As the holiday season approaches, retail experts are identifying key trends that will shape gift-giving, emphasizing personalization, utility, and a move away from purely digital experiences. While some tech gifts, particularly gaming consoles, are expected to perform well, the overarching theme points towards more intentional and lasting presents.
Chris Schmicker, Vice President of Marketing at AfterShip, notes that the most successful gifts this year will demonstrate genuine attention to the recipient's interests, rather than generic recommendations. He anticipates a rise in personalized items such as monogrammed accessories, vintage finds, and products that encourage offline activities. Data from AfterShip showed significant year-over-year growth in luggage sales (172%) and accessories (104%) during the last holiday season, indicating a trend towards travel-enabling gifts.
Lauren Kleinman, Founder and CEO of Dreamday, echoes this sentiment, predicting a focus on "elevated utility" where gifts are special to open but also serve a long-term purpose. Beauty, wellness, and home products continue to be strong categories. Ally Anderson, Senior Director of Brand Marketing Strategy at LTK, reported over 40% year-over-year growth in beauty sales on their platform last holiday season, with bedding and linens also seeing a more than 20% increase.
For budget-conscious shoppers, experts suggest consumables, beauty items, and stocking stuffers. Schmicker recommends specialty foods under $25 and beauty or self-care products under $50. Kleinman highlights brands like Compartés chocolate, Glamnetic press-on nails, and ILIA beauty products. For gifts ranging from $50 to $100, jewelry, wellness items, and everyday essentials are recommended. For those with a higher budget, up to $250, luggage, premium bedding, and home goods are suggested.
Personalized and small-batch items are advised for early purchase due to longer production times. Schmicker specifically mentions custom embroidered apparel and ceramics as examples. Taylor Cunningham, VP of U.S. Marketing at Trustpilot, advises buying early for items tied to specific fashion campaigns or limited colorways and sizes, noting that recent campaigns are driving interest in denim.
A notable trend is the resurgence of screen-free activities. Ali Furman, PwC US Consumer Markets Industry Leader, cites research indicating that 64% of consumers prioritize screen-free gifts, a figure that rises to 78% among Gen Z. Board games, puzzles, and craft kits are expected to be popular. Furman also points out an interesting paradox: consumers are using AI to discover gifts that encourage them to disconnect, with 29% planning to use AI in their holiday shopping.
Gaming, however, remains a strong contender in the tech space. Chris Beer, Consumer & Tech Analyst at GWI, highlights the upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto VI as a potential catalyst for console sales. GWI research indicates that over half of Grand Theft Auto players are considering purchasing a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series S/X. Despite this, Beer cautions that general tech gadget interest has declined, and novelty or AI-centric gadgets might be harder sells compared to practical upgrades.
Ultimately, experts agree that the most impactful gifts will be those that feel considered and personal, reflecting the giver's understanding of the recipient. Specificity and the story behind a gift are deemed more important than price or brand name. As Furman concludes, "The journey is digital. What’s under the tree isn’t," emphasizing that while technology aids discovery, the most cherished gifts connect on a human level.