Best Christmas Stocking Stuffer Stuffers for Dad for $10 or Less

My childhood Christmases were spectacular events. Five children all close in age and an unlimited budget can make for a very "big" Christmas splash, but one thing that was always simple were the stockings hung above the fireplace. The toe of each stocking always got a tangerine followed by assorted nuts in shells, toiletries and small inexpensive trinkets, sprinkle with a few hard candies in wrappers, or the ever favorite LifeSaver Book, and topped with a candy cane. I don't remember Ma having one and I do remember that Dad's was usually lacking in substance - a toothbrush and perhaps some new collar stays. Although some folks solve this problem by spending quite a bit of money on the stuffers or adding a piece of good jewelry, there is no need to break the bank on Dad's stocking. A little creative thinking and some internet shopping is all that's needed. I have compiled a list of items for $10 or less that is comprehensive enough you can choose one or two, add some candy or trail mix if your Dad prefers and voilà - and inexpensive yet thoughtful stocking for Dad!

Gadgets

Swiss+Tech Utili-Key 6-in-1 Tool - This can be found at thinkgeek.com for $10. I liked this one in particular but there are many similar tools out there in the malls and on the net.

The Res-Q-Me Auto Escape Tool- X-tremegeek.com carries this for $9.95. The steel point is supposed to be able to break a tempered glass window, and the blade can cut through a seatbelt, according to the description. You also get a key ring to carry it on.

The Auto Accident Kit and Organizer - Also from X-tremegeek for $9.95. Don't let Dad be caught unprepared if he has an accident! The kit includes a safety guide, accident forms, a one-use camera with flash, pen, a pocket for papers and a flashlight that can be used as a warning signal.

Personalized Black Aluminum Flashlight - For $5.99 the Orientaltradingcompany.com has black aluminum LED Falshlights. You can have a name and/or a fun message inscribed on it because you get two lines of 15 characters/spaces per line. It's only 3 3/4" long so it's good for the glove compartment or the pocket.

USB Keyboard Vacuum - The containerstore.com has these for only $4.99. Dad can keep his computer and keyboard free of dust, dirt and cigarette ashes with this little vacuum. It comes with two attachments: a brush to clean vents and fans and a flexible rubber tip for in between the keys. There is a 58 inch cord and it plugs directly into the USB port on the computer so there is no need for batteries.

Talking Digital Thermometer - Avon has a plethora of stocking stuffers for everyone on your list and Dad is no exception. There is the wide variety of personal toiletries that we all know about, starting at .99, but they also have some neat gadgets. At Avon.com I found this vehicle thermometer. It gives Dad a digital reading of the temperature both inside and outside his vehicle without having to take his eyes off the road. It includes an outdoor sensor on a 10' long cord and reads both Fahrenheit and Celsius. It also has an alarm clock and right now it's on sale for $9.99.

Mini Universal Remote Keychain - For only $3.99 you can get Dad something for his stocking that he has always wanted, his own universal remote. He can control the television wherever he goes with a click of this pocket sized gadget. It features volume and channel control plus an LED light. It will automatically set up for use with most major TV brands and includes a button-cell battery.

Personal Items and fun stuff

Optical Illusion Playing Cards- Poker playing Dads or anyone will love this amusing deck of cards that trick the eye. They can be purchased at spoonsisters.com

Luggage Tags with Attitude - These fun plastic luggage tags can be purchased at wishingfish.com for $9.95. They come in a set of six with the following sayings embossed on the outside: Careful my shoes are inside; I'm pretty sure this isn't your bag; Nothing worth stealing in here; Open with caution-dirty clothes inside; This is my bag; This is not your suitcase. Oh and inside of course there is room for name, address and other pertinent contact information.

Chef Soap - If your Dad loves to cook he'll appreciate this stainless steel disk that your rub between hands under water and magically it washes away any unwanted aromas like garlic, leaving hands smelling fresh. It's only $7.99 at PerpetualKid.com

The Shower Fizzer - I'm not a Dad but I want this! They are only $5.00 and come from H20plus.com. He dampens the cube which comes in either peppermint or eucalyptus and places it on either the shower floor or soap dish away from direct water contact. It works on the steam of the shower and soothes aching muscles and refreshes.

College Logo Golf Balls- Is Dad a golfer and a proud alumni? He'll love this sleeve of six golf balls containing his school's colors and logo. There are over 25 colleges and universities available and they retail for $9.95. Look for them at gift.com and a few other gift suggestion websites.

Banana Bunker - While looking at the Jimi Wallet (and I suggest you do too), At Amazon.com I found these really cool banana savers for Dad's that take their lunch to work or like to go hiking. They cost $6.00 and will surely be a conversation starter on Christmas morning. They come in a variety of colors or clear.

Journals and paperbacks - Another great place to look for stocking stuffers for dads is Barnes and Noble Booksellers either online or at the mall. Journals, diaries, pocket calendars and paperbacks can all be had for $10 or less - or more if you choose. But suffice to say you can't go wrong with any of these.