Stocking Stuffers Under $15

How to fill a stocking without wasting money

A good stocking stuffer is small, useful and a little bit fun. Think of things that fit in a sock without bending: a mini puzzle, a card game, lip balm, a phone stand, a pair of warm socks, a multitool keychain, a seed packet kit. Avoid filler that will be thrown away by January, since a handful of good small items beats a dozen forgettable ones.

Pick a small theme for each person so the pile feels chosen rather than random: hobby supplies for one, travel items for another, desk gadgets for a third. Keep an eye on the total, since many small purchases add up quickly, and check delivery estimates so everything arrives before the day you need it.

Before you buy

• Choose items that fit in a stocking without bending or crushing.
• Give each person a small theme instead of random extras.
• Check the return eligibility, since low-cost items can follow different rules than larger ones.
• Add up the total before checkout so the small items stay a small spend.

Return windows and conditions vary by item, seller and season, so read the return eligibility on the product page before you buy, and use the gift option at checkout so the package does not show prices. Amazon's Help Center explains the current returns policy and how gift receipts work.