A daunting shopping list, annoying music at full volume, crowds of people walking with their heads down texting...welcome to the fresh hell that is holiday shopping.
The stress of shopping can make even the most festive, patient person want to start throwing elbows, but some of the trauma can be curbed.
Mind your manners
Basic, I know, but you'll less likely to exit a store in a huff over a brash salesperson if you give them the most pleasant version of yourself that you can muster. Kindness begets kindness.
Shop online
Save yourself the grief of braving the crowds and smugly shop from your couch in your PJ's. Ensure the delivery time fits your needs.
Have a realistic list
A list of the people you have to buy for is a great start, but won't help you much when you're blankly staring at the store directory. Have a few items written out for each person you need to buy for. If you can knock off several items in one store, your trip will be that much more efficient.
Be prepared
If you head out to shop on a Saturday afternoon, you're in for a more intense experience than if you were to duck out for an early Monday evening shop. Ensure that you are fed, caffeinated, and wearing comfortable clothes. Leave the massive puffer coat or towering heels for another day.
Work the system
Scope out the concierge services to see if you can check your coat or purchases as you shop. Is there gift wrapping you can take advantage of? Buy smaller, more portable items first, then save heavy items for last so you're not stuck lugging them around.
100 Gift Ideas $20 And Under
Colourful Vases(01 of100)
An ideal item to bring along with a bouquet (hint hint). Ikea PS 2017, $12.99, Ikea
(credit:Ikea)Wooden Game(02 of100)
So much classier than plastic, such a lovely piece to keep around for snowy winter days. Wooden dominos set, $16.99, HomeSense. (credit:HomeSense)
Wine Toppers(03 of100)
This bottle stopper makes a great alternative to boring old cork. It also comes in a pickle version. Banana Bottle Stopper, $13.99, Amazon.ca. (credit:Urban Outfitters )
Facebook Stamps(04 of100)
This gift may not be perfect for everyone, but come on, the social media lover on your list will be extremely happy. Like and Dislike Stamps, $10 each, Simply Stamps. (credit:Urban Outfitters)
iPad Case(05 of100)
This iPad case has a handy stand, ideal for easy TV watching. MoKo Case for iPad 2017, $10.95, Amazon.ca. (credit:Amazon)
Office Supplies(06 of100)
For the people who love office supplies but can't keep them organized, surprise them with this practical dinosaur memo holder. Memo-saurus Desk Organizer, $9.99, Modcloth. (credit:Modcloth)
Measuring Spoons(07 of100)
Besides having a beautiful design, these spoons are stoneware and extra sturdy. Pop-Print Measuring Spoons, $18, Anthropologie. (credit:Anthropologie)
Squeaky Toys(08 of100)
Take your dog bowling with these interactive rubber pins that also squeak. JW Pet iSqueak Bouncin Bowling Pins Dog Toys, $19, Amazon.ca (credit:PetSmart )
Phone Case(09 of100)
Everyone loves a cute case when they're pulling out their phone — and at this price, it's easy to switch it up every month or two! Printed iPhone case, from $10.99, Winners. (credit:Winners)
Candles(10 of100)
If you need something to keep the Christmas spirit lingering in your kitchen, try this balsam candle by Bath & Body Works. Balsam candle, $14.50, Bath & Body Works. (credit:Bath & Body Works)
Instant Art(11 of100)
How great would this set look framed up on a wall? Vaxbo art cards, $9.99 for set of 8, Ikea (credit:Ikea)
Apron(12 of100)
This festive and colourful apron has adjustable straps to fit any chef in the kitchen. Kitchen Apron, $8, Fruits & Passion. (credit:Fruits & Passion)
Blomster Candle Holder(13 of100)
Used as centrepieces or candle holders, this set of three will make any space look elegant. Blomster candle holder (set of 3), $19.99, Ikea. (credit:Ikea)
Oven Mitts(14 of100)
Get cooking and baking with these adorable oven mitts from Canadian Tire. Red Rooster Oven Mitt Set, $10, Canadian Tire. (credit:Canadian Tire )
Play 'N Go Table(15 of100)
A three-in-one table that lets kids build and play, it also takes up minimal space in your living room (and even better, folds up easily). Mega Bloks Play N' Go Table, $18, Walmart. (credit:Walmart)
Gag Bandages(16 of100)
This is perfect for that friend who always manages to get hurt. Or maybe someone just going through a tough breakup — these bandages would easily put a smile on their face. Bandages Keep Calm, $8, Urban Outfitters. (credit:Urban Outfitters )
Appetizer Tray(17 of100)
Keep your guests full with this four-piece glass appetizer set — ideal for dips or desserts. Urbain Appetizer Set, $10, Stokes. (credit:Stokes )
Maple Syrup Candle(18 of100)
Let the smell of maple syrup waft through anyone's home ... with the help of a yummy candle that will conveniently work with pretty much any decor. Retro tin maple syrup candle, $15, Drake General Store. (credit:Drake General Store)
Coasters(19 of100)
Remember these? Well if you do, add them back into your life and under your favourite mug. Nice Save Coaster Set, $12, Mod Cloth. (credit:Mod Cloth. )
Bangs Headband(20 of100)
For running or even just face-washing, this bang-holding headband won't fall down on you. Bang Buster Headband, $14, Lululemon. (credit:Lululemon)
Tablet Stand(21 of100)
For the people you love who love to watch movies and TV on their tablets, this cute stand (which comes in a slew of colours) will be their new favourite accessory. PODSTA Tablet Stand Holster, $14.99. Future Shop. (credit:Future Shop)
Alphabet Mug(22 of100)
The subtle side of monogramming is on full display with this adorable — and kind of intricate — mug for your hot beverages. Alphabet mug, $13, Pottery Barn. (credit:Pottery Barn)
Dog Sweater(23 of100)
Even if you're not the type to dress your pet in clothes, your best friend may be — and it does make for a darn cute holiday picture. Wool handmade dog sweater, $12.99, HomeSense. (credit:HomeSense)
Salt And Pepper Shakers(24 of100)
Elegance on the dinner table all year round (or at least, for the duration of the winter)? That's the kind of thing that'll get you invited back for holiday dinners. Pinecone salt and pepper shakers, $19, West Elm. (credit:West Elm)
Bobble Jug(25 of100)
As pretty a filtered water jug as you can imagine (it's clear, that's just a dark background), the Bobble Jug takes water from the tap to the table — and comes in a variety of colours for whatever your recipient's decor may be. Bobble jug, $19.99. (credit:Bobble)
Socks(26 of100)
Sure, socks sound like your boring, everyday Christmas gift, and $20 sounds like a lot of money for a pair — until you try out some of Smartwool's offerings. These least expensive options for adults that wick sweat and cushion your feet come in fun colours that won't only look good hiking, but everyday as well. Smartwool Women's Margarita, $19.99, Altitude Sports. (credit:Altitude Sports)
Dirty Dice(27 of100)
The only stocking stuffer that will keep you up all night. Dirty Dice, $9, Come As You Are. (credit:Come As You Are )
Owl Mugs(28 of100)
Hoot hoot wouldn't want these ceramic owl mugs by artist Gorky Gonzalez? Handpainted Folk Owl Mug, $14, Anthropologie. (credit:Anthropologie)
Portable Speaker(29 of100)
This compact portable speaker hooks up to most smartphones, MP3 players and electronic devices. Philips SoundShooter Portable Speaker, $17, Amazon.com (credit:Amazon )
Watch Them Grow Frame(30 of100)
The perfect gift for a new mom or dad, this frame can also be customized with your little one's name. Watch Me Grow Personalization Photo Frame, $20, Sears. (credit:Sears)
Snow Markers(31 of100)
Let your kids express themselves this holiday season by writing on the coolest canvas mother nature has to offer. Sno Markers, $7, Indigo/Chapters. (credit:Indigo/Chapters)
Animal Jungle Set(32 of100)
Give your child a New Year's goal: Remember ever single animal's name in this jar. Animal Jungle Set, $10, Sears. (credit:Sears )
Cocktail Ornaments(33 of100)
Just think — if your friend ever runs out of mixer for the drinks, all she has to do is snag out of these ornaments from the tree, and voila! Comes in Apple, Cranberry, Blueberry and Pomegranate. Coastal Cocktails Holiday Ornaments Martini Mixers, $9.99, Shoppers Drug Mart. (credit:Shoppers Drug Mart)
Sex Game(34 of100)
120 sexy lottery tickets that can fit into your lover's stocking — or pocket. Kinky Sex Scratchers, $14, Come As You Are. (credit:Come As You Are )
Travel Light(35 of100)
Not only great for travelling, but also for those whose partners head to bed first (and are somewhat sensitive to light), this travel book light could very well be a relationship saver. Lewis N. Clark Travel Book Light, $9, Mountain Equipment Co-op. (credit:Mountain Equipment Co-Op)
Egg Warmer(36 of100)
Keep your eggs warm (and your tables festive) with these adorable penguin covers. Penguin Egg Cozy Set, $15, Indigo/Chapters. (credit:Indigo/Chapters)
Drinking Game(37 of100)
Go back to your college and university years with this drinking game set that includes four shot glasses and drinking games. Drink Till You Drop Game, $18, Aren't We Naughty. (credit:Aren't We Naughty )
Bottle Opener(38 of100)
For the outdoor and drink lovers, this metal bottle opener is perfect for any home bar or cocktail cart. Wise Guise Bottle Opener, $13, Mod Cloth. (credit:Mod Cloth)
Timmies(39 of100)
If you have someone on your list who constantly is buying a cup of coffee in the morning, get them in the habit of making it at home. Sweet Treat, $15, Tim Hortons. (credit:Tim Hortons )
Aromatherapy(40 of100)
Who couldn't use some sleep aids around the holidays? This combination of hand soap and lotion (in a super pretty caddy) come in a fragrance to help soothe your recipient's mind and send them off to dreamland. Aromatherapy Soap & Lotion Caddy in Sleep: Lavender Vanilla, $18.50, Bath & Body Works. (credit:Bath & Body Works)
Scrub Mitt(41 of100)
If anyone on your gift list hasn't tried out a scrub mitt, now's the time to change their world (for cheap!). Helping with circulation, exfoliation and general stimulation, it's great for flaky winter skin. Scrub mitt, $10, Body Blitz. (credit:Body Blitz)
Scrabble Magnets(42 of100)
Not only fun for those who want to escape to the kitchen during holiday parties but good times for the whole, this fridge magnet Scrabble game is fabulous for the wordsmith in your life. Scrabble fridge magnets, $15, Drake General Store. (credit:Drake General Store)
Bath Toys(43 of100)
A toy for every day of the week (plus two more) means your kidlet will be clamouring to get into the tub. Infant rubber tub toys, $12.99, Marshalls. (credit:Marshalls)
Bookmark(44 of100)
For the book lovers in your life — or even the students in need of some prettiness for studying — a customizable bookmark is great to tuck in with their gifts. Engravable bookmark, $9, Pottery Barn. (credit:Pottery Barn)
Espresso Machine(45 of100)
Celebrity chef Mario Batali has created this stovetop machine for those who want to have their own cup of espresso at home. Mario Batali Stovetop Espresso Maker, $10, Kitchen Stuff Plus. (credit:Kitchen Stuff Plus)
Food Bowls(46 of100)
Suitable for both the kitty and puppy in your life, these bowls are easy to remove for feeding and dishwasher safe. Platinum Pets Cat Double Diner, $20, PetSmart. (credit:PetSmart)
Magnifying Glass(47 of100)
The perfect accessory for anyone who loves maps or tiny print (or heck, just wants to look cool), this weighty magnifying glass is a gorgeous office supply addition. Flip handle magnifying glass, $19.50, Indigo. (credit:Indigo)
Batman Figure(48 of100)
Oh yes, that superhero-loving friend of yours will be proud to display this on their desk. DC Comics Batman Vinyl Figure, $14.99, Future Shop. (credit:Future Shop)
Tablet Case(49 of100)
A handy pouch that's more durable than it looks, this nylon case can carry your tablet, along with your phone and some money, for the minimalists in your life. Nylon tablet case, $19.94, Gap. (credit:Gap)
Food Warmer(50 of100)
You know that weird skin that develops on dips and sauces after it sits out for a while? Well, this mini food warmer will ensure that doesn't happen — and that your host's spinach dip will be forever delicious. Party Dipper Food Warmer, $14.99, Hamilton Beach. (credit:Hamilton Beach)
iPhone 5 Case(51 of100)
For the accident prone people in your life who can't help but buy nice things anyway, this case will be a protector, and yes, even a prop. Ideal Case Bullet iPhone 5 Case, $19.99, Best Buy. (credit:Best Buy)
Mini Oven(52 of100)
It feels like the Easy Bake Oven all over again — this time with the option to make pizza, cookies and cakes. KitchenAid Mini Bake Set, $10, Canadian Tire. (credit:Canadian Tire)
Yngaren Bottles(53 of100)
Literally no one will know what these cost, and they're just begging to be placed on someone's beautiful vanity table. Yngaren bottle (set of 3), $14.99, Ikea. (credit:Ikea)
Zippered Headphones(54 of100)
A nice twist on a classic gift, these headphones that "zip" can even hide nicely amongst a coat's closure. J± Zipper Earphones, $19, Loblaws and Real Canadian Superstores. (credit:Loblaws)
Lunch Box(55 of100)
The modern (insulated) lunch pail will be perfect for the healthy friend who is always smart enough to pack meals at home. The Crock-Pot Lunch Crock, $19.99, Home Hardware. (credit:Crock-Pot)
Flashlight(56 of100)
Is it particularly sexy? No. Will it be immensely useful? Yes, in ways your recipient probably doesn't even anticipate — like when something rolls behind the couch and there's no working batteries. Etón Clipray Self‑Powered Hand Crank Flashlight, $14.75, Mountain Equipment Co-op. (credit:Mountain Equipment Co-Op)
Cutting Board(57 of100)
One for every type of meal and by meal we mean poultry, fish, meat and veggies. Planks a Lot Cutting Board Set, $13, Mod Cloth. (credit:Mod Cloth )
Chocolate(58 of100)
You'd be hard-pressed to find a gift recipient who doesn't love chocolate — and with the flavour options available from Green & Black's (like say, Hazelnut and Currant or Butterscotch), you're pretty much guaranteed a hit. Green & Black's Chocolate Bars, $3.89 each. (credit:Green & Black's)
Popcorn Popper(59 of100)
Want to try a new way to make popcorn? This popper lets you heat up kernels in your microwave without the bag — and with whatever flavourings you want to put on it. Nordic Ware Popcorn Popper, from $11.99, available at Sears Canada, Home Outfitters. (credit:Nordic Ware)
Cozy Socks(60 of100)
Warm, snuggly and darn cute, these will make any chilly day a bit more fun. Cozy Critter Socks in Penguin, $5.94, Old Navy. (credit:Old Navy)
Pet Bed(61 of100)
Cute, tiny and oh so cheap, this is the pet bed for those who aren't quite sure they're ready to commit to full-on pet furniture just yet. Amigo Pet Bed, $9.99, Shoppers Drug Mart. (credit:Shoppers Drug Mart)
Baby Wash Cloths(62 of100)
This 10-piece gender neutral cloth set is perfect for any nursery. Piccolo Bambino Wash Cloths, $7, Sears. (credit:Sears)
Fondue Set(63 of100)
This four-piece tray set lets people create their own chocolaty (and messy) creations. We recommend strawberries — lots of them. Cocoa Fondue Set, $15, Stokes. (credit:Stokes )
Money Bank(64 of100)
This ain't your childhood piggy bank. We envision this to be a great edgy piece right by the front door, for all the guys who carry change loosely and don't want it just falling out of their pants. Skull money bank, $19, Urban Barn. (credit:Urban Barn)
Dessert Plates(65 of100)
These printed dessert plates will make your dinner table (and desserts) look extra tasty this holiday season. Dipped Toile Dessert Plates, $12, Anthropologie. (credit:Anthropologie.)
Sprouter Kit(66 of100)
Grow your own fresh and nutritious sprouts right on your kitchen counter. And then yes, eat them! 4-Tier Sprouter Kit, $17, Williams-Sonoma. (credit:Williams-Sonoma)
The Book of Beer Awesomeness(67 of100)
The beer lover in your life may think they know everything they need to when it comes to pints and suds, but this tome may teach them a thing or two. The Book of Beer Awesomeness, $17.95, Urban Barn. (credit:Urban Barn)
Disney Busy Books(68 of100)
Part story, part activity kit, the Busy Books (which come in a variety of "characters" like My Little Pony, Tonka, Disney and more) are maybe the best way to spend a chilled out Boxing Day. Busy Books, $10.49, Walmart. (credit:Walmart)
Vintage Car(69 of100)
For the kid — or the kid who doesn't really want to grow up at all — this adorable mini Fiat makes for a perfect shelf or desk accessory. Vintage Fiat model car, $12.99, Marshalls. (credit:Marshalls)
Reindeer Blanket(70 of100)
Just try to find something more snuggly than this reindeer "nunu" that wraps kid up in its cozy arms and gets festive all at the same time. Reindeer Nunu, $15, Indigo. (credit:Indigo)
Neck Pillow(71 of100)
Neck pillows are not just for travellers, but also for those who like to get propped up on the couch a little better. And the bonus on this one? It has a built-in massager for extra relaxing. Spa massaging neck pillow, $14.97, Walmart. (credit:Walmart)
The Canadian Collection(72 of100)
Keep that Olympic feeling all year round with these patriotic cups from The Bay. The Canadian Collection, $10, The Bay. (credit:The Bay )
Peanut Box(73 of100)
Finally, a peanut everyone can love! This adorable box is great for keys and loose change in the front hall, or perfectly suited for odds and ends in the kitchen. Peanut box, $13, Pottery Barn. (credit:Pottery Barn)
Rattles(74 of100)
Shake, shake, shake...shake shake shake...shake that carrot? Bunnies By The Bay, $7, The Bay. (credit:The Bay )
Blossande Coffee Accessories(75 of100)
Have a friend who loves impressing guests with their coffee decorating prowess? This set allows for multiple options. Blossande coffee accessories (set of 6), $14.99, Ikea. (credit:Ikea)
Sh*t Girls Say(76 of100)
This is where it all started ... before the endless copycats, Shit Girls Say was a brilliant Twitter feed and YouTube sensation, courtesy of Kyle Humphrey and Graydon Sheppard. Shit Girls Say book, $17.95, Drake General Store. (credit:Drake General Store)
Sushi Kit(77 of100)
Make your favourite rolls at home with this sushi roller and serving paddle. Helen Chen's Asian Kitchen Bamboo Sushi Mat with Paddle, $3, Amazon. (credit:Amazon.com)
Spread Kit(78 of100)
If you're a lover of everything cheese and wine, this trendy little piece is the ideal add-on for any dinner party. Spreader Set, $10, Kitchen Stuff Plus. (credit:Kitchen Stuff Plus )
Blender(79 of100)
For the morning smoothie fanatic, there could be no better gift than a blender that makes just enough for the ride to work. Single Serve Blender, $19.99, Hamilton Beach. (credit:Hamilton Beach)
Pet Fish(80 of100)
Have you always wanted to own a fish but not sure where to start? Try this take home betta set that comes with a decorative background and feeding bowl. Fish not included but available in stores. Yin Yang Betta Kit, $12, PetSmart. (credit:PetSmart)
Pepper Mill(81 of100)
This easy, twist-top pepper mill also comes in a salt version. Enora Easy Pepper Mill, $10, Stokes. (credit:Stokes )
Wok(82 of100)
This eight-inch mini wok is perfect for both the amateur and experienced chef in your kitchen. Think Kitchen Carbon Steel Mini Wok, $13, Stokes. (credit:Stokes )
Lip Balm(83 of100)
Chapped lips can make the whole rest of your face feel strange, and as the wind outside gusts and growls, your friends or family will be grateful for this gift set of four mint flavours — one for every purse! C.O. Bigelow Mentha Supreme 2X Lip Gift Set in Mentha, Cinnamint, Vanillamint & Spearmint, $18.50, Bath & Body Works. (credit:Bath & Body Works)
Glass Teapot(84 of100)
At this price, buy one for yourself! This glass teapot is heat resistant and will probably keep you warm at the office. Pret-A-The Glass Teapot, $5, Stokes. (credit:Stokes )
Bird Feeder(85 of100)
These eye-catching bird feeders are great for all birds and seed mixes. Funky Gazebo Bird Feeder, $8, Canadian Tire. (credit:Canadian Tire)
Teen Throw(86 of100)
Send those teens back to their dorm rooms in style with this Teen Vogue-approved throw. Teen Vogue Violet Plush Throw, $19, Sears. (credit:Sears)
Roll-Up Puzzle(87 of100)
This is probably the most brilliant toy on the list: finally, you don't have to mess up your favourite puzzle or lose any pieces. Deluxe Puzzle RollUp, $13, Wal-Mart. (credit:Walmart)
Slippers(88 of100)
Why is it that slippers always seem to disappear just when people need them the most? These cozy options will be a welcome gift for pretty well anyone. Sherpa Lined Slide Slippers, $12.94, Old Navy. (credit:Old Navy)
Jelly Bean Dispenser(89 of100)
It'll take one of your friends or family members right back to childhood (and will make for a great way to make friends in the office). Includes 36 flavours of jelly beans to start! Life Brand Premium Jelly Bean Dispenser, $16.99, Shoppers Drug Mart. (credit:Shoppers Drug Mart)
Cocktail Shaker(90 of100)
Practice (or perfect) your bartending skills with this stainless steel cocktail shaker. Happy hour can be every hour, people. Happy Hour Cocktail Shaker, $10, Kitchen Stuff Plus. (credit:Kitchen Stuff Plus )
Salad Serving Set(91 of100)
This salad serving set is not only unique for being hand-crafted, each set also has different wood grains, making each spoon one-of-a-kind. Global Crafts Fair Trade Twisted Giraffe Salad Serving Set, $20, Best Buy. (credit:Best Buy )
Phone Handset(92 of100)
Yes, it's a giant handset that connects to a smartphone, and yes, it might just make someone feel better about the wireless signals emanating from their technological devices. Why not try it out? J± Handset, $9, Loblaws and Real Canadian Superstore. (credit:Loblaws)
Decanter(93 of100)
This decanter not only makes a sleek addition to your wine collection but you can also show it off at your holiday dinner. Sophie Decanter, $20, Stokes. (credit:Stokes )
Toolbox(94 of100)
It's the kind of thing people always think they have — until they go to look for it and realize their screwdrivers and bolts are all shoved haphazardly in a drawer. Give the gift of usefulness! Toolbox, $16, West Elm. (credit:West Elm)
Hourglass(95 of100)
We're not going back in time but we think life may be more productive with a one-minute, three-minute and five-minute timer in your life. 1 Pyramid 3 Sand Timer-Hourglass, $7, Stokes. (credit:Stokes )
Cuber(96 of100)
Cutting an avocado can get messy, so why not make life easier with this cuber, perfect for salads, dishes or guacamole? Avocado Cuber, $17, Williams-Sonoma. (credit:Williams-Sonoma)
Hockey Puck(97 of100)
If you have anyone on your list who's upset about the NHL's current lockout situation, then this gift will be the perfect little reminder of their favourite sport. HNIC Signature Puck, $6, CBC Shop. (credit:CBC)
Desk Fan(98 of100)
Useful and attractive-looking to boot, this desk fan will make your recipient's office space the place to be during the summer. Airplane USB Desk Fan, $19.99, The Shopping Channel. (credit:The Shopping Channel)
Hot Water Bottle(99 of100)
Sick and tired of that rubber smell whenever you have a backache? This adorable hot water bottle cover (complete with pom poms!) will make for a far better companion. Striped hot water bottle cover, $19.50, Indigo. (credit:Indigo)
Apptivity Figures(100 of100)
All those times you feel guilty about the kids in your life just looking at a screen while playing an iPad can come to an end with Apptivity figurines, which make games literally come to life. Works with Fruit Ninja, Batman, Cut The Rope, Monster High, Hot Wheels and Angry Birds. Apptivity figures, $14.99, available at Walmart, Toy R’ Us, LCL, Future Shop, Best Buy, Showcase, Chapters/Indigo. (credit:Mattel)