It can feel like there's always a sale happening. Right now, shoppers are being bombarded with promotions from Amazon Prime Day, Walmart Deals and other summer sales events, all promising big discounts and limited-time offers. But just because something is on sale doesn't mean it's the best time to buy.

Many of the biggest savings happen when retailers are clearing out seasonal inventory, making room for new models or trying to boost sales during slower shopping periods. That's why timing can matter just as much as the item you're purchasing. Buying a refrigerator during a major holiday sale, waiting until the end of summer for patio furniture or shopping back-to-school promotions for electronics can often lead to bigger discounts than shopping during a headline-grabbing sales event.

Instead of focusing on a single shopping holiday, it helps to look at the retail calendar as a whole. Certain products tend to go on sale at the same times every year, making it easier to plan larger purchases and avoid paying full price. Here's a month-by-month guide to some of the best times to buy household goods, electronics, seasonal items and more throughout 2026.

January

Best buys: TVs, fitness equipment, gym memberships, bedding, towels, linens, holiday décor and winter clearance items

January is one of the strongest months for bargain hunters. Retailers heavily discount TVs ahead of the Super Bowl as shoppers upgrade their home entertainment setups. You’ll often find markdowns on large-screen TVs, soundbars and streaming devices throughout the month.

Fitness equipment and gym memberships also go on sale as companies capitalize on New Year’s resolutions. Expect deals on treadmills, weights, exercise bikes and fitness subscriptions.

January is also prime time for clearance shopping. Holiday décor, wrapping paper and winter seasonal items are deeply discounted after Christmas. Many department stores also hold traditional "white sales," which focus on bedding, towels and linens.

February

Best buys: Mattresses, furniture, appliances, winter apparel and winter sports gear

February is one of the best months to find deals on big-ticket household purchases thanks to Presidents Day sales. Mattress retailers often compete aggressively during the holiday weekend, offering deep discounts, free delivery and bundle deals that can rival some of the best promotions of the year.

Furniture stores also begin clearing older inventory to make room for new spring collections. If you're shopping for a sofa, dining table, bedroom set or other large furniture purchase, February can be a good time to buy before new styles arrive and prices reset.

You'll also find growing clearance sales on winter clothing, boots and cold-weather gear as retailers shift their focus to spring merchandise. Ski, snowboard and other winter sports equipment may also be marked down as the season winds down.

March

Best buys: Vacuums, carpet cleaners, storage and organization products, tax software, and lawn and garden supplies

March is a strong month for home organization and cleaning deals as retailers lean into spring-cleaning season. Shoppers can often find discounts on vacuums, carpet cleaners, storage bins, shelving units and other products designed to help tackle household projects after winter.

Tax software providers also frequently offer promotions as the filing deadline approaches, particularly on basic and DIY filing packages. If you haven't filed yet, March can be a good time to compare pricing and take advantage of limited-time discounts.

You'll also begin to see early-season deals on lawn and garden supplies before demand peaks later in the spring. Purchasing outdoor tools, hoses, planters and gardening essentials early may help you avoid higher prices later in the season.

April

Best buys: Airfare, hotel stays, smartphones, tech devices, luggage, outdoor gear and camping equipment

April can be a surprisingly good month for travel deals. As part of the spring shoulder season — the period between winter travel and peak summer vacation demand — travelers may find lower airfare and hotel rates, especially if their plans are flexible.

It's also a good time to shop for slightly older smartphones and tech devices. Retailers sometimes offer discounts on existing models ahead of anticipated summer and fall product launches, creating opportunities to save without sacrificing many features.

Outdoor gear, luggage and camping equipment can also be attractively priced before summer demand ramps up. Buying early may help you avoid the higher prices that often arrive closer to peak travel and camping season.

May

Best buys: Appliances, patio furniture, grills and mattresses

May is one of the best shopping months of the year thanks to Memorial Day sales. Large appliances, including refrigerators, washers, dryers and dishwashers, often see significant discounts as retailers make room for newer inventory arriving later in the year.

Patio furniture and grills are also heavily promoted ahead of the summer entertaining season. While the deepest clearance prices typically arrive at the end of summer, May sales can still offer strong value while providing a broader selection of styles and models.

Mattresses remain another major Memorial Day sale category, giving shoppers a second opportunity to find deals after Presidents Day promotions.

June

Best buys: Tools, grills, lawn equipment, home improvement products, cookware, small kitchen appliances and fine jewelry

June offers a mix of seasonal promotions and holiday sales that can create savings opportunities across several categories. Father's Day sales often drive discounts on power tools, lawn equipment, grills and garage organization products, making it a good time for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts to shop.

The month is also closely tied to wedding season, prompting retailers to offer deals on cookware, small kitchen appliances and fine jewelry as they target gift buyers and newlyweds. If you're furnishing a kitchen or replacing household essentials, June sales can provide opportunities to save.

In recent years, June has also become a major month for online shopping events. Retailers such as Amazon, Walmart and Best Buy frequently launch summer sales and competing deal events ahead of peak back-to-school and holiday shopping seasons. While timing varies from year to year, shoppers may find discounts on electronics, smart-home devices, laptops, TVs and everyday household items throughout the month.

July

Best buys: Electronics, laptops, tablets, TVs, smart-home devices, furniture, mattresses and summer apparel

July has become one of the biggest shopping months of the year thanks to major mid-summer sales events. Retailers compete aggressively for shoppers' attention, creating opportunities to save on electronics, tech products and smart-home devices. Laptops, tablets, headphones, TVs and other popular gadgets are frequently among the most heavily discounted categories.

Fourth of July sales can also bring strong deals on furniture and mattresses as retailers use the holiday weekend to attract shoppers making larger household purchases.

By mid- to late July, many stores begin marking down summer clothing, footwear and seasonal apparel to make room for incoming fall inventory. Shoppers who don't need the latest styles can often find some of the season's best clothing discounts during this transition period.

August

Best buys: Laptops, tablets, office furniture, dorm essentials, desks, office chairs, organizational products, summer apparel and jewelry

August is one of the best months to shop for back-to-school deals. Retailers frequently discount laptops, tablets, printers and other technology products while offering bundles that include accessories, software or student-focused incentives.

The back-to-school shopping season also creates savings opportunities on office furniture, including desks, office chairs and organizational products. Even shoppers who aren't students can often benefit from these promotions when setting up a home office or workspace.

Meanwhile, summer clothing and seasonal apparel typically move deeper into clearance as retailers prepare for fall merchandise. Some jewelry categories, including engagement rings, may also see softer pricing before demand begins to increase ahead of the holiday shopping season.

September

Best buys: Vehicles, grills, patio furniture, gardening tools and appliances

September can be an excellent time to shop for a vehicle. As dealerships begin making room for next year's inventory, outgoing model-year vehicles may be discounted to encourage sales. End-of-quarter sales goals can also create opportunities for buyers to negotiate more aggressively on price, financing or trade-in offers.

It's also one of the best months to find clearance deals on outdoor living products. Grills, patio furniture, gardening tools and other seasonal items are often heavily marked down as retailers shift their focus to fall and holiday merchandise.

Appliances may also see promotional pricing during September as manufacturers and retailers prepare for new model introductions and year-end sales events.

October

Best buys: Lawn equipment, camping gear, outdoor recreation products and post-Halloween clearance

October is a transitional shopping month that can offer overlooked bargains for shoppers planning ahead. As colder weather approaches in many parts of the country, retailers often begin clearing out lawn equipment, camping gear and outdoor recreation products to make room for winter inventory.

Some retailers also start rolling out early holiday promotions on electronics, home goods and seasonal gifts ahead of the major shopping events that arrive in November. While the biggest deals may still be weeks away, October can provide opportunities to buy before inventory becomes limited.

One of the best savings opportunities comes immediately after Halloween. Costumes, decorations, party supplies and seasonal candy are often marked down significantly as retailers clear remaining inventory. Shopping post-Halloween sales can be a smart way to stock up on costumes for future school spirit weeks, themed work events and next year's celebrations at a fraction of the original price.

November

Best buys: TVs, laptops, gaming systems, smart-home devices, small appliances, streaming services and holiday gifts

November remains the heavyweight champion of shopping deals. Black Friday and Cyber Monday continue to deliver some of the year's best discounts on TVs, laptops, gaming systems, smart-home technology and small appliances. Retailers often compete aggressively in these high-profile categories to attract shoppers and drive traffic.

Holiday gifts, kitchen gadgets, coffee makers, air fryers and other popular household products also see widespread promotions throughout the month. Many retailers extend sales well beyond Thanksgiving weekend, giving shoppers more opportunities to compare prices and avoid the rush.

November is also one of the best times of the year to save on streaming services. Providers frequently offer limited-time promotions on both new and returning subscriptions, making it a good month to lock in discounted rates on entertainment services for the year.

Despite the abundance of deals, not every sale represents a true bargain. Comparing prices ahead of time, using price-tracking tools and sticking to a shopping list can help shoppers avoid impulse purchases during the year's biggest sales events.

December

Best buys: Vehicles, holiday décor, toys, winter apparel, storage containers and travel bookings

December can offer surprisingly strong savings opportunities, especially for car buyers. As dealerships work to hit month-end, quarter-end and annual sales goals, shoppers may find some of the year's best opportunities to negotiate pricing on new vehicles.

After Christmas, retailers begin clearing out holiday inventory, leading to steep markdowns on decorations, wrapping supplies, toys, gift sets and seasonal merchandise. Winter apparel may also see discounts as stores look ahead to spring inventory.

Post-holiday clearance sales can be an especially good time to buy storage totes, ornament organizers and other storage solutions. Purchasing these items after Christmas can help you protect holiday decorations and family keepsakes while paying a fraction of peak-season prices.

December can also be a smart time to start planning next year's travel. Booking flights, accommodations and other travel arrangements early, particularly for popular summer vacation periods, may help travelers secure lower prices before demand increases in the months ahead.

The best strategy isn't always buying immediately

Retailers often rely on urgency and impulse buying to drive sales, but many products follow predictable discount cycles throughout the year.

Waiting a few weeks — or even a few months — for the right sales window can significantly reduce the cost of major purchases without sacrificing quality. Whether you're shopping for a new TV, appliance, mattress or vehicle, buying at the right time can lead to savings.

If you're looking to stretch your budget in 2026, timing your purchases strategically may be one of the simplest and most effective ways to save money.

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The World Cup, soccer's most popular international tournament, began on June 11. The tournament, featuring 48 teams, spans more than 39 days with matches taking place in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

If you're a soccer fan, this is an excellent opportunity to catch the action live — that is, if you can afford the higher ticket prices. I recently checked, and the average ticket price for the U.S. vs Paraguay match on June 12 in Los Angeles starts around $850 per ticket on the resale market.

There is good news, though. Ticket prices are decreasing as demand wanes, making the resale market more attractive to soccer fans, but that also creates an opportunity for scammers, who use these events to clean up. Here's a peek into how scammers trick you into their ploys.

Look for these things before you buy

"There's an element of urgency that should be an immediate red flag," Ben Farrow, a partner at Anderson, Williams, & Farrow, told Kiplinger.

If someone messages you on a social media app such as Facebook, promising a can't-miss deal on World Cup tickets, there's a high likelihood it's a scam.

Thieves use persuasive language to add an element of urgency. When prices are high for a coveted event such as the World Cup, it's easy to let caution fall by the wayside when a deal seems too good to pass up.

Scammers use QR codes and AI to trick buyers

Another thing to watch for is when the seller asks you to scan a QR code, which usually opens a website where you can purchase tickets and check out. But before checking out, check out the website.

"Scammers will use AI tools to make landing pages look legit. But if you take some time to review the website, they omit pertinent details, such as business location, contact information, etc," remarked Farrow.

The fake giveaway

Thieves use other ploys to entice people into buying fraudulent tickets. One of the more common is fake giveaways.

You might find a company advertising free World Cup tickets if you enter their sweepstakes. You click the link, only to be taken to a fake website where hackers could steal your information.

If it feels as if something is off, it likely is. Knowing where to buy vs where not to can help you avoid some of these encounters.

Where's the worst place to buy World Cup tickets?

"Social media," Farrow said. The problem with social media is that you have acquaintances you might have met once, but you don't really know them. They reach out with cheap tickets, and it's tempting to take the bait, but that's where you need to pause to really think things through.

Instead, look for legitimate resellers. How do you find them? Start with FIFA's ticket market.

If those sell out or you need another option, try the National Association of Ticketing Professionals. You can use their member feature to find reputable ticket resellers by company name. If they're unable to fulfill your order for some reason, you'll receive up to a 200% refund of the contracted price.

The risks are real. According to LegalShield’s World Cup ticket scam report, 36% of victims said they had a "verified" ticket rejected at the gate as fraudulent, while 68% reported buying so-called "ghost tickets," when the seller never had the tickets in the first place.

Additionally, when you purchase your World Cup tickets, Farrow recommends using a credit card. If things go south, you have fraud protection.

However, timing does matter. Credit card companies give you 60 days to dispute a charge. If you buy illegitimate soccer tickets, contact your credit card company promptly, or you could lose money.

Do I have any legal recourse against ticket scammers?

"If you get scammed, your legal options are terrible," remarked Farrow. "If you can find the scammer and take them to court, then great, but chances are, you're not going to find them."

That doesn't mean you shouldn't do anything. "There are options available, where you can file reports with state agencies, the FTC or your state's attorney general," Farrow added. While that might not get you your money back, it could change things moving forward.

Farrow continued, "Think of it this way: Do you still receive a ton of calls about extended auto warranties? No, and that's because enough people complained."

The same applies to ticketing scams. While you might feel embarrassed in the moment, filing complaints won't get your money back, but over time, it could create change that prevents it from happening to you again.

Ultimately, the World Cup is a huge boon at a time the sport is increasing in popularity in the U.S. With ticket prices dropping on the resale market, it creates a buyer frenzy as the tournament approaches.

To avoid being scammed, know the scammers' playbook. Avoid buying tickets on social media, use legitimate resellers, and pay with your credit card. Doing these things ensures you receive a legitimate ticket to the action, so you're not sitting on the sidelines after losing thousands of dollars.

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Between tariffs on imported products and weather-related challenges impacting crops, both flowers and chocolate have seen steep price increases ahead of Valentine's Day. For couples, that means the go-to gift to show your love is going to stretch your budget even thinner this year.

If you want your loved one to feel special but you don't want to break the bank to do it, you'll have to get a little more creative this year to pull it off.

Here's a closer look at which gifts have seen the biggest price hikes and what you can do to keep your budget intact this Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day price hikes have multiple causes

A perfect storm of forces has resulted in soaring prices for many of the traditional gifts to give your loved one ahead of the romantic holiday. One of those forces is tariffs.

"Tariffs are driving up the cost of flowers, chocolate, and other Valentine’s Day products, raising prices for consumers and squeezing businesses during one of their most important sales periods of the year," said Tariffs Cost US, a campaign tracking the impact of tariffs on businesses and consumers.

As much as 80% of the cut flowers sold in the United States are imported, primarily from South America. So it'll be hard to find a bouquet that hasn't been impacted by the tariffs. Meanwhile, cocoa is only grown abroad, meaning all of the cocoa used in the United States is imported.

Between January and September of last year, the overall effective tariff rate surged from just 2.2% to 10.65%, according to analysis from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. But tariffs on chocolates and flowers may be even higher, depending on the specific country they were imported from.

Meanwhile, prices on the Valentine's Day staples are being driven up even further by a streak of bad weather. Both flowers and chocolate are extremely weather-dependent commodities. After a period of drought and high temperatures in 2023, for example, the resulting production declines caused cocoa prices to soar from around $4,000 per ton up to $12,000 in 2024. While they've since fallen back down to the low $4,000s, that's still more than double pre-pandemic prices.

Cut flowers, on the other hand, are a delicate crop that can be damaged by extreme weather even after a good harvest. When fresh cut flowers are exposed to freezing temperatures, they become brittle and vulnerable to frost burns. The further a shipment travels — such as a batch of flowers traveling from South America to North America — the more chances there are for extreme weather to damage the goods.

So, the recent cold snap that swept across much of the United States was detrimental to local sources of the Valentine's Day staple and made imported sources more vulnerable to damage. The result? Flower prices are up as much as 15% in some markets.

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas to Beat the Price Hikes

If you don't want to eat the tariffs this Valentine's Day, there are other ways you can treat the ones you love to something special. Here are a few ideas you can try:

Opt for chocolate-free candies instead

If the surge in cocoa prices has made you cringe at the price of your go-to box of chocolates, you might need to get a little more creative this year by grabbing a non-chocolate candy that your loved one will appreciate.

You can grab some of these Valentine's Day themed candies that are a cheaper alternative to the classic heart-shaped box of chocolates:

• A heart-shaped box of gummies: Valentine's Peelable Gummy Candy Hearts in Heart Shaped Box - 1.76oz - Favorite Day, $1.59
• Zero-effort home-baked cookies: Puff Cookies Cookie Dough Love Bomb Sugar Cookie - 10.35oz/12ct, $6.59
• A Valentine's Day classic: Sweethearts Valentine's Retro Candies Box - 4.5oz/5pk, $4.49
• Heart-shaped gummies: Valentine's Red and White Sour Sanded Hearts Candy - 6oz - Favorite Day, $4.00
• Heart-shaped marshmallows to pair with hot cocoa: Valentine's Pink and White Mini Heart Marshmallows - 2.1oz - Favorite Day, $3.99

Pick up treats from a local bakery instead of chocolates

Another way to skip the chocolate without showing up empty-handed this Valentine's Day is to check out a local bakery. Trade the chocolate for a holiday-themed cupcake or a mixed box of pastries. You'll be supporting a local business, beating the tariffs and surprising your loved one with a treat that feels even more special than the standard chocolates.

Get creative when assembling a bouquet

Tariffs and cold weather have driven prices up across all cut flowers, but some are still more expensive than others. Instead of a dozen red roses, then, ease the strain on your wallet this year by mixing fewer roses in with some alternative, cheaper flowers that complement the roses while bulking up your bouquet.

Get a potted plant from a local nursery instead of cut flowers

There are a lot of perks to skipping the bouquet altogether and going for a locally-sourced potted plant. First, locally grown means you're skirting the impact of tariffs on the price tag. Secondly, a potted plant lasts longer than a bouquet.

There are plenty of flowering potted plants to choose from, ranging from miniature roses that will still have that traditional Valentine's Day feel to attractive succulents that would be a great choice if your loved one doesn't exactly have a green thumb.

Go to a "U-Pick" flower farm for a Valentine's Day date

The easiest way to make sure the flowers you buy this Valentine's Day aren't imported is to pick them yourself from a local farm. Depending on where you live, there may be some of these open right now, despite the chilly weather.

If you're in one of the warmer parts of the country, search for a "U-Pick" flower farm near you and make a date out of it. You and your loved one can wander through fields of flowers to craft the perfect bouquet. Then, get hot cocoa or cider to warm up afterward. Just make sure to call ahead first as some local farms have been impacted by the recent cold snaps.

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It's not unusual for family heirlooms to hold significant sentimental value. If you're lucky, they might have a lot of monetary value, too.

If you own a bunch of gold jewelry and silver flatware or other pieces that were passed down to you from older generations, you may be eager to sell them sooner rather than later, especially if you're not particularly attached to them. Despite a recent dip in gold and silver prices, both metals have seen their value increase substantially through the years.

Selling your gold and silver could help fund other goals or investments. Plus, it might free up physical space in your home.

On the other hand, you may be inclined to hold on to your gold and silver and pass them down to your children. If you hold those assets for another decade or longer, their value could increase even more. And that way, you'll be giving your children a nice inheritance or gift that might benefit them tremendously.

It's not an easy call. But here are some things to know as you navigate the "hold versus sell" debate.

You may not get as much money as expected

Although gold and silver prices are still generally strong despite a recent decline, Ian Ross, vice president of operations at Ross Metals, warns that you may not be able to command the price you expect.

"Getting a refinery, jewelry store, or pawn shop to pay spot price is where you will have issues," he says. "If you can get someone that'll pay close to market price, it certainly could be wise to sell everything you have, as long as liquidating makes sense for you. However, most places who purchase will offer much less, especially on silver."

If you're going to try selling your gold and silver, it's important to do your research and find a reputable dealer. If you're selling a large quantity, it's a good idea to shop around and consider breaking up your collection to see if some dealers might offer a higher price on certain pieces than others.

Know what you own

Before you consider selling your silver or gold, take time to research what you own. In some cases, the piece may be worth more due to its history and craftsmanship than the metal's market price. The hallmark and maker's mark on antique English silver, for example, provide the year, purity, location and the company or craftsman who made the silver.

If your grandparent purchased the piece years ago, try to obtain the bill of sale or other documentation to establish its provenance.

You will want to understand whether your piece was handmade or manufactured, whether it's solid or plated and its purity. You can check eBay, WorthPoint or antique auction sites, or try the reverse lookup tool to get a sense of your item's market value. You can also contact auction houses and appraisers for assistance. If you want to sell a set that is missing one or two pieces, try searching for one at Replacements, Ltd.

Here's an example of how easy it may be to reverse-image a manufactured piece of silverware.

From this picture alone, with no search words, results include an entry from Replacements, Ltd., indicating that the pattern is from a 1937 set called "Duke of Windsor," manufactured by the Manchester Silver Company. Bingo. From there, you can research what others are paying for pieces from that set.

It could pay to sit tight if you don't need money immediately

If you have a pressing need for money — say, debts that are piling up or bills to pay in the wake of a layoff — then it could make sense to convert your gold and silver into cash. Otherwise, Ross thinks it makes sense for most people to have some gold and silver in their portfolios.

"Both metals have retained their value for thousands of years," Ross says. "They are a good investment to hold and to pass down to the next generation."

Michael Meechan, director of investments, Hollow Brook Wealth Management, agrees.

"If liquidity is not required, we generally would not recommend selling gold today," he says.

"While prices are near record highs, the fundamental reasons for owning gold remain intact — persistent inflation, growing fiscal imbalances, negative real interest rates in real terms, and elevated geopolitical uncertainty."

Gold has long served as a hedge against inflation.

As Meechan explains, "Gold has performed best during periods of high inflation, negative real interest rates, and elevated market volatility. The common denominator across these environments is a decline in the purchasing power of paper currencies. When bond yields and cash returns fail to keep pace with inflation, investors tend to seek assets with constrained supply. Gold fits that profile."

Meechan cautions that, in his view, silver fits a bit differently. "Silver," he says, "has a more complex demand profile due to its significant industrial uses… As a result, silver tends to be more cyclical and volatile."

However, Meechan says that if you're willing to tolerate price fluctuations, holding silver as part of your portfolio's precious metals allocation could make sense, as it provides added diversification.

There are benefits to passing gold and silver down to heirs

Not only can hanging onto gold and silver allow you to benefit from asset appreciation, but, as Meechan explains, from an estate planning standpoint, holding these metals through inheritance can also be tax efficient.

Gold and silver held until death are generally eligible for a step-up in cost basis, he explains, allowing heirs to reset the asset’s value to its fair market price at the date of passing.

"This can materially reduce or eliminate capital gains taxes if the asset is later sold," Meechan says.

Either way, familiarize yourself with how the IRS taxes capital gains from collectibles, as the rate may be as high as 28%.

While gold and silver heirlooms make wonderful wedding gifts, keep in mind that the beneficiary gets no step-up in the basis value.

It could pay to think long term

While there are plenty of benefits to selling your gold and silver now, the reality is that if you don't have a pressing need for money, holding them could be more advantageous to you and your children in the long run.

As of this writing, gold is trading at about $4,911 per ounce, according to GoldPrice.org. But Wells Fargo recently raised its year-end gold price target to $6,100–$6,300 an ounce, according to Reuters. The bank had previously projected year-end prices in the $4,500–$4,700 range.

The takeaway? As with quality stocks, it often pays to hold precious metals over the long term.

You may, however, want to invest in a formal appraisal to determine the value of your items. If the number is significant, ensure your gold and silver are stored securely. Whenever you use or display the pieces (especially silver), treat them gently, wear gloves, and learn how to clean and store them properly. Never put real silverware in the dishwasher; especially knives, as the plaster in their handles may shrink and come loose.

At a minimum, invest in a fireproof home safe and discuss how best to insure your pieces with your home insurance company. You may also consider opening a safe deposit box at a nearby bank if you don't intend to use the pieces often. Finally, you may want to look into a precious metals depository if there's truly a large amount of money on the line.

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With just days left before Christmas, you're running out of time to find gifts for those hard-to-shop-for names on your list – the coworker you drew for Secret Santa that you hardly know; the second cousin twice removed that just decided they're coming for Christmas this year; the grandkid whose interests seem to change overnight.

Whatever the reason you've been procrastinating on those last few gifts, there's no need to panic. While you might miss the holiday shipping deadlines for the post office, many retailers still offer fast, free shipping (for members, at least) that will get your gift where it needs to be on time.

From crowd-pleaser gift ideas eligible for one- or two-day shipping to popular gifts for grandkids of all ages, everything on the list below should make it to your delivery destination before Christmas (as long as you order it on or before December 23). Amazon and Walmart are particularly fast shippers, which is why I've highlighted them here.

If you're reading this on Christmas Eve (or Christmas morning), skip right down to the gift cards and subscriptions section for last-minute gift ideas that don't need to be shipped at all.

Best last-minute gifts at Amazon

From no-brainer white elephant gift ideas to the latest trends in home and travel, there's still time to find great last-minute Christmas gifts on Amazon. All of the picks below are eligible for one- or two-day shipping, which is free for Amazon Prime members (but also available for an added fee to non-members if you don't want to sign up).

• UGG Adalee Luxury Faux Fur Throw Blanket, $55. Save 44%
• BIODANCE Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask, 4-Pack, $17. Save 11%
• FUJIFILM Instax Mini 12 Holiday Bundle, $86. Save 31%
• Carhartt Men's Knit Cuffed Beanie, $20
• Beats Solo 4, $130. Save 35%
• TheraICE Migraine Relief Cap, $24. Save 20%
• Amazon Kindle 16 GB (newest model), $90. Save 18%

Best last-minute gifts at Walmart

Walmart has made great strides in expanding its inventory over the past couple of years. Luckily for you, that means this year's top tech gifts and other surprisingly high quality finds can arrive as soon as the same day.

They may even be eligible for pickup at your nearest Walmart if you're really cutting it close to the deadline.

• Dearfoams Cozy Comfort Women's Moc Toe Clog Slippers, $10. Save 52%
• Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, $140. Save 21%
• Art 101 Glow and Neon Drawing and Painting Art Set, $25. Save 11%
• KitchenAid Deluxe Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, $279. Save 37%
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, $129. Save 28%
• OPI Holiday 2025 Mini Nail Polish, 4-Piece Set, $20
• GoPro HERO Camera, $197. Save 10%

The best gift cards and subscriptions that don't need shipping

If you've run out of time to even order something for next-day delivery, don't despair. A well-picked gift card or subscription can feel just as thoughtful (and useful) as a physical gift.

Here are some of the easy wins that you can get even if it's Christmas morning and you're already en route to the in-laws.

• Trade Coffee Gift Subscription, $30 per month. Save 25%
• Bath & Body Works $50 eGift Card, $40. Save 20%
• PinkSeoul Box of Customized Korean Skincare Products, $40 per box
• Regal Entertainment $50 Gift Card, $40. Save 20%
• Winc Wine Club Subscription, $43 and up per month
• Spafinder $50 Gift Card, $40. Save 20%

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• How Much Should You Spend on Holiday Gifts This Season

It may be better to give than to receive, but that doesn't make picking out holiday presents for your family and friends any easier. Even with all the festive cheer that the season brings, it can be stressful to shop for the perfect gift for everyone on your list if you're worried the folks you hold near and dear won't be delighted by what they find under the tree.

With gift givers spending more than ever, that pressure is mounting. In 2024, U.S. consumers dropped a record $994 billion on holiday shopping, according to the National Retail Federation, and projections by the Mastercard Economic Institute suggest holiday sales will continue to climb this year, by an estimated 3.6%. Higher-income shoppers, buoyed by a surging stock market, are likely to spend even more.

Shelling out bigger bucks, though, doesn't necessarily yield better gifts for the people you love. The NRF says holiday returns last year were 17% higher than average, suggesting a growing number of presents are missing the mark, putting added pressure on gift givers this year.

"We give gifts because we want to make people happy, give them something they'll enjoy and signal we care about them," says Elanor Williams, an associate professor of marketing at Washington University and a leading gifting researcher. "And therefore we stress about it."

How can you reduce that anxiety and land on gifts the people you care about will love? Science can help.

A growing body of research from behavioral finance experts identifies the kinds of presents that people typically like best and the mental quirks that prevent many people from buying them. Understanding these preferences and the cognitive traps that lead gift givers astray can help ensure your holiday presents not only stand out when they're unwrapped but also stand the test of time.

These are the strategies that leading researchers in the field suggest.

Skip the razzle-dazzle

Have you ever splurged on gifts for your family that made them exclaim in delight upon opening, only to never see the items used or played with again? You may have fallen victim to the smile-seeking hypothesis.

Coined by researchers at the National University of Singapore and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the term refers to the tendency of gift givers to focus on eliciting the biggest reaction at the time a present is opened — a big smile or expression of awe — rather than on whether the item will bring your recipient long-term satisfaction when he or she actually uses it in the future.

The researchers ran several experiments to test the hypothesis, including one in which they randomly assigned participants to give or receive one of two similarly priced mug sets as a wedding present: an award-winning ergonomic set or a personalized set with inscriptions of the couple's names and wedding date.

Gift givers favored the more personal mugs and predicted the newlyweds would have a more positive reaction to them when opened and like them more over the long term, too. In reality, the recipients preferred the more useful mugs, both at the moment of unwrapping and for use over time.

"There's so much pageantry that goes along with exchanging gifts, especially at Christmas," says Williams. "It really gets you focused on that moment where you're going to hand that gift over and see what the person says when they open it."

What to do instead? Rather than try to wow loved ones when you give them a holiday gift, focus on whether your kids, grandkids and dear Uncle Bill really need the item and will use it and like it in the days and weeks to come.

Research shows, says Cindy Chan, an associate professor of marketing at the University of Toronto, that recipients are often just as happy, if not happier, to open practical gifts as they are showstoppers, valuing a seemingly boring gift more because they get more use out of it.

"For my parents and their stockings one Christmas, I just threw in some kitchen utensils," Chan says. "I noticed that their kitchen tongs were really annoying, that their ladle was starting to crack. They use them every day, and they appreciate that gift."

Gift them what they want

One of the simplest ways to get everyone on your list something they will enjoy is to put yourself in their shoes, says Mary Steffel, associate professor of marketing at Northeastern University who has published multiple research papers on the psychology of gift giving.

"Try to think about what that person might choose for themselves, and let that help guide your decision," Steffel says. "That's more likely to keep our focus on the recipient's preferences as opposed to other motives, like our desire to feel thoughtful."

The easiest way to do this? Buy something from your recipients' wish list. Studies suggest your loved ones will appreciate that gift more than an unsolicited surprise offering and consider it more thoughtful, even if it doesn't feel that way to you.

That was the conclusion of a study out of Harvard Business School and Stanford University's Graduate School of Business. In one experiment, the researchers gave gifters the option to pick a present from their recipient's Amazon wish list or choose one on their own. People were more satisfied when they received gifts from their list — just as, in other experiments, they preferred to get wedding gifts from their registry and birthday gifts they had explicitly requested.

Still, gifters love to go rogue. Why the disconnect? The researchers concluded that people giving presents mistakenly believe it makes them look more considerate when they think up gift ideas for someone on their own, though the opposite is true.

"We want to feel thoughtful. We want to communicate, I want to show you how well I know you," says Julian Givi, associate professor of marketing at West Virginia University and a leading gifting researcher. In reality, he says, these are unconsciously selfish motivations because they don't put what the recipient really wants first.

Don't get too personal

You may think that a highly personal gift will signal how well you know the unique tastes and preferences of your friends and relatives. But a series of studies spearheaded by Northeastern University's Steffel and Washington University's Williams show how these kinds of presents can backfire.

In one experiment, the researchers randomly assigned participants to imagine that they were either giving a gift to a close friend or receiving one from that pal. They were then presented with two gift options: a Visa gift card that could be used anywhere or a gift card from the recipient's favorite clothing store. As it turned out, givers were far more likely to choose a gift card to the recipient's favorite store, but the people getting the present preferred the more versatile Visa gift card.

Steffel and Williams's research also finds that you are more likely to choose a personalized, less versatile gift for someone you're close to — say, a child or sibling — than people with whom you have a more distant relationship because you think it signals how well you know the recipient. Ironically, you could be giving the people you love worse presents than your acquaintances.

Buying your daughter a gift card to a store you know she's purchased clothes from before shows you are paying attention, but it doesn't take into account all the other facets of her personality, Steffel says. Clothes might not be first on her wish list.

"Givers tend to pick something that is representative of who their recipient is," she says. "Recipients are more likely to focus on what they want or need right now, so gravitate toward a gift that's more flexible."

Play the hits

You also don't have to bend over backward to give everyone a different present, even if the gifts will be opened at the same holiday gathering. If you've landed on a winner — say, Labubus for the grandkids or Amazon gift cards for the adults — go with it.

Steffel and Robyn LeBoeuf, professor of marketing at Washington University, tested that strategy in a series of experiments. In one, the researchers invited college students to get a jump on holiday shopping by giving either one or two friends a $25 gift card; in the two-friend scenario, only one of the recipients was a student at the giver's school. The gift-card choices were Amazon (established in pre-testing as the one people would likely want most), the university bookstore or a sporting goods store.

When giving a present to their fellow student alone, 72% of gifters chose the Amazon card while 24% picked the bookstore. For two friends, 81% picked the Amazon card for the person who didn't attend their school, and the number giving the university bookstore card to the college pal jumped to 43%.

Other experiments established the likely reason was to appear thoughtful by choosing a uniquely suitable gift — even one that might not be enjoyed as much.

"Givers may be overthinking it," Steffel says. "You really should be giving people the thing that you think they're going to like the most, even if it is a duplicate of something you're giving somebody else."

Favor experiences over stuff

Gifts of experiences — say, a gift card to a favorite restaurant or tickets to a play or ballgame — are likely to bring you closer to your loved ones than material gifts, studies show. So think about what the people on your holiday list enjoy doing in their spare time and how you might tailor a gift to their preferred activities, suggests Chan.

Her research, conducted with Cassie Mogilner, a professor of marketing and behavioral decision-making at the University of California, Los Angeles, looked at how different types of presents affect the relationship between giver and receiver. In one experiment, university students were recruited with a friend, with one from each pair randomly assigned to be the giver while the other was the receiver. Givers could purchase either a $15 experiential gift or a $15 material gift, and recipients rated the strength of their friendship with the giver before and after getting the present.

The researchers found that recipients rated the experiential gifts as far more effective at improving the relationship — even when the experience wasn't something the friends could do together.

This is because experiences elicit a stronger emotional response than purely material gifts do, Chan says. It's not so much that the person getting the gift likes it more; rather, it makes her feel closer to the giver when she consumes it.

"Experiential gifts tend to be more emotionally intense and more emotionally evocative, and this has a spillover effect on making the relationship stronger," Chan says.

You can also mix a material gift with an experience for greater impact. Rather than buy your coffee-connoisseur son a gift card to a local java joint, for example, you could present him with a bag of coffee beans and a mug with a heartfelt note saying you hope he will savor them before work. When your son has his first sip each morning, he will think of you fondly.

"It's very different to say 'Here's a mug, I hope you love it,' than 'Here's a mug, I hope it brings you a moment of calmness in your busy day,' " says Chan. "You will feel differently about that mug."

Don't overthink it, though. No matter what you give your loved ones for the holidays, Chan says, they're likely to appreciate the gesture. "People talk about bad gifts, but really, really bad gifts are not the norm," she says. In the end, she notes, "most gifts are well liked."

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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When your gift list gets longer but your holiday gift budget stays the same, it's time to get creative about shopping for everyone on your list. While rising prices make it feel impossible to get something everyone will love without overspending, there are plenty of budget-friendly gift ideas out there.

One of the best-kept secrets for finding under-$20 gifts that will put a smile on people's faces is Amazon Haul. The home of "crazy low" prices and deeply discounted finds, Amazon Haul is a place where everything you see costs $20 or less.

Sure, you won't find the newest Nintendo Switch for your grandkid or a diamond-studded tennis bracelet for your wife. But, there are some surprisingly gift-worthy items on there if you're willing to dig. So, if you need budget-friendly stocking stuffers for the family or low-cost gift ideas to pass out to coworkers and extended relatives, Amazon Haul is a great resource to use.

Still not convinced? Check out some of the best under-$20 gift ideas from the platform below to see what kind of items you'll find.

Best Amazon Haul travel gifts

For the frequent flyers on your gift list this year, make their next trip more comfortable by gifting them one of these under-$20 travel gadgets and accessories.

• Handheld Luggage Scale, 110lb Luggage Weight Scale, $8
• Retro Canvas Crossbody Bag, $15
• Travel essentials Electronic Cable Organizer Pouch, $11
• Mini Refillable Perfume Travel Bottle, 5-Pack, $3
• RFID Blocking Passport Holder, $6 (originally $10)
• Travel Jewelry Organizer Case, $7
• Amazon Essentials 4-Piece Packing Cubes, $13

Best Amazon Haul gifts for kids and teens

Need some stocking stuffers for the kids and teens in your life that won't break the bank? Here are 10 Amazon Haul finds that are all $20 or less.

• Kids Camera Instant Print, $18
• Elbow Room Games 3-in-1 Game Set, Chess, Checkers & Tic Tac Toe, $14 (originally $18)
• Build Your Own FM Radio Kit for Kids, $10 (originally $13)
• Newborn Winter Romper Fleece Hooded Jumpsuit, $19
• Gamie Mini Electronic Memory Game, $10 (originally $13)
• Mp3 Player with Bluetooth 5.3 HiFi Sound, $20
• Vgogfly Lined Men's Knit Beanie, $9
• Winter Cable Knit Beanie Hat for Women, $13
• Timberland PRO Mens Sorbtek Moisture Control Socks, 6-Pack, $14 (originally $20)

Best home and kitchen deals on Amazon Haul

If you need a crowd-pleaser gift for a coworker or a white elephant gift exchange, it's hard to go wrong with a handy gadget or decor for the home. Here are a few under-$20 gift ideas to consider.

• Bicycle Pizza Cutter Wheel, $10
• TRZLIFE Cordless Desk Vacuum Cleaner, $17
• Homeweeks Diffusers, 100ml Colorful Essential Oil Diffuser, $11
• Stainless Steel Bacon Grease Container With Strainer, 46 fl. oz., $10
• 2 in 1 Glass Oil Sprayer & Dispenser,16 oz, $8
• Electric Pepper and Salt Grinder, $10
• Artificial Fall Lighted Maple Tree, $19 (originally $26)

If these exact options aren't a fit for your gift-giving needs, shop around on the Amazon Haul site. There are plenty of options and you're sure to find something that will work for everyone, including yourself.

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Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days sale ends tonight. Until midnight, Amazon Prime members can see discounts up to 70% off on some of the most popular gift items of the 2025 holiday season. If you were holding off until Black Friday to take care of your gift shopping, there's no need.

With the major deals available at Amazon right now, you can cross a few names off your list this week and leave less stress for yourself as the holidays get closer.

As a shopping expert who covers major sales like these, one of the best parts of a huge sales event is that it gives you a chance to grab gifts with a premium feel like smart tech or top-of-the-line appliances at a bargain price you'd normally never find them at.

So, if you're looking for gifts that will impress without straining your budget, here are some October Prime Day deals that are under $50 (but won't be once the sale ends).

My favorite under-$50 Prime Day deals that won't feel cheap

From $120 noise-canceling headphones on sale for just $35 to 67% off DNA testing kits, there are major deals this week that double as great gift ideas this year. So you can stretch your holiday shopping budget further without your gift recipients feeling like you're cheaping out on them.

More ways to save during the Amazon October Prime Day sale

Taking advantage of these under-$50 Prime deals is a great way to score gifts (for others or yourself) that feel more expensive than they are. But you can squeeze even more savings out of each deal by using a shopping rewards credit card at checkout.

From generous cash back to elevated points earning potential, your gift shopping this season can be just as rewarding for you as it is for everyone on your list.

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Grandparents Day was September 7th, 2025.

But there’s always still time to give your loved ones a meaningful gift. For instance, planning a special outing to a local museum, botanical garden, or family picnic is just one way to create cherished memories.

Or, if your grandparents don’t live nearby, you may send them a heartfelt gift "just because," like a curated playlist or a ticket to a future event.

If you're leaning toward a large cash gift, be sure to remain within the annual gift tax exclusion, though, or you may need to file an informational return at tax time. (More on that later.)

In case you missed it, here are 21 last-minute gifts you can give your loved ones this Grandparents Day 2025 or any other day.

Unique gifts for grandparents with hobbies in retirement

Does your grandad like to whittle? Is your grandmother a knitting machine? Hobbyist grandparents may love a gift card for Grandparents Day 2025. Here are a few examples:

1. Gardeners may want to purchase ergonomic tools, seasonal plants, or fund custom backyard ideas. A gift card to a home improvement store may be a great gift.
   
2. Bakers or cooks might enjoy an e-gift card for purchasing cooking classes, gourmet ingredients, or unique kitchen gadgetry.
   
3. Musicians, painters, and other artists could enjoy receiving a gift card for yarn, home crafts at the local supply store, or new sheet music.

Alternatively, gift cards can also help pay for pesky daily living expenses. For example, giving your grandparents a gift card for groceries or home goods allows them the opportunity to put their own money toward the things they love while taking some of the guesswork out of gift-giving for you.

Grandparent gifts for entertainment: Books, movies, and more

Almost everyone has a favorite TV show or book, so why not give the gift of entertainment? Check out these gift ideas for the always-fun grandparent on Grandparents Day:

4. Streaming services. Subscriptions to Hulu or Netflix could help your loved ones enjoy their shows — or maybe allow you both to share in something new.
   
5. Snacks. Speaking of subscribing, why not gift a gourmet snack subscription? Companies like Harry & David deliver a monthly subscription box right to your grandparents’ door. Oftentimes, you can use the service for just one month as a test run.
   
6. Books. Everything from fiction to non-fiction, audiobooks to podcasts, may be available at the click of a button. Services like Audible give your loved ones thousands of choices right at their fingertips.

Gifts for grandparents with debt in retirement

Sometimes, cash is king. And this is particularly true for grandparents who’d appreciate a little extra in their checking account this holiday.

Some ways you may use cash to give a meaningful, impactful gift on Grandparents Day 2025 are through:

7. Paying off debt. According to AARP, about 75% of adults aged 50 or older have some form of debt. Financial relief may be one way you can give a last-minute, helpful cash gift.
   
8. Making direct payments for expenses. Do your loved ones need to pay a doctor’s office or an educational institution? They’re not alone. A recent report found that at least one in five people over age 65 owed medical bills. And if you pay the medical or educational institution directly, that amount does not count toward your annual gift tax exclusion*.

By helping your grandparent pay their mortgage, credit card bill, property taxes, or other debts, you could help them free up their income for more fun activities in retirement.

*Note: Other cash gifts (including cash equivalents, gift cards, gifted property, etc.) are generally included in the annual gift tax threshold. More on this later.

Useful gifts for practical Grandparents who have everything

“I like useful gifts.” Have you ever heard that line from a relative? If your grandparent likes a gift that’s down to earth, here are a few practical ideas for Grandparents Day:

9. Making life easier. Try getting your grandparent something they can use every day, like an ergonomic jar opener or non-slip soles for their slippers. You may also think of other practical gifts, like a subscription to a meal service.
   
10. Making better connections. Do you have a tech-savvy grandparent? If so, something more gadget-oriented may be up their alley. Try purchasing an e-reader or robotic vacuum to make reading a pleasure and cleaning up a breeze.
    
11. Learning something new. If your grandparent is interested in a new hobby or special interest, consider gifting an online class like those from MasterClass or Skillshare. It’s never too late to learn something new.

Gifts for grandparents who stay active in retirement

In recent years, the number of pickleball players in the U.S. has increased to almost 50 million, based on reporting from the Association of Pickleball Professionals. And pickleball is a popular pastime among older adults.

But even if your grandparent doesn’t play pickleball in retirement, there are a ton of other active ideas they might like as gifts this Grandparents Day 2025:

12. Travel and experiences. For the jet-setting grandparents, sometimes a payment toward a trip could help them afford their latest getaway (especially if you’re coming with!).
    
13. Walkability. Several pairs of high-quality socks can last a long time if your grandparent likes walking. And if those strolls turn into hikes, consider purchasing trekking poles or a National Parks Pass.
    
14. Workout comfort. Biking, golfing, or other physical activities could bring lasting joy to your loved ones. Depending on your grandparent’s interests, you can support them by purchasing a foam roller, a bicycle water bottle holder, or resistance bands for at-home muscle strengthening.

Are you worried that online purchases may not arrive on time for Grandparents Day? Simply include a photograph of the item in a hand-delivered card or email for a personal touch.

How to make your grandparents feel special

At the end of the day, long-lasting memories with your loved ones may be what counts the most. These last-minute memorable gifts could pull at the heartstrings this Grandparents Day 2025:

15. Digital photo frame. Photographs are always a fan favorite because they're deeply personal. The modern option is wirelessly uploading photos from your phone to a digital photo frame. This helps your loved ones see updated pictures of the family — no matter where you both are.
    
16. Recipe book. As a last-minute gift, you may type up or handwrite a few of your favorite family recipes and bind them into a simple booklet. It's a great way to gift a family legacy, and you can always create a more expansive version later.
    
17. Curated playlist. Creating a playlist with songs from your grandparents’ favorite era is a fun way for you both to share in great music. Or, provide songs that make you think of them in an online album.

What to give grandparents who have everything?

Time may be the most cherished gift that you can give to your grandparents today. Celebrate Grandparents Day 2025 by surprising your loved ones with a last-minute get-together:

18. Planning an outing. Organize a day trip to a botanical garden, a local museum, or a simple family picnic. The most important part is the shared time together, not how much you spend.
    
19. Picking up the phone. If your loved one lives far away, why not pick up the phone and plan something for a later date? Studies have shown that anticipating a trip can actually create more happiness than the excursion itself.
    
20. Staying in and relaxing. This is a classic that can be planned on the spot. Bring your grandparents’ favorite snacks, a comfort blanket, and a film they love. Or, if movies aren’t their thing, participate in their favorite indoor activity instead.
    
21. Seeing a live game or performance. Is there a concert, a play, or a sporting event you both remember watching together? See if you can get tickets for that today — and if not, try to research a date and time that would work best for both of you in the near future.

Cash gifts for Grandparents Day 2025

If you’re considering gifting money for Grandparents Day, you might want to be aware of the annual gift tax exclusion. You can give each grandparent up to $19,000 without having to file a gift tax return (assuming you gave no other gifts to your grandparents during the tax year).

Plus, unless you plan on giving more than $13.99 million over your lifetime, you probably won’t have to worry about owing any taxes on your grandparents’ gifts — that's a win-win.

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Father's Day is fast approaching — June 15 this year — and with it the familiar anxiety about what to buy the father figure in your life.

Whether you're shopping for the man who raised you, the father of your own children, or your son who just became a father himself, dads can be hard for whom to shop.

It's tempting to fall back on classics such as cards, mugs or a new tie. But while these endearing touches show you care, they all share one major drawback: They depreciate in value over time. Even the nicest tie will likely end up tucked away in a drawer after a few years.

This year, why not surprise him with something that will bring a smile to his face today and truly stand the test of time? Lucky for you, such a gift isn't as hard to find as it might seem. Here are five Father's Day gift ideas that are also good long-term investments.

1. Watches

For a gift that combines function and value, consider a luxury watch. Classic sports watches or dress watches can make great additions to both his wardrobe and investment portfolio.

"Unlike most consumer goods, some watches appreciate due to their brand history, limited availability and increasing collector demand," says Robin Westerling, CEO of Longdavon, a luxury leather watch band company. "The finest investment-grade watches are ones with classic designs, strong historical background and limited production runs."

Heritage brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet are good bets for long-term value.

For example, you can't go wrong with an iconic timepiece such as the Rolex Submariner, the Omega Speedmaster Professional with its mythical history, a Tudor Black Bay 58 for those who appreciate utilitarian style with vintage appeal, or any watch from the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak collection. Prices for these range from around $4,000 for certain Tudor Black Bay 58 models to more than $63,000 for the highest-end Omega Speedmaster Professional model.

You can find investment watches through a variety of channels.

"For brand-new watches, authorized dealers are the safest choices," but they may have long waiting lists for in-demand models, Westerling says. Trustworthy pre-owned dealers include WatchBox, European Watch Company and Bob's Watches, all of which guarantee authenticity.

You could also venture to auction houses such as Sotheby's, Christie's and Phillips for rare watches, "albeit usually with a more substantial budget in mind," Westerling adds.

"Enthusiast groups and online platforms, such as Chrono24, might also serve as viable options for finding investment watches, but buyers should handle these portals prudently to avoid counterfeit products or overpriced offers."

If you're also celebrating a graduation this summer, know that Gen Z grads want nice watches, too — maybe you can make it a legacy gift.

2. Coins

Was the father on your gift list the type to slip dollar bills into birthday cards? If so, here's your chance to return the favor of gifting money, but with a grown-up twist.

"Many coins offer promising long-term investment potential, especially those that combine rarity, bullion value and a history of past price appreciation," says Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez, coin expert and numismatic editor for numerous outlets, including COINage Magazine.

Examples include "blue chip" coins such as the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent, 1955 doubled die Lincoln cent, 1916-D Mercury dime, 1913-S Barber quarter and 1916 Standing Liberty quarter. American Eagle coins are also solid options with patriotic designs and high-purity precious metal content.

"Other promising coins to consider are those with precious-metal value, including any pre-1965 90% United States silver coins, some of which can currently be bought for as little as $5 or $10," McMorrow-Hernandez says.

If you have deeper pockets, you could take a chance on the fervent bouillon market with a pre-1933 U.S. gold coin such as the Saint-Gaudens double eagle, "widely considered one of the most beautiful coins ever struck." Prices for the double eagle start in the low $3,000 range.

The best place to buy such coins is through a reputable coin dealer. Look for a dealer affiliated with numismatic associations or authorized by one of the major third-party coin grading companies, such as Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).

"Always go the extra step to check for customer feedback on the popular review platforms and websites," McMorrow-Hernandez says.

Once you have your coin in hand, McMorrow-Hernandez says to resist the urge to clean it.

"Cleaning coins only risks irrevocable damage to their surfaces and almost always lowers their value," he says.

Touch coins only on their edges, and store in a cool, dry environment away from heat sources, fumes and items with chemicals that can cause harm, such as paper or plastic.

3. Collectible sports cards

Some of the best gifts carry not only forward, but also back. Collectible cards can marry nostalgia with future value for the ultimate Father's Day gift. Watching the card increase in value is half the fun of the hobby, after all.

Not all cards achieve this value appreciation. "Many cards lose market value due to a lack of sales volume," says Justin Shump, head of buying at Arena Club, an online collectible card marketplace and grading platform. "Having said that, if you buy a player who has long-standing popularity in the hobby, they can have several cards with long-term upside."

You can't go wrong with "greatest of all time" (GOAT) players, but for the ultimate gift, choose a player your dad actually watched, admired or rooted for, Shump says. "Once you've got a name or era in mind, set a price range and look for iconic cards — especially rookies or early-career cards — from reputable sets."

The best places to find these cards are online auction websites such as Arena Club and PWCC Marketplace. "They typically feature cards that are the most attractive for the widest range of buyers, which is a great indicator of market sentiment and value," Shump says.

You can gauge a card's appreciation potential through websites that track market value over time, such as Cardladder.

Once you have the card, help Dad protect it by getting it graded (card-speak for authenticated), then keeping it in a fitted sleeve or case. "For long-term storage, consider a foam-lined case or lockbox to keep your graded cards safe from physical damage, moisture or UV exposure," Shump says.

4. Whiskey or other spirits

For dads who appreciate a true taste of luxury, consider a fine whiskey or rare spirit. If you normally think of liquor as something for immediate gratification, you're just not thinking long-term enough.

Take the Macallan Edition Series whiskey, for example. When the first limited batch was released less than a decade ago, bottles sold for about $100 each.

"Today, the Edition No. 1 sells on the secondary market for several thousand dollars, an appreciation of 2,000%," says Mahesh Patel, founder of The Universal Whisky Experience.

Other options include Bowmore, Balvenie and rare American bourbons, which you can find for several hundred dollars at many retailers or online at such sites as Reservebar or Caskers, Patel says.

The key to ensuring investment potential is to find a spirit with a limited issue. He recommends joining whiskey clubs where you can "gain great information and access to off-market gems." Some clubs to consider include Scotch Malt Whisky Society and Craft Whisky Club.

He also advises starting small as you make contacts and acquire knowledge. Be sure Dad's whiskey or spirit gets insured and stored in a secure room with climate control.

5. Shares of stock, ETFs or mutual funds

Watches, coins, cards and whiskey can be fun gifts, but they can also require time to find and procure. If you want something easier to access but no less valuable over the long-term, gifting shares of stock or an ETF or mutual fund might be the perfect answer.

All you need is a brokerage account where you can buy shares or already own some you want to give, and the information for Dad's brokerage account where he can receive them. You can then transfer the shares from your brokerage account to Dad's based on your brokerage firm's procedure.

Note that you might need to submit the request in writing and it could take up to a week for the shares to arrive in Dad's account. After that, Dad can reap all the rewards of a great Father's Day gift with long-term investment potential.

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Graduation — whether from high school, college or a master's program — is a special time in anyone's life, so you want to honor that achievement accordingly.

But if you want to buy a milestone gift for someone in their late teens or 20s, consider skipping the traditional savings bond gift or tech upgrade. Instead, make their year and opt for one of Gen Z's newest obsessions: A luxury watch.

This year's high school and college graduates are part of a generational cohort that has a growing interest in the analog wristwatch, that retro signifier of days gone by. They might be onto something.

Is Gen Z really interested in luxury watches?

Absolutely. This generation (which technically comprises people born between 1997 and 2012) has recently developed a taste for elegant timepieces.

Consider the numbers: More than 10% of Gen Zers in the U.K. own a luxury watch and nearly half are considering investing in a collection, according to a recent survey from secondhand watch site Watchfinder. Or, look at social media: TikToks dedicated to unboxing timepieces and debating the merits of buying secondhand are amassing hundreds of thousands of views.

Daniel Yi, the CMO of Bob's Watches, a resale marketplace for watches, confirms the trend is very real, noting a marked increase in interest from Gen Z customers over the last few years. And, he says, it's not just a passing fad.

Why does Gen Z love luxury watches?

There are many reasons why Gen Z has become more interested in owning a fancy timepiece, Yi explains. These watches are widely considered beautiful accessories, obvious status symbols and, above all else, smart investments.

"While previous generations might have discovered watches through milestones or family traditions, Gen Z is coming to the category through culture, fashion and even social media. They're incredibly tuned in to storytelling and value authenticity, which is something luxury watches — especially vintage and pre-owned models — deliver in spades," he tells Kiplinger.

"They're not just buying watches — they're buying history, craftsmanship, and in many cases, making their first real investment in something that holds value over time."

Plus, as surprising as it may sound, this younger generation is getting tired of their smartphones. Nearly half of Gen Zers are actively limiting their screen time, per a 2024 survey, and flip phones sales are on the rise as young people attempt to avoid the anxiety of being connected all the time.

Having a wristwatch helps in these attempts to be off the grid — no more monitoring the time with their phone. Wielding a "dumb phone" and a wristwatch helps them indulge in nostalgia for what they may perceive as a simpler time. (Hard to argue with that, don't you think?)

How much do luxury watches cost?

Before buying any gift, you have to consider the price tag. The good news is, there's a wide range of options: You can splurge massively or score an amazing deal.

Beautiful, high-quality watches can start around $1,000, while the most expensive modern Rolex watch will set you back $136,000.

Of course, that's just for brand-new, modern pieces — thanks to the resale market, you can find watches that are just as beautiful, elegant and meaningful for a lower price point, including through trusted resellers like TheRealReal that authenticate products.

In fact, Yi notes, that's what many Gen Z consumers actually want. They’re buying secondhand because of the sustainability aspect, which is in line with general Gen Z consumerism trends. It's a way to have a slice of luxury in a more affordable, eco-friendly way.

You might even consider passing one of your own watches down to them. If you're worried about it being ignored or shrugged off, rest easy knowing these kids understand the value of a good watch.

Are luxury watches actually a good investment?

If the Gen Zer in your life wants a high-end watch because they're interested in a proper investment piece, be smart about what exactly you're purchasing. Like any investment, the potential return depends on the item — some brands and styles are more likely to go up in value than others.

"Models like the Rolex Submariner, Daytona, and certain references from Patek Philippe or Audemars Piguet have historically appreciated — especially when they're discontinued or produced in low volumes," Yi says.

You can also research previous online listings or current auctions to get a sense of trends and determine a brand's potential future value. Sites like Chrono24 — an online marketplace and magazine devoted to the ins and outs of luxury timepieces — makes it easy to determine your watch’s value online.

However, keep in mind that investments aren't just about resale value. Plenty of people who buy watches could never imagine selling their timepiece. Instead, they visualize it becoming a family heirloom they can pass down over generations, or a clear symbol of success and achievement they can always have.

"We always tell people: Buy what you love first," Yi says. "If it happens to go up in value, that's a great bonus."

Should you buy the Gen Z grad in your life a watch?

There are so many wonderful things you can give a recent graduate to honor their big success. If you suspect it's a watch they want, it will make for an amazing present that could appreciate over time.

In many cases, it's as much of an investment as a savings bond — sometimes with higher returns — but much more stylish. And like a class ring, it's special to have an accessory to remind them of their achievements every day as they embark on their career path.

Suppose you're stuck on what watch to get. In that case, Yi suggests that younger buyers often gravitate toward models like the Rolex Datejust, Cartier Tank (a favorite of Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, both fashion idols of this generation) or rare, discontinued pieces with a unique "cool factor."

And don't hesitate to buy secondhand — for many Gen Z grads, this will add to the appeal, making their gift both sustainable and rich in history.

Simply put, "a watch is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give — it marks a moment," says Yi.

"Whether it's for a graduation, a new job, a wedding, or retirement, a luxury watch becomes a symbol of that achievement and a daily reminder of the person who gave it. It's personal, lasting, and in some cases, something that gets passed down."

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Whether she’s a mom-to-be or an empty nester, the mothers in our life definitely deserve a holiday that’s all about them. What better way to show your mom, your wife or your daughter who’s just become a mom that you appreciate them than by giving them a gift that also acts as a financial boost?

From creative Mother’s Day deals that help her save money at home or on vacation to cash or investments that have a personalized touch, here are some of the best Mother’s Day Gifts that show her she’s loved and boost her finances at the same time.

4 Mother’s Day gifts that save her money at home

Help the mom in your life combat rising grocery prices with these fun and convenient gadgets for the home and kitchen.

Terra SodaStream Starter Kit

For the mom who loves sparkling water or soda, this SodaStream is a must. She can make a batch of bubbly water to mix into cocktails or drink on its own. And for the soda drinkers, SodaStream offers tons of signature flavorings like Starry or Pepsi that she can add to the sparkling water to create her favorite soft drink at home.

Since the cost of beverages can add up quickly, this is a Mother’s Day gift that can immediately shrink her grocery bill. The kit comes with the Terra SodaStream machine, a canister of CO2 and a bottle of lime Bubly flavoring to give her sparkling water a refreshing citrusy twist.

Anova Culinary Sous Vide Pro bundle

A sous vide makes cooking the perfect meal so effortless. But it also makes the leftovers from those delicious meals last longer in the fridge. Since ingredients are vacuum sealed as part of the sous vide cooking process, the food has a longer shelf life.

According to U.S. Packaging and Wrapping, cooked chicken – which normally lasts just three or four days in the fridge – can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks when vacuum sealed.

In addition to the savings from losing less food to spoilage, this gift makes it possible to take advantage of sales or bulk deals at the grocery store. She can stock up, meal prep and then stash everything in her fridge for weeks or months at a time.

AeroGarden Sprout

This hydroponic kit is small enough to fit on a kitchen counter and makes growing your own herbs so easy you don’t need a green thumb to do it. With no soil needed, you just add water and plant food to the base, insert seed pods and turn on the built-in LED grow lights.

For the mother who loves to cook, this gift will save her plenty on her favorite fresh herbs like basil, parsley or thyme. Instead of buying pricey herbs at the store, she can snip fresh leaves or sprigs from her indoor herb garden.

If she likes dried herbs, the AeroGarden Sprout can grow plants from seed to harvest-ready in as little as 21 days. So, she can grow multiple batches throughout the year to have a steady supply of homegrown dried herbs.

Lettuce Grow Farmstand Starter Kit

For the mom who doesn’t have the time or backyard space for a traditional veggie garden, this Lettuce Grow Farmstand Starter Kit is a great pick. The hydroponic tower has space for up to 36 plants and can be used to grow tomatoes, broccoli, cucumbers, salad greens and plenty of other popular veggies.

It also takes no gardening experience to see a successful harvest. Just put the tower in a sunny spot outside and keep it supplied with water and liquid plant food. This kit comes with 36 seedlings ready to plant in the tower — and the actual selection of veggies is customized to your local climate to make a successful harvest even easier.

With this gift, mom has everything she needs to skip the produce section at the grocery store and enjoy homegrown veggies with almost no effort.

3 Mother’s Day jewelry ideas to invest in her financial future

Invest in her future with stunning jewelry that will appreciate in value over time or invest in her health with fashion-forward fitness trackers like the limited edition Fitbit Luxe or the latest Oura Ring.

Luxury jewelry that appreciates in value

Jewelry is a classic Mother’s Day gift. But you can make yours extra special by opting for a piece that’s likely to increase in value over time. While investment-worthy jewelry comes with high price tags, you can score great deals on something mom will love by shopping at trustworthy second-hand marketplaces like The RealReal or Fashionphile.

Both of these marketplaces specialize in pre-owned luxury items, including jewelry, that have been rigorously authenticated. So you can score some surprising deals on authentic luxury jewelry.

For Mother’s Day, we recommend the following:

• Cartier love bracelets or earrings
• Van Cleef & Arpels necklaces
• Any fine jewelry by Chanel
• Tiffany & Co. fine jewelry

Fitbit Luxe

A reliable fitness tracker can make a real difference in the wearer’s long-term health. By keeping track of essential data like heart rate and activity levels, they help doctors provide more personalized preventative treatment to patients who wear them (and share the data the tracker logs with their doctor).

By nudging wearers or encouraging them to set personalized health and fitness goals, they make it easier to keep up with healthy lifestyle changes and habits that can lower the risk of chronic disease or injury.

But if the mom in your life has been hesitant to wear one regularly, the Fitbit Luxe might change her mind. The special edition fitness tracker has all the reliable tracking technology of Fitbit paired with an elegant stainless steel chain band that makes it feel more like a piece of jewelry than a fitness tracker.

Oura Ring 4

Another way to make wearing a fitness tracker every day feel more stylish and less cumbersome is the Oura Ring 4. The latest generation of the fitness tracker ring comes in a range of sizes for a custom fit on any finger and is available in multiple stylish metal finishes.

Not sure what her ring size is? The brand offers a gift sizing kit that includes a slot for a gift card. So she can find her size and then order the Oura Ring design she likes best.

5 Mother’s Day gift ideas that let her travel for less

Does the mom in your life love to travel? Help her squeeze more adventure out of every dollar of her travel budget by giving her a gift that helps her cut costs on her next vacation.

Gift her some of your points, miles or other travel perks

Have you racked up a good amount of miles or points on your favorite travel rewards card? Share the wealth this year by gifting some of them to the jetsetting mom in your life. If she’s stockpiling points herself, you can give her enough to push her over the finish line to book the dream vacation she’s been working toward.

When it comes to the logistics of how to send points as a gift, every reward program is different. This Mother’s Day gift idea works best if you’re in the same program as her – as you can lose a lot of value by converting points from one program to another.

Some loyalty programs, like Marriot Bonvoy or World of Hyatt let you gift points for free. But most will charge transfer fees. So make sure to do the math before transferring.

If you’d lose a lot of value in fees, you could offer to book a flight or hotel stay for her using your points instead. You can also do this with other travel perks you get.

Have a card that comes with a free companion pass? Book a Mother’s Day weekend getaway for the two of you. Get free nights at a hotel or free room upgrades? Book her a luxurious stay with all the amenities your credit card offers.

America the Beautiful National Park Pass

The official annual pass of the U.S. national park system, the America the Beautiful Pass is a great gift for moms who hike, camp or generally love the outdoors. You’ll pay just $80 for the pass and she’ll get unlimited free entrance into every national park and federal recreational land in the country.

At sites that charge per vehicle, the park pass you give her covers admission for everyone inside her car. At sites that charge per person, she can flash her pass to get free entrance for herself and up to three adults (aged 16 and over). Kids under 15 are free.

You can also browse REI for annual passes to state parks in your home state or, for the full-time RV life retiree, any state she’s planning to visit this year.

Passport America

More and more retirees are getting into camping. Renting out your home and spending a year or two exploring the iconic national parks and state parks across the country is an unforgettable experience that also makes financial sense.

Make it make even more financial sense by gifting your mom a Passport America membership. It costs just $49 for a full year membership and grants your outdoorsy mom half off nightly rates at over 1,100 campgrounds across North America – including Canada and Mexico.

Even for moms who aren’t traveling full time, this membership is still a great deal if she goes on a couple of camping trips each year. Depending on the campground, she’ll save more than the $49 annual fee on her very first campground booking as a member.

Connolly Wine Bottle Travel Protector Bags

Looking for a Mother’s Day gift idea that’s affordable enough to be found on Amazon Haul? This 10-pack of inflatable wine bottle travel protector bags is selling for under $9 on Amazon right now.

For the mom who loves visiting wine country, these handy inflatable bags allow her to safely pack the bottles she buys in her checked bag, rather than paying to ship them back home.

Olarhike compression packing cubes

This year, give her the gift of avoiding checked bag fees. This set of 10 compression packing cubes in various sizes can help her squeeze everything she needs into a carry-on. And the set is just $36 on Amazon right now. It also includes a cosmetic bag and accessories bag so she can keep everything organized, even if she stuffs her carry-on to the brim.

2 Mother’s Day gifts that add a personalized touch to cash gifts

If you’d rather skip the flowers and chocolate this year, show the moms in your life how much you appreciate them by investing directly into their financial future.

Open a vacation savings account in her name

Is there a dream vacation mom has been talking about for years? Give her the head start or financial boost to make it a reality by opening a high yield savings account or CD account in her name and funding it with an initial deposit to get her savings going.

You can also do this to help her save toward another big goal she’s dreamed about like buying a new car or remodeling the bathroom.

Boost her investment portfolio

If you want to add a personal touch to a cash gift this Mother’s Day, consider gifting her shares of an ETF or stock that has personal meaning to her. Is she a nature enthusiast? Gift her ESG stocks as an investment in the environment’s future. Is she a runner that exclusively runs in Nike? Gift her shares of the company stock.

When is Mother’s Day in 2025?

This year, Mother’s Day is on May 11. So, you still have a little time to figure out the perfect Mother’s Day gift. But the longer you wait, the more you risk any gifts you order showing up after the holiday.

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Mother's Day only comes around once per year (May 11 in 2025), but moms deserve to be appreciated every day. This year, why not show the mom in your life your everlasting love with a gift that will keep on giving for decades to come?

Instead of flowers that will wilt within a week or chocolates that won't last the night, give her a gift that will appreciate in value over time. This way she gets the joy of a meaningful gift now — and the lasting value of something that grows with time.

Here are some of the best Mother's Day gifts that can also make good long-term investments.

Jewelry

With intrinsic value, practical utility and deep emotional resonance, jewelry can be a unique and meaningful Mother's Day gift, says Jonathan Goldberg, founder and CEO of Kimberfire, a technology-driven jewelry brand bridging the gap between online and offline diamond jewelry retail.

High-quality jewelry has a strong resale value and precious metals like gold and platinum are common additions to investor portfolios to hedge against inflation. For example, gold has outperformed U.S. inflation by an average of 3% per year over the past 40 years.

The key is to purchase fine jewelry from the source, meaning direct-to-consumer retailers who purchase from the manufacturer, Goldberg says. This helps ensure quality while also avoiding any retailer markup on price. Some options include Goldberg's company, Kimberfire — which, he says, purchases diamonds right from the manufacturer and has pieces manufactured directly for clients — as well as Quince and Aurate, both of which focus on sustainable jewelry.

"It's important that the purchase experience be transparent regarding quality, options and pricing, and that trusted third party certifications and appraisals are provided," he advises.

Tell Mom to hang onto those certifications and appraisals since they're essential for resale or inheritance. It's also a good idea to keep the original packaging and receipts, which can help boost resale value.

Some jewelry Goldberg recommends include diamond stud earrings, tennis bracelets and natural diamonds. If your mom isn't a diamond person, you can find similar designs with colored stones or even in plain gold.

"For an investment piece, what is important is that any stones used are natural," he says. Lab-grown diamonds and gemstones may look nice, but they won't retain their value over time.

"Store your investment jewelry in a dry, padded box, and always make sure your pieces are insured while stored and while being worn out of the home," he adds. And, just like your investment portfolio, you should have your jewelry inspected and cleaned at least annually by a trusted jeweler.

2. Handbags

When chosen well, handbags can be both a stunning accessory and smart long-term investment. The Hermés Birkin bag appreciated in value by 14.2% between 1980 and 2015, outperforming the S&P 500, according to a study by Baghunter.

But not all luxury handbags have the same investment potential. "Hermés, Van Cleef + Arpels, Cartier and Bulgari hold their value incredibly well and can be resold at a higher value than the original retail price since they are so difficult to source," says Dana Auslander, founder of luxury alternative asset manager and marketplace LUXUS.

If price isn't a concern, Auslander suggests focusing on "clear winners" like these. Alternatively, Chanel and Prada handbags can be more cost effective and accessible through boutiques.

"Other luxury brands such as Gucci, Bottega and Balenciaga are less valuable and sell at a discount to retail," she says.

Whichever brand you choose, be sure to purchase bags directly from the brand or a reputable reseller with an authentication process.

"Be cautious about authenticity, valuation and condition," Auslander says. "If you are buying from the store, condition is obviously guaranteed, but if you are buying on the secondary market, this is where I would be the most cautious."

3. Art

Artwork is another asset with investment value that also offers immediate gratification. Mom gets to admire her painting today, while knowing it'll be worth even more money in the future.

"Pre-established artists in the fine arts field provide the most secure investment potential," says Jordan Kalteux Davies, attorney at Knowles Gallant Timmons. "If established artists are outside your budget, consider researching renowned art schools and recent graduates. Emerging artists can also yield strong returns as they gain recognition."

Where to purchase an investment-grade work of art will depend on the type of art you're interested in buying. Contemporary pieces can be found at places like Artsy and Artnet. More historical works are better sought at auction houses like Christie's, Sotheby's and Bonhams.

Private collectors, individual galleries and even antique shops can also yield lucrative finds. For more guidance, there are art advisors who can help, such as through the Association of Professional Art Advisors or Arts Consulting Group.

You can determine a piece of art's investment potential by looking at historical prices for other works by the same artist. If the sale price increases more than inflation during the time period, you've got a potential investment.

"As of 2025, works by Andy Warhol, Banksy, Pablo Picasso and Loie Hollowell ranked among the most sought-after for return on investment, with average ROIs ranging from 8% to 11%," Davies says.

It's important to note that you likely won't receive a deed or official title with your purchase. "For substantial investments, it may be wise to purchase title insurance to protect your ownership rights against potential claims or disputes," Davies says. You should also check if the piece has ever been used as collateral, as this could compromise full ownership rights.

Finally, copyright in the U.S. is automatically granted to the artist at the time of creation and remains with the artist even if the work is sold. "If you wish to reproduce or sell the work in the future, make sure the copyright transfer is part of the transaction," Davies says.

4. Wine

You may not think of investment potential when you think of wine — more like drinking potential — but fine wine can fit as nicely in Mom's investment portfolio as her cellar. However, not all wine makes a good long-term investment.

Wines that can stand the test of time need to come from recognized "blue chip" wineries, be from "special vintages when the growing season had ideal weather and temperature," and have a tannic structure and acidity that provides longevity, says Asher Rubinstein, partner at Gallet Dreyer & Berkey, a law firm specializing in domestic and international asset protection, who is also an avid wine collector. "Wines that meet these criteria can age in the cellar and appreciate in value over many years."

One example is Chateau Lafite Rothschild, from Bordeaux, which, he says, "has a name brand that goes back hundreds of years and is known and respected around the world."

The challenge here is that such reputable blue chip brands come with high price tags, usually upwards of $200 per bottle. A more cost-effective alternative and accessible alternative might be something like Santa Cruz-based Ridge Vineyards' Monte Bello, Rubinstein says.

Proper storage is crucial to protect your wine's long-term integrity. This means cellar temperatures of around 55 degrees with 60% humidity where the wine won't be exposed to sunlight.

"Caring for the wine in these ways will allow the wine to develop properly over many years, reaching its peak investment potential," he says.

5. Shares of stock, ETFs or mutual funds

While not as shiny or exciting to open as other items on this list, shares of stocks or funds can make meaningful gifts with long-term investment potential. They're also likely much easier to come by than some other items on this list.

You could give Mom shares of a favorite publicly traded company. If the stock price is too high, many firms now allow you to buy fractional shares. Shares of a diversified fund, like an S&P 500 fund, or a dividend or income fund will give the gift of monthly income. There are also many socially responsible funds available if you want to help Mom invest according to her values.

To give shares as a gift, all you need is your mom's account information. Make sure this is a brokerage account that can receive shares in kind. You can then submit the transfer from your brokerage account to hers.

The exact process will vary by firm, and some may require you to submit the request in writing through a physical form. It may take a few days or up to a week for the shares to arrive in her account. After that, Mom gets to sit back and watch her gift grow.

Getting gifts for Mom — and tips for last-minute shoppers

There are many ways to give your mom a present that can makes a good long-term investment, from jewelry to wine or even shares of a publicly traded company. No matter which gift you choose, you'll show her how much you value her today — and tomorrow.

If you're still picking out a gift for this weekend, don't panic. Remember you can go to stores in-person to buy gifts you can present physically on Sunday (and keep states with low sales tax in mind if you have options of where to shop). And if you order a gift that will arrive after Sunday, you can present it smartly with a nice card and printed image of the gift item. These gifts will grow in value in the long-run — a few days won't make a big difference.

And one more tip: If you are making an investment in valuable physical items, you should also ensure you have sufficient insurance coverage. Explore some of today's best insurance offers with the tool below, in partnership with Bankrate:

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“If in doubt, get a gift card.” Not my advice, but the words of my 12-year-old when we were discussing what we should get his friend for Christmas.

He’s right, to an extent. Once kids get too old and too cool for toys, you’re entering into a bit of a no-man’s land gift wise (unless they’re into the ultimate failsafe, Lego). So it’s arguably safer to give them the means to choose their own present. We’ll get a card from a trusted online retailer, and I’m pretty sure it’ll go down well with the friend in question.

Aside from kids and teens, though, gift cards aren’t always well received. Some people consider them unimaginative or even thoughtless — the equivalent of stuffing some cash in an envelope. And it’s true that I don’t generally give gift cards for Christmas.

Here’s the reason though — and it’s nothing to do with money etiquette or being a Scrooge. It’s just that gift cards can turn out to be a massive headache, and that’s not something I want to give to anyone.

Where I live, in the UK, the high street — what we call the main retail area in any town or city — has been in decline for years, with many well-respected stores and restaurant chains suddenly going bust, even before the pandemic. That’s turned far too many gift cards into redundant pieces of plastic.

If you’re dogged about it, you can try to get the money on the card back from what’s left of the business, or its administrators, but your chances are slim. If the gift was bought with a credit or debit card, the cardholder may be able to get their card company to reverse the charge, as you can in the U.S., but that also takes time and effort.

It’s a similarly challenging time for businesses in America. Consumer habits are changing, and as more people shop online, order in and shun sit-down restaurants, even big names are feeling the heat. Consider TGI Fridays, which has filed for bankruptcy and is liable for around $50 million in unused gift cards and certificates.

Choose a gift card wisely

So, what should you do if you’d still like to give a gift card this Christmas? To guarantee your money won’t go to waste, it’s safest to buy cards from the biggest names with the best reputations.

You’ll know which ones the recipient likes, but it’s an especially good bet to pick a department store to widen their choices when they eventually go shopping. According to YouGov US, the most popular department store for baby boomers and millennials is Costco, while Gen Xers prefer Kohl’s. Best Buy is also a good option as it has a wide range of products. Or, use our guide to the best gift cards to find one that’ll be appreciated.

A word, too, on expiry dates. While gift cards here in the UK can have pretty short lifespans and may expire in two years, that’s less of a problem in the U.S., which has better consumer protection. While state laws vary, under federal law, money on a gift card can’t expire for at least five years from the date the card was purchased, or from the last date any additional money was loaded onto the card. (Those TGI Friday gift cards? They never expire.) Remind the recipient to keep the card in their wallet so it’s less likely to be forgotten, but give them the original receipt in case the card is lost or stolen.

And lastly, without getting too Downton Abbey-etiquette about it, if you’re reluctant to give a gift card at Christmas because it seems a little, well, “inelegant,” you can make it less transactional by wrapping it up with the receiver’s favorite chocolates, a small jokey gift or just a handwritten note — anything to let the person know you’ve thought about them. After all, isn’t that the real point of holiday gift giving?

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Talking about money can be uncomfortable and awkward. But if you want to be considerate of others while staying within your budget, you should establish guidelines on matters such as dining out with friends, attending a wedding or deciding how much to tip. A lot of people think money is not polite conversation, but contemporary etiquette guidelines indicate the opposite. “We really want money to be an approachable topic,” says Lizzie Post, great-great-granddaughter of famed etiquette expert Emily Post and coauthor of Emily Post’s Etiquette. 

Etiquette norms are cultural, and expectations are often driven by common behaviors that vary depending on where you are and who you’re with. Although there is no one-size-fits-all approach to many money matters, consider these common-sense strategies when navigating social and service settings.

Dining out with friends

When dining with a group, Post says, it’s important to identify the difference between organizing and inviting. If you’re hosting the meal, you should be prepared to pay the bill, she says. If you and your friends are organizing a meal out together, it’s okay to split the bill, but talk in advance about how you’ll share the costs. Especially for groups in which individuals expect to order different amounts — one person may join just for a drink, for example, while others get full meals and desserts — ask your server whether you can get separate checks so that diners can pay their own way. 

Bring at least enough cash to pay your portion of the bill, Post says. This may seem old-fashioned in the age of payment apps such as Venmo and Zelle, which many people use to split a restaurant bill. But it’s a good idea to have cash on hand, especially if you’re dining out with new friends who may not use those payment methods. 

Birthday dinners can create their own money dilemmas, making advance planning even more important. For example, some people assume that everyone should split the check and pay for the honoree’s meal, even if the honoree issued the invites. But if you’re planning to host your own birthday event, you should plan to pick up the tab for your friends. Similarly, if you’re hosting a dinner party, don’t ask friends to help with the costs after the fact; no one wants to receive a surprise $20 Venmo request after a simple pasta night at your house. If you want to split the costs of a dinner party, then organize a potluck dinner and ask everyone to bring a dish to share. 

Celebratory gifting

Gifting is a practice steeped in tradition, especially at weddings. You’re not required to use the gift registry, Post says, but it can help you avoid purchasing redundant gifts, because you can usually see whether something has already been purchased for the couple.

A common myth is that the wedding gift should be equal to or greater in value than the cost of your dinner plate at the reception. But hosts typically don’t share information on dinner costs with their guests, and it’s difficult to estimate the expense yourself. Give what you can afford to give, even if the reception features surf and turf. 

If you can’t afford to attend a wedding or other celebration, offer your regrets using the reply card or RSVP link provided. You don’t need to provide the reason that you’re not attending, Post says, but consider sending a gift or small acknowledgement to thank the hosts for including you in their celebration. “An old-school tradition is that if you decline a wedding invitation, you should still send a gift,” Post says. “I would say fewer and fewer people know about that tradition these days, but we haven’t changed our advice yet.” 

Cash is acceptable as a graduation or wedding gift, and some people — particularly older couples who have all the appliances they need — welcome it. But in other situations, such as birthdays and anniversaries, try to come up with something meaningful and reflective of your relationship with the recipient, Post says. Avoid regifting something simply because you’d rather not keep it. And if you’re planning to give a gag gift as a joke, run it by at least a few other people before you do. Sometimes even the most well-intended jokes can land poorly. The type of birthday matters, too: Gifts aren’t usually expected for adult birthdays, but you probably shouldn’t show up empty-handed at a child’s birthday party (unless you’re asked not to bring a gift). 

Paying for group vacations

Whether it’s a weekend with friends or an extended stay for a family get-together, shared expenses should be discussed in detail well in advance of a group trip. Otherwise, you run the risk that someone else in the group will feel obligated to cover expenses they can’t afford. 

Consider discussing your travel style with your friends or family members. For instance, do members of the group like to shop at local markets and prepare shared meals at the vacation rental, or do they prefer to eat out and take a break from food prep and dish duty? When it comes to lodging, do they care more about location or amenities? Do they want to split a rental car or rely on public transportation? And if you’re splitting a vacation rental rather than booking rooms at a hotel, be sure to discuss whether you’ll divide up the rent on a per-person or per-room basis, because the distribution of costs on a per-room basis may fall disproportionately on single people compared with couples sharing a bed. 

Research your destination ahead of time so you can estimate costs, such as drinks, meals, entertainment, recreation and any other activities. That way, members of the group who can’t afford the trip can bow out before they sink any money into it. Likewise, if you’ve been invited to a group trip that’s shaping up to be too costly for you, don’t be afraid to speak up. It’s normal for people to approach travel spending differently, and voicing your preference for a lower-cost excursion will probably resonate with more people than you think. Someone might offer to find a way to make the trip more affordable for you and other members of the group. 

Realistically, you’re probably not going to anticipate every expense, particularly if it’s an extended stay, but consider keeping a tally of who pays for what during the trip. TravelSpend is a free app that allows you to invite travel companions to enter their expenses by category. The app automatically calculates how much each person has spent, which makes it easier to share costs. Or you can simply bring a pen and notebook that everyone can use to write down expenses they cover so you can sort it out at the end of the trip. They key is to have a system of accountability in place. 

Tipping in service settings

There are several major motivations behind tipping, says Michael Lynn, a social scientist at Cornell University. One is to reward good service. A second is to ensure good service in the future if you continue to visit the establishment. In addition, many customers are aware that service workers, especially in restaurants, receive low wages and want to help them out. But regardless of why we tip, whether when dining out, riding in a taxi, staying at a hotel or getting a haircut, tipping is expected in our culture. It’s even baked into our laws: The minimum-wage requirements for tipped servers are lower than for those who don’t work for tips. 

The appropriate amount for a tip varies depending on the service provided. You can always tip more than what is standard, but you should never forgo tipping when you get table service at a restaurant, Post says. If the service was inadequate, you should communicate that with a manager or other supervisor, not with your dollars, she says. 

At restaurants, the standard tip is still 15% to 20% on top of your pretax bill. However, it’s becoming increasingly common for restaurants to add a 15%-to-20% service charge to your bill. When you make a reservation at a restaurant, consider asking whether you’ll see a service charge on the bill and, if so, who receives it. If you’d like to reward good service, you should leave a tip even if there is a service charge, although it’s okay to tip just 10% to 15%.

A standard tip for a taxi ride is typically around 10% to 20% of the total fare. However, if a taxi driver helps load and unload your luggage or other items, an additional tip of $2 to $10 is appropriate. 

For salon or spa services, such as haircuts, massages, facials or other forms of pampering, the standard tip is usually between 15% and 20% of the total bill. It’s customary not to tip the salon owner. If you’re not sure whether your service provider accepts tips, ask them, Post says. 

When it comes to counter service, you do not always have to tip, even though it may feel expected when the cashier flips a touch-screen card reader around with a prompt to add a gratuity. Whether you’re presented with an electronic device or a tip jar, tipping is optional, Post says. (For more on how to handle proliferating tip prompts at service counters, go to kiplinger.com/kpf/tipping-guide.) 

Holiday tipping

Tipping around the holidays is a traditional way to say thank you to the service providers in your life. The quality of the service you’ve received and your personal budget will dictate the amount you give. The amount that you pay for one appointment or session is a typical holiday tip for a dog groomer, hair stylist, regular cleaning person, personal trainer or massage therapist. A week’s pay is a suitable holiday tip for a caregiver such as a senior care aid or a regular babysitter, nanny or au pair. If you’d like to give a tip to your child’s daycare provider or teacher, check the daycare or school’s policies first; cash gifts may be prohibited. You might also consider donating to help fund a classroom project as a way to support your child’s teacher (to learn more about DonorsChoose, an organization that crowdfunds school projects, see “Helping Teachers Supply Their Classrooms,” Sept.). 

If you use grocery-delivery or curbside-pickup services, consider tipping the attendant or driver in recognition of the provider’s hard work during the holiday season. For people who work as a team, such as gardeners, landscapers, or trash and recycling collectors, tip anywhere from $10 to $30 each. 

Not all professionals can accept tips. For example, postal workers may not accept cash gifts or checks but are allowed to accept small gifts that are worth no more than $20, such as travel mugs, hand warmers or gift cards (as long as the gift cards aren’t exchangeable for cash). FedEx drivers are prohibited by work rules from accepting payments from customers; UPS drivers are not barred from taking tips but are encouraged to decline them. For these workers, consider leaving a basket of prepackaged snacks and drinks at your door as a form of gratuity.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.

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As the market value of gold continues to increase, this is not just a good time to consider diversifying your portfolio, but an opportune time to consider jewelry made of the precious metal. In 2020, the value of one ounce of gold surpassed $2,000 for the first time ever; today’s price is hovering above $2,400.

Jewelry is not as liquid as gold bullion and bars, but its value does rise in a commensurate fashion, and the longer you hold on to it, the greater the profit. The bonus is the joy of shopping for unique pieces, learning their history, and then wearing your antique and vintage finds.

Qualities that determine value range from purity of the metal and weight to condition and craftsmanship. Spot prices of platinum (approaching $1,000) and sterling silver (near $30), also precious metals, fluctuate at unprecedented highs. 

Here, we look at what to watch out for in jewelry, how to find the goods, and how to have some fun with jewelry investments.

What makes jewelry valuable

Value is very dependent on age – antique is reserved for pieces that are at least 100 years old – and number of karats. Not only is 24-karat gold the purest, it’s also the softest and most easily scratched – the traditional photo op of Olympic athletes biting their medals leads back to the 1800s gold rush when that was the way to test metal's purity. Generally, jewelers recommend 14- and 18-karat (58.5% and 75% pure gold) for everyday wear. 

A small jeweler's magnifying loupe enables one to study stamps, karat and dates. Quality silver is usually marked with the number 925, country of origin and the word “Sterling.”

The number of carats applies to gemstone size. Expensive diamond jewelry likely includes grading reports from the Gemological Institute of America documenting carat weight. The GIA’s gem encyclopedia explains “play-of-color,” where certain stones are found (lapis in Afghanistan; opals in Australia), and how tourmalines (mineral deposits that resemble gemstones) are identified by color or locale.

Semi-precious gemstones are highly collectible and wearable, while diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, jadeite, garnets and rubies are more coveted. There's a wealth of difference between synthetic and natural stones; small seed, seawater, freshwater and cultured pearls. Gemstones are graded according to the 4 Cs: Cut, color, clarity and carat weight.

Jewelry is also classified by its type and design. For instance, significant differences in necklace styles described at Spruce Crafts range from rope-like bayaderes to bibs (popular during Greek and Roman times), chokers, collars, festoons and lavallieres (named for a mistress of Louis XIV).

The history of jewelry trends

Knowing the history of jewelry also helps to understand what has value. Ornate Georgian jewelry dates from 1714 to 1830; the Victorian era, 1837-1901, reflects Queen Victoria’s reign; and Edwardian, 1901-1910, refers to King Edward VII. The 1920s and 1930s are the heyday of Art Deco followed by Art Deco Revival, Mid-Century and contemporary.

If you are looking to gain appreciation and knowledge of jewelry (or just look at some beautiful items) fine arts museums are excellent venues to study how historic periods, politics, wars, aristocracy and trends have transformed jewelry-making.

This context shows how what's considered valuable or trendy changes, too. For instance, one of the more dramatic forms of Victorian jewelry was hairwork, which enabled a family member to memorialize their beloved by weaving, framing and gilding strands of their hair. 

Visitors at London's Victoria and Albert Museum can observe Bronze Age artifacts and medieval jewelry that illuminate times when lower classes wore copper and pewter. You can also see how in the Renaissance period, different stones were thought to protect people from various illnesses, and you can see the work of avant-garde artists who push the limits with cutting-edge technology and materials.

Custom-made jewelry has been a statement of extreme wealth and triumph for centuries, extending into the modern era. Over-the-top, one-of-a-kind pieces displayed at the American Museum of Natural History's Ice Cold: An Exhibition of Hip-Hop Jewelry (open until January 2025) include shiny signs of success created for Run-DMC, exemplified by Adidas’ 14-karat gold sneaker-shaped pendants.

Where you can find jewelry to invest in

People acquire gold in myriad forms and from unexpected places; Costco sells bars, and according to the New York Times, golden “beans” are popular in China. And between sites like Ruby Lane, Etsy, eBay, 1stDibs and TheRealReal, the internet is a 24/7 emporium for jewelry at every price point conceivable, bombarding followers with seductive images of bespoke, pre-owned and sought-after jewelry. 

Before buying online, be sure to read sellers' reviews and check return and exchange policies. You should also look out for charges for resizing, engraving, converting (i.e. earrings into charms, a pendant into a brooch and vice versa), shipping costs, insurance and tracking.

Second-generation jeweler Elizabeth Henry, who oversees six stores in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine, said Instagram helped Market Square Jewelers survive the pandemic. Their frequent live shows have created a loyal community of "jewelry nerds" who can comment, ask questions, and then purchase by writing "mine" plus a price. 

You can also shop at auction houses. Bonhams has 89 live and online jewelry auctions in 2024 worldwide, according to their jewelry global director Jean Ghika. Bonhams does valuations for auction and enables interested parties to preview and bid online and onsite. Items from a June auction, which I saw at New York City’s Madison Avenue location, included intricate designs by Piaget, Chopard, David Webb, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, and a pair of diamond bracelets owned by the late Barbara Walters. 

Ghika wrote in an email that “some makers have enduring appeal regardless of time period." She added: "Style-wise we have seen a renewed interest in jewels from the second half of the 20th century, namely the 1950s and 1960s; equally, there is also an emerging interest in the jewels from the 1980s which often focus on bold designs and strong use of color."

Additionally, check out estate sales (estatesales.net is state-specific), stoop sales, garage sales, flea markets, thrift shops and events that could be opportunities for finding valuable jewelry. For example, at the bustling Manhattan Vintage Show, held four times a year in New York City, one can try on distinctive pieces and interact with dealers from all over the country. The three-day event boasts a kaleidoscopic array of clothing, accessories and baubles, all under Metropolitan Pavilion's roof. 

Approximately a quarter of the 100 vendors sell jewelry, and if you look carefully, you’ll unearth gems that will appreciate in value, such as a silver ring designed by esteemed architect Frank Gehry in collaboration with Tiffany’s, or modernist pins by Danish silversmith Georg Jensen, founded in 1904 in Copenhagen. Fashionistas love rifling through racks of Gucci and Pucci, pairing bright, still in-vogue patterns with bakelite, turquoise, cameos, coral and Austro-Hungarian crystals, stacking rings and bracelets, and layering necklaces.

At the Jewelry and Object Show (held in New York City, Las Vegas and Miami), dealers explain the provenance and cultural significance of hat and collar pins, ear clips, money clips, tennis bracelets, bangle bracelets, retro charms, and chains of all types (serpentine, Cuban, cable, curb, Figaro, herringbone, mariners, trace, paperclip, ball, belcher, box) and lengths (princess, matinee and opera). There are classic cufflinks, lockets, fine watches, old-fashioned and mourning brooches and pendants for sale.

One piece de resistance at a recent Jewelry and Object Show in the Metropolitan Pavilion was a radiant gold bracelet, circa 1840, designed by Italy's legendary House of Castellani for sale by DK Bressler. While many sellers connect with customers via websites and social media, Bressler’s owner Ron Kawitzky, who has been operating out of New York’s famous diamond district for almost 40 years, said the best way to assess fine jewelry is to see it in person, handle it and observe makers' marks. I suggest scheduling an appointment first. 

You could have valuable pieces already without knowing it. Look through your own jewelry box for signed silver pieces, high karatage gold, rare gems, and anything from Cartier, Hermes, Harry Winston, Faberge and Fred Leighton. Watches by Rolex, Montblanc, Piaget, Patek Philippe, Longines and Verdure also have high value as investments.

Be on the lookout for Paloma Picasso’s graffiti X’s and olive leaves; Elsa Peretti's signature waves, open hearts, bone cuffs and bean-shaped pendants. Peretti’s first jewelry design was a sterling bud vase on a leather string inspired by a flea market find. 

How to consider jewelry investments

Much like collecting art that will hang on your walls for years, experts encourage investing in high-quality jewelry that resonates on an emotional level. Learn as much as you can and decide how much you’re willing to spend. You should also determine if you’re buying to celebrate a personal milestone, bequeath or sell in the future as the value of gold goes up.

Meghan Dyer, head of sales at EraGem based in Bellevue, Washington, said a beautiful piece of jewelry is viewed as a “future heirloom and long-term investment.” Vis a vis the current precious metal market, Dyer was one of several dealers whose price tags on older stock remain unchanged but, she said, newly listed items will reflect an uptick in troy ounce prices. 

When it comes to selling your jewelry, she suggests paying for an independent appraisal. Not one source I spoke to for this story was in favor of melting old jewelry; in fact, they said banishing pieces of history to the furnace was criminal.

Related content

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Father's Day is this Sunday, June 16. To all the great dads, stepdads and grandpas out there, we salute you with 20 amazing steals! No plaid or striped ties this year! These gifts stand out for their love, novelty and thoughtfulness, from steak and socks, to grilling tools and golf balls. 

Even if he says he has everything, or wants nothing at all, you’re sure to get a smile and win over that special man in your life this Father’s Day. We found items if you’re pinching pennies and also things when you feel like busting the bank. But hurry, June 16 is just around the corner.  

Omaha Steaks

Send Dad the perfect gift, plus earn a $30 E-Reward Card when you place an order of $89 or more between 06/07/24 and 06/16/24. Right now save 59% on steak and burgers — 29 total items, regular price $241.94. Now only $99.99.

Gift of the Month Clubs

Whether he likes beer or hot sauce, you’ll find a club that keeps giving all year long. Try out the Wine Club, where each month he’ll get new selections of hard-to-find, premium wines from award-winning and boutique wineries around the world. Right now, get 2 bottles delivered every month for $50.95/month.  

Uncommon Goods

Find hundreds of items for the man in your life, like the Grillmaster's Cookout Caddy — Keep your BBQ-ing tools together and within arm’s reach with this handcrafted personalized wooden carrying case for as low as $65 . 

Cotopaxi

Give dad a gift to snuggle up to with this Day And Night Pullover Hoodie. You save $35. Now only $70.

MasterClass

A MasterClass subscription gives Dad the chance to learn from experts and leaders in the fields of tech, food, entertainment and more. New classes are added all the time, so he’ll never run out of things to master. Get up to 50% off this Father's Day.

Best Buy

Get dad what he’s always wanted (and needs) — Ultimate Ears — BOOM 3 Portable Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds. Save $54. Now only $95.99.

Lowe’s

Give the perfect gift for Father’s Day and choose from dozens of great deals from under $25, like the Armor All Care Kit 7-Count Car Exterior Wash/Wax for only $19.98. Or buy the Blackstone 28" Griddle and Cover Bundle 2-Burner Liquid Propane Flat Top Grill for only $248 (save $50) and get a buy one get one free tool kit. 

Amazon

Help dad relax with the Mo Cuishle Shiatsu Back Shoulder and Neck Massager that is sure to release the tension in his neck and ease his aching muscles. Regular price $49.99. Save 20%, now only $39.95.

LL Bean

Dad will love the unbeatable coziness of these Wicked Good Moccasins from LL Bean in your choice of sizes, colors and widths. Now only $89. 

REI

The Black Diamond Spot 400 is a headlamp that provides long-lasting battery life and reliable performance that your dad is sure to love year after year. Available in a variety of colors for $49.95.

Amazon

Give dad a good ole' belly laugh with this “You Can't Scare Me, I Have Kids” Men’s T-Shirt. Choose from sizes Medium to 3XXX for only $19.99. 

Titleist

Enter and share how your dad marks his Titleist golf balls for a chance to win a year’s supply of golf balls as well as one special dozen, signed and marked by tour players.

Darn Tough

Get great deals on socks for dad, like the Men's Yarn Goblin Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock for $24. Then enter your dad’s email to win seven pairs of Darn Tough socks, all covered by Darn Tough's unconditional lifetime guarantee.

Made In

Get this fantastic Made In carbon steel wok for the man in your life that loves to cook food that tastes (and looks) great. Now only $139. 

Carhartt

Save on dozens of items for Father’s Day! Get 25% all Carhartt footwear, or 25% OFF Force top gear for when things heat up this summer.

Apple

Treat dad to Apple accessories this year, like the Apple AirPods (3rd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case for only $179.00. 

Amazon

Dads love their coffee. Now he can enjoy the rich taste every day with an AeroPress Original Coffee and Espresso-style Maker with Chamber, Plunger and Filters. Save 20%, now only $31.95.

Costco

Is dad an avid fisherman?  If so, check out Lew’s Tackle Backpack, complete with Four (4) Medium Sized Utility Boxes, rain cover, waist belt and durable 900D fabric for only $64.99.  If he likes golf instead, get him a One Year GolfPass+ Membership, with Peacock Included, for $79.99.

Leatherman

What dad doesn’t like multitools? This year surprise him with an ultra-light, full-size multi-tool with a knife blade made with premium 154CM steel from Leatherman. Now $89.95.

Paint Your Life

Celebrate this Father’s Day with a portrait he’ll treasure his entire life, hand painted by professional artists. Just choose a medium, select the artist, and upload photos for a one-of-a-kind gift. From only $29.

Related Content

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Once a year, people worldwide celebrate Mother’s Day — a special day to honor our moms and show our appreciation for all they do all year long. Mother’s Day became an official holiday in 1914, and this year, it falls on Sunday, May 11.

Bearing in mind that actions speak louder than words, let’s show mom, grandmother, sister, aunt or pet parent just how much she’s loved this Mother’s Day with gifts they will actually love. Here’s 38 to get your started.

Edible

Celebrate Mom with 50% off edible arrangements.

LovePop

Personalize Mother’s Days cards and arrangements, then take 15% off when you sign up for emails and texts.

Personalization Mall

Get up to 50% off personalized gifts for mom at the Mall

The Bouqs Co.

Known for their commitment to sustainability and partnerships with eco-friendly farms, Bouqs is offering 30% off for Mother’s Day. Use code BOUQSDAY.

Amazon

• Corduroy Crossbody Bags. Now $10.99 - $11.69. Large variety of colors and designs to choose from.
• ArtPix 3D Crystal Photo in a variety of sizes. Starting at $69.99.
• Personalized Soft Flannel Blankets, 50” x 60”. Save 40%. Was $29.99. Now starting at $17.99.
• 10Pc Almond Milk & Honey Beauty & Personal Gift Basket. Was $65.00. Now $49.99.
• Nextmug, Temperature-Controlled, Self-Heating Coffee Mug. Was $129.95. Now $99.94.
• Revlon Double Straight Copper Ceramic Dual Plate Hair Straightener. Was $49.99 Now $35.99.

1-800-Flowers

Save up to 40% on an exclusive collection of top Mother’s Day flowers and gifts.

Target

• Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder. Was $279.99. Now $199.99.
• Apple AirTags, 4-Pack. Now $99.99.
• Active Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Wireless Headphones. Up to 35% off.
• Women's sleepwear and Auden socks. Up to 30% off.

Unhide

Shleepy Robe. Was $119, now $99.

Pressed Floral

Pressed floral necklace. $94.95 — free shipping on custom orders.

Pandora

Engravable Bar Link Bracelet. Now $98. Or, for a limited time, spend $135+ and receive a free silver bracelet ($88 value), or spend $275+ and receive a free gold-plated bracelet ($225 value).

Walmart

• GHIRARDELLI Signature Collection Fine Assorted Chocolates 6 oz Gift Box. Was $28. Now $14.22.
• JeenMata 4 Prong 2 Carat Round Shaped Moissanite Stud Earrings in 18k White Gold Plating Over Silver. Was $189.00. Now $49.00.
• Philergo Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker Machine with Self-Cleaning, 35lbs/24hr, Soft Chewable Pellet Ice Maker for Home. Was $299.99. Now $149.99.
• Apple AirPods 4. Was $129.99. Now $99.00.

Applebee’s

Now through June 29, purchase a $50 gift card and receive a $10 bonus card. Expires Aug. 3.

Godiva

Get 15% off at checkout on your Godiva chocolate when you provide your email.

Walgreen's

Up to 50% off select Mother's Day gifts and decor.

FromYouFlowers.com

Surprise the mother in your life with a half dozen chocolate-covered strawberries. Was $54.99. Now $43.99.

Best Buy

Skylight - Calendar: 15 Inch Touchscreen Smart Calendar. Was $319.99. Now $279.99.

Aura

Surprise mom with a Carver Mat WiFi-connected picture frame. Was $179. Now $149.

Athleta

Get 20% off your order when you sign up for emails and texts.

Kate Spade

Get 15% off your entire purchase when you sign up for emails and texts.

Minted

Get 20% off Mother's Day gifts when you sign of up for emails.

Nest Bedding

Upgrade your rest and save $1,000 off mattresses and up to $40 off pillows and bedding.

ScentBird

What’s the best Mother’s Day gift for the person who has it all? A Scentbird gift subscription. Six-month gift subscription. Was $102. Now $89.

Williams Sonoma

Set of six Goldtouch® Pro Nonstick Bakeware. Was $194.95. Now $139.95.

Riley

Receive free shipping on orders over $100. Sign up for emails and get $25 off.

Murray's Cheese

Gift a Globetrotters Cheese Club membership and mom will receive curated cheese picks from around the world.

The Cheesecake Factory

Purchase a $50 gift card online now through May 11 (Mother’s Day) and receive a $10 bonus card.

Hooters

For Mother's Day, moms can receive 10 free wings, any style, with the purchase of 10 wings, any style, at participating locations on Sunday, May 14.

Related Content

• Half of Mothers Have Little or No Retirement Savings
• How Much Is the Child Tax Credit for 2024?
• Who Will Get an Expanded Child Tax Credit This Year?
• Tax Breaks for Parents of Children With Disabilities

If you’re planning to spend less on gifts this holiday season amid inflation pressure, you’re not alone. U.S. consumers are expected to spend less this holiday shopping season as “price-consciousness has become a defining characteristic of consumer behavior,” a new survey showed.

Approximately 80% of consumers are expected to spend less this holiday season than in past seasons, according to the 2023 Holiday Shopping Trends Report, a survey of over 1,000 shoppers nationwide conducted by automation platform Celigo. The report states that “consumers are more price-conscious than ever before” as “a remarkable 77% of respondents expressed their intention to prioritize value and seek cost-effective options when making their holiday purchases.” 

“As the U.S. holiday shopping landscape continues to evolve, price-consciousness has become a defining characteristic of consumer behavior,” the report concludes. This follows Kiplinger’s retail outlook, which predicts a cooldown in goods buying later this year. 

Consumers are setting spending limits

Budgeting, like following the 50-30-20 budget rule, is a hot topic this year, with an “overwhelming majority” of respondents are setting spending limitations this year. 

Of those surveyed, approximately 80% indicated that they are planning to spend less than $5,000 on holiday shopping this season, while 49% said they plan to spend less than $1,000 and 30% said they plan to spend between $2,000 and $5,000. However, the study adds that there remains a subset that’s willing to spend moderately on meaningful gifts and experiences.

Setting a spending limit before you begin shopping is a smart way to keep costs down. You can plan ahead to map out how much to spend on different people’s gifts and, from that, look for ways to cut back. 

For example, if you’re habitually buying multiple gifts for grandkids that add up in costs, decide on an appropriate total amount to spend on that generation. Then, consider sending physical gifts to the grandkids you don’t see around the holidays and giving gifts of experiences that don’t cost much, like teaching a family recipe or visiting an intriguing local museum, to the grandkids you will see. Your kids might even thank you for not adding more clutter in their home.

Online shopping takes center stage

Online shopping will be the main channel for holiday shopping this year, according to respondents. A whopping 75% of consumers said they will rely on online shopping for most of their shopping this holiday season, and 65% will do all of their holiday shopping online. 

The respondents cited product availability, speedy delivery, and convenience as the top reasons for choosing online shopping over shopping in physical stores. The report added that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are “diminishing in importance” and that nearly 50% of consumers plan to start their shopping as early as September.

These deal sites and tools can help you find online shopping bargains. 

Shopping small is getting big

Consumers are increasingly focused on independent retailers over e-commerce giants like Amazon (AMZN) and big-box stores like Target (TGT).

Just over half of consumers prefer shopping at independent retailers because “they stock an array of distinctive products that may not be easily found in larger chains” and because smaller stores “often curate their inventory with a keen eye for quality and uniqueness,” respondents claimed. 

The value of community connection was also important to consumers, with 41% of respondents citing this as a reason for shopping small this year.

“These establishments are deeply ingrained in the communities they serve, contributing to the local economy and building genuine relationships with customers by creating a strong sense of loyalty among their clientele,” the survey concludes.

At the end of the day, the holiday season is about finding ways to be together and making lasting memories with your loved ones — just keep reminding yourself of that when your grandkid says last year’s present came in a bigger box. 

Related Content

• How to Control Spending and Grow Your Savings
• Holiday Spending: Is It Time to Cut Back on Christmas Presents?
• How to Budget for a Vacation When Prices Keep Rising

Are you having trouble finding gifts those "hard to shop for" relatives this holiday season? Don't waste any more time trying to find something they might want – give 'em cash! Everyone likes money, right? Plus, giving money to family or friends can also be a smart tax planning move. For wealthier Americans, giving away cash now can help you reduce or even avoid estate taxes when you die. Plus, you can make family and friends very, very happy!

The general rule is that any gift is subject to the federal gift tax. However, there's an important exception to this rule — you can give up to $16,000 per person in 2022 without having to file a gift tax return (the exemption amount goes up to $17,000 in 2023). If you're married, your spouse can also give $16,000 to the same people, jacking the annual tax-free gift up to $32,000 per person. (The recipient pays no tax on the money, either.)

So, for example, if you're married and have three married children and six grandchildren, you and your spouse can give up to $32,000 this year to each of your kids, their spouses and all the grandchildren without even having to file a gift tax return. That's $384,000 in tax-free gifts! And you can do that year-after-year without paying any gift tax unless the total of all your non-exempt gifts over the years exceeds the lifetime gift tax limit, which is $12.06 million for 2022 ($12.92 million for 2023). But since the $16,000 (or $32,000) limit is an annual limit, you have to make your gifts before the end of the year (gift checks must also be deposited by December 31).

And here's the added bonus: Whatever you give away this year, up to the $16,000-per-recipient limit, won't be counted for estate tax purposes when you die. So, for example, if the current value of your estate is above the federal estate tax exemption amount ($12.06 million for 2022 and $12.92 million for 2023), giving away money now could drop the value below the exclusion amount, which would mean no federal estate tax when you pass away.

Also keep in mind that the estate tax exclusion amount will fall to $5 million (plus an inflation adjustment) in 2026, unless Congress permanently adopts the current amount. So, even if your estate is not worth more than the exclusion amount now, it might be after 2025. (IRS regulations also guarantee that tax-free gifts you make now won't trigger estate taxes if/when the exclusion amount is lowered.)

There could be state estate taxes to worry about, too — several states have their own estate tax, and all of them currently have exclusion amounts far below the current federal standard (as low as $1 million in Massachusetts and Oregon). In addition, even if giving away money now doesn't allow you to completely avoid estate taxes, you'll still reduce the estate tax owed by reducing the value of your estate.

What if you're feeling extra generous and want to give more than $16,000 (or $32,000 per couple) to someone this year? You'll have to file a gift tax return (Form 709), and the amount over $16,000 is potentially a taxable gift. However, you can still avoid gift and estate taxes if the total amount of taxable gifts so far over your lifetime is less than $12.06 million. So, if you're thinking of dropping a very large amount of cash in someone's lap, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll have to pay taxes on the gift.

If asked what they want as a gift, your grandkids will probably say they'd like a toy or bicycle, but their adult selves might prefer a financial gift with a long-term payoff. What's the best way to do that?

"The answer depends on what you want those funds to be used for," says Todd Soltow, co-founder and retirement planner at Frontier Wealth Management in Houston.

Cold hard cash is always an option but hardly one that pays off long term, particularly when interest rates are too meager to keep pace with inflation.

Because of the temptation to spend it, cash also makes it difficult to teach the next generation good financial habits.

"Young people need to learn the value of a dollar, and that comes from earning it," says Wilson Coffman, president of Coffman Retirement Group in Huntsville, Alabama. "If you just hand it to them, that defeats the purpose."

Taking into account usefulness, potential returns and taxes, here are five better financial gifts to give.

The average cost to attend an in-state public university was $11,950 in 2025, while private universities averaged $45,000, according to The College Board.

Any contributions, such as those to a 529 college savings plan, will certainly be appreciated. Investments in the account grow tax-free, and all the money stays tax-free if it's spent for college.

For 2026, you can contribute up to $19,000 per year per grandchild or even prepay five years — $95,000 — at once. The gift amounts double for married couples.

Another college savings plan — a Coverdell ESA — lets you spend the money on primary and secondary schools, too.

The catch? The gift can only be $2,000 per year per grandchild, and to contribute, your adjusted gross income can't exceed $110,000 per year if you're single or $220,000 if you're married.

These accounts are meant for educational spending. If your grandchild doesn't go to college, the balance can be transferred to another family member. Otherwise, withdrawals of investment gains not used for education are taxed as income and hit with a 10% penalty (PDF).

Carlos Dias, founder of Dias Wealth in Orlando, Florida, says a Roth IRA is a great gift for a grandchild with earned income from a job, such as a paper route or babysitting.

You can give up to the amount the child earns per year, subject to the annual IRA limit ($7,500 for 2025). "If you can kick-start your grandchild's retirement now, they'll have their whole life to see that money grow."

These accounts are a good way to teach a newcomer to invest. Although the investment is in your grandchild's name, you control the custodial account until your grandchild turns 18 or 21, depending on your state.

In 2026, the first $1,350 of the child's investment gains are free of tax and don't need to be reported. The next $1,350 of gains are taxed at the child's marginal tax rate and require filing a return.

Any gains above $2,700 are taxed at the child’s parents’ marginal income tax rate under the kiddie tax rules — not the child’s lower rate.

Soltow prefers municipal bonds to the classic financial gift of EE savings bonds. Not only are interest rates higher for muni bonds, but payments are free of federal income tax and, in some cases, state and local taxes, too.

Be sure to look for creditworthy bond issuers. Investment-grade bonds should be at least BBB, with AAA the safest rating.

Collectibles such as gold coins might catch your grandchild's eye, but Dias warns: "My Dad was big into buying collectibles like rare coins. A lot of them turned out to only be worth what he paid for or less."

Plus, the capital gains tax rate on collectibles is 28%; the highest rate for long-term gains on other investments is 20%.

A better option: Buy your grandchildren gold exchange-traded funds or stocks in gold-mining companies to avoid the higher taxes of physical collectibles.

It’s an annual tradition to put together my list of the best value in tech gifts for the holiday season: Products that deliver performance, features, quality at a good price.

But, given the weight of a year spent in a pandemic, many of us are feeling the need to splurge a little, particularly on things that make a more locked-down life better. To reflect that, I’m doing something a little different this time around. In addition to the best values in tech gifts, I’m also including a collection of products that I feel are the best pick in their category if you have a little more money to spend. They still offer great value — no diamond-studded smartphones here — but performance and features matter more than the price tag.

Please note: I’m staying out of the battle over what will likely be one of the most popular gifts of 2020: a game console. The next generation Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X have been in short supply, and the continues to rage over which is “best.” From my perspective it boils down to whether the gamer on your list is in the Playstation or Xbox camp. If they don’t care, either console is a great choice — go with the one you can get your hands on, because they disappear as quickly as they’re stocked.

Consoles aren’t the only devices in short supply. If something does sell out, keep checking retailers, because stock does get refreshed, eventually.

• Our pick: MacBook Air With M1 Processor
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $999

Between working from home, remote learning, video streaming and PC gaming, laptops are one of the hottest products of 2020. Apple’s MacBook Air has always been a popular choice, but right now it is making headlines.

Why? In November, Apple launched an all-new MacBook Air that ditches Intel processors in favor of its own custom M1 chip. This is highly advanced technology that draws on Apple’s A-series processors that power the iPhone and iPad. That upgrade has turned Apple’s entry-level laptop into a performance powerhouse. It’s blowing away high-end Windows laptops (and Apple’s own Intel-powered MacBook Pros) and the icing on the cake is stellar battery life of up to 18 hours. Apple kept everything that made the old MacBook Air so great, including its iconic aluminum wedge design, Retina display, Magic Keyboard — and price.

If you’re shopping for a student and can provide proof of eligibility, the new MacBook Air is an even better deal. Apple offers an educational discount that drops the price to just $899.

• Our pick: Fluance RT80
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $199.99

That vinyl is back won’t surprise anyone, but maybe this will: In 2020, record sales eclipsed CDs to once again be the number one way of buying a physical copy of your favorite music.

There are plenty of cheap turntables and record players out there, many of which push the “retro” button but fall short on actual usability. Canada’s Fluance has the answer to an affordable turntable in the RT80. No cheap plastic here: The RT80 features an engineered wood plinth, aluminum platter and an aluminum tonearm. Instead of a no-name cartridge, it’s equipped with an Audio-Technica ATN91 with a conical diamond-tipped stylus. It also has its own built-in pre-amp with gold-plated RCA jacks so records can be played over a traditional stereo system or through the AUX input of any portable speaker.

The Fluance RT80 is solidly built, the cartridge and stylus are upgradable, and it will make records sound much better (and last longer) than most entry-level turntables.

• Our pick: 1More True Wireless ANC In-Ear Headphones
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $199.99

AirPods are the number-one sellers when it comes to wireless earbuds, but for anyone who puts music first, there are better choices.

I’m constantly impressed by what 1More does with its earbuds, and in 2020 it hit a new high with 1More True Wireless ANC In-Ear Headphones. These true wireless earbuds are equipped with both a dynamic driver and a balanced armature (just like a professional musician’s in-ear monitors) detailed, studio-quality sound. They feature 1More’s QuietMax active noise cancellation technology. And they became the world’s first THX-certified true wireless headphones. I find them to be quite comfortable to wear, the 6-hour battery life is competitive, and the charge case supports Q1 wireless charging.

These earbuds didn’t impress just me; they’ve been racking up accolades including a 2020 CES Innovation award and a 2020 iF Design award.

• Our pick: Thinkware X700
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $149.99

Dashcams make popular gifts. You never know when you might capture video of a meteorite streaking by, and they can be useful should you be involved in an accident.

There are a ton of cheap dashcams on Amazon, most of them from unrecognizable brand names, often advertising impressive specs like 4K resolution while offering steeply discounted prices. This is a classic case of where cheap does not necessarily mean value. I’ve tested multiple webcams this year and some of them were truly terrible. The one brand that has impressed is Thinkware.

The Thinkware X700 is a great value in a dashcam. It records in 1080p resolution. That doesn’t sound great compared to 4K, but instead of a knock-off image sensor, Thinkware used Sony’s highly regarded STARVIS. That means high-quality, wide angle footage that covers a larger view. The STARVIS sensor also delivers enhanced quality in low-light conditions. This dashcam is reliable, with thermal protection (remember, the dashcam sits in a vehicle in the heat of the summer and cold of winter), and proprietary anti-corruption technology to prevent data loss.

There’s a built-in display for immediately reviewing footage. Installation is easy (it just plugs into your vehicle’s 12-volt power outlet), and Thinkware even includes a MicroSD card in the box. This system can also be expanded with add-ons at a later date, including a rear camera, GPS camera, hardwiring cable and solar filter.

• Our pick: Apple Watch SE
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $279

The Apple Watch SE marks the first time the company has released a “value” version of its latest smartwatch. Before 2020, you had to buy a previous generation Apple Watch if you didn’t want to pay the premium for the latest and greatest.

The new Apple Watch SE offers almost all the Apple Watch 6 features, including the S5 processor, fall detection, emergency SOS, workout tracking, heart rate and sleep tracking, and the same Retina display. It’s also available with cellular capability (meaning you don’t need to pair it to a phone to stay connected).

Apple left off the always-on capability of the Apple Watch 6, as well as its blood oxygen sensor and ECG. Those aren’t must-have features for most users. By leaving them out, the Apple Watch SE delivers the same performance and key features as the Apple Watch 6 — for $120 less. That makes the Apple Watch SE a great value if someone on your holiday shopping list wants the best smartwatch on the market.

• Our pick: TCL 4-Series Roku TV
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: Starting from $229.99

China’s TCL continues to make inroads in the U.S. market with its value-packed TVs. While higher end TCL models are competing with the best offered by the big name brands, the company’s 4-series Roku TVs are budget champions.

They feature 4K Ultra HD resolution, HDR 10, dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi, four HDMI ports and Dolby Digital Plus audio. Roku’s streaming TV platform is integrated, offering a wide range of app-based streaming content (including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video), along with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa support. Low input lag makes these TVs a popular choice for gaming — my twins each bought the $229.99 43-inch model for use with their game consoles. Prices max out at $799.99 for a 75-inch model, and the sweet spot 55-inch TCL 4-Series is just $329.99, proving you don’t have to spend a lot of money these days to get a decent TV.

• Our pick: Otterspot Wireless Charging System
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $99.95

It’s hard to remember after spending most of this year stuck at home, but there was a time when my wife and I used to get away for long weekends. That meant remembering to pack a portable power bank in case we needed to recharge our phones during a long day, as well as a charging cable. That is, until I discovered the Otterspot wireless charging system from Otterbox.

I love the Otterspot, because it combines both of those functions in a single device — so there’s less chance of forgetting one. The system consists of a base and a standalone battery. Both look like flattened hockey pucks, and both have a Qi wireless charge pad on top. Stack the Otterspot battery on the charger (it clicks securely in place using magnets) and it’s always ready to go. The battery also has USB-C out for wired charging. The system acts as a passthrough charger, so you can set your phone on top of the charging battery.

When it’s time to go, just grab the battery off the stack and you have a Qi wireless charge pad and 5,000 mAh portable battery all in one device. The system comes with one battery, but you can buy extras separately ($54.95 each), and the charger base can simultaneously charge up to three stacked batteries, plus your smartphone.

• Our pick: Amazon Echo 4th Generation
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $99.99

Smart speakers remain a popular gift, and they just keep getting better. Amazon kicked this whole craze off with the original Echo smart speaker in 2014, and this year the company released the 4th generation Echo.

This latest version looks nothing like the original, sounds better than ever, and continues to expand the Echo’s functionality. The cylinder is gone, replaced by an aluminum and cloth sphere with a glowing ring around the base. It looks sharp, and sounds better, with a woofer and dual tweeters concealed within. The new Echo also gets an integrated Zigbee hub, expanding its role in using Alexa voice commands to control all your smart home gear. Amazon has incorporated its new AZ1 Neural Edge machine learning processor in the new Echo, which gives Alexa a boost when it comes to speech recognition.

• Our pick: Kizik Cairo
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $132.00

A shoe as a tech gift? Like the ones that self-lace à la Back to the Future? Not quite, but the kicks from Utah-based Kizik are still impressive.

Kizik shoes are stylish, comfortable and high-tech. They’re built around the company’s proprietary F.A.S.T. technology. This is a flexible titanium wire and wing system built into the back of Kizik shoes. It allows the back of the shoe to collapse so you can slide your foot right in, then spring back to keep your heel fully enclosed and supported. It works like a charm. No more laces (although some Kizik shoes do have laces that are there to give the appearance of being a regular shoe), no more bending to put on your shoes — you don’t even need to sit and pull item on. You literally slide them on.

I’ve been a huge fan of these shoes since first testing a pair. I liked them so much I quickly bought an additional three pairs. My wife, daughter and in-laws are all now converts. The latest release from Kizik is the Cairo. Available in men’s and women’s sizes, and a variety of colors, this is the first time the company has moved F.A.S.T. tech to the outside of the shoe, which adds a bit of a high-tech look. They are made of 4-way stretch knit material (100% recycled, of course), and feature cushioned insoles plus outsoles made of a rubber/foam blend.

Video technology moves so fast that a five-year-old flatscreen TV with perfectly good image quality can feel out of date. That’s where video streamers come in — inexpensive plug-in devices can breathe new life into your not-so-old set.

Roku is a long-time leader in the video streamer space and offers plug-in options that start as low as $30. But the $129.99 Roku Streambar stands out as a real value. It offers all the video streaming features you could want, including 4K, HDR and access to all the popular subscription services like Netflix, Apple TV+, Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video. Its remote even supports voice search. Stream or mirror content directly from an Apple device using AirPlay.

This streamer also takes care of the other issue many TVs suffer from: poor audio. The Roku Streambar is also a soundbar with four drivers, Dolby Audio, and advanced features like automatically lowered volume on commercials and voice boosting. You can even stream music over Bluetooth. The Streambar will kick any TV with an HDMI input into today, and makes a great gift.

• Our pick: Andover Audio Model One Turntable Music System
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $1,999.00

Of all the products I’ve reviewed so far in 2020, the one that’s left the most lasting impression is the Model One Turntable Music System from Andover Audio.

It features a Pro-ject Debut Carbon Esprit SB turntable, a favorite of audiophiles. The Model One’s genuine walnut frame hides four aluminum diaphragm woofers and two air motion transformer tweeters, driven by a Class D amplifier. The drivers use Andover’s proprietary IsoGroove technology to protect the turntable from feedback or vibration generated by the speakers. The system can play music in mono, stereo, or a selection of panoramic modes that do a convincing job of sounding like a traditional stereo system setup with multiple speakers.

However, the Model one does so in a compact package with the same footprint as a turntable alone. No amplifier, no speakers to set up, and no wires to hide. A display on the front makes it easy to select sources (including Bluetooth) or adjust settings, and an RF remote is also included. The system is expandable with a wide range of inputs and outputs.

If $1,999 sounds expensive for an all-in-one audio system, it is. However, if there’s a music lover on your list — especially a record lover — it’s money well spent. When you start looking at the independent components and what they would cost individually, the price suddenly seems a lot more reasonable. For example, Pro-ject’s Debut Carbon Esprit SB turntable retails for $599 on its own. This is the ultimate all-in music system for vinyl fans.

Portable Bluetooth speakers make great gifts because everyone has a use for one. Music on the deck, a party at a friend’s place, tunes on the beach, a campfire playlist, a substitute for a stereo system in a small space... Over the years, I have evaluated many, many portable Bluetooth speakers. At this point, no other company has the category nailed down the way Ultimate Ears does.

And this company’s “ultimate” speaker is the HYPERBOOM. This thing blew me away when I tested it earlier this year. For one thing, it’s huge — over 14 inches tall and 13 pounds. And at $399.99 it comes at a premium over most Bluetooth speakers. But both the weight and the premium price are worth it.

Inside the speaker are six drivers, including a pair of big 4.5-inch woofers to deliver that “boom.” An adaptive equalizer automatically optimizes audio to the room. It sounds great and gets impressively loud. The speaker even offers an optical input to plug in a TV or game console. Despite its size, the HYPERBOOM still has portable cred, including 24-hour battery life, the ability to charge a smartphone, IPX4 water resistance and an integrated handle to help heft all that weight.

• Our pick: Aura Carver Digital Photo Frame
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $199

Digital photo frames make great gifts. Connected digital photo frames are even better, especially during times like now when we can’t visit friends and family the way we once did. The Aura Carver is one of the best connected photo frames out there.

The easy-to-use Aura mobile app walks through connecting the frame to Wi-Fi and from there it’s easy to upload photos right from your smartphone. Invite friends or family and they can remotely upload their own photos as well. Photos are displayed on a large 10.1-inch, high resolution (1920 x 1200 pixels) panel in an attractive frame. The Carver will display portrait photos side-by-side, using AI to pick complementary images. Touch controls on the top of the frame let you swipe through photos and like or delete them — you can also do this using the app. There are two limitations to be aware of before gifting someone with an Aura Carver. They must have Wi-Fi (otherwise photos can’t be uploaded) and this frame can’t be wall-mounted.

Aura made a splash with its photo frames featuring iPad-quality display resolution. I’ve been using one for three years and it is still a conversation piece. These are still available, including models like the Sawyer. However, even at a slightly lower resolution, I am hard-pressed to see the difference between the Carver’s display and the Sawyer’s. And the Carver comes in at $199, which is $100 less.

• Our pick: ASUS Chromebook Flip C436
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: Starts at $799

Last year, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 made the list as a best value in laptops. This year, the company’s followup Chromebook Flip C436 is once again being featured — this time as a pick for best Chromebook of 2020.

ASUS is once again going with a premium approach to Chromebooks, which makes the Flip C436 a joy to use. The magnesium-alloy body is thin, light, and stylish, weighing just 2.5 pounds. The NanoEdge display is a 14-inch Full HD touchscreen panel, mounted on a sturdy 360-degree hinge. Other modern touches include dual USB-C ports, 10th generation Intel Core processors, PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage, quad Harman Kardon-tuned speakers, and Wi-Fi 6. If someone is looking for a Chromebook that offers a combination of flexibility, style and performance, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C436 won’t disappoint.

The reason Chromebook Flip C436 has made the shift out of best value section this year is price. It’s a great Chromebook, but the price has increased significantly. Last year’s C434 started at $569, but the C436 has a $799 starting price tag. The review unit I was sent — with an eye-catching pearlescent white cover, Intel Core i5, 512GB SSD and 16GB of RAM — ups that price to $999.

• Our pick: Dali IO-6 Wireless Headphones
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $499

Wireless headphones are a hot gift item, especially those with active noise cancellation (ANC). They were already popular for commuting and travel, but ANC makes working from home a lot easier as well, especially if you are working in a home full of distracting kids, pets, or roommates.

There are plenty of decent ANC wireless headphones to choose from in the sweet spot between $250 and $500. If you’re looking for a gift that will impress, the Dali IO-6 wireless headphones are well worth considering. These headphones are from audiophile Danish speaker company Dali — and you know anything from a company whose speakers can go $14,000 a pair is going to be special.

The $499 Dali IO-6 wireless headphones won’t disappoint. They’re designed to look and feel luxurious, with soft leather covering memory foam-padded ear cups. Audio is impressive, with plenty of bass, a wide soundstage, and a nice overall warmth. Throw in ANC and 30-hour battery life, and these wireless headphones would make any music fan (and anyone trying to drown out background noise) very happy.

• Our pick: PSB Alpha AM5 Powered Bookshelf Speakers
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $599/pair

Powered speakers make a great gift, especially when space is limited. Instead of requiring an amplifier or receiver and cables to connect them all, powered speakers have the amplifier built-in. Most also include Bluetooth connectivity, but offer true stereo sound — unlike portable Bluetooth speakers. They can be used as a compact stereo system, for home theater audio, with a computer, or with a game console.

My current favorite bookshelf speakers are PSB’s Alpha P5s. When I tested these speakers last year, they were so good I bought the review units. This year, PSB released a powered version of these speakers: the PSB Alpha AM5 powered bookshelf speakers (available in black or white). These would be perfect for anyone who wants to expand their sound to high quality stereo without taking up a lot of space. You can even plug in a turntable that has a line out option (like the Fluance RT80 we discussed earlier).

• Our pick: The Best Smart Lighting System: Nanoleaf Canvas Smarter Kit
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $199.99

When people think of smart lights, too often they’re thinking about light bulbs. Maybe a light strip. You need to think bigger, and that's what Canada’s Nanoleaf will do with its Wi-Fi-connected interlocking, wall-mounted panels. Nanoleaf’s smart lights do all the expected smart light stuff like scenes, timers, voice control and pulsing reaction to music, but each is an individual work of art.

Of the different Nanoleaf systems, the one I recommend is the Canvas. The light squares (5.9 inches on a side) are easy to work with, and you can have up to 30 connected to a single power supply. In addition, Canvas light squares respond to touch.

The Nanoleaf Canvas Smarter Kit is a great gift idea. It has everything needed to make a wall-mounted smart light creation, including nine light squares (one does double-duty as the controller), a power supply, nine linkers (to connect the squares), and double-sided adhesive mounting tape.

• Our pick: Raptic Titan XL
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $499.99

Portable power stations are a rather practical gift, but one that could have the giver remembered fondly when they come in handy when the lights go out.

For extended power outages, a gas-powered generator is the only way to ensure a constant supply of power sufficient to run all your home’s appliances. But these can be expensive, require maintenance (including a supply of fresh fuel), and they can’t be used indoors. Portable power stations are an excellent alternative for tiding you over for shorter periods.

Models today have substantial capacity and AC outlets in addition to the usual USB ports. I like the Titan XL from Raptic as a gift option. Its 497Wh Li-ion NMC battery isn’t meant to run a refrigerator, but it has the juice to keep critical devices going for a long time. It can charge a smartphone 40 times, a laptop 10 times, or keep a CPAP machine running for 14 hours.

At 14 pounds and with an included carry strap, it’s also portable and ideal for taking camping. For extended off-the-grid use, you can plug in an optional solar panel.

• Our pick: Apple iPad Air
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $599

If there’s an iPad fan on your list and you can afford to splurge a little, the all-new iPad Air is a big upgrade over the standard, 8th generation iPad. The iPad Air’s starting price is $170 higher than the regular iPad, but there are a lot of big wins for the extra dollars.

For one, the new iPad Air is simply a visually stunning tablet. Apple has upgraded it to the iPad Pro’s design, with squared edges. And it’s offered in an expanded range of colors: Silver, Space Gray, Rose Gold, Green and Sky Blue.

Functionally, the iPad Air gets a larger (10.9-inch) and much more immersive Liquid Retina display with True Tone and an antireflective coating. Everything is going to look better on the iPad Air. The processor is Apple’s A14 Bionic — which is much more powerful than the A12 Bionic in the entry-level iPad. The base storage is 64GB instead of 32GB, and it gets a USB-C port. TouchID is built into the power button, eliminating the Home button. In addition, the camera is a superior 12MP version, compared to the iPad’s 8MP shooter. And the iPad Air is compatible with Apple’s latest iPad accessories, including the Apple Pencil 2 and the Magic Keyboard.

The new iPad Air is an iPad Pro in everything but name, in a stylish form factor and color options that make it a perfect gift for anyone who really loves using a tablet.

• Our pick: BenQ 32 inch 4K HDR Multimedia Monitor with HDRi Technology
• Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $799.99

One of the things I’ve learned during the past months of working and remotely learning from home is the importance of a good computer monitor. I’ve had a number of different monitors through for review this year, but one stood out from the rest: the BenQ 32 inch 4K HDR Multimedia Monitor with HDRi Technology.

This is a big monitor at 32 inches. That’s large enough that you can actually make full use of the 4K resolution without needing to squint. But it’s not just sheer size and resolution that make this monitor such a great choice, it’s all the extras.

BenQ is positioning this as an entertainment monitor. That means it’s not just a great addition to a computer setup, but also able to replace a TV. It features HDRi, proprietary BenQ technology that automatically optimizes the picture in real time based on content and ambient light. It’s equipped with treVolo audio — a 2.1 channel sound system with an integrated subwoofer and a DSP with customizable audio depending on source (including Cinema, Game, and Dialog modes). It supports AMD FreeSync for gaming, and also applies HDRi to games.

It even comes with a remote control so it can be adjusted from the couch, like a TV. And it looks nothing like a typical computer monitor, with its unique, premium metallic brown/black design. Anyone on your list you could use a new computer or gaming monitor — or a small 4K TV — would probably love this BenQ 32 inch 4K HDR Multimedia Monitor.