The holidays have a way of sneaking up on us. One minute you’re trick-or-treating with your kids, and the next you’re panic shopping in a Buc-ee’s gift aisle. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right cheat sheet, you can keep the holiday spirit high and stress levels low.
Fortunately, we did some planning on your behalf. As much as we love playing with the latest gadgets and gizmos here at The Verge, we also love recommending them. That’s why, after consulting with our expert team of writers and editors, we’ve compiled a medley of gift ideas that won’t be regifted come this time next year — from noise-canceling earbuds and e-readers to retro-inspired Polaroid cameras. Not every gift needs to be a grand gesture, though. Sure, a new gaming handheld makes for a great gift, but so does an affordable power bank.
The list below is just a fraction of what we’re recommending this holiday season. We’ve also curated guides for specific budgets and hobbies, whether you’re shopping for mom, dad, or even the avid tinkerer or budding gamer in your life. ’Tis the season, after all.
Photographer, photo editor: Amelia Holowaty Krales
Art director and designer: Cath Virginia
Creative director: Kristen Radtke