November 2010

Christmas is a few weeks away and you may have your presents all purchased, but what about those stocking stuffers?  If you aren’t careful, you can really spend a lot filling those stockings with goodies.  Here are a few ideas that are not only practical, but won’t break the bank:

Turn a Need Into a Gift

Growing up, it was never Christmas unless we had socks and underwear in our stockings.  And, if your kids are like mine, it seems that they are always in need of these items.  So, instead of just purchasing them for them to wear, pick them up on sale and stuff them into that stocking.

Skip the high ticket items

Video Games are very popular gift ideas, but can be very pricey.  So, keep those out for a gift to be wrapped and stick to less expensive items instead.

Go Practical

I am always getting great deals on kids’ toothbrushes and toothpaste – but of course my children are none the wiser.  So, I just put a new tube of paste and brush into their stockings.  There is no reason to spend the money if you don’t need to.

Avoid Special Packaging

If you are planning on picking up candy, avoid the special packages.  Just because there is a giant M&M on top of the tube, doesn’t make it the only option.  Pick up some regular packages from the checkout lane (watch for your B1G1 sales) and stuff those into the stocking.  Your children probably throw the character into the trash anyhow, so why waste your money?

Search the Dollar Bins

Dollar Stores and Target have bins filled with items that cost just a dollar.  I have found stickers, small toys, pencils and even coloring books for just a dollar.  This is a simple way to find a few more items to stuff into your stockings.

By thinking outside of the box, you can really find some great deals and ideas on what to put inside of your stockings this year — and hopefully still have money left over!  Do you have some inexpensive or unique stocking stuffer ideas?  Please share them with us!