Stocking stuffers can easily get expensive. And if you just go looking for “stocking stuffers,” without any real ideas in mind, it can be hard to know what to look for! I like to check the clearance sections — especially at drugstores — all year long for inexpensive goodies to add, but if you haven’t done your shopping yet, there’s a similar online solution: “fillers.”
We’ve all done it — added an inexpensive item to an order to bump us up above the “free shipping” threshold. Those inexpensive filler items are a prime opportunity (or a Prime opportunity? 😉 ) Amazon is especially handy, because you can find whole sites that will let you search for items that are free shipping-eligible, starting at the price you specify. (Hint: start low; you can always bump it up.) I’m going to share some items I found that I think would make especially good stocking stuffers.
But first, one more thing: if you shop at Vitacost, be sure to scroll to the footer before you place your order, and look for the free samples. You can add two to each order, and many of these make great stocking stuffers (as do other samples you accumulate throughout the year).
Awesome, Inexpensive Stocking Stuffers You Can Add to Your Amazon Order
Spalding inflating needles (2-pack) — $0.89
If you have a young man (or a not-so-young man) in your life, this is an out-of-the-box option, and very inexpensive! These are so small they’re easy to lose track of, so it’s good to “replenish” them every now and then. 🙂
The Westminster Shorter Catechism with Scripture Proofs — $1
This is a classic (and you can’t beat the price)! Some recipients may appreciate it for reference, because the catechism is a familiar standby. Others may find it beneficial for learning the catechism, or even as an interesting peek into church history.
Pocket Constitution — $1
While we’re on books, this pocket copy of the Constitution is another option to consider. How familiar are you (and your family) with the Constitution? Do you have a copy handy to be able to look something up whenever you want?
1,000-pack of rubber bands for bracelet loom — $1
If you have daughters with a bracelet loom, then you know they can go through rubber bands in short order! Toss these in their stockings, and you can keep them in business for a little while longer.
Dover mini sticker books — $1.00-1.99
These Dover sticker books are about the size of a postcard. They come in a variety of themes, and many of them are available for $1-$1.99, including these butterflies and Picasso art stickers.
Cree mini tactical flashlight — $3.62
This particular little flashlight got great reviews on a survivalist/prepper blog, so it seems to be one of the better options where mini flashlights are concerned. The price is a little higher than most of the items on this list, but it’s a very practical gift.
Ponytail holders — $1.75-ish
The price for these will obviously vary depending on what you decide to get. Options similar to these or these run about $1.75/package. Or you can get clips (these are $2) or other hair accessories. (My girls are constantly losing their ponytail holders, so getting more is rarely a bad move!)
Credit card bottle opener — $1.95
If you have a recipient who drinks beer or artisan soft drinks, interesting bottle openers can make an interesting gift. This credit card-shaped version is easy to carry around.
-OR- Ring bottle opener — $3.67
This ring version is particularly interesting. (You can get it for under $1.50 if you’re ordering early enough to allow for international shipping. So probably not if you’re reading this post while it’s new. Actually, there are a lot of great inexpensive items available through Amazon if you order plenty early. Maybe I’ll do another post later about ships-from-Asia Amazon deals.)
Washi/decorative tape — $1.99+
Washi tape (along with other decorative tapes, like printed duct tape) is all the rage. It comes in a wide variety of styles, colors, and prints, so even if you initially think this wouldn’t be a good match, check and see what’s out there before you rule it out completely. This Disney princess tape would be a good choice even for a little girl you might otherwise think is rather young for washi tape. (My sister’s preschool boys love washi tape, as well, because it’s an easy way to make art. And she loves that she can still get it off if they stick it to something they shouldn’t.) The lace and glitter tapes here offer very different looks and textures — and of course there is also the more traditional patterned tape.
Paracord bracelet with compass — $3.37
Here we have a couple more guy-friendly options (‘though girls can appreciate these, too 🙂 ). This paracord bracelet with a compass attached looks cool for everyday and is handy for camping.
4-function whistle — $3.97
This is another nifty survival/camping tool. The four-in-one whistle not only has a whistle to make yourself heard in case of emergency; it also has a thermometer, compass, and magnifier.
Do you have other favorite stocking stuffers from Amazon?
Note: All prices were current as of the creation of this post. This post does contain affiliate links.
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