Sure, any gift will be highly appreciated but to avoid having another pile of items that will be forgotten once the holiday cheer dissipates, here’s a quick gift guide on what adults actually want to get on Christmas:

Pain relief packs

We used to associate the smell of pain relief balms and oils with clinics in elementary or high school because we needed that excuse to be pulled out of class but let’s be honest. These balms and oils have become essential in our bags and desks. You don’t want to get used to drinking meds every time you feel bodily pain (R.I.P. kidney) and these menthol oils just do the trick. Never mind smelling like an “old” person, at least we’ve got a solution for these cracking bones and sore muscles. Get one with a featured local artist on the box here.

Comfy bedsheets and pillowcases

As much as we want to start a new show, read, or pick up a new hobby, oftentimes, heading straight to bed after a workday is the best reward we can give ourselves. Give your friend or family member the gift of sleep or better sleep through comfy pillowcases and bedsheets. After all, we spend a chunk of our day sleeping; we might as well get the best quality sleep we can get.

Coffee maker or any appliance

There’s a reason why appliances are a staple in Christmas parties – they’re one of the best gifts you can receive especially when you’re trying to live on your own or you have a family. These appliances are expensive! The kids may not appreciate them, but you know the adults got their eagle eyes on them. A new kettle, steam iron, induction stove, or coffee maker? Give them all to us!

For the folk who spend a chunk of their sweldo on getting their daily coffee, they would understand that they’ve been getting pricier, and making them at home may be the cheaper alternative. B Coffee has a Rookie Starter Gift Set that includes a machine, frother, and capsules to try. You can also opt for reusable coffee pods because they’re more sustainable and you give the receiver the choice to try out different blends.

An *actual* vacation

It doesn’t even have to be a full-blown luxe holiday (but that would be nice too). But it can be as simple as going on a spontaneous coffee break, an overnight staycation, or a road trip to a destination with a good view. We overlook taking breaks or vacations as something we don’t deserve unless we truly work hard for them but we must not forget that even the simplest ones keep us sane. If you’re finding it difficult to choose, you can go for experiences you can book online, such as spas and discounted dining.

Support what they’re passionate about

Is it a new hobby or a business? An idea that’s brewing in their mind? Or a charity that’s close to their heart? Following your passions and pursuing your dreams requires a lot of risk-taking and bravery – knowing that at least one person supports you is enough to keep you going. So if you have friends who might be getting into new things, be their first fan and give them your unconditional support.

A shoulder to lean on

As kids, we’ve always thought that adults have everything figured out. But when you reach that age and experience it yourself, you understand that even the people we look up to fight their battles too, which they don’t share most of the time. We need to understand that they have insecurities and situations they’re healing from as well, and sometimes all they need is a shoulder to lean on. To be assured that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. There’s always comfort in knowing that you always have someone who will listen, so hit up that friend with a “Kamusta?” and start that conversation.

Cash or groceries

Gone are the days where we’re included in the roster of pamangkins who line up for Aguinaldo during reunions and Christmas parties – we’re the ones who are now compelled to give treats to kids. But think about it: kids aren’t the ones who will appreciate the cash; adults want them too, especially in this time of inflation. There’s no shame in giving cash or groceries because they’re one of the best gifts you can give! Gift baskets wouldn’t be best sellers if the adults didn’t like them.

Freedom of choice

Let’s normalize asking people what they actually want to receive because a.) it saves you time overthinking about the perfect gift and b.) the receiver will appreciate the freedom of choice. If it’s a big gift, your group of friends or family can even chip in! So, this holiday season or the next, try asking for your loved ones’ wish lists or give a safer alternative: gift checks. Whether it’s in a restaurant, cafe, or their favorite clothing brand, trust that it will be highly appreciated.

What’s the best gift you’ve received for Christmas? Sound off in the comments below!

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