Surprising Gifts Worth a Glance: You Might Stumble Upon an Unusual Treasure Even After Exhausting Countless Gift Lists
Reborn and Revitalized:
Say hello to our freshly handpicked recommendations! Your favorites might have been sampled or chosen by our fabulous team of editors. You should know that BuzzFeed and its partnering publishers might nab a piece of the sales pie, but fortunately, that won't affect your wallet.
1. The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition - A thrilling, scratch-off book of dates that'll bring some thrill and surprise into your relationship. This set also comes with an instant camera to capture memories. Can't wait to dive into this exhilarating experience? Read on for testimonials and shipping details.
Promising review: "Oh, my gosh! I was gifted this, and I LOVED it! This is something truly special and meaningful that I would purchase as a gift for any occasion. Not only was the whole experience freakin' fun and memorable, but it made me and my partner realize a lot about life! From packaging to the intricate details of the product, this is something you won't regret purchasing. Love what this company represents, and I was honored to be a part of the experience! Keep up the great work!" -Monique S.
The Adventure Challenge Shipping Info: Orders usually dispatch within 1-2 business days. Choose from several shipping options, including ground (4-10 business days), standard (3-7 business days), and express (2-3 business days). Visit The Adventure Challenge's website for full shipping information.
Amazon Shipping Info: Enjoy free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and regular shipping options will still arrive in time for Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Buy it directly from The Adventure Challenge for $167.98 or opt for the family version if you have a larger crew! If you already have an instant camera and film, you can grab just the book from Amazon for $58.94.
2. The Magic Puzzle Company's TikTok-famous 1,000-piece puzzle - If your recipient adores twist endings and intricate details, this puzzle is a must-have. The beauty of the illustration means it'll make a lovely addition to their home once complete, and there are even 50 Easter eggs and a magical twist to discover! Read the marvelous review for more insights.
Promising review: "I bought this as a birthday gift for my husband because he adores puzzles and magic, and it was a no-brainer! I was honestly way more excited to complete this puzzle than a normal puzzle because I couldn't wait to see the end result. Blown away! I'm super impressed and will be purchasing a different version. Oh, and they weren't kidding about the no-dust-in-the-box...very pleased with this purchase!" -nlbrimberry
Shipping Info: Take advantage of free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Get it from Amazon for $22.97.
3. A 1,000-piece murder mystery puzzle - Perfect for family bonding! Once the puzzle is assembled, read the included booklet and try to solve the crime. My parents bought these puzzles at the start of quarantine and sent one to me. I rediscovered how enjoyable puzzles could be!
Shipping Info: Enjoy free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Learn more about Amazon's shipping information.
Snag it from Amazon for $12.99.
4. A handy puzzle board - Ideal for puzzle enthusiasts with limited space. This board features four drawers to store puzzle pieces and provides enough space for a 1,500-piece puzzle. Come across a review that truly hits the spot.
Promising review: "My husband and I recently purchased this as a Christmas gift for ourselves! During the winter, we puzzle in place of gardening! We just finished a 1,000-piece puzzle on it and loved it! The drawers slide right out for sorting, and the puzzle table is easily movable. A great gift for retired folks!" -Karen G.
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Grab it from Amazon for $49.99.
5. A rock climbing mug - Challenge your giftee's grip strength with this quirky mug! Keep it on display, and it's guaranteed to become their go-to mug. Want to know what others think? Dive into this review.
This fantastic mug was developed by Nathan and their wife, who run the Pittsburgh-based small business, Climbergoods.
Promising review: "The coolest mug! I got this for my partner, and he was so happy...very easy to grip in whatever way suits you, even with a full cup of coffee." -kacey borin
Shipping Info: Orders ship from Pittsburgh, so delivery time varies based on your location. Expedited shipping is available at checkout.
Order it from Climbergoods on Etsy for $24.25 (available in nine colors).
6. A stunning glass dish - Upgrade theirchkotchke shelf or provide a chic storage solution for candies, jewelry, and other trinkets. Rave feedback awaits!
Promising review: "Do you need another tchotchke? Yes! So adorable on my bathroom counter for the daily jewelry." -Kayna L.
Shipping Info: For estimated delivery dates, consult the listing based on your zip code.
Secure it from Food52 for $40.
7. An instructional yoga mat - Perfect for novice yogis or those looking to perfect their poses. Its length ensures plenty of space for a full range of moves. Dive into this honest review.
Promising review: "It's pretty wonderful, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a new yoga mat. I'm just a beginner, but I think the length of it is fantastic; you can really stretch out and do all the poses. I also like the thickness of it. Nice and cushy, and it helps support my knees and back when moving from one pose to the other. I also do a lot of holding where I lay down for a pose. I'm not sure if this is totally correct, but I'm mostly trying to stretch out my back. So yes, definitely nice and supportive, way more so than most other mats." -Jessica Rogers
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Get it from Amazon for $56.
8. A pair of fleece-lined joggers - Perfect for those who feel the chill! These pants will keep their legs snug and warm. Read this amusing and sincere review.
Promising review: "I'm very happy with these warm pants. My house is very cold in the winter, and I am very cold in the winter. A few reviewers commented that the fit is weird. It is not. These are sweatpants, and with a thick lining; what did you expect? They are very comfortable and warm. They are stiffer than regular sweatpants because of the lining. But they are sweatpants - meaning they were never meant to make you look like a fashion queen. Just imagine curling up on the sofa with hot chocolate and a friendly cat during a polar vortex in your fleece-lined pants. Nice and cozy!" -Angela Thompson
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Buy it from Amazon for $38.99 (available in women's sizes XS-XXL and 10 colors/styles).
9. An ugly cats in Renaissance paintings calendar - A perfect fit for their cubicle or home office wall! Read the extra special review.
Decor Hardcore is a small business based in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Promising review: "My brother, sister, and I decided to buy fun esoteric calendars for each other for Hanukkah. My sister is a huge cat lover, and this made her day. 100 out of 10 would buy again!" -Gwendy7769
Shipping Info: Orders ship from North Carolina, so delivery time varies based on your location. Check the listing for an estimated delivery date.
Get it from Decor Hardcore on Etsy for $27.01 (available in two sizes; there's also an ugly Renaissance dog paintings version).
10. A pound of cereal marshmallows - Ideal for those who believe the best part of Lucky Charms are the marshmallows! Charity donations are a sweet bonus. Enthusiastic testimonials lie ahead!
Promising review: "Buying these charms was one of the best decisions of my life. The bag is twice the size of my head. The marshmallows are aesthetically pleasing and delicious. It's everything I ever wanted in a snack!" -Amazon Customer
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Snag it from Amazon for $12.99.
11. A set of 150 questions inspired by the Love Language test - This game will help deepen connections, even in long-term relationships. Check out this testimonial for more details.
Promising review: "My boyfriend and I have been together for a really long time and this game was STILL so much fun! We played it after a night of drinking wine and cooking, so we were pretty honest during these questions. Some of the challenges may need to be adjusted for ages, but you can easily just change the challenge. This is hard-covered. Beautiful setup. This is a great gift for yourself or for anyone else. And I'm really excited to see what the rewards are as I complete the challenges!" -GG
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Grab it from Amazon for $25 (available in two levels and a Spanish language version).
12. An adorable crochet sprout for AirPods Max or over-ear headphones - This cute accessory will brighten up your recipients' days! Read this review for proof.
Lilly's Loop Crochet is a small business making the sweetest crochet accessories.
Promising review: "I ordered the 'mint with sparkle,' and it was exactly as described!! (The pictures don't do the sparkle justice) It's very good quality since I've had this for a few weeks now, and it's held up very well. I also love how subtle it is and how easy it is to put on. It's definitely such a cute accessory for my headphones, and I would order it again in a heartbeat." -Valeria
Shipping Info: Orders ship from Missouri, so delivery time varies based on your location. Check the listing for an estimated delivery date.
Nab it from Lilly's Loop Crochet on Etsy for $5.49 (available in seven colors).
13. A bucket list water bottle - This clever water bottle is perfect for nature-lovers who want to celebrate their visits to National Parks. Each sticker is weatherproof and dishwasher-safe. Plus, 5% of your purchase goes to the National Parks Conservation Association! Read this glowing review.
Promising review: "I got this for my mom for her birthday. The size is perfect for our most frequent hikes, and the stickers are absolutely beautiful. Quality seems high, and I can't wait for her to be able to put on all the stickers!" -Seleniumk
Shipping Info: Economy (7-9 business days), standard (3-7 business days), expedited (2-3 business days), and express (1-2 business days) shipping is available for an additional cost.
Obtain it from Uncommon Goods for $58.
There are also 50 States and World Destination versions.
14. A bag of reindeer farts cotton candy - This fun stocking stuffer will delight kids of all ages! Read about this reviewer's experience.
Promising review: "This was absolutely the best stocking stuffer of all this past year! Everyone, young and old, loved it! The laughs were many and the cotton candy inside was so good! Awesome product! I will buy again." -Peggy N
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Bag it from Amazon for $8.99.
15. The Ultimate Reading Challenge - Encourage your bibliophile to explore new cultures, embrace diversity, and stimulate their creativity. Are you still not convinced? Check out this authentic review.
Promising review: "I was so excited to get this. The book is very big, which I like. It is also super colorful. When I open it, it's filled with all of these pockets with the challenges written on them and the rewards inside. I am a big reader and this is a fun journey to go on. I shared this with a friend of mine and she was very interested in it and wanted to get it for her daughter. Some of the challenges may need to be adjusted for ages, but you can easily just change the challenge. This is hard-covered. Beautiful setup. This is going to be very fun and makes a great gift for yourself or for anyone else. And I'm really excited to see what the rewards are as I complete the challenges!" -GG
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Nab it from Amazon for $23.93.
16. A bookmark book tracker - Help your bookworm keep track of their reading progress. Browse this review for more insights.
Promising review: "I'm absolutely obsessed with this bookmark. It's definitely made me more determined to read this year and will be a nice keepsake. Will be repurchasing when this one's almost filled." -Mady Taylor
Shipping Info: Orders ship from the UK, so delivery time varies based on your location. Expedited shipping is available.
Secure it from British Book Art on Etsy for $3.19.
17. A bougie-looking satin hair clip - Add a touch of elegance to your recipient's hairstyle. Cherish this glowing testimonial.
Promising review: "I bought this for a friend for their birthday, and they were so excited to find it! They are an avid songwriter and musician, and they love Fender products. The hair clip looks great, is well made, and definitely eye-catching." -K. Lujan
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Get it from Amazon for $16.88.
18. A Le Creuset magnetic trivet - Make your chef's life easier by providing a fantastic gadget for hovering hot pots. Discover what one reviewer thought about this item.
Promising review: "The wood is really super nice, smooth, and clean. Sticks great to the pan, and the silicone rings add great shock absorption so it doesn't make a lot of noise when you set down a heavy-ass 13-some-inch skillet! Cleans off easily; I've only used it a handful of times but it still looks brand new! A little pricey, but it's a premium kitchen thingy. I recommend don't settle for something cheaper." -K. Lujan
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Grab it from Amazon for $49.95.
19. A pack of glittery highlighters - Help your recipient brighten up their notes or add some sparkle to a book. Be enchanted by this wonderful review.
Promising review: "These are eye candy. 🍬 They are beautifully smooth and perfect. The Japanese Zebra brand has never disappointed me, and I am truly grateful. 👊💘🔥" -Amazon Customer
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Snag a pack of five from Amazon for $7.48.
20. A stylish pencil pouch - Help your recipient corral their stationery pens and other art supplies. Admire this positive feedback.
Promising review: "It's super cute and sturdy. I was able to fit a pair of scissors, an eraser, a glue stick, 25 colored pencils, and 10 thin markers with a little wiggle room left." -Lauricorn1013
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Obtain it from Amazon for $8.99 (available in five styles).
21. A National Geographic geode kit - Unleash your recipient's inner archaeologist with this geode kit that doubles as a functioning vase! Read on for a rave review.
www.amazon.comThis kit comes with 10 geodes of varying sizes, as well as goggles and a display stand.
Promising review: "My 9-year-old niece gets these every year for Christmas. It is a new gift every time! She loves to put on safety glasses and swing that hammer! The geodes are always beautiful. She also loves to give pieces away as little gifts or mementos. Nat Geo never disappoints!" -Kristin D.
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Chip in and buy it from Amazon for $29.99.
22. A Fender amp key holder - Elevate your recipient's key rack game with this guitar-shaped holder. Admire this eye-catching review.
www.amazon.comCheck it out on TikTok.
Promising review: "My husband was so excited to find this keyhook! He is an avid songwriter and musician, and he loves Fender products. The keyhook looks great, is well made, and is definitely eye-catching. Right after we hung it up, a friend visited and asked us if it was a custom-ordered piece!" -Leslie W.
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Rock it and grab it from Amazon for $16.88.
23. A super-cozy waffle knit sweater - Perfect for keeping their cozy expert in your life toasty warm! This comfy sweater will be a hit.
Shipping Info: Orders usually arrive within eight business days. Express and expedited shipping options are available for additional fees.
Score one for them and buy it from Buck Mason for $198 (available in women's sizes XS-XXL and two colors).
24. A puzzle vase - This unique vase will challenge their brain while also serving as a beautiful decoration. If they've grown bored with 2D puzzles, it might be time to try their hand at a 3D one! Read this honest review.
www.amazon.comSeveral reviewers use it to hold completed Lego flower kits, so you can also gift it with one of those sets!
Promising review: "The quality exceeded my expectations. There is an insert inside so you can use it with actual flowers, which I was impressed by. AND a display stand that I didn't expect. I had so much fun building, and I love seeing it every day. Perfectly sized little vase." -Julia A Gilbert
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Bag it from Amazon for $24.99.
25. A pack of PS4 or PS5 controller thumbsticks - Help your recipient improve their gaming experience by preventing misclicks and slippery thumbs. Don't just take my word for it - read this rave review!
www.amazon.comPromising review:** "Game changer for sure! I didn't believe that these little guys could change the game for me! Since they are so reasonably priced, I figured what the heck and gave them a shot! Money well spent! I wish I'd found them earlier! I like my thumbsticks more. The amount of difference it makes is incredible!" -Amazon Customer
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Grab a pack from Amazon for $16.99.
26. A magnetic purse hanger - Help your recipient avoid placing their bag on dirty bathroom floors or sitting with it on their lap at a restaurant. Glance at this glowing review.
Shipping Info: Check the product listing for a delivery window.
Secure it from our Goodful shop for $14.99 (available in four colors).
27. A set of long-distance relationship envelopes and notes - Help your recipient feel loved, even if you can't be together for the holidays. Choose the prompts you prefer or opt for the most popular messages. Adore this heartfelt review!
Peony & Lace Paperie is a Kansas-based small biz stationery store.
Shipping Info: Orders usually require 1-3 business days for processing (custom orders may take up to two weeks), and items ship via USPS.
Snag five cards and envelopes from Peony & Lace Paperie on Etsy for $13.05 (available in larger packs).
28. A magnetic towel - Never again will your recipient have to wipe their face with a towel that's been lying on a dirty gym floor. This magnetic towel sticks to gym equipment and even comes with a clip for convenient storage. Feast your eyes on this impressive review!
www.amazon.comPromising review:** "Easier to attach/remove from a cart or bag. Magnet is removable for machine washing. Cleans balls/clubs well." -Kent Watase
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Bag it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in three colors).
29. A soft muslin blanket - Keep your recipient warm and cozy while cuddling without soaking your sheets with sweat. Read this rave review!
Shyla Smith - a mother of two boys, a full-time attorney, and the founder of Muslin Comfort - set out to create the perfect muslin blanket for adults after struggling to find one on the market.
Promising review: "We are so happy with the 365 Blanket we bought! The gray color is soothing; the soft feel is perfect as we glide into sleep each evening; the weight is perfect - an all-season addition to our bedroom! The length is longer than we expected. This is not necessarily a bad thing. We are so used to blankets that aren't long enough, so it is just something we are getting used to. Amazing purchase - thank you so much!" -Amy A.
Shipping Info: Orders ship via UPS Ground and typically take 3-5 business days. Expedited shipping options are available for an additional fee.
Get it from Muslin Comfort for $199.99 (available in 4 sizes and 16 colors).
30. A microwave brownie maker - Save your recipient from the hassle of dirtying dishes when they crave something sweet. This brownie maker is a breeze to clean, and the results are delicious! Savor this touching review.
www.amazon.comPromising review:** "Brownies are my favorite dessert, but I have difficulty using the oven. So when I randomly came across this, I was excited to try it! With high hopes but low expectations, I gave it a shot! The compartments are clearly marked, so it's easy to see where to put each ingredient and in what amount. Emptying into the cooker and mixing the batter was just as effortless. The entire process was quick and clean. The 3:30 cook time worked out perfectly, and the brownies looked as if they could have come from the oven. The cooker is nonstick and they slid right out. All-in-all, I don't think it could have gone any better. I like my brownies more fudgy than cake-like, and this worked out perfectly for me. I'm sure the amounts can be played with a little if a different density/texture is preferred. If there's a difference between these brownies and oven-baked, I can't taste it. The brownies were delicious, it was a perfect amount for my family, and I finally get to make brownies whenever I want!" -LD
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Cook it up and grab it from Amazon for $9.29.
31. A pet nose pendant kit - Allow your recipient to take their beloved pet with them wherever they go. Each kit includes everything needed to create a one-of-a-kind sterling silver pendant of their pet's nose. Dive into this heart-warming review.
www.amazon.comEach kit comes with all the ingredients needed to create a mold. Then, you'll send the cast back to the seller, who will craft the pendant. The entire process takes between three and four weeks.
Promising review: "I am so in love with my pendant. It's absolutely perfect, and I recognized my cat's nose the minute I opened the box. Not only did Grant and his team do an amazing job on my pendant, but they were also super helpful throughout the whole process. I was so nervous that the kit wouldn't arrive in time to make the impression since my cat has been very sick. Grant responded to many emails so quickly, advised me what to get at the craft store to start making the molds and reviewed my pictures before I mailed them in. The finished product is perfect, and I highly recommend Precious Metal Prints. You definitely won't regret it! The shipping was super fast as well." -Pearl
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Order it from Amazon for $79.99.
32. The Garbage Pail Kids cookbook - Take your recipient on a trip down memory lane with this offbeat cookbook filled with kid-friendly recipes inspired by the famous garbage pail kids! Nosh on delectable recipes like Nasty Nick's Garlic Snots and Dung Beetle Baily's Tasty Turds. Check out this fun review!
Promising review: "I love this new idea for a kids' cookbook. The pictures are clear and colorful; the instructions are easy to follow. I am looking forward to cooking with my great grandchildren. I bought two books: one to keep at my house to use when they visit, and another to send for them to have at their home. This book offers many projects for children/adults to have fun with." -MICHAEL G.
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Cook it up and grab it from Amazon for $9.54.
33. A Stedi Pedi - Help your recipient get a salon-worthy pedicure at home! This gadget simplifies the process so your recipient won't have to shell out $50 to get their toes done. Inside this review, you'll find compelling reasons to give this amazing gadget a try!
www.amazon.comPromising review:** "With nail salons closed, I ordered this to help me with my personal nail care. I have found it to be extremely helpful, and I will most likely continue using it even with salons open. The money saved and the health benefit of taking care of my own nails is worth buying the Stedi Pedi! Great product!" -Jeff Marischen
Shipping Info: Free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas. Check Amazon's full shipping information for more details.
Pamper them with the Stedi Pedi from Amazon for $19.25.
- The Adventure Challenge Shipping Info for couples interested in purchasing 'The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition' has several shipping options, including ground (4-10 business days), standard (3-7 business days), and express (2-3 business days). The product is available on The Adventure Challenge's website for $167.98.
- Amazon Shipping Info for those buying 'The Magic Puzzle Company's TikTok-famous 1,000-piece puzzle' offers free expedited Prime shipping for Prime Members, and regular shipping options will still arrive in time for Christmas. The puzzle costs $22.97 on Amazon.
- In terms of 'upgrading,' Food52 sells a stunning glass dish for $40, perfect for those seeking a chic storage solution or an upgrade for their tchotchke shelf.
