Suprise gifts make Christmas a little brighter with the novelty and practical gift ideas
While some people are very specific about want they need or want for Christmas, some gift givers find that notion a little dull. Sure, we want to give people want they want and need, but sometimes it is even more satisfying to give someone a gift that they never knew how they lived without it until they opened the package.
Yes, people need wallets, scarves and underwear, but even if these items are great, they usually don’t delight and bring about joy. These items all have the capacity to do that. They are all a little different and people either need them, want them or hopefully need and want them.
WARNING: Some of the items featured on this list are a little gross, but humans are a little gross sometimes and people looking for something different and possibly funny may glom onto the items that are not necessarily geared towards the faint of heart.
NOTE: None of these items are made up of sponsored content. They are here because I think they are awesome and hope they provide many smiles during the holidays and beyond.
Hope you and your loved ones enjoy this novelty and practical gift guide. Many of these items are perfect stocking stuffers.
Elba-Macht Magnetic Wristband
Have you ever been trying to fix something and accidentally lose one of the bolts or screws? That common happening can be a thing of the past with Elba-Macht Magnetic Wristband. This is such a great idea and will save a lot of time looking for metallic ingredients are dropped when trying to do repairs. This is the perfect gift for any DIY-er. It also comes with a Magnetic Belt Clip that holds heavier magnetic items. Get your Elba-Macht Magnetic wristband at Amazon here.
Sporty Seats
OK, this one is practical, but it is a necessity if you rely on a car, especially a car that you use to transport kids. Cars get wet, dirty and smelly. While sometimes you think ahead and put down a towel or a tarp, they don’t always do the trick. Sporty Seats are simple car seat covers that are easy on and off and do not impede safety at all. They are made of quality laminate fabrics with waterproof layers of BPA free laminate. Sporty Seats come in a variety of colors and are designed to fit all sorts of headrests. These made in the U.S.A. products can be found here.
BRAINGASM
Not only are games essential surprise gifts, but you’ve gotta have something on your list that is a little naughty, for those who like a little vulgarity in their party games. BRAINGASM isn’t meant for kids, and maybe not even for parents with their grown children, but it needs to be under the tree for anyone in your life who loves to laugh and isn’t easily offended. It is so fun that you will play it over and over again. Think a picture version of Cards Against Humanity crossed with Where’s Waldo. Something else that makes this game so great is that it is entirely portable. It is about the size of a deck of cards. Get a BRAINGASM for yourself and any of your dirty-minded friends here at Amazon.
Silver Metal Straw from Sand Cloud
If you have friends or family members that are out to save the planet, then you need to get them a reusable straw from Sand Cloud. These standard-sized metal straws are made from stainless steel and come with a cool carrying bag and cleaning brush. They feel good in your hand and make your heart feel better as you know you are helping save marine life by using a reusable straw. Get your Silver Metal Straw from Sand Cloud here.
bittersweet Hair Tie Bracelet
Chasing after an elastic hair tie can be a real pain. They are never around when you need one, and people with long hair never know when they will need one. These beautiful bracelets from bittersweet made by Maria Shireen come in different finishes and styles, with Stainless Steel Hair Tie Bracelet being especially cool. They look like jewelry, but the design lets you hold elastics in a way that makes them blend in with just about any ensemble. Get your bittersweet bracelet here.
Turdcules
It is unlikely that people will buy a toilet elixir for themselves, however, the Turdcules products are fantastic. This company isn’t afraid to laugh at itself, but this is something that people sould receive and if they have any sense of humor at all, would love it. These elixirs have the best names, including LogSplitter, Turdally Awesome, Tennessee Hangover, Turdpedo, Pooseidon, There’s Somethin’ Brewing and the festive pine-scented Sasquat. This is a must-have item. Get them here.
Anson Belt & Buckle
A belt really is a gift on the practical side, but the beautifully crafted items from Anson Belt & Buckle will make the receiver very happy. This is a micro-adjustable, hole-less belt. Instead of five holes 1″ apart as in the case of most belts, an Anson Belt has 30+ options ¼” apart, always giving a perfect fit. Anson Belt comes in leather, canvas, nylon and cloth options that can go with any outfit. The buckles are stylish too. Get your Anson Belt & Buckle here.
Banana Phone
When you think about it, who doesn’t need a Banana Phone? This Bluetooth®-enabled Wireless Mobile Handset connects to iPhones and Androids, can be used with voice assistants like Siri to dial out, it is rechargeable, has a ten hour talk time and it is just so much fun to have around. Get a Banana Phone here.
Clipa
Where to put your purse when out is a common problem, but with a Clipa you and your loved one always have a handy bang hook with you. The Clipa comes in six finishes and is one of the best products to keep with you at all times. Get the Clipa for anyone on your list at Amazon or here.
ECOlunchbox’s 3-in-1 Splash Box
ECOlunchbox’s 3-in-1 Splash Box is the future for homemade lunches. Now, this is a lunchbox that looks like it belongs in outer space. It really is cool and easy to take with you. It is made with a modular, leak-proof nesting three-piece set that is plastic-free. It has two levels that holds up to four cups of food. Get your ECOlunchbox 3-in-1 Splash Box Blue Water Bento here.
Relay Go
It might be surprising to learn that not everyone wants to own a smartphone. Parents can be reluctant in giving their young kids a phone, but they want to be able to be able to contact their kids without any fuss and be able to verify their locations. Relay Go is an alternative to a smartphone. It is a modern take on a walkie-talkie that works over 4G LTE and WiFi and allows people to exchange messages in real time. It is easy-to-use and surprisingly durable. It can work from across the country. The companion app lets you track the holder of the other and you can even add additional units and channels. While this is marketed to parents, senior citizens may find this particularly valuable. Help, information or company can be there at a push of a button. Get your Relay Go at Target, Amazon or here.
HoldZie
The HoldZie is meant to be used as a bedside beverage holder that can slide between a mattress and box spring, and it works very well in that capacity, but this portable item is fun to move from room to room and use any time you need a height adjustable wine or other beverage holder. They even have one that has two side pockets where you can stash a remote, your phone, a snack or something else. The HoldZie is convenient and versatile. It will make people laugh, but they will use it. Get your HoldZie here.
Beekman 1802 Goat Poop
Yes, you read that right. How many parents use the line that if you aren’t good Santa will leave you a lump of coal, or possibly some reindeer poop? Well, Beekman 1802 actually went through with this threat. Well, sorta. Poop has never tasted so good. The Goat Poop is a delicious blend of chocolate mixed with crunchy pretzels, almonds, hazelnuts, cookies, malt balls, and chewy caramels. Many flavor options are available. The receiver of the Goat Poop will definitely be the talk of any holiday party. Get your Beekman 1802 Goat Poop here.
The Cube
Step away from the electronic devices and try something that mesmerized millions of people. The Cube as it is known is fun to play with and hard to put down. Speed challenges seem to be the big thing with these no tech toys. Add at least one to your list and get it here.
PHOOZY
Keeping your phone safe from the elements is pretty important. And everyone seems to know someone who had a tendency to kill their phone. Well, the PHOOZY can save them a lot of grief. It saves phones from extreme temperatures, as well as providing drop and float protection. They also were created using spacesuit technology, so they are fun to talk about. Get your PHOOZY here.
Vaya Tyffyn
Keeping a hot lunch hot in the winter can be a challenge. The Tyffyn Wool Pattern Lunchbox by Vaya can keep your meal warm for up to six hours (and cold food too, if that is your preference). Stackable insulated Tyffns are free of BPAs and are easy-to-clean. The containers are not only great-looking, come in a variety of styles, feature a no-spill lid and have a heat-protective finger grip, but the best thing is that it comes with a matching BagMat shoulder tote that unrolls into a placemat where you can even store your utensils. Get your Vaya Tyffn here.
The Lip Bar
Customizable lipsticks in a pretty box is beyond cool. The Lip Bar is a vegan and cruelty-free line of lipsticks that come in a variety of textures and colors. The packaging is superb. The Lip Bar line is available at Target, but you may also find your perfect vibrant shade here.
Tick Tock Turtle
It is hard getting up in the morning. Well, at least or many of us ut is. The Tick Tock Turtle takes away some of the sting. This sleep trainer monitors your child (or your own) movements during the many cycles of sleep. Then it begins to wake them at their lightest stage of sleep to help make a drama-free morning. This is really cute and tough enough to tolerate rough play. Get your Tick Tock Turtle at Amazon or here.
Glacier Wellness CBD Muscle Salve
We all know people who have stiff joints, muscle pain or arthritis and are always looking for something to make them feel better. The Glacier Wellness team created a natural pain relief made hemp and other quality ingredients to create CBD Muscle Salve. This salve also includes ginger, lavender, mint and grapefruit. It feels good and smells even better. Get your Glacier Wellness CBD Muscle Salve at Amazon here.
SOI
The SOI Handbag Light is fantastic and not just for what it is marketed to do. Just touch this flying saucer looking LED light and it can brighten your purse, car, room and possibly, your life. OK, I am giving a cute touch light a lot of credit, but it really is great to have. Buy your SOI here.
24 Carrot Co. Peas, Love & Happiness Tote
Having a great tote to go to the market is a necessity today. 24 Carrot Co. has some great-looking spacious totes that are made of cotton canvas, are washable and have funny sayings on them that make them a conversation starter. The Peas, Love & Happiness Tote is especially cute. Find your 24 Carrot Co. items here.
The Hot Head Thermal Hair Care
Deep conditioning is so important to those who have dry hair. The Hot Head by Thermal Hair Care is a cap that’s filled with flaxseeds and is microwaveable to help condition all of your hair. All you need to do is take your favorite conditioner, zap the Hot Hair in the microwave and you will have healthier hair in a jiffy. The Hot Head comes in 12 reversible designs. Get yours here.
Pix Perfect
Making art is therapeutic. It just is. For those of us who lived arranging colored lights to a black light board, just the thought of having a more modern option for this kind of temporary art with Pixels fills our hearts with glee. You can make anything you want with the sequins and peg kits from Pix Perfect. Get yours for anyone who you know who needs a creative outlet here.
Bergino Turf Base Stand/Coasters
Baseball lovers will enjoy having a bit of the game in their own homes. The durable Bergino Turf Base Stand/Coasters are a perfect gift for baseball fans and for people who don’t want to leave a ring on their end table. Beringo has lots of cool items for baseball fans. Get yours here.
Taylor Made Polish
Part of the fun of picking out a nail polish is learning what is the name of the color. Taylor Made Polish has a patent-pending Make Your Own Nail Polish experience, but they sell some fantastic colors online. These polishes are beautiful, last a long time and are part of the clean beauty movement. Some of the great colors include Tough Times = More Wine, Keep Calm & Dominate and Grass is Always Greener. Get your Taylor Made Polish here.
B Cups by Fermented Nation
Beer lovers know that the drinking vessel can help make the beer drinking experience even better. Brothers Justin and Joel Bigham created the perfect outdoor beer class that is made from shatter-proof plastic, are BPA free, dishwasher safe and stackable. They come in different versions for IPA, stout, sour or funk. Get your B Cups here.
HEX Essentials Bundle by HEX Performance
How can there be a detergent on this list? Easy. Sometimes the people we love stink. This typically falls into the categories of athletes and teenagers, but all of us have the capacity to have an unappealing aroma. Again, this gift needs to be given only to those with a sense of humor, but HEX Essentials Bundle will keep your fabric and gear smelling fresh because it eliminates bacterial stink. It comes with a HEX Detergent and Stain Remover, the HEX Anti-Stink Spray and a HEX Laundry Odor and Stain Fighter. How much more practical is a gift that makes you be able to bear the stench of your smelly loved ones? Get your biodegradable HEX products here.
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TrueBalance Game
Fidget toys help adults and kids destress and focus. The TrueBalance game was designed to help fine tune motor skills. This game seems deceptively simple. You are to neatly stack the magnetic discs made out of beechwood. Sounds easy, yes? However, it takes coordination and concentration to get these discs to line up properly. It is fun and a little different. Get your TrueBalance at The Grommet here.
Eggnots
Real eggs have such a perfect shape that they are always used for crafts and have inspired some beautiful jewelry and works of art and not just for Easter. Eggnots are eco-friendly ceramic eggs that really aren’t eggs at all, but just like a traditional egg, they are fun to decorate. Get your Eggnots here.
Bag Balm
OK, when you tell people the official use of Bag Balm, you will get a look. However, it has been a health and beauty secret for years and nothing makes your hands, lips and feet softer than this moisture-rich salve. Bag Balm comes in a variety of sizes, but it the once ounce cube and tube for your lips are incredibly handy to keep around. This is a perfect gift that people wouldn’t usually think of getting themselves. Learn more about Bag Blam and find out where you can get some here.
TELETIES
Keeping your hair out of your face has never been cuter. TELETIES are a multitasking hair tie that looks like a bracelet, but also doubles-up as a pretty hair tie. These come in large and small sizes and dozens of colors, prints and combination packs. All are sold in bunches of three. Get your TELETIES here.
We hope this Novelty and Practical Gift Guide helps you surprise your loved ones with some great gifts and stocking stuffers. Happy Holidays to you and yours from The Hollywood Digest.