The 10 Common Holiday Gifts You Should Avoid Gifting This Year – Gift Cards Are A Definite No
Why you should think twice before stuffing any of these into someone’s stocking
Getting the perfect holiday gift for someone can be the best feeling – nothing beats seeing their eyes light up as they unwrap that precious present. But let’s be honest—some gifts just don’t cut it.
If you want to avoid that awkward “Oh, thank you…” moment, Fred Harrington, the CEO of online discount and coupon platform Coupon Mister, is here to help. Below, he outlines ten holiday gifting misfires to steer well clear of this festive season.
1. Socks
Yes, socks are a daily necessity, but handing someone a pack of socks says, “I ran out of ideas.” Even worse, if they’re scratchy or low-quality, you’ve just given the gift of discomfort. “Socks may keep feet warm, but they don’t warm hearts,” says Fred.
2. Cheap Scented Candles
Everyone loves candles, right? Well, not when the scent is “Synthetic Lavender Explosion” or “Cinnamon Overkill.” These budget-friendly options often smell like air fresheners gone rogue; worse, they might trigger headaches or allergies.
3. Tacky Holiday Sweaters
Ugly Christmas sweaters might be hilarious at first, but they quickly lose their charm after one Instagram post. Plus, the recipient is stuck storing something they’ll probably never wear again—or worse, donating it before the year’s over.
4. Bath Sets with Strong Fragrances
Ah, the bath set—your go-to when you have no idea what someone likes. While it seems luxurious, most of these sets are filled with overly perfumed lotions, soaps, and bath bombs that scream “clearance aisle.” They’re usually either regifted or doomed to collect dust in the back of a closet.
5. Generic Calendars
A calendar is functional, sure, but it’s also deeply impersonal. “Unless you know someone has a burning passion for “Dogs in Hats 2024” or “Scenes from National Parks,” this gift feels more like an office supply than holiday cheer,” says Fred.
6. Mass-Produced “Inspirational” Plaques
“Live, Laugh, Love.” Do we, though? These mass-produced signs are the home decor equivalent of small talk—generic, unoriginal, and often unwanted. Most recipients have no idea where to put them, and they rarely fit anyone’s actual aesthetic.
7. Unsolicited Self-Help Books
Nothing says Happy Holidays like giving someone a book that feels like an underhanded way of saying, “Here’s how to fix yourself!” Even with the best intentions, giving someone a self-help book they didn’t ask for can feel preachy or judgmental. “Plus, everyone’s self-improvement journey is personal—let them decide when they need advice,” says Fred.
8. Gift Cards
Sure, gift cards are practical, but they can also feel like the “I didn’t have time to think about this” option. They lack the personal touch that makes a gift memorable and meaningful. Plus, if it’s to a store they never shop at, it might go unused.
9. Gimmicky Kitchen Gadgets
From avocado slicers to hot dog toasters, these gadgets may seem cool initially but rarely make it out of the box more than once. Unless the recipient is a true kitchen enthusiast, most of these items just add clutter to their lives.
10. Over-The-Top Prank Gifts
Prank gifts might get a laugh in the moment, but they’re usually a waste of money and leave the recipient with a piece of completely useless junk. And not everyone shares the same sense of humour — what’s funny to you might be cringeworthy to them.
Fred Harrington, the CEO of Coupon Mister, commented:
“The perfect gift should show you’ve thought about the person and what would make them smile, not that you splashed the cash. It could be as simple as a handwritten letter paired with their favourite chocolate or a framed photo of a cherished memory you share.
“Think about what makes the recipient unique. Are they always talking about their love for gardening? A beautiful set of seeds or a personalised garden tool might be perfect. Do they adore a certain band, book, or movie? A collectable or special edition related to that could be a winner.
“The trick is to consider their passions and personality. Gifts with meaning often have more emotional value than the latest trendy gadget, and they’re far less likely to end up forgotten in a drawer. Even small or inexpensive gestures, done with genuine care, can make someone feel truly special.”
