Preface Preface

• It's Christmas time, when you need to fa-la-la-fill stockings with pocket-sized presents that hopefully won't bust the budget. You're in luck: The elves have been busy and we're happy to share ideas for the very best stocking stuffers for everyone on your list. And because bigger isn't always better, these gifts can be tucked into stockings, packed into suitcases, and cost less than a takeout dinner. Surprise, delight, and spread some holiday cheer with the best stocking stuffers.

Stock up on essentials that are anything but basic Stock up on essentials that are anything but basic

• Think bath tea and charming tins of whipped shea cream for her. He'd love to find a does-everything pocket tool in his stocking.

Be practical with stocking-size solutions Be practical with stocking-size solutions

• Small things that everyone could use make the best stocking stuffers - like a portable USB flash drive. Choose a personalized one so the gift feels extra thoughtful.

Give a pint-sized piece of motivation Give a pint-sized piece of motivation

• Give him custom collar stays that deliver secret love messages. Personalize a set of coasters for her with uplifting mantras, like "I love you to the moon and back".

Think humor for any jokesters on your list Think humor for any jokesters on your list

• The key to scoring the best stocking stuffers - don't take it too seriously. Give something cheeky, like a pencil case designed after a Converse sneaker.

Give gifts that make home a little bit happier Give gifts that make home a little bit happier

• Playful toddler plates and soup mugs add joy to the dinner table. Look for cool entertaining supplies (like a fruit keg tapping kit) as fun stocking stuffers for your favorite co-host.

Sneak a surprise into the stocking Sneak a surprise into the stocking

• Tuck something unexpected into the stocking that she'd never buy for herself - like foodie dice to roll out ideas when she's stumped on what to make for dinner. Or scout out small travel accessories, like a personalized luggage tag, with a note proposing your next getaway destination.