likes the last-minute hustle and bustle shopping. The point it gets super stressful is when I’m doing that last-minute shopping on Christmas Eve for that one person on my list. You know the one. They either have everything they want and need and when they don’t they go out and buy it for themselves. They are the people you, as the gift-giver, have to get really creative about when trying to find them the perfect gift. Well this year it’s not happening. This year I’m making a list yesterday that includes ideas for every single person and then I’m going to either hit the stores sooner rather than later or I’m going to sit at my laptop and place a few orders from the comfort of my own home. This year, mark my words, I will be doing nothing on Christmas Eve other than enjoying my family, sipping wine, and devouring unhealthy snacks.
*This post might contain affiliate links and your support is appreciated.
I think the key to my success will not only be to come up with a list of ideas for everyone, but also a dollar amount for each of them. This way I can focus on specific ideas while also trying to stick to somewhat of a budget because one of the worse thing about last-minute shopping is that it often leads to me spending too much money. And I want some extra money for holiday coffee drinks, so a tight gift shopping budget is where it’s at for me this year. If there’s one thing that’s always a hit, especially with most of the people on my shopping list, it’s some sort of tech gadget or toy. The problem is that those are often the most expensive items to buy, but with a little shopping around and looking for the best deals, it can be done on a budget.
Here are few ideas for everyone on your list regardless of your spending budget. Oh, and don’t forget to treat yourself, too. You know, to a fancy coffee or a shiny new smart watch.
- Everybody likes to have their own pair of earbuds or headphones and these JLab JBuddies Studio Kids Headphones are perfect for the kids on your list. The best part is they are under $30! Which color would you choose?
- You didn’t think I was going to leave out the teenagers and adults, did you? Whether they prefer earbuds or actual headphones, I’ve got a couple options for them, too. These JBL E15 Earbuds ($39.99) are great for listening to music, but also perfect for taking a call with the built-in microphone. If budget isn’t a huge factor for you then I’d recommend these Beats Solo 3 Wireless Headphones. They’re $299.99, but my son has worn Beats for years and he loves them. The quality is great and they are foldable and come with a carrying case, which makes them great for traveling. They even come in Rose Gold and we all know how trendy that color is right now.
- If you’re stumped, like I was a couple years ago, to come up with something for that person who has everything then I’d highly recommend you consider the Amazon Echo (2nd Generation)
($99.99). It was probably the best gift I gave my husband and it’s definitely my favorite. Not only because I’ve been enjoying it, too, but he uses it pretty much daily. Our home is definitely a little smarter now that Alexa lives with us. She plays whatever music we ask for, she can rattle off the forecast, and she even tells jokes. Someday soon I’ll even share my favorite Alexa skill. I’ll give you a hint. It has to do with exercise.
- I don’t know about your household, but mine has a lot of devices and chargers lying around. I mean, like literally in almost every room of the house. They are everywhere and I’m not complaining because I love technology, but sometimes too many cords everywhere stresses me out. That’s why I might actually consider purchasing a couple “family” gifts this year. I’ve got my eye on this iWalk Scorpio Portable Charger ($59.99)because it can fuel several devices at the same time without the need for a million outlets. For Nick, though, I like the Samsung Fast Charge Wireless Charging Stand ($69.99) because he spends a lot of time in his bedroom and his own personal charger just makes more sense. I think my favorite thing about it is that it’s an actual stand, too, so he can still use his phone while it charges without having to hold on to it.
- If you really want to splurge on a gift (or treat yourself if you came in way under budget for everyone on your list) then you can’t go wrong with either the Samsung Gear S3 Classic ($349.99) or the Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) ($329). I have personal experience with the Samsung Gear and I really liked it, especially the fact I could see notifications on my wrist without having to worry about needing to worry about having my phone close by. I have to admit, though, as a runner I love that the Apple Watch comes with built-in GPS. Regardless of which one of these gems you choose I’m pretty certain the receiver will love you forever.
($99.99). It was probably the best gift I gave my husband and it’s definitely my favorite. Not only because I’ve been enjoying it, too, but he uses it pretty much daily. Our home is definitely a little smarter now that What’s your favorite tech gift to give OR which one is on your wish list? Tell me. Tell me right now.
All great gift ideas! I am not even exchanging gifts with family this year, except for a few small stocking stuffers. Money is just too tight. But my kids are grown and working, and they understand. I think we are more excited about food and the day off than getting a gift.
But if this was the year, my household is definitely into tech, and anything that can make our lives run a bit more smoothly!
Kim @ The ReInVintaged Life recently posted..Like clockwork…
Thank you, Kim. I totally hear you about money, but I love your attitude about enjoying food and time together as a family.
Great gift ideas! I’m always looking for good headphones for the kids!
Kristin recently posted..Holiday Gift Guide 2017
I would love to try the wireless charger. I think that would make a great gift. God know we have enough cords lying around.
Milena recently posted..Kelley Kosow’s The Integrity Advantage #BookReview
Your shopping plan is admirable- I need to hop to it! Whenever I have a tricky person on my list, I end up going the tech route. Love the idea of some solid headphones (everyone can use an upgrade from the white Apple ones)!
You might have made me laugh a little with that “admirable” compliment. Mostly, I’m just winging it, but also TRYING to have a plan. We’ll see. 🙂
I’m looking into a wireless charging station since my new phone can do it. I’ll be checking this one out
I’m with you on that one. I don’t know why we haven’t owned one before now, but I’m thinking it’s a must in the near future.
These are all awesome ideas! I have a few people on my Christmas list that are tough to pick out gifts for. We are getting my in-laws and echo for Christmas. I hope they like it!
I hope you have some luck with those hard-to-buy-for people without too much added stress. Fingers crossed your in-laws appreciate and enjoy their Echo!
Thanks for your suggestions! The Echo sounds nice. I recently went to a few stores and really liked kitty and emoji headsets. I would love a mic and speaker set ?
The Echo really is a great gadget the entire family would enjoy. A mic and speaker set sounds fun!
Great gift ideas. My son would have a blast with this list. Me personally I’m slipping to hubby as a gift of ideas for myself.
Thanks, Rebecca! I hope you get everything you ask for this year. 🙂
These are such great gift ideas. My son needs new headphones so I’m definitely checking these out. Thanks for the tips!
Good luck in your search! Fingers crossed you find your son the perfect pair of headphones that both a good deal and fit comfortably.
I spend half my life looking for my phone and the other half checking the weather once I find it. I think I need to add an Alexa to my household
Hahaha, I have a feeling you’re not alone. You totally need an Echo in your household, especially since the price is so great right now!
These are great ideas! I gave Amazon Echos last year to a few family members!
Kristin recently posted..Holiday Gift Guide 2017
Wow. How generous of you! I hope they’re enjoying their fun gift.
Lots of great ideas!! I can’t wait to start my shopping and buy all these great gift ideas I keep seeing!
Jasmine – Stylish Cravings recently posted..DIY Glitter Pine Cone Ornaments
Thank you! Let the fun of shopping begin.
These are some great gift ideas for all budgets. Headphones are a staple in our house! You always need a pair for school and 2 for home!
I totally agree! Headphones for everyone. 🙂
I love these gift ideas! I’m the one who definitely hasn’t started shopping yet. I’m such a procrastinator lol. Electronics and gift cards are usually my go to!
Bree recently posted..Thanksgiving Dinner Mishaps + Four Free Thanksgiving Coloring Pages
Thanks, Bree! Good luck with your shopping. Gift cards are always a great idea, especially for my teenager!
These are great ideas! I have an echo and I love it! I think it’s something my dad would like.
This is a great list of tech. I think I wan those Beats Solo 3 Wireless Headphones for myself!