KidsInTheHouse the Ultimate Parenting Resource
Kids in the House Tour

Practical Gifts to Splurge on This Year

practical gifts 2022

The holiday season is all about spreading love and joy. Giving family and friends gifts shows how much you care. Finding the perfect gift can be challenging. The best thing you can do is consider what the person may actually use, even if it’s a little over budget. Here are some practical gifts to splurge on this Christmas.

1. A Kindle

This is the ideal gift for any of your avid readers. It’s portable and can hold multiple stories at once. With your family’s busy lifestyle, they can easily pack the device and take it on the go. Also, certain brands, such as the Kindle Paperwhite, are easier to read when it’s sunny out. So, on warmer days your family members can relax and read outside. It’s also waterproof making it less stressful to bring on vacation.

2. An Espresso Machine

The average person drinks about three cups of coffee per day. It helps wake you up in the morning and gets you through the rest of your day. With more people working remotely, it’s more convenient to make coffee at home. Plus, then they can skip the long lines and save money.

When shopping for a machine consider the different types of features. Suppose your friend prefers their coffee iced. Then look for a machine that offers “brew over ice” and cold brew modes.

3. Noise Canceling Headphones

Sometimes we all need a little peace and quiet. These headphones allow you to listen to music while blocking out distracting sounds. They’re the perfect gift for those who work from home or attend college. You can find a variety of options from popular brands, such as Sonny or Bose. Some even have additional features, like multipoint Bluetooth pairing.

4. An Apple Watch

This is the perfect gift for all your tech lovers. It provides all their texts and notifications in one place. So, they can check messages even when away from their phone. The watch is also great for fitness enthusiasts. It can help track their workouts and monitor their heart rate. The device contains multiple apps, so they can stream music or get directions. Plus, it’s a stylish accessory that can complement any look.

5. A Robot Vacuum

Cleaning your house can take time. A robot vacuum is an ideal present for busy parents. The automatic device allows them to sit back and relax. Some Roombas even empty the dirt bin by themselves.

Another feature to look for is machines that come with an app. These can be useful for monitoring your vacuum and scheduling cleaning sessions. Consider the type of flooring your friend has as well. Some vacuums may work better on carpets than others.

6. Designer Bags

Do you have friends or family that are really into fashion? Then consider getting them a luxury handbag. Purses are practical gifts that they can use every day. It’s also great for people who enjoy going out on the weekends and need a place to keep all their things. You can shop for designer bags at stores, like Bloomingdales or Neiman Marcus.

7. A Dining Table

Remodeling is becoming a popular trend. So, why not give your friends some stylish decor to add to their space? A table is a functional gift they can use for many years. Plus, it’s an ideal present for friends or family who are planning a move. If you're looking for a unique piece, consider a shaker-style dining table. They are made from classic hardwood providing durability and longevity.

8. A Portable Projector

Suppose you have a family that loves to watch movies. A projector lets them enjoy their favorite films from the comfort of their home. It also saves them money on money tickets and the hassle of waiting in line. The device is also a good gift for people who like to entertain.

When picking a projector there are multiple things to consider. One of the most important ones is which type you want. There are two main kinds-digital light processing (DLP) or liquid crystal display (LCD). The DLP projector’s light passes through a color wheel. However, LCD uses a chip containing three colors only. You also want to make sure the machine can output enough brightness. To determine this check the ANSI lumens rating.

9. An Air Purifier

Give the gift of clean air this holiday season. Improved air quality can prevent people from getting sick. With the prevalence of COVID-19, it’s even more important to reduce the spread of germs. An air purifier is also an ideal gift for those with allergies. It can help remove dust, allowing them to breathe easier. Plus, with cleaner air, you may even sleep better.

10. A Bluetooth Speaker

Do you have family members who love to blast music? This speaker can provide an enjoyable listening experience. They can also connect to their favorite streaming services right from the app screen. Setting it up is also convenient and is done right from their phone. Some speakers have other non-music features, like displaying the time. Also, the device is the perfect gift for the person who hosts all the family gatherings.

The Best Gifts for Family and Friends

During Christmas time you probably spend lots of time running around stores. It can be a lot of trying to find the best gift for all your loved ones. So, the next time you’re out, consider adding one of these practical presents to your cart.