Stocking-stuffer ideas for men, women, kids and pets

Stocking stuffers are often the very first gifts people open - the ones people reach for with sleepy eyes and cocoa breath before the swirl of tearing wrapping paper and unboxing begins. And while they may not come with a giant bow, these little gifts can carry just as much meaning as those big-ticket items that might get opened last.

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What are stocking stuffers?

Traditionally slipped into holiday stockings hung by the fireplace, a doorknob or anywhere, really, stocking stuffers are the little gifts that are usually the first surprises unwrapped on a festive morning.

They're part of a holiday tradition that dates back centuries. The origin? It's said that Saint Nicholas once dropped gold coins down a chimney, and they landed in a stocking hung to dry. Over time, families embraced the idea of filling stockings with small surprises to open before (or alongside) bigger presents.

Even if families don't celebrate the holiday, the idea of stocking stuffers has grown beyond the tradition itself. Some families use them to stuff in gifts that are fun extras or inside jokes. Others go the cozy route with hand warmers, lip balm or fuzzy socks. And for practical gift-givers? Cepillos dentales, gum or moisturizers are fair game.

Stocking stuffers can be a fun way to share bite-sized joy: They’re small, thoughtful gifts that can be silly, sentimental or useful before the big gifts are opened.

Stocking stuffers for women

Hair masks

Winter weather can leave hair feeling dry and dull. For women who love a little extra hair care, a nourishing hair mask can be a good stocking-stuffer option.

Bonus tip: Pairing a hair mask with other hair-friendly goodies like mini dry shampoo, horquillas, a travel-size conditioner or cintas para el cabello can create a fun little beauty bundle.

Joyas

Who doesn't love a sparkly surprise? A dainty pair of earrings, a meaningful charm or a fun bracelet can go a long way. Someone might consider picking these finds at a local antique store or find pieces that remind her of shared memories.

Rímel

For women who are always on-the-go, a tube of mascara, which can be tossed into her purse or kept in her car, telegraphs thoughtfulness.

Bonus tip: Pairing mascara with other purse-friendly finds, like eyebrow gel, a compact mirror (such as the Conair Standard compact mirror), pintura de uñas o a cuticle oil pen, helps build a mini makeup kit just for her.

Bath bombs

Bath bombs are for the women who like adding a little drama into their bathwater. These compact, scented spheres dissolve in warm water to add color and skin-nourishing ingredients to a bath. They release bubbles and unique scents that might turn an ordinary Sunday evening soak into a self-care spa night.

Bonus tip: Pairing a bath bomb with other relaxing picks, like mascarillas faciales, travel-sized lotions, lip balms, satin sleep scrunchies or under-eye masks, can help create a bundle that might feel soothing without being too pricey.

Velas

Velas can be good options for that special someone. They can light their favorite scent (like peppermint, pine or vanilla) over a romantic dinner, a movie night or a relaxing bath. It can also be ideal for winding down after the holidays.

Bonus tip: Pairing the candle with cozy extras like hot cocoa packets, té samplers, fuzzy socks or a book light can help create a “cozy night in” stocking stuffer.

Handwritten note

Sometimes a meaningful gift doesn't have to come in a box. A handwritten note can be treasured by grandma, mom or aunt, especially when it includes a favorite memory, a thank-you or a few words that say she's loved.

People can keep it simple with pen and paper or make it special with a personalized card from CVS Photo that make it easy to put their hearts on paper.

Stocking stuffers for men

Whether he's outdoorsy, techy or the king of dad jokes, these ideas go beyond the basics to bring delight to his holiday. A little fun, a little practical, here are good holiday gift options for siblings, partners, dads and more.

Hand warmer

For the guy who's always outside - walking the dog, shoveling snow or tailgating at a football game - a pocket-sized hand warmer can be a good option. It's the kind of gift he didn't know he needed and might just use all winter long. And who knows? It could be the little thing that warms his hands - and maybe even his heart.

Beard oil

For the guy who’s got signature scruff, beard oil makes a practical (and pampering) stocking-stuffer option. It helps soften hair and keeps his grooming routine on point. He might apply some before traveling to work, heading to the gym or going out with the boys on a Friday night.

Bonus tip: Toss in a few self-care extras to create a grooming kit that he can access in his backpack, suitcase or gym duffel anywhere he goes. What could be inside the kit? Essentials for him, like travel-size crema para afeitar, mini deodorant, cologne, a beard comb, face wipes, hair trimmers or nail clippers.

Hot sauce samplers

It’s snack time — with a kick! A set of hot sauce samplers adds flavor, fun and maybe some friendly heat to his stocking. This option can be good for foodies or anyone who claims to handle spice with "no problem." They can spice up his eggs in the morning or his tacos at night.

Bonus tip: Create a full-on snack pack with add-ons like Well Market nuts or trail mix packs, jerky, chocolate, protein bars, coffee pods, reusable water bottles or even a mug from CVS Photo.

Bottle opener

Bottle openers can be good for impromptu hangouts, backyard BBQs or cracking open a beverage after a long day. Sturdy and versatile options can be proudly displayed next to his favorite mixers or tucked inside a kitchen drawer. It's a hardworking essential that's there when needed to host a crowd.

Multi-tool keychain

A great choice for the guy who loves being prepared, a multi-tool keychain is like a toolbox in his pocket. These tiny gadgets often come with screwdrivers, bottle openers and mini flashlights. They can be ideal for quick repairs, travel or even just tightening loose screws and bolts around the house.

Baterías

He might be powering up his favorite gadgets, syncing up the remote or gaming long hours. Baterías in the stocking? That’s not just clever — it’s considerate.

colonia

While he may not expect it, he might appreciate it. A sleek bottle of colonia tucked into his stocking is the kind of surprise that feels thoughtful. Whether he's headed to a holiday party or just wants to elevate his everyday fragrance, there are fresh new scents (bold, woodsy or clean) for different kinds of occasions.

Stocking stuffers for kids

When it comes to kids, stocking stuffers are often the most exciting part of the holiday morning. They might shake their stockings at dawn or discover surprises tucked inside later in the day. Below are gift options for toddlers, tweens and even teens (who might not admit they still check their stocking)!

Soft plushies

A cuddly plush toy can be a stocking-stuffer option for the littlest children. These soft companions offer a sense of security, especially during events and gatherings over the holidays where there can be more stimulation.

A stuffed animal, a themed character or a favorite plush can be something they can hug and hold on to all year long. Bonus if it crinkles, rattles or squeaks to keep their senses engaged!

Instant camera

Sometimes, good stocking stuffers spark a laugh, a game or a spontaneous photo shoot. For the memory maker or the kid who always wants to take a picture, an one-time use camera can be a fun surprise. It adds playfulness to holiday gatherings and captures candid moments in real time. If someone wants to go all-in, they might tuck in a small photo album, too.

Paint sets

For the creative kids —  and those who enjoy trying something new — paint sets are a colorful stocking-stuffer idea. Beginner-friendly options (like ArtSkills Acrylic Paint Set) include fine paints they need to get started. It's great for relaxing after the holidays, spending time creating with loved ones or simply adding a splash of color to their downtime.

Card games

Card games can be good options for holiday downtime or during a road trip. Games like Uno, trivia decks or even brain teasers can slide right into a stocking and help keep the good times going well after the gifts are unwrapped.

Diarios

A customizable journal is a way for older kids and teens to express themselves. They can doodle, write down thoughts, goals or gratitude. CVS® Photo journals even offer personalized versions.

Auriculares

For music-loving teens, auriculares can come in handy when they want to listen to their favorite playlist on the bus, stream a podcast while studying or tune into video calls with friends. A sleek pair of wired or wireless earbuds can make a practical and appreciated gift.

Bonus tip: Pairing them with a phone grip or charging cable creates a mini tech kit kids can use at home or at school.

Speakers

A orador can turn any space into a jam session or a dance party. It can be a good option for dorm rooms or for hangouts with friends.

Bonus tip: Caregivers might consider checking for versions that are compact, colorful or waterproof, so kids can take it anywhere.

Tarjetas de regalo

Tarjetas de regalo are easy. And they can work well when they are tailored to someone's favorite store, coffee spot or streaming service. CVS gift cards also work for quick pick-me-ups or wellness buys. To make them feel extra special, they can come with a handwritten note or inside a small, wrapped box.

Candy canes

They're a holiday classic, and they're a sweet way to dress up a stocking. A gift giver might hook the curved end over the stocking top for a festive pop or use a bundle of mini candy canes to add some color.

To take it one step further, someone might tie a ribbon, tuck in a handwritten note or add a sprig of pine or cinnamon stick to give the stocking a cozy, personal touch.

Stocking stuffers for dogs

The four-legged family members who greet their owners like rock stars (even if they've only been gone for five minutes) deserve some love in their stocking. Dogs can bring joy, loyalty and a whole lot of tail wags all year long. Here are some festive stocking-stuffer ideas just for pups.

Dog treats

No pup can resist the crinkle of a dog treat bag. Bone kabobs, savory jerky strips or classic peanut butter biscuits can be good gift options. For something extra festive, pet parents might try holiday-themed mini dog cookies or a lick pad to help keep them busy (and happy) while guests are over.

Dog clothes

Want to add some sparkle to a beloved pup's look? Toss in a tiny bandana or a holiday sweater they'll tolerate for at least one photo. Or include little booties to keep their paws toasty during walks in the cold snow.

Squeaky plush toys

For dogs of all sizes, squeaky plush toys can be soft, festive and good for cuddling or playtime. Toys shaped like holiday cookies, gingerbread men or gift boxes can be options. Some even have hidden treat pockets or crinkly textures for extra excitement during play.

Tennis ball

This one's a crowd-pleasing classic. A tennis ball doesn't miss. Pet parents might also grab a festive rope ball for tug-of-war or a treat-dispensing version for solo play.

Pet brushes

Another option is giving a furry friend a spa treatment with a double-sided cepillo: one side for smoothing, one side for detangling.

Stocking stuffers for cats

If anyone truly deserves a stocking, it's the feline family members who act like royalty and curl up next to their owners. Cats can bring companionship all year long - so why not treat them to something festive? Here are some stocking-stuffer ideas just for them.

Catnip

If a pet parent has a catnip connoisseur, this one's a must-have. They can pick up catnip-stuffed plush toys, a refillable toy or even a sprinkle-on catnip blend to dust over scratchers. Pairing it with a toy bird or a plush fish can be a gift option to let the zoomies begin.

Cat treats

Cats might like a pouch of freeze-dried salmon or crunchy dental treats. Owners might consider checking for flavors like chicken, tuna or shrimp to match their feline's favorite cat treats.

Mice cat toys

Tiny mice toys can be a hit for curious cats. Ones with crinkle paper or stuffed with catnip can keep a kitten swatting, pouncing and prowling well into the new year.

Beta fish with catnip

These are colorful plush fish with a tail that wiggles just enough to grab attention (and a bit of catnip inside to seal the deal)! For extra batting fun, an owner might swap in pom-pom balls.

Laser cat toys

Automatic laser pointers and laser chase toys can entertain cats (and tire them out before bedtime). Pet parents can switch it on and watch the light lead their cat on a mini adventure across the room.

Consideraciones clave

Christmas stockings carry a sense of quiet mystery. They're hung up with care, filled when no one's looking and full of suspense. What's in there? And will it be good?

Stocking stuffers are often opened first and set the tone for the day. And they prove that meaningful moments can come in the smallest packages. The ideas above can help even the busiest people put together little gifts that show how much they know - and treasure - their loved ones.

Este contenido es solo para fines informativos y no constituye un asesoramiento médico. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.