The 57 Best Stocking Stuffers of 2023 for Last-Minute Shopping — All Under $50

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Including unique knick-knacks and functional tech accessories that start at just $7 on Amazon

<p>People / Kristin Kempa</p>

People / Kristin Kempa

Stocking stuffers: the unsung heroes of holiday gifting. It’s an excuse to exercise a little creative liberty in a sea of wish lists. A fabulous stocking stuffer feels festive, as the limitations of a traditional stocking should be taken more as a guideline than a mandate, and the recipient should be gifted with joyful times ahead in mind.



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Less attentive gift-givers need not worry. We’ve curated a list of stocking stuffers with plenty of affordable options that run the gambit from intimate to universal. Whether you’re the type to stock up last minute or are a calculated elf that takes months to prep, there’s something for everyone.

Keep scrolling to discover PEOPLE’s picks for the best stocking stuffers this season, organized by price point.

Under $15

Lego Sonic The Hedgehog

<p>Lego</p>

Lego

Designed for kids 10 years old and up, this miniature build is small enough to add to a stocking. The iconic Sonic The Hedgehog character toy includes 139 pieces and is portable enough to be taken to playdates or anywhere else on the go.

Kitsch Heatless Curling Set

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

Heatless curlers are back and better than ever; you might as well toss out your old curling iron. This set from Kitsch creates effortless curls without the heat damage that other hair tools can cause. Plus, it can save you time in your morning routine: All you need to do is wear them to bed and wake up with hair that’s ready to take on the day.

LOL Surprise Mini Sweets

<p>LOL Surprise </p>

LOL Surprise

It’s no surprise that LOL Surprises are a kid-favorite toy that are, quite frankly, perfect as stocking stuffers thanks to their petite size and round shape. Inclusive of seven pieces, this LOL Surprise features a doll that represents an iconic candy brand — think Junior Mints, Haribo Gold Bears, and Tootsie Pop. There are nine different dolls in this collection so you can grab more than one to start collecting.

Related: The 53 Best Gifts for Kids They'll Actually Like

Welly Handy Bandies

<p>Get Welly</p>

Get Welly

Welly bandages are a playful way to address scrapes and scratches for any age. This set is inspired by the Northern Lights and specifically designed for the hard-to-cover areas like knuckles, fingertips, and toes. For just $8, you get 24 bandages as well as a cute tin container to keep them in — which can then be reused for other knick knacks or recycled.

BP. Assorted Set of 9 Earrings

<p>Nordstrom</p>

Nordstrom

New earrings are always a treat — and this 3-pair set is available at Nordstrom for $12. With an assortment of hoop sizes, these silver-tone earrings offer a nice mix that can be worn casually or dressed up for something more formal.

Burts Bees Squeezy Tinted Lip Balms

<p>Marshalls</p>

Marshalls

This drugstore-favorite beauty brand is undoubtedly known for its classic lip balms — and for good reason. We dare say, though, that these squeezable tinted lip balms are even better. Featuring a mix of scents and tints including sweet peach, berry sorbet, and watermelon rush, you can add one to three different bags so you're always covered. Available at Marshalls for just $10, the retailer has plenty of stocking stuffer options — just head to its Gift Guide page for inspiration within any budget.

Harry Potter Snitch Hot Chocolate Bomb

<p>Williams Sonoma</p>

Williams Sonoma

It’s not Christmas without a sweet treat as soon as you wake up — why not make it hot chocolate? This golden milk chocolate shell is filled with hot cocoa mix and marshmallows for a quick, easy, and delicious hot cocoa in mere seconds.

Charbonnel et Walker Biscuit Truffle Ornament Box

<p>Willams Sonoma</p>

Willams Sonoma

For a more luxe option when it comes to chocolate stocking stuffers, gift them something memorable in this Charbonnel et Walker ornament box filled with decadent caramelized biscuit truffles.

No Bend Makeup Application Hair Clips

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

These cute barrettes can be used as functional tools to keep the strands away from your face during skincare and makeup routines, but they're cute enough to style and wear out of the house, as well.

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

Winter months can equate to dry, flaky skin. Shea butter is one of the best ingredients for nourishing and moisturizing your skin, and this one from L’Occitane was one of the best hand creams we tested.

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes

<p>Target</p>

Target

It's always nice to stock up on skincare staples, and makeup remover wipes are a great beauty gifting option — especially during the midst of holidays and New Years parties when you may be wearing more makeup than usual.

Reusable Glass Wavy Straws

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

One PEOPLE shopping editor loves these glass reusable straws. Not only are they affordable, but they're surprisingly durable, too, thanks to being made from shatter-resistant borosilicate glass.

Barbie Uno

<p>Walmart</p>

Walmart

This limited-edition Uno deck is fun for adults and children alike. Enjoy playing the classic Uno card game featuring characters and designs straight from Barbie The Movie.

Anthropologie Bar Soap

<p>Anthropologie</p>

Anthropologie

We simply can't get over the cuteness of these bar soaps by Emily Taylor for George & Viv. Pick from nine different soaps, each with a unique scent and packaging for a novel way to dress up a typically boring home necessity.

Anthropologie Hot Air Balloon Monogram Ornament

<p>Anthropologie</p>

Anthropologie

Anthropologie designs some of the best ornaments on the market, and this monogram hot air balloon is no exception. Since it's hand-painted and features a hanging letter to represent the giftee, this personalized ornament feels extra special.

Related: The 24 Best Amazon Holiday Decor Finds of 2023

Lightning Cord Charger Bundle

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

One thing you actually can't have too many of is a phone charger. This four-pack of pink charging cords adds a little fun to something purely functional. It works with any lightning cable device and includes three different lengths: 3 feet, 6 feet, and 10 feet.

Apple Airpods Case Cover

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

For anyone getting a new pair of AirPods this Christmas, adding a new case to their stocking is a must — and a fun tease to what's waiting to be unwrapped!

Related: The 13 Best Wireless Headphones of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Tony's Chocolate Sampler

<p>Target</p>

Target

Upgrade from the typical drugstore chocolate options with Tony's Chocolates featuring six flavors including milk chocolate hazelnut, milk chocolate caramel sea salt, and dark chocolate — we promise you won't regret it.

Monos Luggage Alphabet Stickers

<p>Monos</p>

Monos

These monogram stickers from Monos can make even the most basic luggage more stylish. Plus, they make it easier to spot your luggage on the carousel at baggage claim.

Related: The 13 Best Checked Luggage of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Draper James Busy Notepad

<p>Draper James</p>

Draper James

A cute notepad is always a worthy gift for the planners and list-makers in your life. This lined notepad has 50 sheets and would be a perfect pairing to these Kate Spade pens.

Kikkerland Dog Hiking Kit

<p>World Market</p>

World Market

Slip this into your dog's stocking for a gift that's not treats or toys. The miniature kit includes paper water bowls, poop bags, dog light, tick removal kit, and a booklet so both you and your pup are prepared for the next outdoor adventure — which is honestly the best gift you can give.

LifeLines Scented Colored Pencils

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

These scented colored pencils are a part of Lifelines, a stress relief lifestyle line from the founders of Melissa & Doug. Whether you're buying for more serious artists or a casual doodler, they'll both appreciate these playful colored pencils that omit unique scents, from "apple trees laden with blossoms" to "springtime brunch in the garden."

Kikkerland Travel 4-Piece Nail Kit

<p>World Market</p>

World Market

This miniature kit offers easy nail upkeep no matter where you are in the world. It includes one large nail clipper, one small nail clipper, one cuticle pusher and nail filer, and one emery board — for just $8.

Heyday 4000mAh Power Bank

<p>Target</p>

Target

Give the gift of an everlasting phone battery with this affordable power bank from Target. This 4000 mAh power bank includes a charging cable and compact design so you can take it wherever you need to go.

World's Smallest Bop It!

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

Small enough to fit in your pocket, this miniature Bop It embodies '90s nostalgia. The fun handheld game includes an instruction booklet, a base, and batteries, so you can play it immediately out of the package.

ColourPop Holiday Cosmetic Gift Set

<p>Target</p>

Target

Add some sparkle to your life with this holiday cosmetic set by Colourpop. It comes with an eyeshadow palette featuring five pans that include both neutrals and glittery shades as well as the brand's cream gel eyeliner that claims to be waterproof, highly pigmented, and last 18 hours.

Heyday Checkerboard Disposable Camera

<p>Target</p>

Target

Digital phone pictures are out — disposable film is in. This one-time use disposable camera takes 17 photos and features a trendy checkerboard design. You can even start a new tradition and use it to take pictures Christmas morning.

Under $30

Sugarfina Champagne Bears, Pack of 3

<p>Nordstrom Rack</p>

Nordstrom Rack

Delight your giftees with these adorable (and delicious, we might add) Sugarfina gummies made from Dom Perignon Vintage Champagne — but are still non-alcoholic. They're an elevated alternative to typical Christmas candy.

Mimosa Sugar Cubes

<p>Uncommon Goods</p>

Uncommon Goods

Brunch-lovers, rejoice — you don't need to keep orange juice in stock to enjoy a delicious mimosa. Simply add a cube to some bubbly and watch it turn into your favorite cocktail in seconds...perhaps the closest thing we've come to magic.

Apple AirTag

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

Never wonder where your missing luggage ended up ever again. An Apple Airtag is a thoughtful gift for frequent travelers, pet owners, or any forgetful person who's always losing their keys or purse.

Related: The 7 Best Dog GPS Trackers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara

<p>Sephora</p>

Sephora

This waterproof mascara earned PEOPLE Tested's best overall title after testing 34 different mascaras. We found it effectively lengthened, curled, and volumized our lashes (without clumping) more than any other mascara we tested — so it's well worth the cost, especially if you wear mascara daily.

Colgate Whitening Pen

<p>Walmart</p>

Walmart

This portable whitening pen is the perfect beauty gift that helps brighten teeth whether you’re at home or headed on vacation. Just apply the gel to your teeth overnight and wake up with a noticeable brighter smile in just one week.

5-in-1 Barbecue Tool

<p>World Market </p>

World Market

The grillmaster in your family will appreciate this functional tool that helps them grill whenever, wherever. Designed like a Swiss Army Knife, it features five barbeque essentials in one: basting brush, fork, slotted spatula, corkscrew, and bottle opener.

Related: The 6 Best Portable Gas Grills of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

PopSockets PopGrip Cell Phone Grip

<p>Target</p>

Target

Phone accessories are an easy way to show off your personality or style — and we love PopSockets for their playful functionality. For under $20, you get a phone grip and stand all in one.

Calvin Klein Pack of 3 Assorted Bikinis

<p>Nordstrom Rack</p>

Nordstrom Rack

If you plan to gift basics like socks and underwear as stocking stuffers, might as well opt for something they may not buy themselves — like these cute Calvin Klein bikini briefs that come in three different colors and prints.

Tarte Shape Tape Star Squad

<p>Tarte</p>

Tarte

Tarte's Shape Tape concealer is the best of the best (trust us, we tested it along with 22 other under eye concealers). This duo features mini sizes of the classic Shape Tape concealer along with the Shape Tape Glow Wand so you can effectively conceal and brighten at the same time.

Chamberlain Coffee Electric Whisk

<p>Chamberlain Coffee</p>

Chamberlain Coffee

Whether you prefer your caffeinated latte in the form of matcha, chai, or coffee, this is an essential tool in any home barista’s arsenal. This electric whisk brings milk to a smooth, creamy froth with minimal effort — just add two AA batteries and you’re ready to caffeinate.

Related: The 9 Best Milk Frothers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Laneige Lip Mask

<p>Sephora</p>

Sephora

Any beauty lover knows this PEOPLE-Tested lip mask is a nightstand must-have. Especially for dry winter nights, this leave-on lip product transforms thirsty lips thanks to the inclusion of vitamin C, shea butter, murumuru seed, and antioxidants. Wake up with soft, hydrated lips ready for the day ahead.

Slip Ornament Scrunchie Set

<p>Nordstrom Rack</p>

Nordstrom Rack

Silk scrunchies have become popular as they’re a healthier choice for your hair, less likely to contribute to split ends and frizz compared to other hairbands that pull and tug at your strands. There’s a festive way to gift these thanks to this Slip ornament that houses four scrunchies and fits seamlessly into a stocking.

Smartwool x Free People Socks

<p>Free People </p>

Free People

Sure, getting socks for Christmas is predictable, but it’s possible to make this functional gift a bit more exciting. Case in point: These Smartwool x FP Movement socks that aren’t just warm and cozy, but also feature a uniquely cute design that pairs well with Ugg slippers, hiking boots, and Birkenstock clogs.

JBL Bluetooth Speaker

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

With a 4.8 average rating from over 33,000 Amazon customers, this is a speaker that anyone could benefit from. Take it to class, the park, a New Years Eve party, or just keep around the house for whenever you need a dance break — either way, you can get lots of use out of this handy little speaker that’s currently 40 percent off.

Dr. Loretta Satin Skincare Headband

<p>Dr. Loretta </p>

Dr. Loretta

This one’s for the skincare lovers with a strict nighttime beauty routine. Push back your hair with this luxe satin headband from Dr. Loretta to elevate your regimen even more. If you’re not familiar with the brand, we recommend The Essentials Kit if you’re in need of another skincare gift.

World Market Astrology Card Deck

<p>World Market</p>

World Market

For a friend or family member who loves to tell you about their sun, moon, and rising Zodiac signs, let them get lost in the mysticism with this easy-to-use astrology card deck. Friendly to beginners, this card deck contains information on different signs and wisdom from the cosmos. It also comes with an instructional booklet that teaches you about astrology readings, interpreting birth charts, and more.

Christmas Cracker Bath Fizzers

<p>World Market</p>

World Market

Gifting Christmas cracker sets is one of the best holiday traditions, and now it’s not just cookies and crackers that your giftee can enjoy. This cracker set includes three packages with three bath bombs in each, and with festive scents like plumeria blossom, honey and spice, and vanilla cedarwood, all it takes it one soak to feel calm and collected for the holidays.

Port and Polish Pill Box

<p>Nordstrom</p>

Nordstrom

Reminding a loved one to take their pills and vitamins might just be the best gift you give. This Port and Polish pill box is both chic and useful with a compact design and separate compartments for every day of the week.

Chromecast with Google TV

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

Google Chromecast with Google TV is a must-have for Google households. It houses all the shows and movies from your subscribed streaming services in one place so you don't have to bop back and forth between them to decide what to watch. Plus, you can access your Nest camera video feeds from around your house for easy monitoring.

Related: 6 Best Places to Buy TVs, According to Tech Experts

Athleta Coffee Run Wallet

<p>Athleta </p>

Athleta

For anyone always on the go, the Athleta Coffee Wallet is as good as gift as any. We love how easy it is to store your cards and IDs, cash, and keys in this wallet so you're always prepared to run out for errands, coffee, or last-minute weekend adventures.

Horti Cuttings Mini Vase, Set of 3

<p>Horti </p>

Horti

Horti has some of the most gorgeous gifts and tools for plant parents, including this set of three mini vases that can beautifully display your cuttings.

Open Story Luggage Scale

<p>Target</p>

Target

A luggage scale is something you don’t know you need until you really need one. This small scale is easy to use and ideal for a stocking belonging to anyone who travels often or has a big trip planned in the new year. They won’t be left guessing exactly how much they overpacked.

Birdie Safety Alarm

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

Anyone can benefit from this safety alarm which activates a loud alarm and flashing strobe light when triggered. It's small enough to put in your coat pocket or throw in a bag. Just attach your keys to it and you're good to go.

Related: The 9 Best Weekender Bags of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Living Proof Travel Size Dry Shampoo

<p>Target</p>

Target

One of the most useful things to have on hand is a travel-sized dry shampoo, and this one from Living Proof has earned a 4.6 average rating from nearly 3,000 Target shoppers.

Homesick New York City Candle

<p> Courtesy of Home Sick</p>

Courtesy of Home Sick

With top notes of bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit, this Homesick candle is meant to be reminiscent of spring days in Central Park, fine department stores, and concrete. It has a typical burn time of 60 to 80 hours, so you'll get plenty of use out of this elevated candle.

Price at time of publish: $28.50 (orig. $38)

Kate Spade Pen Set

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

No matter the age, everyone can use elevated office or school supplies. Each set comes with five pens with five different designs to choose from — you can even buy one pack and put one or two pens in different stockings.

Kitsch Satin Pillowcase, Set of 2

<p>Kitsch</p>

Kitsch

Satin pillowcases can be good for your hair and skin as they help prevent tugging while you're sleeping. Kitsch's pillowcases feature a 600 thread count and is Oeko-Tex certified, meaning the textile has been tested for potentially harmful substances.

Under $50

Sundays Gel Removal Kit

<p>Sundays  </p>

Sundays

Removing a gel manicure at home doesn't have to be a pain anymore thanks to this eight-piece set from Dear Sundays. It comes with everything you need to achieve a safe and comfortable gel nail removal in less than 20 minutes.

Tarte Mascara Set

<p>Tarte Cosmetics</p>

Tarte Cosmetics

The Tarte Mascara best-sellers may be the ideal stocking stuffers for beauty fanatics. It includes three full-size mascaras — Big Ego Vegan Mascara, Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in-1 mascara, and Tartelette Tubing Mascara — as well as the Double Take Eyeliner for only $44 (normally a $101 value).

Athleta Tahoe Chenille Beanie

<p>Athleta </p>

Athleta

If there's such thing as a fancy beanie, this is it. Designed with a chenille fabric, these super soft beanies from Athelta come in four colors, partially made from recycled polyester, and will surely keep your loved one's head warm on frigid days.

Take Our Word For It

PEOPLE Senior Commerce Editor Erika Reals curated this stocking stuffer gift guide. She has more than 5 years of experience in writing and editing shopping content across different categories, including fashion, beauty, home, and kitchen products. She researched affordable small gifts perfect for stocking stuffers and included the best ones here. To her, a gift that’s both thoughtful and unique is more valuable than a specific brand or price point. PEOPLE contributor Erika Veurink is the original author of this roundup.

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