How to Write a Christmas List (Tips, Examples, & Templates) - Writing Beginner (2024)

Creating the perfect Christmas list takes more than jotting down random gift ideas.

Here’s how to write a Christmas list:

Write a Christmas list by organizing items into categories like practical gifts, experiences, or splurges. Give specific details (e.g., “Bluetooth headphones, Sony WH-1000XM5”). Include a mix of price ranges, personal touches, and thoughtful ideas like gift cards to favorite stores or hobby kits.

This guide provides all the tips, examples, and templates for crafting the perfect Christmas list for any occasion.

10 Tips for Writing the Perfect Christmas List

(This post may have afilliate links. Please see my full disclosure)

Whether you are writing a Christmas list for yourself, someone you love, or your entire family, keep these wish-list best practices in mind.

1. Start with Gratitude

Before diving into what you want, reflect on what you already have.

This approach cultivates a sense of thankfulness and helps you focus on meaningful gifts. For instance, if you love your current kitchen gadgets, consider upgrading or complementing them.

Teach kids this lesson by encouraging them to appreciate past gifts before asking for new ones.

Examples:

• Write down 3 items you loved receiving last Christmas.
• Add a note of appreciation: “Thank you, Aunt Mary, for last year’s cozy blanket—it’s my favorite!”
• Encourage kids to include a “thank you” section in their list.

2. Set a Budget (If Applicable)

Creating a Christmas list doesn’t mean listing expensive items exclusively.

Think realistically about what you or your loved ones can afford. If you’re gifting to others, consider adding budget-friendly options alongside splurges.

Examples:

• Affordable: A $20 book from their favorite genre.
• Mid-Range: $50 custom jewelry.
• Splurge: A $200 gadget like AirPods.

Budgeting ensures balance and inclusivity in your list. Plus, it makes shopping for you and your loved ones easier.

3. Be Specific

The more detailed you are, the better.

Specificity minimizes confusion and ensures you get exactly what you want. Include product names, sizes, colors, and links to retailers. For kids, this might mean describing toys by brand or version.

Examples:

• Good: “A sweater from any brand.”
• Better: “Cable-knit sweater, size M, in burgundy, from [Retailer Name].”
• Best: “Cable-knit sweater, size M, in burgundy, from Zara. Link: [URL].”

Adding specifics reduces guesswork and keeps gift-givers stress-free.

4. Include a Mix of Price Ranges

While it’s tempting to focus on big-ticket items, balance your list with affordable and medium-priced ideas.

Consider items that are easy to buy but still hold sentimental or practical value.

Examples:

• Low-Cost Items: Journals, coffee mugs, socks.
• Mid-Tier: Board games, skincare sets, books.
• High-End: Gaming consoles, designer bags, and experiences like concert tickets.

This mix ensures everyone can contribute without feeling overwhelmed.

5. Categorize Your List

Organize your list by categories to make it more readable and easier to follow.

For example, separate “practical gifts” from “fun or splurge items.” This organization is particularly helpful if you’re sharing your list with multiple people or planning gifts for a family.

Examples:

• Practical: Electric toothbrush, winter boots.
• Luxury: Designer fragrance, spa day.
• Experiences: Museum membership, dance classes.
• DIY Gifts: Handmade candles, photo albums.

Categorization keeps your list thoughtful and organized.

6. Use Apps or Tools

Technology can simplify the process of creating, organizing, and sharing your Christmas list.

Apps like Elfster, Giftster, or even a shared Google Doc allow you to create dynamic, shareable lists with links, price ranges, and descriptions.

Examples of Tools:

• Elfster: Share gift lists with family members anonymously.
• Google Sheets: Create a collaborative list with input from everyone.
• Amazon Wishlist: Add items with direct purchase links.

These tools ensure easy communication and reduce duplicate gifting.

7. Add Personal Touches

Personalize your list with reasons why you want specific items or how they’ll impact your life.

For example, instead of just listing “Coffee Maker,” explain why it’s meaningful: “To upgrade my mornings and enjoy homemade lattes.”

Examples:

• “Books by [Author] because I loved their last series.”
• “A baking set to explore a new hobby I’m passionate about.”
• “Running shoes to support my fitness goals.”

This touch adds depth and meaning to your list.

8. Consider Non-Material Gifts

Sometimes, the best gifts aren’t physical items.

Think about experiences, memberships, or subscriptions that enrich life in meaningful ways.

Examples:

• Experiences: Concert tickets, escape room passes, or cooking classes.
• Subscriptions: Spotify, Netflix, or a monthly meal kit.
• Memberships: Gym, museum, or park passes.

These gifts often leave lasting memories and are perfect for people who “have everything.”

9. Think Practically

Add items you truly need or will use regularly. Practical gifts might not seem glamorous, but they’re often the most appreciated in the long run.

Examples:

• Everyday Use: Umbrella, portable charger, insulated thermos.
• Home Essentials: Vacuum cleaner, quality kitchen knives.
• Health & Wellness: Yoga mat, weighted blanket.

Practicality ensures your list isn’t just filled with fleeting trends.

10. Keep the Recipient in Mind

If you’re writing a list for someone else to follow, think about their interests, style, and personality.

For example, a generic “clothes” request might frustrate a gift-giver. Instead, tailor your suggestions to their preferences or values.

Examples:

• “Gift card to [Favorite Clothing Store] for updating my wardrobe.”
• “Subscription box for [Hobby, e.g., knitting, snacks, or books].”
• “Baking set because they know I love cooking.”

Tailoring ensures the list is helpful and aligns with your or their unique tastes.

50 Christmas List Ideas

Here’s an expanded list of gift ideas tailored for every kind of recipient:

For Kids

1. LEGO City Explorer Set
2. Barbie Dreamhouse
3. Toniebox Audio Player for Kids
4. Play-Doh Kitchen Creations
5. Electric Scooter
6. STEM Activity Kit
7. Toy Kitchen Playset
8. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks
9. Magic Kit for Beginners
10. Storybooks with Personalized Names

For Teens

6. LED Lights for Room Decor
7. Personalized Phone Case
8. Ultimate Frisbee Set
9. Portable Bluetooth Speaker
10. High-Quality Sketch Pad
11. Vinyl Records from Favorite Artists
12. Polaroid Instant Camera
13. Custom Sneakers via Nike ID
14. Spotify Premium Subscription
15. Graphic T-Shirts of Favorite Bands

For Adults

11. Personalized Recipe Book
12. Coffee Subscription Box
13. Indoor Herb Garden Kit
14. Smart Mug (Temperature-Controlled)
15. Comfortable Desk Chair
16. Weighted Blanket for Stress Relief
17. Espresso Machine for Coffee Lovers
18. Personalized Name Necklace
19. All-In-One Multi-Cooker
20. Standing Desk for Home Office

For Hobbyists

16. Calligraphy Pen Set
17. Pottery Starter Kit
18. DIY Candle-Making Kit
19. Painting Easel and Paints
20. Coding Course Subscription
21. Calligraphy Set with Practice Guide
22. Personalized Sketchbook
23. Puzzle Set with 1000+ Pieces
24. DIY Soap-Making Kit
25. Online Masterclass Subscription

For Travelers

21. Packing Cubes
22. Portable Power Bank
23. Travel Journal
24. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
25. Scratch-Off World Map
26. Travel-Friendly Skincare Kit
27. Compact Travel Adapter
28. Waterproof Hiking Backpack
29. Portable Camping Stove
30. Travel Guidebook for Next Destination

For the Eco-Conscious

26. Reusable Water Bottle
27. Solar-Powered Lantern
28. Bamboo Toothbrush Set
29. Compostable Phone Case
30. Eco-Friendly Tote Bags
31. Compost Bin for Kitchen Scraps
32. Set of Reusable Grocery Bags
33. Organic Cotton Towels
34. Eco-Friendly Cookware
35. Reusable Silicone Straws

For Practical Needs

31. Electric Kettle
32. Rain Jacket
33. Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife
34. Fitness Tracker
35. First Aid Kit
36. Robot Vacuum Cleaner
37. Durable Backpack for Work or School
38. Electric Razor or Beard Trimmer
39. Smart Thermostat for Home Efficiency
40. Noise-Canceling Headphones

For the Luxurious

36. Designer Handbag
37. High-End Watch
38. Spa Gift Card
39. Cashmere Blanket
40. High-Tech Espresso Machine
41. High-End Wine Glass Set
42. Designer Scarf or Gloves
43. Fine Leather Wallet
44. Premium Skincare Gift Set
45. Luxury Cashmere Sweater

For DIY Enthusiasts

41. Knitting Kit with Yarn
42. Woodworking Toolkit
43. Scrapbooking Supplies
44. Sewing Machine
45. Home Brewing Kit
46. Woodburning Tool Kit
47. Cross-Stitch Pattern Books
48. Knitting Kit with Multiple Colors of Yarn
49. 3D Puzzle Building Set
50. Build-Your-Own Terrarium Kit

For Everyone

46. Amazon Gift Card
47. Gourmet Chocolate Set
48. Cozy Slippers
49. Board Games
50. Streaming Subscription
51. Subscription to [Favorite Magazines]: Print or digital.
52. Cozy Slippers with Memory Foam Padding.
53. Gourmet Hot Chocolate Mix with Marshmallows.
54. Local Restaurant Gift Card.
55. Handmade Soap Gift Basket.

10 Christmas List Templates

These templates can help you tailor your list for different people, preferences, and situations.

Template 1: Personalized Wishlist

Template 2: Practical Gifts

• Electric Toothbrush
• Portable Charger for Travel
• A Year’s Supply of Favorite Coffee Beans

Template 3: For the Eco-Friendly Friend

Template 4: General Gift Ideas

• Gift Card to [Favorite Bookstore or Coffee Shop]: Ideal for avid readers or coffee lovers.
• Monthly Subscription Box for [Their Hobby or Interest]: Examples include snack boxes, book clubs, or craft kits.
• Donation to [Their Favorite Charity]: A thoughtful way to give back in their name.
• Cozy Blanket for [Winter Nights]: Perfect for staying warm during the holidays.
• Set of Luxury Candles in [Favorite Scents]: Adds a touch of relaxation and luxury to their space.

Template 5: For the Minimalist

Template 6: Hobby-Focused

Template 7: For the Traveler

• Packing Cubes for [Organizing Luggage]: Great for frequent flyers.
• Portable Power Bank for [Staying Connected]: Useful during long trips.
• Travel Pillow for [Comfort in Transit]: Opt for memory foam for extra support.
• Scratch-Off Map for [Tracking Adventures]: Fun and interactive for globetrotters.
• TSA-Approved Toiletry Bag for [Airport Ease]: Keeps essentials accessible.

Template 8: For Families

Template 9: Last-Minute Gifts

• Digital Subscription to [Favorite Streaming Service]: Hulu, Disney+, or Netflix.
• E-Gift Card for [Online Retailer]: Amazon or Target.
• A Virtual Class in [Their Interest]: Cooking, yoga, or photography.
• Gourmet Chocolate Box Delivered to [Their Address]: Same-day delivery options.
• Personalized E-Greeting Card: Send heartfelt wishes instantly.

Template 10: Theme-Based List

Now that you are hopefully inspired, write your list along with this very festive and short video:

How to Share Your Christmas List

Once you’ve finished your list, share it using one of these methods:

1. Email: Attach a clean, formatted document or share a link to your online wishlist.
2. Apps: Use platforms like Elfster or Amazon Wishlists to create shareable, interactive lists.
3. In Person: Print the list and hand it out at gatherings.
4. Social Media: Post your list with a friendly note to family and friends (optional).

Final Thoughts: How to Write a Christmas List

Crafting the perfect Christmas list doesn’t have to be a task that makes you say, “Bah Humbug!”

With these tips, examples, and templates, you’ll be able to create a thoughtful, organized, and meaningful list that everyone will appreciate.

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