100+ Practical Gift Ideas
Some people are easy to shop for – they love just about anything!
But some people are VERY practical and anything that feels frivolous or extra to them isn’t a delight.
Recently I got a note on Instagram that said “I need gift ideas for a super practical person. Like she gifts food storage and 72 hour packs. Got any ideas? I’m STUCK.”
I opened it up to my community and WHOA did they deliver with so many great suggestions for practical gifts.
I hope that whatever practical person is on your shopping list this year, you’ll find just the right item!
Food Items:
Freeze Dried Food
One of the things I really like about freeze-dried food is that it takes up far less space than the food itself. One tiny box of hashbrowns can feed a family of 6! Also, have you tried freeze-dried fruit? It’s such a fun and yummy snack!
Local Honey
Honey is one of the pantry staples we always have on hand because we use it in a lot. And who could refuse a sweet gift like local honey?
Fruit Tree
This is one of those practical gifts that just keep on giving. Plus, I love that there are so many types of fruit trees to choose from. You could go with something unique, or a fruit that you know they love.
Olive Oil
I use olive oil practically everyday that I cook. So, I am certain that this is going to be an item that will get used until the very last drop. You could go with something generic from the grocery store, or have you heard of this fantastic olive oil!?
Tea
I may not like tea, but I 100% love a good warm drink. Pair this with an electric tea kettle and you have yourself an amazing gift!
Coffee Travel Mug and Coffee Shop Gift Card
There is nothing worse than having your hot drink spilled on your lap while you are driving. This would be a big hit for those who love to take along their hot drinks.
Bonne Maman Jams
We ordered the advent calendar version of these mini jams for my in-laws last year for Christmas and it was a BIG hit! If you are looking for a great consumable gift for parents or in-laws or anyone who doesn’t want MORE STUFF but wants something thoughtful and enjoyable, this is a surefire gift idea.
Maldon Sea Salt
This is the best finishing salt out there. You can turn any dish into something gourmet with just a sprinkle of this on top – cookies, toast, pizza, you name it! I just got this as a gift a few weeks ago and I was THRILLED.
Favorite Food in Large Quantities
This is a fun idea! Whether they love a fancy pasta, a special mustard, or fun snack, helping them stock up on a favorite is sure to be a home run gift.
Non-Edible Consumable Items:
Batteries & Battery Storage Container
My parents gave this to Bart for his birthday and it’s so nice to have all your batteries in one place, easy to find, and with a built-in battery tester. Add some batteries to fill in all the spaces, and you have a gift that WILL get used!
Cleaning Supplies
I love gifting Ms. Meyers cleaning spray, especially the seasonal ones. They all smell so yummy and are for sure going to get used up.
Force of Nature Multi-Purpose Cleaner
This product cleans, disinfects, sanitizes, and deodorizes virtually any surface – and it’s eco-friendly and toxin-free. The little machine uses electricity to convert tap water and a capsule of salt, water, and vinegar into an organic cleaner in less than a minute. It’s safe for kids, babies, and pets and can be used in TONS of different ways around the house.
Touchland Hand Sanitizer
There are a lot of hand sanitizers out there, but this one trumps them all. The slim case is my favorite because it’s so easy to tuck in a back pocket or any bag pocket.
Parchment Paper Sheets
I thought this was kind of a silly idea until I started reading the reviews and whoa, people love these things! They make for a much easier clean up when cooking and you don’t have to deal with the obnoxious rolling up on the ends.
Stationary and Stamps
I would also add a box of cute cards to this idea! When you want to write a nice note for someone, having the supplies on hand makes it that much easier.
Seeds
For the gardener in your life, they can plant seeds to then turn into flowers or food for later! Another gift that just keeps on giving!
Hand Soap
My favorite brands are Method and Ms. Meyers – it just is such a delight to use a nice soap when you’re washing your hands!
Chapstick
There is nothing quite like winter to bring out the chapped lips. I have heard of the wonders Working Hands and Healthy Feet have done, so I am certain this chapstick also does wonders for chapped and cracked lips! And you can never have too many chapsticks for anytime of the year!
An Ink Supply Subscription
Isn’t it SO frustrating when you go to print something and your printer lets you know that it won’t be happening due to one ink color being out (and it’s usually the color that you don’t even need). This takes away that frustration.
Printer Paper
Speaking of frustrating things to be out of! My kids go through gobs and gobs of paper and I’m always the last one to know when we are out. Having a backstock would be very pleasant.
Bulk Supply of Paper Products (toilet paper / paper towels/ Kleenex)
Glamorous? No. Useful? Yes! It’s so delightful to have a nice soft tissue or paper towel to use when in need. It’s even nicer to not have to buy them yourself!
Epsom Bath Salts
I’m not a huge bather, but for those that are, these bath salts would be such a relaxing gift. I DO use shower steamers though and absolutely think they would make the best gifts.
Candles
I’m VERY into candles during the winter (my current favorites are from this brand – subtle and delicious!) and if you want to add a little something extra, this candle snuffer would be the perfect little add-on!
CocoFloss
I heard about this floss for a solid two years before I actually tried it and . . . this floss is the real deal. I have always been a poor flosser (apologies to my dentist dad) and I still don’t floss every day but for the last year, I’ve been consistently flossing multiple times a week because this floss is really the best floss ever. It’s way more effective at cleaning between your teeth, it doesn’t cut your gums up like some floss and it has some fun scents.
Pens
A friend gave me one of these pens as a gift and I LOVE IT SO MUCH. I’ve been so careful with it and I’d love to add a few more to my desk drawer so I don’t have to be so vigilant about making sure it never gets lost.
Laundry Basket filled w/ detergent, dryer balls and other laundry items
If you have been here a while, you know that I am very passionate about my laundry routine! Regardless of your laundry routine, it is one of those chores that always needs to get done, and what a gift to have all the supplies to get it done.
A Year Supply of Toiletries
Have you ever run out of deodorant or toothpaste and wish you had a backup somewhere in the cabinet? This gift would be such a lifesaver for moments like these!
Home/Organization:
Organization Items – Pretty Bins, Drawer dividers, matching bowls
I for one would love to receive this gift. I absolutely love getting organized with these inexpensive drawer dividers and these shelf dividers.
Wooden Salad bowl
A couple of years ago I talked about a $20 serving tray that I loved taking places and felt like it looked much more expensive than it actually was. I feel like this falls into that same category – it boosts up the look of the salad without a big price tag.
Kitchen Appliance
My most used kitchen appliance is my Kitchen Aid, hands down! It definitely is a bigger ticket item, but would get used all of the time. Other ideas that are more affordable are an Instant Pot, an Air Fryer or an electric kettle.
Victorinox Paring Knife
I know a paring knife doesn’t seem all that exciting, but I haven’t given these at favorite things parties and they always get stolen. I can’t explain how great these things are. You just have to try them. They also make really great stocking stuffers.
6 foot folding table or folding chairs
I absolutely love hosting (all of my best hosting tips here) and I don’t want to be limited on how many people we can invite based on chair and table space. We have a bunch of these on our back patio just so we don’t run into this problem and I’m happy every time we pull them out!
Label maker
If you have someone who likes organization, a label maker is a great choice. There are ones that connect to your phone and others with a full keyboard so you can go as techy or basic as your receiver would need.
Kitchen Knife Set
It’s hard to get much done in the kitchen without a good set of knives! This set will have everything you need to help you chop your way to a good meal.
Counter Top Apple Peeler
This device makes making an apple pie, apple crumble or crisp a breeze. It does all of the heavy lifting by coring, peeling and slicing the apples.
Velvet Hangers
These scream practical and luxurious! Gift these to the person who likes really nice things, but is practical at the same time.
Potholders, apron, pillowcases
Giving someone items that are used every single day is always a win in my book. I switched to a silk pillowcase a couple of years ago to prevent my hair from breaking as much, especially in the dry Utah air and I’m never going back! Plus, it comes in a million colors.
Sink Expanding Strainer
This expanding sink strained fits/adjusts to any sink size and allows you to strain even if you have a bunch of dishes below. It’s extra nice that you can flatten it out for easier storage!
Reusable Snack Bags
If you are buying for someone who is not only practical, but watching out for their carbon footprint, these reusable snack bags would made an excellent gift.
Bug-a-salt gun
If you have any male living in your house, this is the gift to buy. It brings more joy than you thought possible.
Dishes
If I could buy tons and tons of something it would dishes. I love a great dish set and feel like it really elevates and makes a gathering so much more special!
Electric Toothbrush
Bart and I have tried quite a few electric toothbrushes and nothing stands close to the Suri. Use my code JANSSEN20 for 20% off your order!
Mason Jars
This is one of those items that I feel like you can never have too many of, and they are so versatile! Use them as cups, storage, or for canning – the options are endless.
Gift Wrap Storage
It’s so convenient to have all sorts of wrapping paper to pick from when you need to doll up a present. Provide a organizing solution for all of the paper, tissue and ribbons in one go. The best part is it easily slides under most beds.
Table Top Grain Grinder
I don’t doubt that fresh milled flour probably tastes way better in baked goods than the stuff that I buy from the store. I don’t think I’m personally ready for that leap, but this grain grinder would be perfect for someone who is!
Bread Knife
Not all knives are cut out to slice bread. However, this one is and would be an excellent gift with a loaf of bread or a cutting board!
Cookbook with a favorite recipe highlighted + basket of ingredients
I own my fair share of cookbooks and love them all for difference reasons. Here are my favorite cookbooks if you need some ideas.
Soup Freezer Cubes
All you need to do is look at the 17,000 reviews on these. Great idea for a meal prepper or want to be.
Weighted blanket
I’m a hot sleeper so I don’t think I would be a fan of this, but I have heard that once you try them, you will never go back.
Reusable Glass Spray Bottles
When you think about how many plastic cleaning bottles you throw away each year, it can make you a little sick. Grab some of these and fill them with a homemade cleaner and you’ve suddenly become the queen/king of practicality.
Luxury Sheets
A few years ago, we got our first (but likely not our last!) set of Brooklinen sheets and . . . they live up to the hype. Everyone needs sheets, but these ones add luxury to something very practical.
Geometry Towels
I have seen these kitchen towels alllllll over Instagram for the past couple of years and I finally ordered some. They live up to the hype! They’re the only towels I want to use now in the kitchen and they have such fun patterns that they make me happy every time I see them. You can use the code JANSSEN15 for 15% off.
House Plants
I’ve gotten very into houseplants in the last few years. Now I’m always figuring out how I can fit in another house plant (or five) and propagating new ones. There are so many varieties out there in all different sizes and price points. Some of mine have come from Zulily, but the grocery store, Home Depot, and a local plant market has fun options.
Space Heater
We have three of these in our house and they SAVE winter since our house is nearly 70 years old and the heating is very inconsistent across rooms. I have one in my office and we keep one in our bedroom that we run for a few hours between getting ready for bed and actually going to bed. I love them so so much!
Fabric Shaver
I bought this a couple years ago, and when I saw it needed batteries, I didn’t use it right away. When I finally went to work on the egg chair in my office which I LOVE and also was extremely extremely pilled. Five minutes later and it looked brand new again with all those annoying little fuzz bobbles completely gone. It seriously is a miracle worker and the best $15 I’ve spent in ages. I’ve used it on all my upholstered furniture, my sweaters, throw pillows and anything else I can think of!
USB Lighter
This is a perfect stocking stuffer and ideal for lighting candles, starting up the grill, or birthday candles! Plus, it comes in several different colors, which is fun.
Dyson Cordless Stick Vacuum
I like to think of myself as very unlazy and the difference between having to plug in a vacuum and not having to plug it in should be virtually nothing. Turns out . . . it was a LOT different. I use this vacuum nearly daily. It’s just so easy to pop on and vacuum the playroom, the kitchen floor, the couch, or wherever else needs a quick spiff-up. Even my kids choose it every time over using a broom and get it out all the time. Plus, having a dock for it means it gets quickly and easily put away after use. It’s pricey but it’s been worth every penny so far.
Fold up Rocking Chair
This is not your average camp chair! For someone who loves to camp or spend time outside, these fold up rocking chairs are a HUGE step above a typical folding camp chair.
Silicone Covers
Okay, these are fabulous. They stretch to fit most bowls, jars, pots and even over a watermelon. So practical and something I would use every day. I’m adding to the cart immediately!
Emergency Preparedness:
Air Purifier
When fire season hits and the smoke gets bad here in Utah, an air purifier is so helpful! Plus, they can clean allergens, dust, and viruses out of the air.
Waterproof Matches
This seems like a silly gift idea at first thought, but for someone who goes camping, backpacking, or wants to fill an emergency bag – this is a MUST. It’s also perfect to sneak into a stocking!
Hydrogen Water Bottle
Have you heard of these? I was completely clueless. Essentially it creates more hydrogen in your water, which is supposed to be really good for your metabolism, improve sleep quality, and help with muscle recovery.
72 Hour Kits
I want to be prepared, but I don’t want to go to all of the work being prepared. As boring as this sounds, I would love to receive this.
Cookbook for cooking with food storage items
If you have food storage, you can rest assured that you will be prepared for any emergency. But, when you actually have to break into them, will you know what to make? I love this idea of a cookbook with all the ways to use your food storage items.
Fire Blanket
This is one of those home safety things that once you have one, you will be glad you do! Fire blankets are less messy than traditional extinguishers, and since they don’t expire, you don’t have to replace them every year. Perfect to keep in the kitchen, near a fireplace, or to take camping.
Fire Extinguisher
Everyone really should have one of these in their kitchen. This one is affordable, is really great quality and has sky high reviews.
Battery Operated Weather Radio
Let’s face it, most of the devices in my home run on power or Wifi, so in the event of a major storm/power outage we will be disconnected. Having one of these handy would really keep us in the loop.
Jet Boil
Have you ever been camping with one of these? They are a total game changer. Compact, but powerful, it makes cooking while camping and hiking a breeze!
Solar Powered Camping Lantern
When camping, the batteries in the flashlight always seem to be the first thing to go out. Charge these throughout the daylight hours and enjoy them for up to 24 hours after they are fully charged!
Pepper Spray
This would be a fantastic gift for any high school or college girl. This would give the giver and the receiver some piece of mind.
Life Straw
The Life Straw was probably the most popular answer given and for good reason. They are incredibly practical and anyone who wants to be even semi-prepared will own one of these.
Folding Shovel
This folding shovel is a great little essential piece of gear for any outdoor adventurer. It’s lightweight, made of steel, and would be perfect for camping or backpacking. It would also be great to keep in the car for emergencies!
Flashlight
Flashlights are one of those things you can’t really own too many of – it’s handy to have them in your car, your bedside table or desk drawer! This mini one is ultra-portable and super affordable.
Portable Air Compressor
This was one of the most popular items in 2023 and it’s still going strong! This cool gadget is perfect for bike tires or car tires! I gave one to Bart for Christmas a couple of years ago and he’s absolutely loved it.
Car Battery Jump Kit
Bart’s brother and sister-in-law gave us this for Christmas several years ago and I thought it was the COOLEST gift. It can jump start your vehicle (no other car needed) multiple times on a single charge and you can use it to charge your electronics on the go. If you have road trips coming up this year, you’ll definitely want one of these. Also, it’s so compact!
Seat Belt Cutter & Window Hammer
For the person who always wants to be prepared, this is a great, inexpensive gift that you hope they’ll never have to use!
Birdie Personal Safety Alarm
This personal safety alarm is genius! All you have to do is pull it off the pin to activate a loud alarm and bright strobe light. This is great for running, hiking and simply clipping to your keys!
Card/Gift Cards
Grocery Store Gift Card
This is probably one of the most practical gifts on this list! It is one of those gift cards that will get used up REALLY quick.
Car Wash Pass
If you know someone who loves a clean car (and who DOESN’T love a clean car??), this is a totally useful gift that they can use as much as they like!
Restaurant Gift Cards
Whether it’s a gift card to their favorite restaurant or to somewhere new you know they’d love to try, this is a really fun gift (we did this for my parents a few years ago and loved seeing their photos of their fancy dinner out!)
Subscriptions:
Monthly Flower Subscription
Who doesn’t love fresh flowers to brighten up their home? Especially when they come right to your doorstep! It is also easy to find flower subscriptions from a local flower farm – just google “flower farm subscription + name of your city”.
Cookie of the Month Club
Kelsey from the team has received subscription boxes from this company from her in-laws for the past several years and raves about how exciting it is to get a new box on your doorstep each month. (She has received the Jam of the Month, Peanut Butter of the Month and Popcorn of the Month Club). But count me in for the Cookie of the Month Club, it may not make it past the doorstep in our house!
Wildgrain Subscription
For the person who loves fresh baked breads, pastries, and pasta and doesn’t have the time to make it homemade, or doesn’t have the gift of baking – this is the perfect subscription box! Items can be pre-selected, and it will arrive on your doorstep ready to be baked/cooked the way you like it!
Services:
Car Detail Service
Ani has been working hard to become a really good car detailer and it’s A LOT of work! Hiring out someone else to get all of the cracks and crevices clean sounds absolutely dreamy.
Yard Work
I’m actually a fan of doing our own yard work, but I know that’s not how everyone feels. Sometimes it’s just nice to have something taken off of your plate.
House Cleaner
One of the best gifts we gave to ourselves a couple of years ago was a house cleaner. It is the best thing to come home to a house that has been scrubbed from top to bottom.
Window Washer
I didn’t think this was something that I would want until I got it done and good grief, it really does make the biggest difference!
Spa Gift Card
I do not go to the spa often (I usually get a pedicure just for my birthday), but if someone gifted me a spa gift card, I would definitely take advantage of a little self-care time. Everyone needs a little self-care time and a pedicure, facial, or massage feels like the perfect luxury.
Miscellaneous:
Bullet Journal
I’ve never gotten into it, but for those who bullet journal – I know they are talented and organized! They keep track of dates, to-dos, and even water intake. And I am of the mindset that you can never have too many notebooks!
Heating Pad/Heated Blanket
I know most houses have colder areas (couch right by a window) and having a heating pad or blanket around makes the biggest difference. This would be a fun idea to give to a reader, puzzler or even tv watcher.
Cute Cooler Bag
We got one of these a couple of years ago and I am shocked at how many times I’m reaching for it. Afternoons on the boat, going out for an adventure, or being in charge of team snacks – our cooler bag always comes in clutch.
Thermocell Mosquito repellent device
Bugs can ruin an outside experience for me. No way do I want to go to an outdoor activity if I know I’m going to be eaten alive the whole time. This repeller has a 15 foot radius and I can see us using it regularly.
Engraved pocket knife with all the gadgets
Having a do it all tool comes in handy more than you would think. I know people that keep these on them at all times because they get used all of the time!
Rechargable Hand Warmers
Cold hands is something I always avoid. They are really versatile and can be used for all sorts of different activities, making it a win for anyone who receives them!
Packing Cubes
This was one of those items I felt unnecessary until I used them. When traveling with a big piece of luggage, it can be hard to keep everything organized and in place so knowing right where a certain pair of socks is saves me from rifling and messing up my entire suitcase.
Tie Boss Tie Down System
This was a win of a purchase for Bart in 2023 – Bart has had a truck for a few years but no good tie down system. This was a perfect solution!
Apparel:
Fancy PJs or robe they wouldn’t normally buy for themselves
Not all pajamas are created equal. Tommy John’s Second Sleep Skin are my absolute favorite pajamas, no question about it. These are NOT cheap, but for a hot sleeper like me, they are magical and basically the only pajama set I can actually sleep in without tossing them off in the middle of the night. See my other favorites here.
Kizik Shoes
I was dubious that these sneakers could even come close to my beloved Ecco Sneakers and . . . they passed the test! I LOVE them. They’re super comfortable right out of the box (I wore them on a several mile walk without any breaking in and didn’t even notice them) and they’re simple to put on and take off without having to tie or untie them. They live up to the hype and I’m definitely eyeing a second pair! Use the code EVERYDAYREADING.
Bombas Socks
I bought Bart a four-pack of their dress socks for Christmas a few years ago and I swear, these were his favorite gift. They are seriously the best socks and he comments on them every single time he wears them (so. . . .multiple times a week). Whether you buy men’s, women’s, or kids – they are just a nice high quality sock!
Warm Slippers
I wear slippers year round in the house and once the cold weather rolls in, I pull out the serious slippers. They are so warm and just the absolute best (when I eventually need to replace them, which at this rate will probably be in a decade – they last FOREVER – I’ll probably do this style instead so I don’t have to deal with the laces coming untied. (I just pulled the laces out of mine and that’s been WAY better).
Wool Socks
My feet get cold in the winter and Smartwool is my favorite brand. I wear them for skiing and when I go out running in the cold. Warm socks are always a great gift, especially for someone who lives in a cold climate.
Tech:
Solar Power Bank
We have quite a few power banks that we use for travel or general everyday phone use, but we don’t have any solar powered ones. I could see these coming in handy if we ever lost power for a long period of time, or in any type of emergency.
Lume Red Light
So many women in the beauty and fashion industry have been using the red light therapy masks – I’ve been seeing them everywhere! Red light therapy is really gaining popularity to support healthy and youthful skin.
Colorful Phone Chargers
I love the fun colors of these 10 ft. long charging cords! Plus, the fabric coating doesn’t crack or kink like a plastic-coated cord does. And in my opinion, you can’t have too many charging cords.
Retractable Car Phone Charger
If you’ve been here for even a minute, you know how much I despise cords showing. Well, this solves all of my cord showing hate. Pull out the cord when in use and easily retract it when it’s not. Clean, organized – makes me so happy!
Airtags
If they’re constantly misplacing their keys or phone or purse, this is a perfectly practical gift! I could use some myself!
Smart Plug
I got my first smart plug a few years ago, and Bart and I are both OBSESSED with them now. We plugged our Christmas tree into it and it was so wildly delightful every single day to turn on and off the lights just by telling Alexa, “Okay Alexa, turn on the Christmas tree.” After Christmas, we plugged our TV into it so we could turn that on and off with voice commands. Now we need about 10 of them. It’s the perfect gift.
Power Bank w/ Built-in Cord
I hate having my phone die on me and this charger recharges your phone up to 4 times on one charge. Perfect for traveling or just when you’re out and about on a daily basis. Plus, since I can’t stand stray cords everywhere, I love that this cord just nestles right inside the power bank.
Kindle
If you’ve been around here for awhile, you know that I love paper books, audiobooks and I LOVE my Kindle! I bought a new one this summer (read all about why here) and I use it on a regular basis! It’s so easy to take tons of books on vacation with you, the library is at your fingertips, there are no distractions…I could go on and on! Also, if you aren’t sure which one to buy, this post can help!
Neck Book Light
I was SO dubious about a book light that went around your neck instead of clipping to a book, but I was 100% wrong. It makes it feel like you’re living in the stone ages when you use any other ones – this one is just such a great design and so much better than anything else I’ve tried. I promise, you might be dubious, but it’s worth a shot – more than 100,000 reviews can’t be wrong. Also, I’ve had a bunch of questions about how it works for kids, and my 10 year old LOVES it! If you want to see other book light options, check out this post where I tried and reviewed tons of different kinds.
