Stockings are a traditional part of Christmas as far back as the 1800s. There are many stories of how the tradition came to be, but there is no proof that any of them are factual. However they came to be, hanging stockings and filling them with presents is one of the most beloved customs of Christmas.
In my family, you are never too old to have a stocking. My parents had a stocking for me every year, until I got married, when then handed the baton to my husband. My husbands family, on the other hand, only gave stockings to the youngsters. He was delighted to reinstitute the practice between the two of us.
Since then it has become a fun challenge to find new and unique things to put in each others stocking every Christmas. So here are some of the things that I have given to my husband.....who for the past few years has been a senior, which is why I have put a special section at the end of the page for senior stocking stuffers. I hope you find some things to help you stuff your stockings!
Mini Drone - These are small drones that you can fly in or outside. Trust me, any man will love this!! They start around $30.
Magnetic Wristband - Usually nylon with Velcro closure. Interior magnets will hold screws, nails, nuts, staples, just about any small metal object. No more having to repeatedly reach into your toolbox! Starts around $7.
Password Keeper - If your man is constantly forgetting his passwords, this is the perfect gift! You can get him a password book if he is an old style guy for about $8. If he is a more digital type, you can get him a computerized handheld keeper that starts at around $20.
Mini DVD Player - This gift is really great for everyone, not just the guys! These small DVD players fit in your hand and usually play movies, music CDs and show photos. Perfect for places with no WIFI, or in a plane or car. Entertainment on the go! They start around $25 like the one below from Amazon.
Universal Socket - I already bought this for my husband's stocking! Whether your man is a beginner or has a monumental toolbox, (like mine) this is a great item to keep in you kitchen drawer for small jobs. It will save him from having to go search for the correct size! They start around $7.
Deodorizing Balls - If your man has a stink problem, be it shoes, gym bag, locker or closet, this is what he needs! These little balls will help rid any confined space of distressing odors for only about $7 for six balls.
Beef Jerky - Don't put candy canes or chocolates in your man's stocking when what he really wants is JERKY!! Small, individual packets of jerky always go over great, just stuff them right in that stocking and see his face light up!
Mini Bluetooth Speakers - These speakers are small in size but big in sound. You will be surprised at the quality of the sound. They are available in all shapes and sizes, but I recommend the one below, which I have and runs about $19 and comes in six different colors!
Knit Hat with a Light - I got one of these for my husband last Christmas. I was afraid that he would never use it, but I could not have been more wrong! He wears it all the time. Anytime he needs to go out and do something at night, he puts it on. Putting our animals away, going out to retrieve something he left in the car, he even uses it when we grill on the deck at night. He says it is one of the best things I ever bought him because it leaves his hands free while giving lots of light! His is USB rechargeable and cost about $9.
Solar Charger Power Bank - These are about the size of a phone, a bit thicker, and one side is covered will solar panels. You can charge the bank by plugging it in and at full charge it will fully recharge your phone three times. If you are someplace with no plug in, you can charge this power bank using the solar panels. This is a great gift that could save a life in a bad situation. Starts at around $20.
Belly Band Holster - Because many people don't know what these are, I decided to include a picture of one so you would know what I mean. These holsters can be used for guns, but they can also be used for so many other things. It is especially nice for hiding things you don't want out in the open in case you are mugged or threatened, or you don't want to carry a purse. They are also useful for walkers or joggers. The compartments and pockets in these bands are awesome for smart phones, wallets, inhalers, medications, pepper spray, ID, cash and so much more. These are great gifts! They start at about $16.
Personalized Playing Cards - Wouldn't your guy love to have a deck of cards with a his favorite photo on the back of each card? Show you really care with this personal gift! You can order these from Shutterfly for about $20 along with other great personalized stuff like calendars and magnets.
Leather Apple Watchband - These bands are made especially to fit Apple watches and look far more stylish than what comes with them. They start around $12.
Mini Survival Kit - If your guy drives long distances, or if he jogs, hikes or camps, he needs a survival kit. This kit is very small with only the bare minimum of survival equipment, but it has things in it that you will need if you find yourself caught out with no resources. Each kit has different things, but most include at least an emergency blanket, fire starter, multitool, compass and wire saw. These mini kits are usually small enough to fit in your glove compartment, but in an emergency they could save your life, for around $20. A thoughtful gift.
Mini Work Lights - I bought these lights for my husband a couple months ago. We were both really shocked at how bright they were and all the extras they had. Three different levels of brightness, strobe, on/off switch, means to hang it up or stand it up, keychain attachment and bottle opener. For the price, you will never get a better small light. I keep one in my car, and one in my kitchen in case we lose power. They charge with a USB plug and the lights I bought were two for $12.
Stocking Stuffers for Senior Men
Though senior men would probably love any of the suggestions above, there are some items that are especially loved by older gents. Here are a few!
Neck Light - My husband uses his all the time when he reads, as the lamp by his chair is not bright enough for him to read easily. You simply drape them around your neck and the legs are bendable into any position you like. A great gift for people who like to read or do crafts. Prices vary widely but start at around $10.
Newspaper or Magazine Subscription - Some seniors still prefer to receive their reading material on paper, and the price of these items has risen greatly in the last five years. The Wall Street Journal is $33 for four weeks and a year subscription to TV Guide is $56! Many seniors have a problem with high cost of their favorite print material, so a gift subscription would be a blessing for them!
Tracker - These small items clip on to car keys, remotes, pill satchels or other things that are commonly misplaced. Must have a smart phone or smart home to use most trackers. Simply download the free app and search, your tracker will ring out so your item is easy to find. Prices start about $17.
Lazy Shoe Horn Helper - Many older folks have trouble getting their foot in their shoes. The heel folds in and it is very frustrating. These shoe horn helpers solve this problem instantly. You simply slip them on the back of the shoe and your heel will slide down the horn and right into the shoe. My husband loves his! They start at around $6. This is what they look like:
