10 worst New Year gifts: what is better not to spend money on

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

If you don't want to spoil your loved ones' festive mood, study this anti-rating before going to the store.

We have compiled a list of the most commonplace gifts that each of us received at least once in a lifetime. Some are practically of no use to anyone, others are not suitable for the holiday, and others are simply bewildering. Of course, if you are absolutely sure that something from the list will definitely please your acquaintances, do not hesitate and donate it. But remember that for many people, such gifts can become just unnecessary junk.

1. Souvenirs with the symbols of the year

This is the most popular and, perhaps, the most useless gift. He brings more problems than joy. You have to think about where to put it, who will then dust it off and where to store it when the year is over. Redirecting is also difficult, because it can be done only after 12 years.

Alternative option: just New Year's souvenirs. Porcelain Santa Claus and a snow globe can at least be used every year. But before you buy them for someone, still remember if this person has other souvenirs at home or on the desktop. And if he prefers minimalism in the interior, such gifts will only irritate him.

2. Mimic candles

Candles in the form of Christmas trees, snowflakes, snowmen and symbols of the year are the second most banal gift. Usually they are either completely tasteless, or so beautiful that it is a pity to light them. As a result, they are removed to a distant drawer or end up in the trash. Give them only if the person really likes it.

Alternative option: ordinary candles in a beautiful candlestick. They can be put on the New Year's table for atmosphere or light on winter evenings to create coziness. Be careful with scented candles: not everyone can handle strong odors well. Choose options with a light scent or none at all.

3. Photo frames and photo albums

When everyone was printing photos, it was really relevant, but now the majority view and store images on a computer or in the cloud. Therefore, an unenviable fate awaits your gift - to lie and gather dust in the closet. Such a present makes sense if you have a particularly memorable photo with a person and you want him to remember this moment. Then you can print it and donate it in a frame. But keep in mind that not everyone will appreciate it.

Alternative option: a certificate for a studio photo session. The person will receive unusual positive emotions and beautiful pictures as a keepsake. And how to store them, let him decide for himself.

4. Socks, pajamas and other clothing

Everyone knows that you shouldn't give clothes if you don't know the size and taste of the person being gifted. But for some reason, socks, underpants and pajamas are still presented on many holidays. It seems that these are universal things that everyone needs. But first, and with them, you can greatly miss. And secondly, your loved ones probably already have enough of such basic things.

Alternative option: a gift certificate to your favorite store. Let the person buy clothes to their liking.

5. Cosmetics

Skin type, age, allergies, perception of aromas, brand, composition - when choosing cosmetics, there is so much to consider that it is better not to give it at all. But on New Year's Eve, there are so many beauty kits in stores in beautiful packaging that it's hard not to be tempted. Moreover, inside there are usually cosmetics for every day - gels, shampoos, lotions. Still, this is not the best solution if you do not know the person's preferences.

Alternative option: certificate to a specialized store. If a person loves cosmetics, let him choose the right product himself. So there will definitely be no disappointments.

6. Household usefulness

A frying pan, ironing board, drill - all this is useful in everyday life, but as a gift it can be taken as a hint. Be careful! Put them under the tree only for a person without prejudice who really really needs it. And do not add to such a gift the phrase: "May cleanliness and order reign in your house in the New Year." You might think that you think the person is sloppy.

Don't buy pots, pots, pots, kitchen timers, etc., unless you are sure that their potential owner cooks a lot. For those who often eat store-bought food or simply hate standing by the stove, such things will turn out to be useless.

Alternative option: a certificate for courses where you can learn a skill. So a person will receive new impressions and useful knowledge. Naturally, do not forget to consider his interests.

7. Delicious sweets in luxurious packaging

On the eve of the New Year, confectionery sets are sold at every step. They are bright on the outside, but often tasteless on the inside. Vegetable oils, dyes and chemical flavors can be hidden behind a beautiful label. Such gifts are unlikely to please those with a sweet tooth.

Alternative option: natural chocolate, even without an elegant wrapper. And if you still liked some kind of set, carefully study the composition on the label. Or first buy it yourself and try if it is really tasty, and only then take it as a gift.

8. Diaries, notebooks and calendars

Electronic planning has replaced paper planning. Most people find it more convenient to set reminders on their phones, keep to-do lists in apps, and plan a week in a digital calendar. And the paper diaries, which are so often given at work, remain idle. But even if a person uses them, he is unlikely to be very happy to receive another notebook or calendar from you.

Alternative option: a custom-designed calendar or a quality diary with a good cover and paper. And only for those who definitely use them.

9. Gifts with a joke

Some people think that it is not so important what to give, it is important - how. Usually they like to "please" their friends with T-shirts with funny inscriptions or "cool" little things like a coin for making decisions, an alcoholic drink and the like. Unfortunately, most of the time, these gifts go to the trash can.

Give them only when you know for sure that your friends will appreciate such jokes. If in doubt, it is better to give up such an idea.

Alternative option: a gift made with your own hands. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate that you know and appreciate the person well.

10. Something is expensive, simply because it is expensive

If a thing is not needed, no matter how much it costs: a gift will still not bring joy. Therefore, before buying a gold-plated pen or an exclusive gadget, think about whether it will be useful for a person. Love and attention are not measured by the number on the price tag. It is better to give something inexpensive, but really thoughtful.

Alternative option: money. If you certainly want to express your feelings in monetary terms, give the amount in an envelope so that the person will buy what he likes and will come in handy.