Consumerism is at its yearly high-point, and so is the stress of many students preparing for final exams. If you’re ever stuck in limbo on a gift, let this guide help you with some ideas. 

After all, there is no need for you to add more stress to your plate.

1. Facemasks

It is COVID-19 holiday season after all, so why not get a practical gift. With the pandemic likely staying with us after this year, mask-wearing will surely tag along, too. There are a variety of cloth masks offered at different stores, but if you’re ever unsure what kind someone would like, just get a black one.

2. All kinds of socks

Just like facemasks, socks are a practical gift no one can turn down. There are a variety of socks you can give someone — for that friend who is always cold, get them fuzzy socks. If you are gifting someone who wears suits all the time, get them dress socks this holiday season. And if all else fails, get them funky socks — everyone loves Bob Ross socks. It is a gift that will surely warm their hearts and their feet.

3. All kinds of rocks

Who says you can’t give rocks as a gift? Finding the smoothest rock is the best gift an Adelie or Gentoo penguin can get. In our world, however, this could mean any pretty rock you find on the street or polished ones you can find in stores. If you’re looking for a gift to your significant other — or your crush — perhaps a rock or gem is the way to go.

Add a little spice to that idea, and get them a crystal.

4. Limited subscription to streaming services

Do you have a “parasite” on your Netflix account? Look no further — getting them a Netflix subscription will surely keep them away from yours for a while. It is also a versatile gift option, and it doesn’t have to be just Netflix. Crave, Hulu, Disney+ and many more have subscriptions as a gift option.

5. Baked goods

Give your friends and family the gift of baked goods this holiday. There is nothing more affectionate than the time and effort put into a gift, and that is evident in sugar cookies. It is a simple gift, and fun to make, that you can easily customize for the person you’re gifting it to.

6. Coffee or tea mugs

For that friend or family member of yours who loves coffee or tea, this is a good option. Who knows, they might have a collection of fancy mugs, making it an even better gift. You can also customize them if you want to take it to an extra mile. And above all, it can be a to-go mug as well for that friend who is always on the go.

7. Candles

Many stores right now have limited edition holiday candles you can buy. However, the higher quality of candle you want, the more expensive it is. The choice will surely depend on your gift budget. 

8. Care package

This kind of gift is up to your interpretation. If it is for your mom, consider a spa care package. If it is your dad, perhaps a shaving kit care package. If it is your sibling, who may be struggling with their own finals as well, get them that post-exam care package. There are many directions in which to take this idea so be creative.

9. S’well or Hydro Flask water bottle

Why not give the gift of hydration this holiday season? As students, drinking water is a task easily forgotten. S’well and Hydro Flask water bottles are popular brands for college students, although if you’re on a strict $20 budget, these two brands are not the way to go. 

10. Gift cards

If all else fails, find out what their favourite store is and get a gift card.

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J.C. Balicanta Narag | Editor-in-Chief

Graphic: Akshara Dash