The five gift rule for Christmas
It can be easy to get carried away and go overboard buying Christmas gifts or just picking up something for the sake of it. To help focus your gift buying (and watch your wallet), lots of people swear by the five gift rule.
Christmas gift tags, £5.95
What is the five gift rule?
In the five gift rule, the first four gifts are pretty straightforward - something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read. Then, the last gift is where you can really have fun. The fifth gift is something they didn’t know they wanted. We’re talking all things quirky and unusual, that show them just how well you know them. Here are some fun ideas to help you follow the five gift rule this Christmas.
1. Something they want
This sounds simple enough, but unless you have a very organised recipient who draws up a wish-list in advance, sometimes it can be hard working out what to buy. Identifying their interests is a good start, whether it’s a hobby, their job, or even a favourite band or TV show. Do they love to travel, or are they a vinyl enthusiast? Here are some of our favourite gifts by interest!
Periodic Table mug, £4.95
Wonders of Nature flower press, £12.95
World Map 300 piece puzzle, £7.95
Record ‘I can see clearly now' microfibre cloth, £3.95
2. Something they need
These gifts are usually very functional and practical. But that doesn’t have to mean boring! Whether they need some new lunchware for all that money-saving meal prepping, a reusable shopping bag, or even a bicycle puncture repair kit, take a look at our collection of colourful essentials to help make the everyday joyful.
Pink and green Daisy recycled shopping bag, £3.95
Table brush and pan set, £8.95
Garden Birds glasses case, £5.95
Le Bicycle puncture repair kit, £4.95
3. Something to wear
Hit your local charity shops if budget doesn't allow for brand new clothes. A cheesy Christmas jumper is always a winner, or crafty types could even add a personal flair to some pre-loved clothes with these three easy ways to update clothes. If you’re giving to kids, you could get creative and think beyond just tops and trousers. How about some fun fancy dress, or an apron for baking and crafting? Alternatively, keep it low-cost with something small like a pin badge or a hair accessory.
Tilde fabric hairband, £6.95
Roller Skate pin badge, £2.95
Prehistoric Land apron, £8.95
Fairies in the Garden fairy skirt, £6.95
4. Something to read
A book can be one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give. If you know exactly what book you want to buy, you can pick it up from your local bookstore. Otherwise, head to a charity shop for a wide range of interesting titles for less. Alternatively, why not pass on a much-loved tome of your own for the ultimate personal gift?
Magnetic cat bookmarks, £2.95
5. Something they don’t know they want
Our favourite type of gift! Our collection of unusual gifts fits the bill perfectly. A fish-shaped bottle opener? Absolutely. A birdhouse in the shape of a vintage caravan? We’ve got you!
Fish-shaped bottle opener, £6.95
Cornish salt and pepper shakers, £6.95
Butterfly Garden caravan birdhouse, £19.95
Telescopic back scratcher, £4.95
However many gifts you choose to buy, it really is the thought that counts. Have fun shopping and check out our online gifts if you need some inspiration!
