Holiday shopping can feel like a full-time job, and finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list can be a daunting task. Luckily, gift sets make it simple and stress-free to find thoughtful, beautifully packaged presents that everyone will love. Whether you’re shopping for your best friend, co-workers, or family members, ready-made gift sets are a lifesaver during the holiday season.
This guide explores everything you need to know about holiday gift sets, including the most popular gifts, the most requested Christmas items, and the gifts you should probably steer clear of. Plus, we’ll share some top spots to shop for fabulous holiday gift sets, including great deals for women and clearance options.
What Are Popular Gifts Consumers Buy During the Holidays?
Some gifts consistently top wish lists year after year. For 2023, here are some of the most popular picks among consumers during the holidays:
- Tech Gadgets: Smartwatches, wireless earbuds, and smart home devices.
- Cozy Wearables: Slippers, scarves, and plush robes are classics.
- Home Fragrances: Candles and diffuser sets always make elegant gifts.
- Beauty Sets: Holiday-exclusive skincare and makeup kits (think No7 and other favorites).
- Food & Beverage Kits: Gourmet chocolates, artisanal coffee, and wine bundles are always crowd-pleasers.
These gifts are versatile and appeal to a wide range of tastes, making them excellent go-to options.
What Are the Top Gift-Giving Holidays?
The holiday season is packed with occasions to shop for loved ones. While Christmas is the standout, here are other important gift-giving holidays to keep in mind:
- Thanksgiving (for host gifts): Show appreciation to your holiday dinner hosts.
- Hanukkah: Spanning several nights, Hanukkah gifts are often smaller tokens.
- New Year’s Eve: Favors and celebratory gifts are a growing trend.
- Valentine’s Day (just around the corner): Retailers often stock early Valentine’s gift sets starting in January.
Knowing the occasion can help guide your gift choices—especially when gift sets offer themed options for holidays like Christmas or New Year’s.
What Is the Most Requested Christmas Gift?
While tastes evolve over the years, tech items consistently emerge as some of the most requested categories. For 2023, the most requested Christmas gifts include Apple products (such as AirPods and Apple Watches), gaming consoles like the PS5, and high-end skincare gift sets from brands like No7 or Fenty Beauty.
Additionally, experiences are growing in popularity. Gifts like concert tickets or spa day gift cards now rival traditional presents.
What Are Unwanted Holiday Gifts?
No matter how much thought you put into a gift, sometimes it doesn’t land as intended. Here are some gift categories that often lead to post-holiday returns or re-gifting situations:
Top Unwanted Holiday Gifts
- Weight-related products: Items such as diet books or gym memberships have good intentions but can feel overly personal or inappropriate.
- Tacky Decorations: Over-the-top seasonal décor often misses the mark.
- Generic Souvenirs: While thoughtful, if too impersonal, these are often neglected.
- Clothing (wrong size): A mismatch in size or style can lead to an unworn gift.
The Most Unwanted Gift
Believe it or not, research shows that “I.O.U.” promises (like a “coupon” for chores or hugs) often top the list of most unwanted gifts. While sweet in thought, they lack the tangible joy of a wrapped-up present.
What Are Fun Gag-Gifts and “Bad Santa” Exchanges?
If you’re part of a “Dirty Santa” or “Bad Santa Gift Exchange,” the theme changes everything. These exchanges are meant to be fun—with purposeful humor or playful rivalry involved.
Example of a Dirty Santa Gift
- Bacon-scented candles
- A ridiculous holiday sweater (the uglier, the better!)
- A mock “World’s Best Procrastinator” trophy
The goal is to bring a gift that’s amusing, lighthearted, or even slightly absurd.
Which Gift Should You Avoid Giving?
Even in gag exchanges, avoid offensive or overly controversial items. Gags should stay playful, not uncomfortable.
What’s the Best Gift Without Spending Money?
If you’re working on a tight budget, heartfelt DIY gifts can go a long way. Here are some simple, no-cost or low-cost ideas:
- Personalized Recipe Book: Combine your favorite recipes into a small booklet.
- Memory Jar: Write down special memories or messages and place them in a decorated jar.
- Custom Playlist: Curate a thoughtful playlist for someone you know loves music.
Sometimes, the best gifts don’t come with a price tag—they come from the heart.
Shop Holiday Gift Sets: You Can’t Go Wrong
If there’s one thing shoppers don’t regret during the holidays, it’s opting for ready-made gift sets.
No7 Holiday Gift Set
The No7 holiday gift set stands out as a premium and practical choice. Featuring a collection of skincare essentials and makeup must-haves, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a thoughtful gift with true value.
Shop Holiday Gift Sets for Women
For the women in your life, look for spa kits with bath salts and skincare masks, or curated makeup sets featuring multiple color palettes. Retailers like Sephora and Ulta often feature exclusive holiday sets.
Shop Holiday Gift Sets Clearance
Once the holidays approach their end, make sure to check your favorite stores or online retailers for post-season clearance sales. It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on gift sets for the next season—or treat yourself!
Make Gifting a Breeze This Holiday Season
Gift-giving doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning and thoughtfulness—and by taking advantage of pre-made gift sets—you can cross everyone off your shopping list and enjoy the festive season stress-free.
Start shopping for holiday gift sets today and experience the joy of giving thoughtfully curated presents.
Misty Severi