If you're worried about what gifts to buy this Christmas - fear not. There's no need to get your tinsel in a twist. We’re here to help you get your gifting game-face on and make bad presents a thing of the past.

You'll also be doing your bit for the environment, given that around £42 million worth of unwanted Christmas presents are discarded each year, with the majority finding their way into landfills. So, forget those ugly jumpers, bath salts, and socks - our Christmas gift guide will help you avoid what not to give this Christmas so you can gift less, but better.

 

What Are The Most Common Christmas Gifts?

 

 

If you want to give better gifts this Christmas, these repeat offenders are the ones you might want to avoid.

 

Anything ‘Novelty’

Sure, it's funny for a while, but when the turkey leftovers are gone, that novelty item might be as entertaining as a bad Christmas cracker joke. It could end up in the back of the closet or a forgotten drawer, joining the ranks of once-hilarious gadgets.

So, before you dive into the next quirky trend, consider if it'll stand the test of time beyond its initial charm.

 

Socks, Socks, and More Socks

We often think of the humble sock as one of the worst Christmas gifts. They've got a reputation for being one of the most common Christmas gifts for those who have everything.

But have we been too hasty to dismiss the sock? According to this survey, 80% of people say they’d be happy to find a pair of socks in their stocking.

This year, wow them with a pair of socks destined never to be shoved at the back of the drawer with this choice of Christmas socks from Not On The High Street.

 

Statement Mugs

It’s easy to miss the mark with a statement mug. Let’s face it, do they really need another mug to stash in the cupboard along with all the others that don’t match their décor?

Considering that 33 million Brits receive gifts they didn’t want each year, it’s probably best to avoid the risk with a statement mug.

So, this Christmas, don’t be a mug - treat them to one of these cool coffee cups instead.

 

Best Place to Buy Christmas Gifts Online

 

 

There are some great online marketplaces to shop for Christmas gifts if you want something a little out of the ordinary. These are some we love:

• Etsy – Great for handmade crafts, art, digital artwork, handmade toys, unique jewellery and accessories, and hats.
• eBay – Perfect for antiques, jewellery and watches, musical instruments, and sporting goods.
• Amazon – Ideal for just about anything.

 

Christmas Gift Guide

Not On The High Street gifts are a great way to show off your present-buying prowess while supporting small businesses.

We love their personalised items, scented candles, artwork, quirky t-shirts, and seasonal items.

Take a look at our pick of the best gifts to buy for everyone in your life in our Christmas Gift Guide.

 

Escape Room In An Envelope: Dinner Party Edition

Liven up the post-Christmas dinners with this at-home escape room playable round your own table. Will they solve the puzzle before it’s too late?

 

Family Birthstone Link Bracelet

Customise this stunning bracelet with three birthstones to represent your family – cute!

 

Personalised Pastel Multicoloured Check Winter Scarf

Warm, cosy, and personalised – what more could you want?

 

Men's Personalised Engraved Polished Leather Bracelet

A cool woven bracelet with a polished magnetic clasp – personalise it with your own message to make it even more special.

 

Travel Memories And Favourite Places Personalised Print

Capture memories of your favourite times with this colourful print. You can choose up to 16 places to remember.

 

Birds, Bees And Butterflies Seedbom Gift Box

Unleash your flower-power potential with this green-fingered gift.

 

Christmas Tree Pancake Kit

Christmas trees + pancakes. Need we say more?

 

Bug Eating Plant Jute Bag Grow Set

Let them grow their own venus fly traps – fun for kids of all ages!

 

Personalised Christmas Eve Children's Book

A gift that little ones will treasure forever, make sure the magic of Christmas never ends with this super cute, personalised book.

 

Christmas Gift Delivery

Now that you’ve chosen your Christmas gifts, all that’s left is to post them off, so they arrive in time for the big day.

Last posting dates for Christmas 2023 may vary depending on the service and courier you’ve selected, but we always recommend sending as soon as you can! To make sure your parcels arrive in time for Christmas, you’ll need to book by 20th December for collection on 21st December. For drop off services, you must drop your parcel off before 11am on 21st December to guarantee your Christmas gifts will arrive for the big day.

You can also track your parcel delivery for free, and keep up to date with any disruptions to courier services.

Check out our Christmas Gift Ideas here!