Cheap Stocking Stuffers for 2009

Christmas is coming up and with the cost of everything skyrocketing, wrapped gifts alone are going to break the bank. Then, there's the concept of stuffing Christmas stockings, a long-standing tradition. Stuffing stockings doesn't have to be expensive. Here are a few ideas for inexpensive stocking stuffers.

Gift cards
These are a great idea, as you can give whatever denomination you want. To avoid giving not-so-great gifts, if you are aiming for cheap and the gift card is going to be for $5 or $10, avoid giving cards from places like Best Buy and other stores with pricey equipment, unless the person buys mostly CDs or DVDs from there, or if you know other people are giving them the same, in which case, that could add up. Good, stable ideas for gift cards are for places like fast food restaurants or Amazon.

Candy
If you are stuffing the stocking of someone who likes candy, then this is a no-brainer. Candy can be especially cheap, because it goes on sale at all holidays. A lot of places will sell candy in bags that are two for five dollars and the like. Not only do they have regular candy, but for those who have problems with sugar, you can give them sugar-free candy. It's a bit more pricey, but will bring a smile to the face of those receiving it. If you're giving regular candy, though, don't forget to throw in some sugarless gum!

Toys
For kids, there is always still the option of stuffing their stocking with little toys. In this day and age, a lot of kids are more preoccupied with video games and the like, but some kids are still ADD enough to appreciate a good toy. Some ideas include: regular Barbie dolls without the accessories (and the accessories by themselves,) squirt guns, army men, yo-yos, and paddle balls.

Books
I know it sounds ludicrous, but just follow my thought here. While everyone's wrapped up in the world of the internet, there are still some people who like to read. Books are a great stocking stuffer to please the book worm. Also, you could include cute bookmarks.

Small Gadgets
While big gifts of technology are being given, there is still a need for small gadgets. These can make great stocking stuffers. Some ideas for this category are: flash drives, USB cords, book lights, and I think I can include batteries in this category.

Cosmetics
Lots of girls love makeup, lotions, and perfumes and sprays. Instead of investing in big sets for Christmas gifts, purchase individual items and put them into stockings. Acceptable items are endless. Here are some ideas: matching scented lotion, spray, and antibacterial hand sanitizer from Bath and Body Works, eyeshadow kits, lip glosses, and little nail polishes, such as Bon Bons.

Jewelry
No, I'm not talking about the kind of the 24-karat gold, 2-karat diamond variety, as we are trying to keep this cheap. I am talking about things like friendship bracelets and cute novelty earrings. I'm not going to lie, I still wear stuff like this and I am 25-years-old. Good places to find things like these are at Claire's.

These are just eight great ideas for inexpensive stocking stuffers for Christmas 2009. Enjoy the holiday season without breaking the bank! Cheers!