As exciting as the holidays are, they can also be extremely stressful. This is especially true when it comes to shopping for the ones you love on a college budget. As a college student, you're broke and running on a short time frame. You're under pressure to finish your holiday shopping, and your time was cut short due to the hold up from final exams (sheesh, at least those are over!). Don't worry, though, this article is meant to give you gift suggestions so you can plan out your holiday shopping in order to finish quickly and efficiently.
1. For Mom
Believe it or not, no one knows Mom better than you. Whether your mom is a beautiful housewife or an on-the-go working mom, both have the hardest job in the world: being your mother. Get her something to show you appreciate how hard she works, such as a spa basket, full of face masks, body scrubs, body lotion, candles, stress-relief body wash, slippers, chocolates, etc. Another option can be something customized, such as a picture frame with either a picture of the two of you or of the whole family. A third option could be something she enjoys, such as cooking tools, kitchen decorations, and a cook book for being the best chef in the house!
2. For Dad
Dad can definitely be difficult to shop for, but as his child, you have a better idea of what he likes than you think. Dads usually don't want a gift too big or too expensive, especially since they are the ones holding your back account afloat. Try a gift card for dad stores like Home Depot, Modell's, Sport's Authority, or Foot Locker. If your dad usually does the cooking during the warm sunny days, get him grilling utensils, seasonings, or anything else that can be used to enhance a delicious BBQ meal. Another great idea is a game basket, full of cards, poker chips, actual chips, and (root) beer.
3. For brother(s)/boy cousin(s)
If your brother is old enough to drive, you definitely cannot go wrong with a gas card or any other kind of gift card to his favorite store or restaurant. Or, if you're feeling daring, try something which gives him style, such as a watch, sunglasses, or nice winter jacket.
4. For sister(s)/girl cousin(s)
Girls are super easy to get gifts for because, in all honesty, they can never have too much of anything. You can never go wrong with jewelry, make-up, perfume, sunglasses, body lotion, etc. However, girls are definitely picky, so don't forget to ask for a gift receipt!
5. For grandma(s)/aunt(s)
Ugh, isn't shopping for Grandma the best? No matter what you get her, I promise, she will love it because it's from you. However, that does not mean you should not put thought or effort into her gift. A cook book and a fancy apron are great gifts, especially since Grandma is the best cook in the family. Another option is a robe with matching slippers. What grandma doesn't look comfy or like a diva at the same time? These gift ideas can also be applied to aunts.
6. For grandpa(s)/uncle(s)
Grandpa loves you just as much as Grandma does, so this gift should be easy also. Find a nice coffee mug that reminds grandpa how great he is and attach it to a bag of coffee and cookies. A robe and slippers can also be a great gift for grandpa as well. A third option is an interesting book or magazine. These gifts may also apply to uncles.
7. For girlfriend
A gift for a girlfriend should be romantic, thoughtful, and sexy. Show your girl how well you know her. If she's a girl whoenjoys wearing makeup and getting dressed up, perhaps find a nice perfume and lipstick (you can always ask an employee for assistance). If your girl enjoys wearing sweats but still looking presentable, check out Victoria Secret sets, or even cheaper stores and put together a cute comfy outfit with a pocket t-shirt and jogger sweats. If your girl enjoys working out, put together a nice workout outfit for her, water bottle, gym bag, or running sneakers. Come on, boys, it is so simple!
9. For boyfriend
Ladies, show your boyfriend how much you appreciate him for putting up with you and get him something he would really enjoy. Is your guy into sports? Look into tickets for his favorite team. Too expensive? How about a jersey or poster for his room? Of course, there is always the option of a nice pair of sneakers or cologne. Try to avoid anything mushy-gooshy, it's Christmas, not Valentine's day!
10. For best friend (girl)
Best friends' are always the easiest gifts to buy and the most exciting. You know they will love what you picked for them, yet you cannot wait for them to open it and see their face. For a girl best friend, a fancy jewelry box would be a nice gift. Another idea is a purse or satchel, and you can pick this because you know her style better than anyone. A third gift idea is a sign for her room, whether it is a picture collage of the two of you, a poster of her favorite celebrity, or an inspirational quote, I'm sure she will love it!
11. For best friend (boy)
Your guy best friend is not expecting a gift, so no need to get too sentimental, just make sure it is something he will appreciate, use, and enjoy. Body wash and spray is important for any guy to have, after all, there is no better compliment for a boy than when a girl says, "you smell good." Another option could be a poster for his room or a casual outfit such as shorts and a t-shirt.
12. For girlfriend’s parents/boyfriend’s parents
Yup -- the parents. It is important to show the parents that you thought of them during the holidays. The easiest way to shop for your partner's parents is by giving them a gift that they both can enjoy, such as wine and wine glasses, candles, or a christmas ornament.
Good luck and have a Merry Christmas!
