Wants & Wishes: Gift Guide 2025

The holidays are right around the corner, which means it's officially wishlist-making season. From fun gadgets to practical needs, here are some ideas that will make your list stand out. 

For many people, wishlists aren't just about stuff. They are a way of expression. But every so often, inspiration stalls, and deciding what to put on your wishlist becomes its own kind of puzzle. If that sounds familiar, or you just need extra inspiration, this guide will help you craft the perfect wishlist. 

This holiday season, here are some fun things that you can ask for: 

According to Good Housekeeping, the most popular gifts are usually the simplest things that people just don't think of. These kinds of gifts feel personal, useful, and like you'll actually use them. Whether it's something cozy, something that you'll use every day, or something creative, this list covers it all. 

(Photograph: Hoap Soap)

• Shower steamers   `  

• Sleep masks 

• Lego flowers 

• Embroidered bookmarks 

• Mini karaoke machines

• Ice cream makers in mug shape

• Neck fans

• 3 in one wireless charging station 

• Silk pillowcases

(Photograph: Instagram)

• Lip masks 

• Hair oils

• Perfumes

• Cookbooks

• Iridescent tea kettles

• Grill baskets

• Hanging air fresheners

• Custom neon signs

• Weighted blankets

• Screen magnifiers

• Buddha boards 

(Photograph: Ebay)

For stocking stuffers, there are a number of unique things that you can put on your list. According to Modern Ms. Darcy, the best and most practical things are sometimes right under your nose. From small gadgets you didn't realize you needed, random accessories, these gifts might seem simplistic at first, but they are a real game-changer. 

(Photograph: Make a Pretty Life)

• Journals

• Fun pens

• Puzzles

• Candles

• Fun socks 

• Silly putty

• Glow sticks

• Hairbows/hairbands

• Bath bombs 

(Photograph: Inspired

• Nail polish  

• Gift cards

• Polaroid cameras

• Hand warmers 

• Milk frothers

• Coffee/tea variety packs

• Bottle openers    

• Perfume rollers

• Candle lighters 

(Photograph: Barnie's Coffee & Tea Co.)

If you're on a budget, this article by the New York Times, shows us the best gifts under $25. They even said “In many cases, an inexpensive gift — not to be confused with a lame one — is the most appropriate one for the occasion.”

(Photograph: Britannica)

• Hair chalk

• Playing cards for one player

• Air tag keychains Photo by Britanica 

• Cookbook holders

• Subscriptions to places like “Universal Yums” 

• Hot cocoa sampler packs

• Pasta shaped hot-grips

• Aluminum lemon juicers for lemonade Photo by MoMa

• Collapsible popcorn bowls 

(Photograph: MoMa)

• Duck shaped night lights

• Jellycat amusables

• Ceramic match holders Photo by Amazon

• Fake flowers

(Photograph: Amazon)

These are some trendy gifts to consider, according to BuzzFeed. This list covers popular gadgets to fun surprises, and won't leave you disappointed. It highlights items that are practical, thoughtful, and overall creative. 

(Photograph: Amazon)

• Portable garlic crushers

• Rapid egg cooking machines

• Gold measuring cups

• Temperature controlled smart-mugs

• Cold brew makers

• Vietnamese pour over coffee pouches

• Burrito blanket

• Weighted eye masks

(Photograph: Daybreak Vietnamese Coffee)

• Crayola globbles

• Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza card game

• Back massagers 

This article from The Strategist says that these gifts are “curated for every single person.” If you're shopping for a tech lover or a crafter, everyone's perfect gift is here. Every gift is not just chosen based on usefulness, but based on how much joy it'll bring. 

(Photograph: Amazon)

• Sunset lamps

• Hatch alarm clocks        

• Make your own Lego figures 

• Wood lap easel

• Bracelet making kits

• Bedazzling kits

• Air dry paint

• Silent/safe to use indoor equipment

(Photograph: Truecare)