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Tag: underscored-gifts

  • 40 holiday gifts under $100 that look way more expensive than they are | CNN Underscored

    40 holiday gifts under $100 that look way more expensive than they are | CNN Underscored

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    The holidays are fast approaching and we’re officially in full-blown gift shopping mode. And while you may be stumped on what to get them, you probably do know how much you want to spend on them. We’ve rounded up our favorite gifts under $25 and gifts under $50, so now it’s time to find the best gifts under $100 for when you want to spend a little bit more than usual.

    If you have someone you want to impress this holiday season, look no further. Need more gift ideas? Check out our favorite gift ideas for mengift ideas for womenNordstrom gifts and ultra-practical gifts.

    Legos aren’t just for little kids anymore. This actually gorgeous bouquet of Lego flowers can be an excellent project for your loved one, and truly be flowers that never die. Check out this Lego bonsai tree and orchid kit too.

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    Hands down, our favorite feature of this Lululemon mat, which we named the best yoga mat, is the fact that it’s dual-sided, with a smooth and sticky polyurethane-coated top side and a textured natural rubber bottom side that provides loads of traction. Beyond that, though, we also loved that the mat is slightly oversized and provides ample cushion given its 5-millimeter thickness.

    Everyone secretly wants socks as a gift, so this year treat them to a luxuriously comfy and high-quality pair from Bombas. This four-pack features holiday-inspired designs in gorgeous colorways.

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    For the friend who’s always listening to music or bingeing podcasts, these true wireless buds have fantastic sound quality without the high price tag of their competitors. They’re so good, in fact, we think they’re better than AirPods, and even named them the best budget earbuds on the market.

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    Never overcook meat again with this nifty thermometer that we named the best stylish meat thermometer on the market. It’s very accurate and easy to read to boot.

    If they’re an organizing pro and looking to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle, these silicone Stasher bags will be a hit. We tried them ourselves and fell in love, because essentially they’re an eco-friendly swap for plastic baggies, and you can even use them to make popcorn! Pro tip: They can use them to organize their toiletries when they travel too.

    Every fashionista needs a cashmere sweater in their closet, and with Naadam’s Essential $75 sweater you can give them a gorgeous one without breaking the bank.

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    Want to make sure they look well-lit in every Zoom call? This is our hands-down favorite streaming and WFH light, which clips right onto your computer. Ultra compact and priced at just $60, it’s every remote worker’s dream.

    Churning out incredible sound, the HomePod can play anything they want from Apple Music’s 90-million-song library, and it can connect to additional Minis to create a multi-room sound system. And Siri is always available to help them out — whether they want to know the weather, the traffic or what’s on their calendar for the day, they simply have to ask and she will answer via the Mini. More to know: Boasting Find My technology, the speaker can also find their iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac or AirTag with a simple “Hey Siri, find my…”

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    A blanket’s always a solid gift idea — but to get one personalized for your favorite person? Now that’s what we’re talking about. These gorgeous blankets can be personalized with your loved one’s name or initials and have so many gorgeous design options, from wavy checks to rainbow stripes to their initial turned into a high-end-looking logo.

    This high-capacity portable charger stores enough juice to recharge most phones more than six times. Keep it in the car or by the couch or give it to the traveler in your life so they can always stay charged and connected.

    Cue the waterworks this holiday season with a gorgeous, hand-drawn portrait by artist Lili DiPrima. The ultimate way to display your growing family, the piece can include up to six figures (both human and pet!).

    Turn your friend into a burgeoning mixologist with this cocktail subscription box. It comes packed with everything you need to make three complex and delicious cocktails, including ingredients (besides the booze) and a detailed instruction card.

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    Our pick for the best bidet attachment, the Tushy Classic 3.0 is a simple-to-use, effective and comfortable bidet perfect to upgrade anyone’s bathroom.

    Whether you don’t have a backyard for a fire pit or just want an easier way to roast s’mores on the regular, this easy-to-use tabletop fireplace is elegant and burns a smokeless fire so you don’t set off all the alarms in your home.

    You can’t go wrong with a cozy set of pajamas. This set from Nordstrom is incredibly comfy but still stylish enough to wear around the house.

    A constant bestseller, these Ugg slippers are perfect for anything from errands to hanging around the house.

    Whether you’re going to the grocery store or the climbing crag, this massive, durable tote is your perfect companion for wherever your next adventure takes you.

    Help them prep for backyard time next spring and summer with this portable rocking chair from GCI.

    Activewear is always a great gift during the holiday season, especially if your friend is prepping for their 2023 resolutions. This tank from Lululemon is outstandingly comfortable and stylish.

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    Upgrade their showering experience with this two-pack of towels from Pact. Crafted from 100% organic cotton terry, they’re light and super absorbent. They were even our pick for the best waffle bath towel.

    Complete their Lulu look with these low-rise, lined shorts. Available in 22 colors, there are plenty of options to match their personality.

    Perfect for dog walks, camping trips and anything in between, these comfy slippers are made from recycled materials and will keep your feet toasty wherever you are. We checked out the Cotopaxi x Teva collaboration for this slipper, and it’s no surprise that we loved them.

    This sturdy and durable jacket from Carhartt will be their new go-to this winter. Crafted from thick, ringspun cotton duck and lined with a blanket material, this jacket will protect them from the cold and keep them looking good at the same time.

    Jewelry is pretty tough to buy for someone else, which is why it’s always best to stick with timeless pieces like these hoops from Mejuri. The slight variation on the classic hoop is just enough to make their eyes sparkle this holiday season.

    If they have enough earrings, check out this cute pendant from Brilliant Earth. Shaped like a heart with your pick of an embedded diamond or pink sapphire, this necklace is the perfect romantic gift.

    If you know someone whose feet are always hurting at the end of the day, give them this pair of slippers and they won’t be able to walk around the house without them.

    A solid pair of sweatpants is a must, especially for the winter when it’s too cold to do anything other than binge Netflix. This pair from Patagonia is made from 100% recycled cotton and polyester and uses 95% less water in production than standard cotton sweatpants.

    With 36 pieces of delicious milk, dark and white chocolate inside, with fillings like praline and ganache, this is the perfect gift for the biggest sweet tooth you know. It’ll come wrapped up in that signature Godiva gold ribbon too.

    Give their wallet an upgrade with this top-rated Kate Spade cardholder that can hold all their cards, cash, change and more.

    Whether it’s for paninis, weekend brunch or grilling burgers, this five-in-one griddler is a kitchen workhorse.

    If they don’t have an Instant Pot and spend any time in the kitchen at all, you’re set. The easy-to-use kitchen magician is a great gift to speed up cooking times and open up all sorts of recipe possibilities.

    Make them stop wearing that old, ratty T-shirt to bed and upgrade their pajamas with this sleep set from Pact.

    Whether they’re camping or need an extra relaxing spot in the backyard, this lightweight hammock is the perfect gift. Plus, this version is made from 100% recycled fabric.

    Stylish and warm, this Sherpa-lined vest is the perfect way to upgrade their wardrobe this winter.

    As we all start cozying up on the couch more, it’s the perfect time to give your friend a blanket. This one from Rumpl is perfect for those who love going outdoors too, since it’s water-repellent and durable enough to take camping.

    Workout dresses are all the rage, and this one from Girlfriend Collective gives you the perfect balance between performance and comfort. Plus, it’s made from 90% recycled plastic from water bottles and available in four stunning colors.

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  • 35 of the coziest gifts for the person who’d rather just stay home | CNN Underscored

    35 of the coziest gifts for the person who’d rather just stay home | CNN Underscored

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    Whether they prefer snuggling up with a book and their favorite warm beverage, kicking back in a long, hot bath or having a few friends over for a low-key game night, the homebody in your life is sure to love each and every one of these super comfy gifts this holiday season.

    From a pair of plush cable knit slipper-socks to a linen sheet set that gets softer with each wash, these comfy holiday gift ideas are sure to keep your loved one warm and cozy. Need some more ideas? Check out our gift ideas for men, gift ideas for women, Nordstrom gifts, practical gifts, beauty gifts and gifts for under $25.

    Hygge” is a Danish word that roughly translates to the feeling of coziness, contentment and enjoying the good things in life and this game features over 300 thought-provoking questions that are designed to bring people together through conversation and story-telling, making it the ultimate game for any homebody.

    The homebody doesn’t need an excuse to have hot chocolate, even if it isn’t the holiday season. But, hey, ‘tis the season to help them load up on the essentials. This fun hot chocolate bomb set comes with a variety of flavors, from original milk chocolate and salted caramel to peppermint. Just drop in warm milk, and watch the magic unfold!

    For a splurge gift, you can’t go wrong with this machine-washable silk robe from Lunya. With its pockets, interior tie, elastic cuffs and thermoregulating material, it’s one of the smartest, chicest robes we’ve ever used ourselves. And with so many colors to choose from, you can make your giftee feel like a true queen. See more of our favorite robes here.

    OK, OK — they probably already have a throw (or ten). But does your homebody pal have a very, very big blanket like this one? As the name suggests, this comfortable and soft blanket fits everyone in their family comfortably. Or, if they’d prefer only to share the couch with their dog, it works for that too. At 10 feet by 10 feet, it can also fit over the bed for an even toastier sleep.

    After a long day of working from home, cleaning and freshening up their space, it’s time for the homebody to unwind. And what’s the most comforting beverage of all? Perhaps a glass of wine, or even a hot toddy. These wine tumblers can keep their preferred drink at just the right temperature from the kitchen to the couch to the bath to the bed.

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    Light-blocking, under $20 and made with five layers of super breathable cotton? It’s no wonder we named this eye mask the best eye mask on the market.

    Rather than holiday party hopping from one cocktail hour to another, the homebody prefers to cue up the seasonal jams, pour the eggnog and rock out to a puzzle. Luckily, this gorgeous holiday-inspired 800-piece puzzle from our favorite puzzle brand Jiggy will keep them occupied for hours. It even comes with glue and a print of the art to stick it on so they can ogle it for years to come.

    The term “nap dress” really says it all about this incredibly comfortable dress with smocking across the bust and shoulders that you can quite literally take a nap in. From one of our favorite clothing brands Hill House, it’s available in an array of colors and prints, and if you’re in a colder climate it comes with longer sleeves as well.

    Sometimes the homebody has time for a long, indulgent bath — and other times, they have to settle for a shower. It can still be spa-like, however, with these shower steamers that emit smells like lavender, eucalyptus, vanilla and more.

    During the coldest days of the year, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a plush, cotton robe that swallows you up in comfort. Since the homebody likely wears their robe daily, they probably need an upgrade. Enter this highly rated, 100% Turkish cotton robe from Parachute. It’s available in five colors, so they won’t ever need to change out of it.

    If comfort is synonymous with soaking in a long, hot bath for someone on your holiday shopping list, we suggest giving them one of these handmade botanical bath salts. Choose from a variety of rejuvenating and relaxing scents including pink Himalayan rose, lavender and more.

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    If you think linen sheets can’t be luxurious, then you have to try this bedding set from Parachute that’s sure to change your mind. We named these the best linen sheets of the year because they’re exquisitely soft and get softer with each wash. Plus, they’re available in a variety of gorgeous colors and sizes.

    Looking to give the gift of cashmere without the luxurious price tag? Then you’ll love the Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater from Naadam. Available for men and women in 28 gorgeous colors and a variety of sizes, this sustainably-made sweater is a no-brainer for everyone this holiday season.

    Made from a lightweight cotton-polyester blend, these jogger pajama pants are breathable enough to sleep in and comfy enough to lounge in all weekend. They feature a drawstring elastic waistband, sizable pockets and banded cuffs for a relaxed and perfect fit.

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    If coffee is their love language, they will undoubtedly find comfort curling up with a cup of deliciously tasty, bold and flavorful Blue Bottle coffee from its easy-to-use and totally customizable subscription service. It’s so great, we even named it the best coffee subscription of 2022.

    Like the brand’s slogan says, these unisex sweatpant-overalls are “the comfiest thing ya never knew you needed.” Made from an unbelievably soft and sustainable blend of organic cotton and recycled polyester material, they’re comfortable, functional and so fun to wear. Choose from an array of colors and sizes.

    With a soft lining and a plush cable knit outer, these magnificently cozy slipper-socks are basically like wearing a blanket on your feet, and who doesn’t love that?

    Turn your home into a cozy haven with the warm and enveloping scent of apples and amber thanks to this beautifully fragrant wooden wick candle from Threshold. See more of our favorite Target candles here.

    Rather than holiday party hopping from one cocktail hour to another, the homebody prefers to cue up the seasonal jams, pour the eggnog and rock out to a puzzle. Luckily, this gorgeous holiday-inspired 800-piece puzzle will keep them occupied for hours. It even comes with glue and a print of the art to stick it on so they can ogle it for years to come.

    If your loved one prefers a warm cup of tea, this herbal tea set features a collection of nine herbs and three various green loose leaf teas from Japan, India, and Sri Lanka that can be blended to their liking.

    There’s no place your homebody friend would rather be than in their reading nook, sipping their favorite drink and paging through their latest read. One gift they will appreciate is the sentiment of literature with a subscription to the Book of the Month Club. They are given five books “vetted by cool people with great taste” to choose from, pick one and it arrives at their door. It’s that easy!

    Though this is meant for a snow day, it’s truly ideal for any day for the homebody. They work from home, play from home and love their home, and now they have all they need to make it that much more exciting. It comes with a seasonal winter roast, espresso-infused caramels and a ceramic mug.

    Upgrade her pajamas with this machine-washable silk set from Lunya. These pajamas are thermoregulating to help maintain a comfortable body temperature all while being super soft and gorgeous.

    Every festive season, you think about gifting the homebody a candle. They love it, of course, but if you’re looking for something new, consider this kit. It allows your friend to make three lavender candles of their own using soy wax, essential oils, tins and wicks. To make magic, they only need a thermometer, a saucepan and three pencils.

    This cozy gift guide wouldn’t be a cozy gift guide without a weighted blanket. Bearaby is one of our favorite weighted blanket brands, and this velvet one is an editor favorite for sure.

    When you’re a homebody, it can be no-pants day every day. And definitely no-shoes day, since you’re staying indoors. However, a slipper can be helpful for the quick trip to the mailbox or to pick up a package outside. This highly rated house slipper is not only soft and comfortable, but features added support to improve posture. Made in Portugal, these sweet pairs deliver both style and function.

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    Some days, the homebody wants to jazz up their style a little bit. And by that, we mean swapping out the sweats for leggings. We named this pair the best leggings to wear as pants thanks to their non-constricting fabric and ability to pair with virtually anything in our wardrobe. They can throw on an oversized sweater and your pal is ready for a Zoom call or a visit from guests.

    Whether you’re throwing this oversized cropped sweatshirt on after a workout or wearing it out and about on the weekends, one thing’s for sure: You will be perfectly comfortable and look super stylish wherever you go.

    Just because the homebody would rather be at their abode than at a bar, that doesn’t mean they’ll be indoors 24/7. For when they want to venture outdoors and enjoy the winter air, they’ll need a blanket to keep them toasty. This bug shield blanket from our favorite outdoor furniture company Outer is a celebrity favorite of Martha Stewart, Beverley Mitchell and Amanda Kloots — and for a good reason. It’s soft, yet repels insects like mosquitoes and ticks. Plus, it’s lightweight and comes in fun patterns too.

    Other than their couch, the only other place the homebody spends more time is in the bath. They’ve made it their haven, and now you can make it even more comfortable with this gorgeous bath tray, which has space for a book, candle and maybe even a glass of wine.

    To make their favorite place full of joy, reminders of their friends and family will go a long way. But rather than choosing one photo and framing it, digital smart photo options allow them to add memories as they make them. This top pick from Aura Frames allows unlimited storage for photos and videos, which could keep them entertained for hours.

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    Not only is this 100% silk pillowcase that we named the best silk pillowcase extraordinarily soft, but it’s clinically proven to reduce bedhead and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Choose from a variety of sizes and colors, too.

    You can never have enough robes, especially when considering cozy gifts. Whether you’re lounging around the house or stepping out of a long, relaxing bath, wrapping yourself in this plush robe is the equivalent of stepping into heaven. It’s made from an impeccably soft polyester-nylon blend that’s machine-washable and features two deep front pockets that are perfect for stashing your phone and anything else you need.

    Self-care is the ultimate form of comfort and this Dewy Skin Essentials skincare set from Tatcha features everything you need to achieve hydrated, plump and glowing skin.

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  • 36 holiday gift ideas for the person who basically has everything | CNN Underscored

    36 holiday gift ideas for the person who basically has everything | CNN Underscored

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    There’s always one person on your holiday shopping list, one absolutely impossible person, the one who has everything, and who wants nothing. While it might be tempting to skip giving a gift to that impossible person, that usually isn’t an option — or if it is an option, it’s not a great one.

    To help you find a great gift for the most difficult people on your holiday giving list, we scoured the internet, and asked a few difficult-to-shop-for people in our own lives for insight, to create this list of perfect holiday gifts for the person who has everything. Need more ideas? Check out our favorite gift ideas for mengift ideas for womenAmazon gifts, Nordstrom gifts, ultra-practical gifts and gifts under $25.

    Space enthusiasts and astrology lovers alike will love this very cool planetarium projector, which beams accurate star patterns on a ceiling or wall for any date and time you specify. The projector can replicate more than 8000 stars and 60 constellations, with adjustable speeds to simulate the Earth’s rotation.

    Tempting though it may be to tell the difficult-to-shop-for-person on your holiday gift list to take a hike, we’d suggest delivering the message in a more subtle way, like with Homesick’s “Gone Hiking” scented candle.

    This is a super fun gift to give to someone who has a wood burning fireplace or fire pit in their home, or who is a frequent camper. Toss these packets into the fire and watch as the flames turn into a colorful display. Each pouch is filled with crystals that create a rainbow of colored flames, including dark and light blue, purple, red, green and yellow.

    I was sent a Pura smart diffuser a few months ago but I set it aside because I already had a traditional plug-in diffuser and I figured there wasn’t much difference. How wrong I was! When I finally set up the Pura I was absolutely WOWED by it. I love the scents, I love that you can program it to go on at certain times, I love that it allows you to adjust the scent’s potency, and I especially love the customizable night light feature. This thing is so cool, I’m giving one to everyone I know this year.

    No one needs a $50 nail varnish, but gosh is this dramatic bottle of red polish in Christian Louboutin’s signature shade ever an enviable gift!

    Big blankets have become big business, and those super plush-feeling oversized synthetic blankets are everywhere this year. However, for something truly luxurious, skip the sherpa and opt for a 100% cotton knit blanket, like this one from Saatva.

    If the-impossible-to-shop-for-person on your list has a pet, you’re in luck! Buy them something for their pet, or in Fluffy’s honor, like luggage personalized with a photo of their pet. Options range from the Drink Bottle to the Carry On Trunk.

    At some point, we will address the fact that no one — not a single one of you — is washing their reusable water bottles, travel mugs and hydration packs often enough. For now, because it is the holiday season and we are feeling generous, we will leave it at the fact that no one is washing their reusable drinking vessels enough and suggest that these bottle cleaning tablets make a great gift for the person in your life who you know is not washing their reusable drinking vessels often enough. (That’s all of you.)

    For a cat parent, this bed that adheres to any window to provide a hammock-like space for Kitty to survey the neighborhood makes a great gift.

    We tested and loved the Dyson pet grooming kit (some of our pets didn’t love it as much!) and we think the attachment suite makes a great gift for the parents of a chill dog.

    One way to approach giving a gift to a person who has everything is to get them something that is equal parts clever and useful. Thermacell’s E55 promises to create a 20-foot safe space from pests without DEET or citronella. Our reviewer loved that it’s silent, scent-free and, most importantly, legitimately effective at keeping mosquitoes away.

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    Another way to approach giving a gift to a person who has everything is to get them something that will truly improve their life — like the gift of better sleep! Mavogel’s cotton mask is lightweight, comfortable and easily our choice for the best sleep mask of 2022.

    Another entry in the “clever and useful” category of gifts are the Lost and Found Labels from Tile. Just stick them onto jackets, lunchboxes, water bottles or anything else easily left behind and loseable. Activate the labels with the Tile app, and then if anything is lost, people who have found the item can (hopefully!) scan the QR code and access the return details.

    This little guy is such a handy tool, anyone will thank you for it! It has a tiny ceramic blade that precisely and easily cuts through boxes and packaging tape but is safe to the touch, and a built-in magnet so you can stick it on the fridge for easy access.

    It may not look like much, but our associate manager of business development, Hayley Kinne, says of this back and neck massage tool, “I truly don’t know how I endured my regular shoulder stress spasms before this magical, massaging miracle device entered my life.”

    For the fitness lover, a set of ultra trendy Bala Bangles, which our reviewer calls “sleek, unobtrusive and downright pretty,” are a great addition to an at-home workout routine and are small enough to tote along to the gym.

    It can be tempting to give the cheese lover in your life one of those “Cheese of the Month Club”-type things. As a great lover of cheese myself, I want to insist that you not do that! It’s just too much cheese, you guys. (I know, I know, “there’s no such thing!” Except…there is.) Instead, gift this one-off cheese gift box, which features a 6-ounce Point Reyes farmstead toma cheese, a Beehive Cheese Co. promontory cheese, a Caves of Faribault St. Pete’s blue cheese and a Sartori Bellavitano gold cheese.

    The meat (or Keto!) enthusiast on your list who maybe isn’t so handy in the kitchen will love this jerky gift set. The jerky variety set includes jerky sticks, bagged jerky and beef jerky bits in three flavors, root beer habanero, whiskey maple and honey bourbon.

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    In our review of coffee subscription services, Blue Bottle was the clear choice for java enthusiasts. It got high marks for customizability, variety and outstanding taste, beating out every other coffee subscription we tested. If you want to give a gift that doesn’t keep on giving quite so much, we also love the $40 Blend Box, which features Blue Bottle’s three most popular blends presented in a gift box.

    Chocolates are a staple of holiday gift giving, and for good reason: Almost everyone loves chocolate! The gold Godiva gift box is such a classic; we love the small 8-piece box for its $20 price point, making it the perfect gift to buy in multiples for everyone on your list, including a few extras to keep on hand for those who you might have forgotten!

    Nuts are another big holiday staple — heck, there’s a whole ballet centered around the importance of nuts to the Yuletide experience! We love this sampler for people who like it hot; it includes barbecue peanuts, buffalo hot peanuts, everything-seasoned mixed nuts, honey sriracha almonds, sweet ‘n spicy snack mix and traditional mixed nuts.

    Kick things up a notch by gifting someone special the Fly By Jing Tis The Seaon(ing) Box. Your recipient will get some of the best Sichuan flavors to experiment with in the kitchen — from chili crisp oil to black vinegar.

    We’re taking our advice to “burn it” literally. The Solo Stove Yukon is one of our favorite fire pits because it burns super clean, barely gives off any smoke and comes in multiple sizes to fit any backyard or adventure. If you’re still on the fence, check out our full review.

    When we asked “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” star Lisa Barlow to recommend premade mixers for at-home bartenders, this set of three craft cocktail syrups was her pick. The tequila maven recommends using her own Vida Reposado with the Moscow mule mixer to create a Mexican mule, and Vida Blanco to elevate a spicy margarita.

    Scented candles are a great and tricky gift to give, because scents are such a personal thing. During the holiday season, however, a fairly safe bet is to go with a balsam fir-scented candle. This seasonal candle made of natural wax that is vegan, cruelty and paraben-free and biodegradable has a 75-hour burn time.

    For the home bartender who’s a bit more advanced, this 90-minute mixology class will help them level up their cocktail game. Experiences, in general, are also a good way to shop for the hard-to-buy-for person; Uncommon Goods offers all kinds of classes, from tarot reading to pet portraiture, one of which is sure to be right for even the pickiest person on your holiday gift list.

    Another way to get around the trickiness of scented candle-giving is to give a super personalized candle. If you know your gift recipient’s birthday, this pillar candle — which combines elements of astrology, numerology and tarot to create a unique scent and messaging for every birthdate — makes a great gift.

    If you have ever, even once, owned a pillar candle, you know that there is a very specific problem with pillar candles: Once they burn down to a certain point, it’s impossible to light them with standard-size matches or lighters. It is very frustrating! These extra-long candle matches solve that problem and, because they can be personalized, feel extra gift-y to boot.

    Bath products are a popular gift, especially for people who are really hard to shop for, but they come with a pitfall: While it may be tempting to buy a gift set of bath salts or bath bombs, the reality is that one-time-use bath products tend to get shoved into a drawer and forgotten about. Instead, opt for a single bottle of a higher-end bubble bath, like this beautiful one from Library of Flowers.

    Everyone needs to wash their hands, and while we know everyone is tired of hearing it, we can’t think of many people who would object to being given a bottle of Jo Malone’s gorgeously scented hand soap.

    These under-eye masks got a “highly recommend!” rating from our social media strategist, Stephanie Griffin, who praised their ability to mask (lol get it??) the telltale signs of a total lack of sleep. The 100% biodegradable eye masks help to reduce under-eye puffiness and the appearance of fine lines, while cooling and hydrating your skin.

    As one hard-to-please friend who’s been working from home put it, “No one is ergonomic right now, and they’ll be feeling the pain soon.” Home office accessories are an excellent category of products to consider when it comes to giving an upgraded gift; other items to consider in addition to a wireless keyboard and mouse are a curved monitor, a small desktop scanner or a touchscreen monitor to make signing and annotating digital documents a breeze.

    Our commerce editor, Chelsea Stone, says of this carryall, “Now that I have this bag from sustainably minded brand United By Blue, I’m not quite sure how I lived without it.” It converts from a tote to a backpack and has pockets galore, including one for a laptop. Buy one for everyone you know.

    A bidet attachment on its own is a great “upgrade” gift, but for people who already made the switch to the bidet lifestyle, the newest offering from Tushy takes that upgrade to a whole new level. Take it from our reviewer, who says of the Ace, “There’s no doubt that the Tushy Ace is a huge improvement over the Tushy Classic and the Tushy Spa.” The Ace features endless warm water, a heated seat, remote control, adjustability and dryer and, in the words of our reviewer, “you’ll be wondering how you could ever use anything less.”

    Even the person who has everything could probably use some new underwear, but giving someone unders is tricky. That’s why we love this gift subscription from Underclub that allows the recipient to pick out the styles and colors they like. We also love the fact that the gift subscription offers the option to share the gift via email or to print and customize a gift card for those who prefer giving a physical gift.

    Gift cards or cash can be great gifts, but they can feel a little impersonal, which is why we love this inexpensive personalized card holder as an add-on to cash gifts or gift cards. Tuck the money or plastic into one of the slots or in the zippered section and you’re good to go — no gift wrap required!

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  • 35 holiday gifts under $50 you’ll wish you thought of sooner | CNN Underscored

    35 holiday gifts under $50 you’ll wish you thought of sooner | CNN Underscored

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    Gifting season is in full swing, so to help you find the best gifts for everyone on your list, we’ve put together a list of our favorite presents under $50. From cute plushies and fragrant candles to coffee subscriptions and kitchen essentials, here our favorite gift ideas, all under $50.

    Need more ideas? Check out our favorite gift ideas for mengift ideas for womenAmazon gifts, Nordstrom gifts, ultra-practical gifts, gifts under $25 and gifts from Oprah’s Favorite Things.

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    We named this pan the best nonstick pan of 2021, thanks to its depth and even cooking performance. The home chef in your life will love its versatility and reliability, plus it won’t set you back hundreds of dollars like other top-notch pans.

    Legos aren’t just for little kids anymore. This actually gorgeous bouquet of lego flowers can be an excellent project for your loved one, and truly be flowers that never die. Check out this Lego bonsai tree and orchid kit.

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    It might seem like a boring gift, but trust us, this smart garage door opener is a real game changer. You’ll never have to worry about accidentally leaving the garage open, since this opener gives you control through an app on your phone. We named it the best smart garage opener of the year.

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    Our pick for the best water bottle makes a great gift, not only because it can keep water ice cold all day but also because it comes in a wide array or gorgeous colors.

    The ultimate stress reliever, this massaging pillow heats up and helps you get rid of those pesky knots in your neck.

    This fragrant candle from Homesick contains notes of crisp air, spruce, vanilla, frosted mint and other festive scents.

    If you just want to get something cute, you can’t beat this mushroom plushie from Smoko. It’s the perfect size for snuggling and looks great on the bed and couch alike.

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    This all-in-one sandwich maker will give them the extra time they need in the morning while making a delicious breakfast.

    There’s nothing quite like the scent of a good holiday candle, and this one from Nest New York features a tantalizing blend of pomegranate, mandarin orange and more.

    A great practical gift, Swedish dishcloths are one of our favorite eco-friendly kitchen swaps as they take the place of paper towels. You can even throw these guys in the dishwasher or washing machine once they start smelling gross.

    You can never really have too many blankets, and this one is beloved by Nordstrom shoppers due to how incredibly soft and durable it is. It’s also available in an array of neutral colors to suit every decor style.

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    Upgrade their shower experience with our pick for the best plush bath towel, the Frontgate Resort Cotton Towel. It’s super thick, it’s super fluffy and it’ll feel like you’re being hugged by a cloud the next time you step out of the shower.

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    Overall, the Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Coffee Pot scored highest in our best cold brew maker test. This sleek, sophisticated and streamlined carafe produces 1 liter of rich, robust brew in just eight hours. It was among the simplest to assemble, it executed an exemplary brew in about the shortest time span and it looked snazzy doing it. Plus, it rang up as the second most affordable of our inventory.

    Food & drink gifts under $50

    For those who want a little extra spice in their life, check out this hot sauce kit that contains everything you need to experiment with different flavors and intensities while crafting your next favorite hot sauce.

    Give the coffee lover in your life the gift of single-origin beans from around the world. Atlas Coffee Club will send one box of beans from a different country every month, along with an informational card and brewing instructions. Read our full review here.

    From pizza to biscuits to cheese and even ice cream, this is what they’ll grab for if they’re ever looking for a kick of spice in their food — and a little sweetness.

    You can never go wrong with a box of chocolates during the holidays. This limited-edition box from Godiva features 12 pieces of decadent, delicious truffles.

    If you have a beer lover in your life, they’ll love this IPA brewing kit, which lets them craft their own boozy beverage from scratch.

    For the person who can never get enough spice, this gourmet hot sauce has a complex yet delicious blend of truffle, red chile pepper and agave nectar. It even made Oprah’s Favorite Things list yet again this year. And right now, CNN Underscored readers can get 10% off with code CNN10.

    If you know someone who’s always losing their stuff (or passionate about not losing their luggage), the Apple AirTag is a perfect gift. It’s a precise tracker that can attach to basically anything, meaning you can find all those little things you always misplace. Read our full thoughts here, and why we think it’s the perfect travel accessory.

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    Give them some of the best sleep of their life with our pick for the best sleep mask of the year. It features a genius nose wire, so it blocks all — and we mean all — of the light. The mask is soft on the eyes and comfortable on the head, and it never so much as budged during the night, no matter our sleep position.

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    If they’ve got a bunch of trips planned this year, gift them our pick for the best travel pillow of 2022. The Cabeau was firm enough to support our head and neck, soft enough to fall asleep on and perfectly portable, allowing you to compress it to half its size.

    One of our favorite travel backpacks, this one is divided into three compartments, and in addition to being able to accommodate a 15-inch laptop, it’s got loads of key design details you’ll want. Think of a top handle, hanging clasps, a USB port and adjustable straps, not to mention a ton of pockets for storing all your things. Boasting a 4.8-star rating, the backpack’s highlight is a padded mesh backing that will keep you as cool as can be, no matter how many times your flight is delayed. Did we mention it’s less than $30 right now? Done and done.

    The AeroPress Go is a fantastic coffee maker for people who want a simple, fast brew in the morning. It’s also great for outdoorsy folks who still need to stay caffeinated even if they’re waking up in the middle of the woods.

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    Any TikTok enthusiast will appreciate this ring light, which is our pick for the best ring light.

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    For singing in the shower or taking their tunes on the go, this portable speaker will surely come in handy. In fact, we think this is the best travel portable speaker out there.

    Who says socks are a bad gift? You could always use another good pair, and these high-quality options from Bombas feature extra padding to keep your feet comfortable.

    A fantastic everyday bag for all genders, this holds an astonishing amount of stuff. We love the fun color options too.

    An initial necklace like this one feels personal enough to make for a great gift, and simple enough to be an everyday staple. No wonder it’s one of Nordstrom’s top-rated pieces.

    Wallets are always a safe gift for the guy in your life, and this one from Herschel Supply Co. is a great option, featuring RFID technology to keep all his cards secure.

    Get this necklace that can spell out their name in sterling silver, 18-karat gold or rose gold.

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    Instead of letting them continue to fry her hair, allow them to dry, smooth and volumize in one easy step with Revlon’s ionic (and iconic!) technology, which we named the best affordable hair dryer of the year. It has three heat settings, an ergonomic design and several cute color options, like mint and pink.

    Don’t you think their shower deserves to feel like a spa? We tried the Goshi towel and it’s completely revolutionized our shower experience, with an exfoliating weave that sloughs off dead skin and left us feeling silky smooth.

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  • The 30 best tech gifts for everyone on your list | CNN Underscored

    The 30 best tech gifts for everyone on your list | CNN Underscored

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    There’s never any shortage of fancy new tech gifts to get a loved one for the holidays — but with so much new stuff coming out every year, where do you even start? That’s where we come in. We spend all year testing everything from the latest smartphones and laptops to everyday accessories like chargers and cases so that you can be confident you’re getting something great for the people on your list.

    From affordable stocking stuffers to splurge ideas for that special someone, here are the best tech gifts to get this holiday season. And if you need more gift ideas, we’ve got you covered with great gift ideas for men, gift ideas for women and some of the best Amazon gifts.

    If you’re team Android (or want an item tracker that works with any device), the Tile Mate is a great AirTag alternative and one of the most popular trackers out there. It can help you find your stuff from up to 250 feet away, and unlike the AirTag, has a useful hole for easily attaching to your keys.

    You can never have too many USB-C cables for charging your laptop, tablet, Android phone or just about any other tech gadget, and this variation of our best USB-C cable pick gets you a fast, long and durable wire for a great price.

    Know someone with an iPhone 12 or newer? The MagSafe Charger is an excellent gift, along with a Nano II wall plug, to make wireless charging a snap. It magnetically attaches to the back of the phone and can fast charge at 15 watts. It’s a great accessory that can go on a nightstand, desk or even be brought along for travel.

    If you need a more platform-agnostic wireless charger, the Logitech Powered Wireless Charging pad is the best overall wireless charger we’ve tested. It’ll juice up iPhones, Android phones, AirPods and just about anything else that supports Qi charging, and does so while taking up minimal space with its sleek design.

    The latest Amazon Echo Dot adds better sound, new sensors and Wi-Fi extension capabilities to what’s long been our favorite budget smart speaker. If you want to give your loved one the gift of Alexa for the first time, here’s where you should start.

    The Echo Show 8 is a great gift for anyone who wants an easy way to hop on video calls or summon Alexa from any room in the home. Our best smart display pick, this device can be used to control all of your Alexa-compatible gadgets, and works with popular streaming services for when you want to binge Netflix over dinner.

    The Fire TV Stick 4K is a great way to supercharge your old TV with streaming capabilities, offering access to essentials like Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Max and Hulu and support for beautiful 4K playback in Dolby Vision and HDR.

    Our favorite budget tablet, the newest Fire 7 is a great stocking stuffer for anyone getting their first tablet. It’s got access to all the key apps you need, offers long battery life within an attractive design and is loaded with perks for Amazon Prime members.

    The 2021 iPad is still our favorite tablet, offering fast performance, access to tons of great apps and seamless connectivity to all of your other Apple products. Better yet, it’s almost always on sale these days.

    Having a great keyboard is key to staying productive, whether you’re at home or finding your way back to the office. If the person on your list needs a new one, the Logitech K380 is one of the best we’ve tested for the price. This attractive, compact wireless keyboard feels great to use, and while it’s built to pair effortlessly with Apple devices, it’ll also work with your Chromebook or Windows PC. Better yet, you can switch between your Mac, iPad and iPhone on the fly, making it a perfect companion both during and after the workday.

    You can’t go wrong with the classic AirPods, especially now that they’re cheaper than they’ve ever been. A perfect gift for those yet to jump on the wireless earbuds train, the AirPods 2nd Gen pair effortlessly with iPhones and offer fantastic sound as well as easy access to hands-free Siri controls.

    If you’re willing to splurge on someone who wants the best of the best, the new AirPods Pro 2 are the way to go. These earbuds have some of the best active noise cancellation we’ve ever tested, along with superb sound and a more durable case that you can even attach to your lanyard.

    A splurge gift for the audio lover in your life, the Sony WH-1000XM5 are our pick for the best over-ear headphones you can buy. Their noise cancellation and sound are second to none, and it’s all wrapped up in a sleek, comfortable design with all-day battery life.

    Our pick for the best travel-friendly portable speaker, the Sony XB13 pumps out surprisingly big sound for its small size and packs a handy strap for attaching to your backpack or bike.

    An updated version of our best fitness tracker pick, the Fitbit Inspire 3 offers comprehensive tracking and a vivid color screen for a great price. It’s a great gift for anyone on your list looking to keep better tabs on their health and activity.

    The Apple Watch SE is the most affordable member of the Apple Watch family, but still retains much of the great activity tracking and seamless iPhone interactivity we love about the more premium Series 8. It’s a great gift for someone who wants their first smartwatch.

    It might not be the sexiest gift, but an external hard drive is a lifesaver for anyone who wants a secure and easy way to back up and transfer lots of big files (we’re looking at you, video editors and gamers). The WD My Passport is the best model we’ve tested, and is frequently on sale these days.

    Not sure what to get the gamer in your life? You really can’t go wrong with an Xbox Game Pass subscription. With various plans that start at $9.99 a month, Game Pass gives players access to hundreds of titles that include big blockbusters like Halo, Forza and Star Wars as well as smaller gems like Tetris Effect Connected, Vampire Survivors and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge. These games can be played on Xbox consoles, PCs and even smartphones, tablets and select Samsung TVs via the cloud, meaning even folks without dedicated gaming hardware can still get a lot out of the service. Best of all? New subscribers can try it out for just $1 right now.

    Perfect for the gamer in your life, the Backbone One is by far the best mobile gaming controller we’ve tested. This handy attachment turns your smartphone into a Switch-like gaming machine, with console quality controls and a handy companion app that lets you access your favorite mobile games (and cloud gaming services like Xbox Game Pass and Amazon Luna) all in one place. With consoles hard to come by these days, the Backbone One makes an accessible and affordable alternative.

    If you have a friend or family member that was obsessed with Wii Sports back in the day, this is the game for them. Nintendo Switch Sports updates the beloved mini-game collection for the modern era, offering seven different, pick-up-and-play sports (including volleyball, soccer, bowling and tennis) that you can enjoy while gathering at home for the holidays or online with faraway friends.

    Of all of the new gaming consoles out there right now, the Xbox Series S is the cheapest — and the easiest to actually find in stock. And while it’s not quite as powerful as the Xbox Series X (which is designed for 4K gaming), this adorably tiny machine has most of the same great features, including zippy load times and a handy Quick Resume option for jumping between multiple titles at once. When you combine it with an Xbox Game Pass subscription that will let you play hot titles such as Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5 right out of the box, you’ve got the best overall value in console gaming.

    One of our favorite budget laptops, the Acer Aspire 5 is a great gift for students, younger users, or anyone who just needs a great computer for basic web surfing and productivity.

    If you’re looking to get your loved one the best laptop possible for less than $1,000, the MacBook Air M1 is the way to go. While it’s a few years old now, it still runs circles around the competition in terms of performance, all within an attractive, lightweight design that will last you all day.

    The Google Pixel 6a is our favorite budget smartphone, and a great option for anyone buying their loved one their first phone. Despite its low price, it offers great performance, a clean Android experience and some of the best cameras in the game.

    Samsung’s mega-popular portable projector lets you turn any wall into the ultimate entertainment screen, with a flexible 180-degree design, access to the top streaming apps and loud built-in speakers.

    If you’re looking for a gift that can truly turn heads, Samsung’s The Frame TV is one of our favorites that we’ve tested. This unique television has the ability to double as a gorgeous digital art display when you’re not watching your favorite shows, making it much nicer to look at in your living room than a blank screen. Oh, and it’s a pretty good QLED TV for when you’re actually watching stuff.

    If you’re shopping for an entertainment lover who wants to see all the details of a TV show or movie, we’d splurge on Sony’s A90J. Yes, it’s an expensive OLED TV but it offers the best picture quality we’ve ever tested and packages it in a jaw-droppingly sleek design. The visuals literally go to the very edge of the screen.

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  • The 31 best holiday gifts for book lovers, according to book fanatics | CNN Underscored

    The 31 best holiday gifts for book lovers, according to book fanatics | CNN Underscored

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    Holiday shopping for bibliophiles is as easy as, well, cracking open a book. From bestsellers to classics and everything in between, a new title will always be appreciated, but why stop there?

    We asked four book experts to share their favorite gifts for the literature lovers on your lists, including totes, mugs, stickers, reading glasses and much more sure to earn you a 5-star review. Want more ideas? Check out our favorite gift ideas for men, gift ideas for women, Amazon gifts and ultra-practical gifts.

    “Built specifically for the reader that always has one hot beverage and their phone nearby, this stand holds your book open to the right page sans bookmark, keeps your mug of coffee, tea or hot chocolate in place and has room for your glasses or phone,” says Alex Aster, whom fans of #BookTok, the literary-centric subcommunity on TikTok, may recognize, with more than 1 million followers on social media. “The perfect addition to a reader’s nightstand.”

    For fans of reading in bed, this handy, bendable neck light could be life-changing. Complete with three color modes (yellow, warm white and cool white), three brightness levels and up to 80 hours of light from the included rechargeable battery, it’s also great for camping or hands-free repairs.

    “Star Wars” fans will be begging to read when you gift them this Stormtrooper Lego book light complete with articulating arms, hands, legs and head. With two bright LED lights, it uses batteries or can be powered via USB cord and clips onto any book, notebook or magazine.

    Book lovers will make room on their nightstands for this fun lamp that looks like a closed book when shut but transforms into an open-book light. Rechargeable, it comes with a USB cable and users can choose between warm yellow, white, green, blue and red lights.

    “Bookworms can never have too many totes,” says Resh Susan, whose blog, “The Book Satchel,” includes musings on books, culture, film and more. The bags from Obvious State, she adds, “are sturdy, fashionable and a bibliophile’s dream.”

    “For those who make an effort to explore world literature, there’s nothing better than a subscription to Boxwalla,” Susan says, noting the company features “underrated gems, translations and new-to-you authors in their literary boxes. You could even mix it up with, say a beauty box, for an indulgent gift.” Monthly boxes include two books, while nonsubscription, limited-edition book boxes might come with a book, plus a beauty product or notebook.

    “This poster is not only beautiful and frame-worthy but offers 100 titles of the best books worth reading,” says Leslie Murphy, whose blog, “She Reads Romance Books,” offers recommendations, reviews, book lists, new releases, quizzes and more. “Plus, it offers such a fun way to track one’s reading accomplishments.”

    “No book lover can leave the library or a bookstore with just one book,” Murphy says. “I love this bookish-themed tote bag that’s perfect for carrying home one’s latest book haul.”

    Start ’em young with a fun T-shirt emblazoned with “Read: All the cool kids are doing it.” Available in onesies and toddler and youth styles, this fun gift also comes in adult sizes along with more than a dozen colors.

    The Espresso Edition” blogger Stephanie Whitman says her goal is to cater to those who are looking to “simplify their life and find peace through coziness, reading and lots of good coffee.” Her book and lifestyle blog offers everything from detailed book reviews and recommendations to hygge home decor and recipes. She calls “Into the Heartless Wood,” a fantasy fairy tale that mixes romance, horror and magic, her “very favorite book of all time.”

    “For me, a big part of reading is the ambiance,” Aster says. “Especially in the fall and winter, I love having candles around. These are beautiful, have notes of cinnamon and vanilla and are perfect for making you want to curl up with a new book.” Homesick’s one of our favorite candle brands out there.

    “A pair of Apple AirPods Pro with active noise cancellation is a must for audiobook listeners so that nothing gets in the way between them and a great story,” Murphy says.

    For those who prefer to listen to their books, a monthly subscription to the Audible service will be well received. The service includes thousands of audiobooks, podcasts and original programming. Want to take a listen for yourself? Test it out with a free 30-day trial and cancel at any time.

    Allow your book-loving friends to display their favorite literature as art with shadowboxed prints featuring their favorite titles. High-quality prints of first-edition books come in a birch frame, measuring 16.25 inches by 12.25 inches with a slew of options available, from “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” to “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.”

    High-tech meets Luddite with this highly rated laptop case designed to fit a 13-inch MacBook Air. Made of durable PU leather, it’s just the thing for the literature lover on your list.

    Little readers will cozy right up to this fun library card-themed pillow that can be personalized to reflect them or their whole family. Add the parents as the authors, the family’s name as the title and up to seven borrowers, displaying names and birthdates as due dates for a truly unique gift.

    “A staple in my reading life is sticky tabs that transform annotated books into a work of art,” Susan says. “They also ensure that the rereads of your favorite books are even more pleasurable.” This set includes 1,200 colorful index tabs.

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    This super-thin, lightweight Kindle is waterproof (making it perfect for the pool or bath), comes with a glare-free display and 8GB of storage, has a built-in, adjustable light and includes a leather cover and power adapter. Santa, we promise we’ve been good. We even named it the best budget e-reader.

    English majors on your gift list? Stuff their, well, stockings with a pair of these black-and-white socks. One sock lists the titles of books that were banned at one point (think “1984,” “Native Son” and “The Catcher in the Rye”), while the other shows the titles blacked out. Available in small and large sizes.

    “For those who like to read at night, here is a solution to squinting in limited light: a glowing screen perfect for reading in bed, on a plane or in the car,” Aster says. Plus, she adds, “it’s ultra thin and light, so you or the reader in your life can easily travel with it.”

    “Every book lover needs a reading journal, and this #Booktok Journal gives readers the space to set reading goals, log book recommendations and review the books they find through TikTok,” Murphy says. “It also includes a list of the most popular book titles on #Booktok.”

    “I think bookish stickers make the best, most affordable stocking stuffers for book lovers,” Murphy says. “They’re cute, fun and can go on anything. Plus, you can mix and match different designs.”

    Whitman calls this gift “the ultimate coffee mug for the library lover like myself.” The ceramic mug holds 11 ounces, is dishwasher-safe, features a wraparound graphic and comes in both classic and tall options.

    Ever wish the classic fairy tales you grew up with could have been a bit more inclusive? This creative kit comes with a reimagined telling of favorite stories that includes a book, play set and characters. Choose from Snow White’s Sweet Shop, Jack & the Giants Grocery, Red’s Animal Hospital and Pinocchio’s Puppet Theater.

    “Blue-light-blocking glasses make the best gift for book lovers who read late into the night because they just can’t put their latest book down,” Murphy says. “These not only look stylish but also help prevent eye strain and reflect away blue light, which can disturb one’s sleep cycle.”

    If you know someone who loves to start the morning off with some light reading and a strong cup of coffee, consider this ceramic mug. One one side: the definition of “abiliophobia” (the fear of running out of reading material). On the other: “coffee, read, sleep, repeat.” Available in 11- and 15-ounce sizes and white or white with black accents.

    Combining books and coffee, this company roasts small-batch beans in Maryland and gives its roasts fun literary names. Whitman says the dark chocolate Addie, named for V.E. Schwab’s title protagonist, is “the most delicious coffee named after one of my favorite book characters.”

    Universal Pictures has acquired rights to Aster’s 2022 YA release “Lightlark,” which centers on a once-in-a-century competition between the rulers of six realms, each of whom is afflicted with a fatal curse. To break their curses, they must battle each other to the death, and, in the midst of it all, is Isla Crown, trying to make it out of the game alive as she finds herself waylaid by a romantic entanglement.

    “As seen on supermodel Bella Hadid, this Strand New York City sweatshirt represents one of the most iconic bookstores in the country,” Aster says. “Bonus: It’s extremely comfortable.”

    “If the reader you’re shopping for prefers Kindles to hardbacks, look no further than these Kindle Paperwhite skins I discovered through book influencer Pauline from @thebooksiveloved,” Aster says. “I’m partial to the peach, but there are an array of colors and designs available.”

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  • 30 white elephant gifts under $50 you may just keep for yourself | CNN Underscored

    30 white elephant gifts under $50 you may just keep for yourself | CNN Underscored

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    It’s that time of year again, and while you’ve spent hours planning what to get your family and friends for the holidays, you’re still not sure what to get for that white elephant exchange you’re invited to. But that’s okay, because to help you out we’ve put together a list of useful and hilarious gifts that are sure to be the hottest commodity at your exchange.

    The white elephant exchange is a time-honored tradition where you trade and swap presents that most of the time end up sitting in the back of your closet anyway. Everyone wants to bring funny gag gifts, but if you’ve been the person who ends up going home with a whoopee cushion, you’ll know that those funny gifts lose their appeal after the drive home.

    To help you find the perfect gift that strikes that balance of funny and useful, we’ve rounded up our favorite white elephant gift ideas under $25 and under $50. Need more ideas? Check out our favorite practical gifts, gift ideas for men, gift ideas for women, Amazon gifts and more gifts under $25.

    This surprisingly useful and efficient egg cooker can make soft-, medium- and hard-boiled eggs in minutes, saving you time and water when you need a snack.

    Someone is bound to get a kick out of these memo pads, which are printed with all-too-real sentiments like “I have no idea what I’m doing.”

    If we’re going all the way to the practical side, the recipient of this gift might not be super excited at first, but trust us, once they plop it into their tub they’ll be texting you how genius a present it really is. It’s even an Underscored editor favorite.

    Your friend with the sweet tooth will love this electric ice cream maker, which churns up the perfect amount for one person in just a few minutes. See more of the best ice cream makers here.

    If you can’t help yourself and want to get a funny gift, at least get something the recipient can put on their desk as decoration, like this hilarious Bob Ross Chia Pet.

    Another cute kitchen item, this waffle maker from Dash whips up tiny waffles in a jiffy. Plus, it comes in fun colors and even a heart-shaped version.

    The beauty lovers will be eyeing this beloved ice roller, which helps depuff your face and is a fantastic migraine (and hangover) reliever.

    Small but mighty, this little blade (and Underscored reader favorite) is an easy way to quickly open all those packages you’ve been getting. Plus, its ceramic blade is harder and more durable than steel.

    Whoever gets this will now and forever have the party desk, since this tube guy will be dancing and waving all day long.

    This adjustable clamp attaches directly to your tray table, allowing you to enjoy the movies you’ve downloaded without holding your phone for an entire flight. See more of our favorite products for comfortable flying.

    The perfect centerpiece for their next get-together, this Nachosaurus snack set is the best way to enjoy chips and salsa.

    This hectic game from the makers of Exploding Kittens is a pinball-esque competition that will have you catapulting balls at each other for hours.

    This polyester satin pillowcase can help reduce irritation to your hair and skin thanks to its super-smooth surface, just like silk pillowcases — but at a fraction of the price. Check out our full guide on the best silk pillowcases here.

    This small cocktail kit features all the ingredients you need to make an Old Fashioned (minus the alcohol). If you’re not into whiskey, other options are available including a margarita, Moscow mule and more.

    Everything you need to prep an avocado, from slicing to pitting, in one compact, dishwasher-safe tool. It’s an Underscored reader favorite.

    If someone that’s old enough to remember floppy disks opens up these coasters, they’re sure to let out a chuckle. They’re the perfect way to protect your table and your fond memories of the ‘90’s.

    Ensure your adventurer can always have a clean drink of water wherever they go with this personal filter. Read our review of it here.

    How cute is this light that’s shaped like a little dumpling? Do we need to say anything else?

    Wine lovers are definitely going to grab for this wine holder, which sticks to your bathroom wall so you can enjoy that bubble bath with a glass of pinot.

    The benefit of a white elephant gift exchange is you’re not giving someone these sneaker balls directly. If you handed it to your friend they might take offense, but if they get it through a game they might actually find them useful.

    Of course, you can’t go wrong with an old standard, like this classic Moleskine notebook that’s available in 22 colors, including basic black.

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    If you want to give out something really nice, try this insulated water bottle from Yeti. Winner of our top spot in the best water bottles test, this sturdy bottle will soon become part of their daily essentials.

    Is there a more perfect white elephant gift than this? This candle carries all the best scents of the holidays, with notes like candied orange, cardamom, gingerbread cookie, clove and Champagne. Basically, it’ll smell like a holiday gift exchange every time they light it.

    This gorgeous and simple light sculpture will add a pop of style to any room.

    For the person always drinking coffee, they’ll love this insulated mug that keeps their drink hotter for longer.

    The exchange will be fighting over this breakfast sandwich maker, which helps make the morning a little less stressful.

    Coffee gifts are great choices for someone you may not know well. Blue Bottle Coffee products is a favorite among our staff, and the brand offers a large selection of giftable items, like this cold brew set.

    The person who needs some help relaxing this holiday season will love this calming diffuser set, which smells like a blend of pomegranate, orange, pine and cinnamon.

    Any latté enthusiasts at your exchange will love this little milk foamer, which helps them quickly and easily add a little frothy luxury to their morning brew.

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  • 31 holiday gifts for teens that they’ll actually like | CNN Underscored

    31 holiday gifts for teens that they’ll actually like | CNN Underscored

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    The toughest person to check off your holiday shopping list is likely a teen. Luckily for you, shopping for teens is our specialty. From eighth graders to college sophomores, we know them, we love them and we want to make them happy at the holidays, just like you.

    Whether you’re buying for your kid, their bestie who basically lives at your house, a niece or nephew or a gaggle of grandteens, we’ve got you covered. Need more gift ideas? Check out our favorite gift ideas for mengift ideas for womenAmazon gifts, Nordstrom gifts and ultra-practical gifts.

    Uggs are huge right now, and specifically this mini style that’s available in a whole slew of cute colors so you can pick which one’s right for your teen.

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    If leggings and pants are basically one in the same, they’ll love these leggings, which we named the best leggings of the year. Featuring, as its name suggests, pockets big enough to stash things like your phone or wallet, we loved this pair for its comfort during workouts and everyday activities alike, high-quality construction, secure waistband and chic aesthetic.

    Equal parts slipper and sneaker, these slip-ons from Teva can go basically everywhere. Underscored editors love them.

    Sometimes it’s sold out and sometimes it’s not. But if you can catch Lululemon’s Everywhere Belt Bag in stock, your teen will feel ultra special.

    A true winterwear classic, this cuffed beanie is simply timeless, and we love all the colors it’s available in too.

    Our readers went wild for nap dresses this year, and this is the dress that started the trend. From Hill House, this signature nap dress is available in tons of colors, fabrics and sizes up to 2XL, and it features elasticated smocking, ruffled shoulders and a tiered midi skirt that will feel comfortable to lounge around in yet sophisticated enough to pair with heels and head to dinner.

    This is the year of the shearling clog, and your teen will forever thank you for getting them this trendy pair. Comfy, cozy and a great everyday shoe, it’ll make errands and coffee runs feel infinitely cooler. See more of our favorite clogs here.

    The designers of this unbearably smart and lovely bracelet, Shireen and Arni Thor, should get the Nobel Peace Prize. Teens (all of them!) keep hair ties on their wrists, just in case. Why not make adornments of them? This bangle bracelet can be had in gold or silver tone.

    Absolutely perfect for lounging around the house, these cozy socks come with rubber grippy dots on the bottom to keep them from sliding around.

    The Hit The Slopes jacket is basically the stuff of legends in the fashion world. It’s cozy, ultra soft and incredibly cute, with tons of colors and pattern options. They’ll be wearing it for years to come.

    Stocking stuffer alert! If she (like her likely muse, Olivia Rodrigo) got her driver’s license last week (or earlier this year), she needs a special keychain for those car keys. These are made with actual flowers embedded inside each initial. They can hold her house keys too, of course.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    Do they have a big trip coming up in the next year? Immediately elevate their travel gear with this hard-shell carry-on, which we named the best carry-on of the year. It’s perfectly sized for the overhead bin, it has 360-degree spinner wheels and an interior compression system and it comes with a handy laundry bag.

    If they’re one of those teens who’s never not rearranging their room, they’ll love this string light set that they can clip photos right onto.

    The worst thing about bubble tea is that you have to leave your house to go get it. But with this kit they can make the tea and tapioca pearls right at home. The kit includes both milk tea and chai.

    We already feel spiritually connected to this mushroom plushie. Made by the brilliant minds over at Smoko, this little dude will look just as cute sitting on their bed as he will being snuggled by your favorite teen.

    If you have a new or soon-to-be college student, you probably know Dormify. Basically, it has everything older teens want for their school experience. And its offerings just got more giftable with The Box by Dormify. It’s, well, a box … stuffed with snacks, accessories, beauty products and other cool stuff from brands they’ll immediately recognize even if you don’t, like Glow Recipe and Cool Street.

    Great for everything from pencils to toiletries, this pouch set from Underscored-favorite brand Baggu will be a lifesaver for ultra-organized teens.

    A trendy piece of room decor, this light box is super easy to customize. It comes with 105 interchangeable letters and symbols to work with. Plus, it’ll be fun for you to see the statements change with your kid’s moods. We just can’t promise it won’t one day read “Go Away.”

    How great is this? Available in six happy hues, this supremely squishy pillow will be occupying a place of honor in your teen’s room by 10 a.m. Christmas morning. The modern, unexpected aesthetic is perfect.

    This mini cooler lets them keep their go-to beverages and snacks in their room. They’ll love it, trust us. They can also use it to keep beauty products fresh and to stash face rollers, best used chilled.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    Do they wanna be well lit at basically all times? This is our hands-down favorite streaming light, which clips right onto your computer. Ultra compact and priced at under $60, it’s a no-brainer for any plugged-in teen.

    Yes, teens live in the digital world. But despite that, they’ve taken a huge liking to displaying physical photos in their rooms and sharing them with friends. With the genius Step, they can print out selfies and social media posts from anywhere. And the app lets them finish off their pics with filters, borders and stickers.

    If they keep their laptop practically handcuffed to them these days, then get them this adorable puffy sleeve from Baggu, the maker of the best reusable bags on the market.

    This handy custom card holder sticks to any phone or phone case. It’ll make it so much less likely that lunch money is lost or the school ID will go missing (again).

    Make this solid wooden headphone stand theirs and theirs alone with any meaningful short word or phrase. Practical and personal! You have the option of leaving the wood as is or having it painted in any of 15 colors (including glow in the dark).

    We know, it can be hard to impress a teen who’s a serious gamer, at least without spending hundreds. Try this, why don’t you? Think of this controller as a handheld PS5 or Series X. They can use it to stream Xbox games to any iPhone, no actual Xbox required. It also works with PlayStation Remote Play, Steam Link, Apple Arcade, Call of Duty: Mobile, Minecraft, Roblox — pretty much everything there is.

    This bestselling sheet mask set comes with options to soothe, brighten, refresh and nourish all skin types. Divvy them up as stocking stuffers or treat yourself to 12 days of glowing skin.

    If they’re itching to get more into nail art, there’s no better place to start than with Chillhouse’s gorgeous and high-quality press-on nails. Underscored editors love them too.

    If they’re dealing with some acne right now, these pimple patches can help protect and heal their spots — all while making them look pretty cute too.

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  • The 37 best outdoors gifts for the nature-obsessed | CNN Underscored

    The 37 best outdoors gifts for the nature-obsessed | CNN Underscored

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    It’s officially gifting season, which means you’re probably looking for gift ideas for all the people in your life. Whether it’s for him, for her or for the traveler in your life or you need some cheap gifts, we’ve got guides galore at CNN Underscored.

    If you know someone who’s completely obsessed with all things nature, it can be hard to find the perfect gift. That’s why we’ve compiled our favorite products to make any hiker, camper, climber, kayaker or any other kind of adventurer happy. If you need even more ideas, check out our REI gift guide too.

    Yeti’s new water bottle is sure to be a hot gift this holiday season. Instead of another heavy, insulated metal bottle, the brand’s latest release is a lightweight, BPA-free plastic water bottle that’s still tremendously durable.

    Teva ReEmber slippers have been one of our favorite gifts for years, but this holiday season Teva released a new version: the Teva ReEmber Terrain. These shoes have a thicker, more supportive sole and a lot more traction on the bottom so you can feel more secure walking around camp. We’ve been trying out a pair for ourselves and love the updated sole. However, these new slippers don’t have a heel, so they slip off easily. We also found that the Terrain slippers run big, so you might want to order one size down.

    If you know someone who always forgets about their drink, get them this can insulator from Yeti. It uses the brand’s double-wall vacuum insulation technology to keep your beverages nice and cold for hours.

    It’s no secret that whiskey glasses and beer pints are a played-out gift, but we still think you should consider the glasses from North Drinkware because they’re just so cool. The bottom of each glass has a 3D mold of a real mountain in the bottom.

    When the weather gets cold and you can’t go camping, one of the things you might miss most is sitting around a fire making s’mores. While it isn’t as good as the real thing, this mini fireplace is a great way to bring a little taste of the outdoors inside.

    We absolutely love the Solo Stove, thanks to its sleek design and low-smoke fires. It makes a great big-ticket gift for those who can’t always make it out to the woods.

    Apple has made a jump into the outdoor scene with the brand-new Apple Watch UItra. With increased battery life, more precise GPS and enhanced compass capabilities, it could be an adventurer’s new best friend. We tried it out, and while there’s no question it’s expensive, we think it’s worth it.

    The mosquitoes aren’t out now, but you can bet they’ll be back and biting next summer. Get prepared with this rechargeable mosquito repeller, which we tested and absolutely loved.

    We’ve been testing this hiking backpack from Gregory for the past month and absolutely love it. It’s got plenty of organization, chest and hip straps and even a 3-liter water reservoir. If you’re looking for a technical hiking pack to carry your gear on tougher day hikes, this is the one for you.

    Stay cozy wherever you are with Therm-A-Rest’s Honcho Poncho. It’s got synthetic insulation to keep you warm and a giant front pocket that doubles as a stuff sack for easy portability. We’ve had one for a couple of weeks and think it’s a great way to stay toasty at camp or an outdoor venue like a tailgate or football game.

    This versatile towel is perfect for traveling, camping, the gym and basically any other outdoor activity. It’s super packable, ultra absorbent, fast-drying and soft too. We’ve been testing one for about one month now and love it. We’ve been finding all sorts of uses for it, and it’s definitely earned a spot on our camping checklist.

    Parks Project is one of our favorite outdoor brands, and this mushroom-themed Polaroid camera is high on our holiday list this year.

    We really love Rumpl’s blankets, and now the brand has teamed up with Carhartt to create a wearable, Sherpa-lined blanket that looks like one of the coziest pieces of gear we’ve ever seen.

    If you’re in on the national parks trend, you’ll want to snag this gorgeous 1,000-piece national parks puzzle.

    The perfect camp shoe, these cozy slippers are made of 100% wool with a supportive rubber sole.

    Sleeping comfortably at camp can be difficult, but not when you use this camp pillow from Nemo. We tried one ourselves and were super impressed by how comfortable it is. It combines a foam filling with an inflatable center to provide great support while still being able to pack down.

    This fire pit folds flat for ultimate portability and easy storage. Plus, it’s got an integrated ashtray so it’s easy to clean up and leave no trace.

    The enormous tent transforms into a freestanding shelter in just minutes. We tested one earlier this year and absolutely loved its versatility.

    If you like cooking at camp, you need this lightweight, ultra-packable set. It comes with a 2.8-liter collapsible pot, a 1.3-liter collapsible kettle and an 8-inch pan. We’ve been testing this set for over one year and take it on every camping trip. The pot is the perfect size to make a big pot of soup perfect for two people, and everything collapses down to the size of a Frisbee.

    This weather-resistant jacket from Flint and Tinder has a wax coating on both sides of the shell for extra warmth and insulation. A blanket lining makes it feel extra cozy even when the weather outside is everything but.

    This 36.5-liter tote can haul all sorts of gear, whether that’s a massive grocery haul or your skiing essentials. Internal compression straps, grab handles and zippered pockets all make packing and carrying this tote a breeze.

    If you’re looking for a stylish stocking stuffer, check out these chopsticks from outdoor brand Snow Peak, which are made from bamboo and stainless steel. Plus, they come with a carrying case so you can bring them on your next adventure.

    Once you get warm and cozy in your sleeping bag, it’s hard to motivate yourself to get out. With the Selk’Bag wearable sleeping bag, you don’t have to. Packed with synthetic insulation, equipped with tons of pockets and featuring vents to help you regulate your temperature, you can stay toasty and comfortable all day long.

    If you hate hopping into a pair of cold boots in the morning, check out this boot heater from Therm-ic. It uses a USB-powered heater and can warm up two boots at once so your toes can stay toasty.

    These little koozies from Puffin Drinkwear are the perfect stocking stuffer for the adventurer in your life. They can keep their drinks cold with these stylish and hilarious can insulators.

    You don’t have to suffer by drinking instant coffee when you’re out camping. There are plenty of portable options that can brew a delicious cup, including this cute percolator from Parks Project. It’s made with 100% carbon steel wrapped in enamel, which means it’s sturdy enough for everyday use at home or in the middle of the backcountry.

    This enameled mug is cute, it won’t chip like a ceramic cup and it’s even campfire-safe if you want to heat up your drinks over an open flame.

    This portable fire pit from Snow Peak comes with a grill grate so you can make delicious meals wherever you are. Plus, it folds down so you can bring it from the backyard to the campsite and everywhere in between.

    This cult-favorite tumbler from Stanley makes the perfect gift for anyone on your list. It’s a great way to stay hydrated with ice-cold water during your commute, at the office or around the house.

    At the beach, on the slopes or on top of a mountain, these polarized sunglasses help keep your eyes protected from the sun. Plus, they have nifty side shields for extra protection from glare.

    If you want to upgrade your hiking backpack, look no further than this pack from REI Co-op. It’s simple, it has tons of pockets and it even has a hydration sleeve so you can be ready for your next day hike.

    We love Patagonia sweaters, and this fleece is no exception. With a timeless style and material crafted with recycled polyester, the Better Sweater will look good on the trail and off.

    Explore further with this rooftop tent from Thule. Weighing 152 pounds, this tent can sleep up to three people and has an extended canopy so you can go from your car to the tent without being exposed to the elements.

    The super-light tent is great for both backpacking and car camping. It’s got plenty of internal room to sleep two and features two stake-out vestibules for extra gear storage.

    Down jackets are a great gift since they’re so versatile. Pair them with a few layers and you can wear them all the way from fall through the spring. This one from Patagonia is especially good because it’s got 800-fill-power goose down and its exterior is made from 30-denier recycled ripstop nylon for extra durability.

    If you like to go camping all throughout the year but don’t want to buy multiple sleeping bags for different temperatures, this sleeping bag is for you. With two interchangeable layers, you can use them separately or together for three different sleeping configurations.

    This pint is made from silicone, which means its dishwasher-, freezer-, microwave- and oven-safe. It’s light and won’t break, making it the perfect camp companion.

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  • Our guide to the best REI gifts for the adventurer on your holiday shopping list | CNN Underscored

    Our guide to the best REI gifts for the adventurer on your holiday shopping list | CNN Underscored

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    The holidays are coming up fast, which means it’s time to start getting gifts. Whether you’re shopping for him, for her or for the person in your life who has everything, it’s time to start checking all your friends and family off your list.

    If you have an adventurer in your life and don’t know what to get them, there’s no need to fret. We’ve combed through one of our favorite outdoor retailers — REI — and picked out the best gifts for the holiday season. We’ve spent years shopping at REI and tested a bunch of the following gifts ourselves, so whether you’re helping them beef up their camping checklist or just looking for cheap, outdoorsy stocking stuffers, here are 45 presents from REI they’re sure to love.

    $90 at REI

    REI’s collaboration with Outdoor Afro brings a sizable line of stylish, outdoor gear designed by and for the Black community. Products include takes on REI Co-op’s hiking essentials, including the Flash hiking boot and pack, but our favorite piece is the fleece pullover hoodie. With a relaxed fit perfect for any body type, an oversized hood and two massive pockets, it’s the perfect layer for fall hikes. We got our hands on one and loved how soft and cozy the material felt, and the bold colorways mean you can make a statement on the trail.

    $125 at REI

    Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzle Sneakers

    REI recently started selling Allbirds sneakers on its site, and we couldn’t be happier. Tons of styles from the popular shoe brand are up for purchase at REI, including this pair of wool runners, which has a durable water repellent (DWR) coating to help keep your feet dry and warm on foul-weather runs and hikes.

    $40 at REI

    AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

    Waking up in the middle of the woods is great, but if you can’t have a piping hot cup of coffee, those afternoon hikes can feel a lot harder than normal. That’s why we love the AeroPress Go, which packs into a small, portable package that allows you to brew coffee wherever you are. We’ve had one for years and take it on every camping trip we go on. We especially love how easy it is to clean after making your morning cup. However, it does only make enough coffee for one cup, so if you’re serving multiple people you’ll have to pack your patience or try a French press instead.

    $249 $200 at REI

    REI Nemo Stargaze Recliner Chair

    REI

    One of the most popular camp chairs on the market, the Nemo Stargaze is the ultimate in-camp luxury. Its ingenious hammock-style support means you can comfortably sit up around the fire or lean back to look at the stars. It’s definitely a pricey chair, but after trying it out we really think it’s worth the investment. It’s the most comfortable camp chair we’ve ever sat in, and its additional features like a cup holder and pocket are super helpful.

    $80 at REI

    BioLite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern

    Whether you want to simply illuminate your campsite or turn it into a party, the BioLite AlpenGlow 500 is the perfect lantern for nearly any outing. It’s one of our favorite camp lanterns, thanks to its incredible range of lighting modes, which include a Candlelight Flicker mode, a Fireworks mode and a seemingly endless palette of colors.

    $30 at REI

    Black Diamond Moji + Lantern

    If you don’t need your campsite to be as Instagram-worthy and just want a small, simple light, opt for this lantern from Black Diamond instead. With a max brightness of 150 lumens, it won’t illuminate your whole site, but it’s plenty of light to hang over your stove while you’re cooking dinner or in your tent for some late-night reading. We’ve had a previous version of this lantern for about a year now and use it all the time. This updated lantern carries more lumens and can run off 3 AAA batteries or one of Black Diamond’s rechargeable batteries.

    $1,249 at REI

    rei coop wonderland x review side

    Erica Zazo/CNN

    If you want to upgrade your family’s camping experience, check out the REI Co-op Wonderland X Tent, which is a massive tent that transforms into a shelter in a matter of minutes. We love how versatile this multipurpose tent is and think it’s the perfect car camping tent for making your base camp as comfortable as possible.

    From $99 at REI

    Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket

    This popular blanket from Rumpl is made from 100% postconsumer polyester from plastic bottles. Not only does it help divert plastic from landfills, but this blanket is also super cozy both around the campfire and on the couch. We’ve had one for over a year and bring it anywhere we can, whether that’s to the campsite or to a brewery for outdoor dining.

    From $28 at REI

    Nomadix Original Towel

    Whether you love going to the beach, the woods or the gym, this super-versatile towel deserves a spot in your pack. It’s ultra absorbent, it’s quick-drying and it packs down much smaller than your typical towel. We took it on a trip to Moab, Utah, and used it for everything from wiping down kayaks to drying dishes. It’s also got a nifty loop so it’s easy to hang-dry, not to mention it’s made from recycled plastic bottles.

    $55 at REI

    Eno SingleNest Hammock

    Nothing beats stringing up a hammock in the woods for a lazy afternoon at camp. This hammock from Eno is a great option that’s easy to set up and super comfortable. Just remember to also get some straps so you can safely secure it to the trees around your campsite.

    $70 at REI

    REI Co-op Camp Xtra Chair

    This simple camp chair is perfect for the backyard, the tailgate or the middle of the woods. It’s got two cup holders and a nifty stash pocket to help you store your phone, book and any other essentials.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $149 at REI

    Patagonia Women's Torrentshell 3L Jacket

    Our pick for the best rain jacket, the Patagonia Torrentshell is a completely bombproof rain jacket that’s sure to keep you dry even in the worst downpours. Plus, it’s a lot cheaper than many of its competitors and comes with Patagonia’s Iron Clad Guarantee. Read our full guide on rain jackets to learn more about why we love the Torrentshell.

    $25 at REI

    Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks

    These aren’t the typical socks you’ve gotten for the holidays in years past. These high-performance hiking socks are crafted with a merino wool blend that wicks away moisture while maintaining breathability for a more comfortable hiking experience.

    $95 at REI

    Nocs Provisions Standard Issue 8 x 25 Waterproof Binoculars

    Whether you’re stargazing, bird-watching or just admiring the scenery, having a pair of binoculars on hand on your adventure can be super helpful. We love these from Nocs Provisions, which are waterproof and have a rubber coating for added durability and comfort.

    From $32 at REI

    Arcade Belts Ranger Belt Slim

    These belts from Arcade are soft, stretchy and durable enough for any adventure. We got one to try out and love how they offer a fantastic balance of support and comfort. Perfect for any sort of activity where you’re moving around, these belts can keep your pants tight without pinching your waistband or digging into your sides. We would recommend getting this slim version over the standard one because the standard belt’s 1.5-inch thickness was a little hard to thread through the belt loops on our pants.

    $100 at REI

    REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket 2.0

    Down jackets are a great idea if you’re looking for a way to maximize warmth without the excess bulky layers. This lightweight REI option is easy to travel with and keeps you surprisingly warm without feeling weighed down, making it ideal for activities like hiking, camping or everyday wear. The exterior pockets let you keep your hands warm, while the interior pockets are roomy enough to hold your phone, gloves, beanie or anything else you want near you. During our testing, we did notice that a few feathers came loose from this jacket during some wears, but nothing that stopped us from wearing it or that caused a huge hassle.

    $150 From $75 at REI

    Cotopaxi Teca Calido Hooded Jacket

    If you’re looking to add a colorful pop to your fall and winter wardrobe, look no further than this reversible Cotopaxi jacket. Available in a wide array of Cotopaxi’s iconic colorblock designs, this jacket can keep you super warm and comes with an abundant five pockets. We’ve had one for over a year and have been super impressed with how warm its recycled polyester insulation is. We also love that it can be packed down into its own chest pocket down to the size of a water bottle for easy portability. Our one issue with this jacket is that it’s a tight squeeze to pack it into its own pocket, and once when we were pulling it out to expand it to its full size, we ripped a hole along the seam in one of the sides. So if you do pack this one down, just be mindful to unravel it carefully to avoid any damage.

    $259 at REI

    Arc'teryx Atom LT Insulated Hoodie

    Another fantastic midweight jacket, the Arc’teryx Atom LT has a fantastic weight-to-warmth ratio while maintaining breathability. At just 13.2 ounces, it’s light enough to earn a spot on your backcountry camping list, but it’s versatile enough to add to your daily uniform as well. We tested this jacket for about a month and have loved its cozy design. It’s so lightweight that you wouldn’t think it will keep you warm, but it kept us nice and toasty in the low 40s when we were camping in the Utah desert. One feature we really love about the Atom LT is its hood. It’s adjustable so it will hug your head and won’t block your line of sight. Plus, it has a tight contour around your face when the jacket is fully zipped up to help trap in all that warmth.

    $80 at REI

    REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack

    Whether you’re looking for a no-fuss day pack or a durable commuter bag, this 25-liter trail pack is a great, expert-picked hiking backpack. The three zippered pockets prevent your valuables from ending up deep at the bottom of your bag and the super-stretchy side pockets are roomy enough to store full water bottles, umbrellas or any trail snacks you want on hand. Wrapped in recycled ripstop nylon, this bag also has plush shoulder straps and back padding to help make bearing your load as comfortable as possible. With more support than a regular backpack but no overly technical features, this pack is perfect for aspiring outdoor adventurers and trail pros alike.

    $150 at REI

    Osprey Talon 22 Pack

    This feature-packed day pack comes with a hydration sleeve, chest and hip straps and plenty of storage space so you can pack your water, food, extra layers and anything else you might need on your day hikes.

    $230 at REI

    rei best products Blundstone Classic 550 Chelsea Boots

    We love Blundstone boots. The iconic design goes with nearly any fall outfit, and the Classic 550 version offers a ton of cushion and support in the sole. We’ve had a pair for nearly a year now, and wear them basically every day from October to March. Fair warning: These boots do take a while to break in, so they’ll be uncomfortable for the first few weeks or so. They also run a tad large. I normally bounce between 8.5 and 9 in US men’s sizes, and I ended up fitting perfectly in the Blundstone 8.5s.

    $45 at REI

    The North Face Etip Recycled Gloves

    A good pair of gloves is essential as the weather drops, but if you still want to be able to use your phone with gloves on, check out this pair from The North Face. We tried a handful of touchscreen gloves last year and one of our editors loved the Etip’s slim fit, which made using a touchscreen easier than with some bulkier gloves.

    $6 at REI

    GSI Outdoors Essential Spoon Long

    If you’re the type who doesn’t want to worry about cooking when camping and you just want the simplest, fastest option, you’ve probably eaten your fair share of dehydrated meals. The worst thing about eating these meals is trying to scoop the food out of the bag without getting your whole hand dirty, which is why this long spoon from GSI Outdoors is so brilliant. A perfect stocking stuffer for the dirtbag on your list, this spoon makes eating dehydrated meals infinitely easier.

    $25 at REI

    Yellowbird Organic Hot Sauce Set of 4

    Food always tastes better when you’re camping, but if you want to add even more flavor and spice, try these hot sauces from Yellowbird. We recently brought a tiny bottle of the brand’s serrano hot sauce and can confirm it’s a delicious sauce that we’re sure to bring on future camping trips (if we don’t use it all up at home first).

    $20 at REI

    Black Diamond Astro 300 Headlamp

    If you’re going camping, the flashlight on your phone isn’t going to cut it; you’re going to need a headlamp. This one from Black Diamond is a simple, cheap version that will make walking around in the dark immensely easier.

    $199 at REI

    La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX Hiking Boots

    Finding the perfect hiking boot can be difficult, but if you have a narrow foot you should seriously consider these boots from La Sportiva. Equipped with Gore-Tex to keep your feet dry and super-sticky rubber to help you keep your grip on the trail, they’re a great pair of boots for any sort of hike.

    $140 at REI

    Altra Lone Peak 6 Trail Running Shoes

    The Altra Lone Peak series has a cult following, and for good reason. They’re super comfortable, lightweight and have an ultrawide toe box so you can splay out your toes while hiking to help your balance. We’ve used Altra Lone Peak boots in the past and while we love how comfortable they are, the shoes aren’t known for their durability. Our pair has gotten really beaten up over the year we’ve had them and they’re already nearing the end of their life. If you want a boot to last you for years, skip this one. But if you want an ultralight, ultra-comfortable hiking experience and don’t mind buying a new pair every year, you’ll love the Lone Peaks.

    $145 $101 at REI

    Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

    These hiking boots are a fan favorite, thanks to their supportive construction, waterproofness and sticky Vibram rubber. Plus, the boots have an air cushion in the heels to help with support and stability on rough hikes.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $45 at REI

    Yeti Rambler

    The Yeti Rambler is our pick for the best water bottle because it not only keeps drinks hot or cold all day, but it’s also got the best lid on the market. It’s super easy to drink quickly out of its chug cap, and the whole thing comes off to reveal an ultra-wide mouth, which makes adding ice and water a breeze. Read more about why we love this bottle so much.

    $50 at REI

    Hydro Flask

    The Hydro Flask is another fantastic vacuum-insulated water bottle, and while we don’t think it’s as good as the Yeti, we can definitely appreciate its aesthetic appeal. This bottle comes with an included straw lid to make drinking easy and is available in a ton of fun colors.

    $16 at REI

    REI Co-op Nalgene Sustain Graphic Wide-Mouth Water Bottle 32-Ounce

    If you don’t need your drinks to keep their temperature for hours, check out this bottle from Nalgene instead. It’s got a wide mouth, it’s dishwasher-safe and it has a cute REI-themed design.

    $349 $244 at REI

    rei coupon coop backpacking bundle

    REI

    Backpacking is a great way to experience nature by heading deeper into the wilderness than you could with your car. Getting all your gear sorted out for a backcountry camping trip can be complicated, but buying this bundle from REI Co-op is a great start. Combining what are most often the most expensive pieces of gear — a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad — this three-piece kit helps you get started on your backpacking journey.

    $450 at REI

    Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2 Solution-Dyed Tent

    If you’re looking for an ultralight tent for backpacking, check out this tent from Big Agnes. It’s one of the most popular tents in the backpacking community, thanks to its minimum trail weight of just 2 pounds, 3 ounces. Plus, it’s easy to set up and will keep you protected from the elements.

    $129 $90 at REI

    REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 25 Sleeping Bag

    Sleeping bags are super handy and if you don’t want to spend too much money on a bag, and this one from REI is a solid option. Its rectangular shape means there’s plenty of room to toss and turn during the night and with a 25-degree Fahrenheit rating, you’ll stay toasty during the summer, spring and fall. If you’re sharing a tent with your partner, consider this double bag to stay extra toasty and snuggly.

    From $300 at REI

    Nemo Disco 15 Sleeping Bag

    For colder trips, consider this bag from Nemo, which has a 15-degree Fahrenheit rating. Its mummy shape traps in heat better to keep you warmer at night, and it’s designed with plush materials that make sleeping in the woods comfortable, even if you’re a side sleeper.

    $400 at REI

    Garmin inReach Mini 2

    You never want to be caught unprepared in the backcountry, which is why a satellite messenger like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 is critical to have on any camping checklist. This little gadget makes it easy to stay in touch with the civilized world even when there’s no service, and in case of emergency, it has an interactive SOS function that contacts a 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center so you can get help fast.

    $38 at REI

    LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Water Filter System

    If you want to drink clean water in the woods, check out this nifty water bottle from LifeStraw. It’s collapsible and packs down small but includes an integrated water filter so you can drink water from any river or lake you come across. We got our hands on one and love how versatile it is. We bring it wherever we go, whether it’s to the middle of the woods or on a city vacation.

    $115 at REI

    Jetboil Flash Cooking System

    Possibly the simplest way to cook in the backcountry, this Jetboil system can boil 1 liter of water in an average time of just 3 minutes and 20 seconds. Whether you’re heating up water to rehydrate dinner or to brew coffee in the morning, you won’t have to wait as long with this super-fast stove system.

    $100 at REI

    Coleman Cascade Classic Camp Stove

    If you’re looking for a more traditional camp stove that you can make burgers, chili and any other camp favorites on, you can’t go wrong with the classic Coleman stove. It’s easy to use, works great and is super portable.

    $200 at REI

    REI Ignik FireCan Potable Fire Pit

    REI

    With this portable fire pit, you can get cozy and roast marshmallows wherever you go. Built with foldable legs and a removable lid, it’s easy to take it on all your adventures.

    $20 at REI

    Nite Ize SpotLit XL Rechargeable Collar Light Disc-O Select

    Whether you’re trying to keep track of your pup while the sun is setting at the campground or want to take them on nightly runs and walks, this collar light helps your four-legged friend stay visible to you and cars.

    $100 at REI

    Ruffwear Vert Jacket

    If your dog has a thin coat or you want to take them into the outdoors when the temperatures drop, consider this jacket from outdoor dog brand Ruffwear. The shell is waterproof and windproof, so they can stay protected from the elements on all your adventures.

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  • The 45 best holiday gifts for frequent travelers | CNN Underscored

    The 45 best holiday gifts for frequent travelers | CNN Underscored

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    Frequent travelers need the right gear to help make their journeys more comfortable, efficient and enjoyable. If you’re wondering what to buy for the frequent traveler in your life this holiday season, look no further.

    We’ve pulled together some of the best holiday gifts for frequent travelers, from cameras and headphones to skin care, pillowcases, personalized gifts and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a holiday present for a frequent flyer, road trip warrior, budget backpacker or luxury hotel enthusiast, there’s a gift on this list for your favorite wanderer.

    From $50 at Dagne Dover

    Although hanging makeup and toiletry kits are all the rage, we love this alternative bucket pouch toiletry holder. It offers a removable liner, different separators and mesh pockets to store your liquids upright for easy access and no spillage. From bottles to makeup brushes, razors to creams, the bag can fit all kinds and shapes of toiletries and even features spots to zip jewelry or hair ties into the lid. Too big? It comes in a smaller option for $50 — ideal for a carry-on, too.

    $249 $234 at Amazon

    Apple AirPods Pro 2

    Travelers don’t necessarily need massive headphones to cancel out irritating noise on a plane in order to enjoy their music or a podcast. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are compact enough to store in a pocket, purse or any kind of travel bag. This newest model claims to offer active noise cancellation that’s twice as good as the previous generation’s — and in our experience, that’s definitely the case. These small but mighty wireless headphones are a great option for any traveler.

    $85 at July

    July Packing Cells, 8-Pack

    Packing cubes are a necessity for any traveler. These sturdy cubes won’t lose their shape, even after numerous trips and several washes. The eight-pack of cells comes with four different-sized cubes to fit distinct types of clothing, footwear and accessories. For those that swear by July suitcases, these cubes were designed to fit perfectly inside the brand’s trolley bags, though they’ll also fit nicely into most types of roller bags. We love that they’re also available in four different colors — charcoal black, forest green, snow white and sky blue — and feature a mesh top to easily view what’s inside each of the cubes.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $274 at Away

    Away The Carry on

    Any traveler needs a quality companion in the form of a roller carry-on bag. The Away Carry-On won our title of best overall hard-shell carry-on luggage in our testing because it offers the complete package: durability, thoughtful organization, smart design features and a chic look that can fit any traveler’s style. (It’s offered in eight different colors!) Plus, at a competitive price point, this bag will become your traveler’s favorite accessory. And if that traveler in your life is a notorious overpacker, consider Away’s The Bigger Carry-On for $295, which can fit more while also still fitting into most airlines’ overhead bins.

    $65 at Paravel

    Paravel Fold-Up Backpack

    Paravel is one of our favorite travel brands, and this backpack is one of Oprah’s favorite things, too. Not only are Paravel’s products cute, durable and practical, but they’re also made with sustainability in mind. This Fold-Up Backpack, as the name suggests, folds flat for easy storage when at home or to pack inside a suitcase. But when exploring a new destination or treading through the airport, the bag expands and features two zip pockets and can fit a day’s worth of essentials, including a 15-inch laptop. The backpack comes in six colors and can be monogrammed with your favorite traveler’s initials for an additional $15. It also comes in a mini size for $45.

    $60 at Monos

    Monos Metro Folio Kit

    This functional kit from Monos actually works as many different items in one — a travel wallet, handbag, passport holder, cord organizer, amenity kit, e-book holder and beyond. With all sorts of diverse storage spaces, loops and pockets, this versatile vegan leather kit makes for the ideal travel companion. The best part? It easily attaches to both the Metro Backpack and Metro Duffle for a mix-and-match situation that can benefit any type of traveler.

    $27 at Amazon

    'Destinations of a Lifetime' by National Geographic

    Travelers won’t be able to contain their wanderlust when flipping through this coffee table book that includes 225 of the world’s most incredible places. From tropical rainforests to ancient ruins to deserted islands, these magnificent photos showcase some of the world’s most epic destinations.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $60 at Amazon or Ostrichpillow

    Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

    This travel neck pillow is an absolute game-changer. It’s made from a high-density memory foam material and topped with a silky-soft, jersey-like fabric. In our testing, what we loved most about the Go Neck pillow was its 360-degree design that fastens with a Velcro strap to keep your neck from slouching forward or from side to side. It’s easy to carry, too, as the pillow compresses to 60% of its size for easy transport.

    From $26 at Amazon

    Noshinku Pocket Hand Sanitizer

    Hand sanitizer is a must when it comes to travel, but it doesn’t have to be boring, smell bad or dry out your skin. Noshinku’s sanitizer mist is small enough to pass through airport security regulations. The blend uses essential oils and alcohol derived from organic cane sugar to soften and sanitize hands simultaneously. The Noshinku four-pack is the perfect stocking stuffer, complete with eucalyptus, bergamot, spice and lavendula scents.

    $56 at Hotel Lobby Candle

    Hotel Lobby Paris Nuit Candle

    For some, hotels are simply a place to get a quick night of shuteye. For others, hotels are a lifestyle. Enter Hotel Lobby Candles, a brand created by travel and lifestyle influencer Lindsay Silberman. A scent from the Cities collection (Paris Nuit, Miami or New York) is perfect for any travelers longing for a luxury hotel experience from their favorite city they can emulate in their very own home.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $379 at Amazon

    Bose Noise Canceling 700 Over-Ear Headphones

    Although we love our Apple AirPods, sometimes you just need a big pair of noise-canceling headphones, especially apt for tuning out of the rest of the world. This set from Bose took our title as the best noise-canceling over-hear headphones thanks to terrific noise-canceling capabilities and a slimmed-down, chic design. Check out our review of them here.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $20 $15 at Amazon

    Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask

    Although there are many affordable and functional options on the market, this sleep mask from Mavogel is our best overall pick. Sleep can be so elusive — especially on long flights or in unfamiliar hotels — so your favorite traveler will love this premium, no-pressure cotton mask. It fully blacks out all the light while feeling comfortable around the eyes.

    From $89 at Amazon

    Slip Silk Pillowcase

    Keep skin and hair looking soft, silky and smooth while traveling with the Slip Silk Pillowcase. Made from 100% Pure 22 Momme Mulberry Silk, the case can be slipped over any hotel pillow or used to make any other travel or sleep situation just a little more comfortable.

    $59 at Amazon

    Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask

    Jet lag may affect you, but it doesn’t have to affect your (or your favorite traveler’s) skin — at least not if you’re applying the Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask. It hydrates and soothes parched, tired skin using ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. The vegan, cruelty-free product can be used as an overnight mask or as a moisturizer during a long flight. See more of our favorite beauty gifts here.

    $76 at Cadence

    Cadence Capsules Build Your 6

    This set of six capsules from Cadence makes it easy to tote around your favorite liquids — and even other small essential items like vitamins or rings — while traveling. The Build Your 6 set allows you to customize the colors and labels on each of the leakproof and magnetic capsules. They can stick together to create a single pod of travel necessities. Even better? The capsules are TSA-approved, so you can bring them in a carry-on bag. Read our full review of Cadence Capsules here.

    $22 at Amazon

    Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 Portable Charger

    A quality TSA-approved power bank will ensure your favorite traveler’s devices stay fully charged during their travels. This slim but powerful portable power charger can charge an iPhone 12 just more than two times. At just more than $20, this is a great product to ensure any traveler can access hours of music streaming, map-following and much more.

    $628 at Amazon

    Canon PowerShot Digital Camera G7 Bundle

    The Canon PowerShot’s easy-to-use point-and-shoot options mean even those who aren’t photographically savvy can snap great memories. It comes in a bundle with a memory card, spare battery, camera case, tripod and more, making it the perfect option for a budding photographer on the go.

    $29 $26 at Amazon

    WineHero Bottle Protector Bag

    Most oenophile travelers want to bring wine home when on vacation. But suitcase wine breakage is real, and getting home with wine bottles in one piece can be difficult. This set of six WineHero reusable plastic bubble wrap bags made from flexible, durable PVC plastic and heavy-duty lock seals ensures vino arrives home intact.

    $195 at Augustinus Bader

    Augustinus Bader Ultimate Travel Kit

    This cult beauty brand that’s a favorite of celebrities, dermatologists and beauty bloggers uses TFC8 (a Trigger Factor Complex) to nourish skin and promote cellular turnover. The technology was originally created by studying burn-damaged skin and finding ways to renew it. The kit includes travel sizes of cleansing gel, serum and cream to moisturize, restore and renew dry, fatigued or jetlagged skin.

    From $9 at Amazon

    Charmking Compression Socks, 3-Pack

    There’s a long list of benefits to wearing compression socks on long flights. From preventing swelling to deterring potential blood clots, fighting leg fatigue and more, they should be a staple in any frequent traveler’s wardrobe. This set of three pairs from Charmking is available in more than 30 different patterns and color combinations (from basic black to bold hues), so you can pick out the perfect set. They offer a formidable amount of compression while also offering breathability.

    $60 $55 at Amazon

    Wacaco Minipresso Portable Espresso Machine

    For travelers who can’t function without a quick shot of morning joe, just add ground espresso and boiling water to this mini-machine and make your own espresso. There’s no need to plug it in or use batteries, just give it a few pumps and you’ll be caffeinated in no time.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $57 at Amazon

    Sony SRS-XB13 Portable Compact Speaker

    This portable and powerful speaker from Sony won the title of the best portable Bluetooth speaker for travel in our testing. Don’t let its compact size fool you — it can produce a great sound. What we love most is that you can pair two XB13 devices together to create a stereo sound. For a traveler, this compact speaker is a no-brainer for throwing in a backpack or carry-on bag before heading off to explore a new destination.

    $125 at Rains

    Rains Buckle Roll-Top Duffle

    Constructed from Rains’ signature waterproof fabric, this extra-large duffle is both functional and stylish, complete with a rolltop snap closure. The weekender bag offers a single main compartment and an exterior zip pocket for additional storage. It’s available in two colors — black or Silver Pine — and offers waterproof protection no matter where your favorite traveler ventures.

    $100 for a 5-year membership at CBP

    Global Entry Membership

    Give the gift of ease: Frequent travelers can speed through customs when returning to the US with a Global Entry membership, which also comes with TSA PreCheck. Although your favorite traveler actually has to apply for the membership themself, you can foot the bill by using your credit card to pay for it. The best part? If you have travel credit cards like the Capital One Venture Credit Card, the Platinum Card® from American Express or the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, this “gift” will actually be fully credited to your statement, as these cards come with a Global Entry fee credit.

    $38 at Amazon or LifeStraw

    LifeStraw Peak Series Collapsible Squeeze Water Bottle

    Staying hydrated on the go is a necessity for any traveler. This is the water bottle that we think every traveler — from camper to backpacker and even luxury traveler — should have. That’s because it’s got a built-in filter so you can fill it up from just about any water source and know you’re drinking clean water. Plus, you can fold it up inside any carry-on bag for easy transport since it’s fully collapsible. You can read our full review of it here.

    $46 at Amazon

    'Great Escapes USA. The Hotel Book' By Angelika Taschen

    The ideal gift for architecture and design buffs who also love to travel, “The Hotel Book” showcases some of the most stunning and emblematic hotels around the United States. The hardcover book, which will sit beautifully on a coffee table, offers some seriously picturesque travel inspiration, from luxury haunts like the Amangiri to quirky, original spots like glamping cabins and vintage motels.

    $200 at Monos

    Monos Metro Backpack

    A stylish accessory for both personal and business travel, this water-resistant, nylon or vegan leather travel backpack comes in a variety of colors. It features plenty of storage space and can fit up to a 16-inch laptop in the dedicated outer pocket. With the included QuickSnap Modular Kit System, travelers can hook on other Monos products (see the aforementioned Monos Folio Kit) for seamless, hands-free travel. This bag is a versatile and stylish option for any traveler.

    $44 at Beis

    Beis The Passport & Luggage Tag Set

    This combo travel set from Beis includes a passport holder that doubles as a wallet or cardholder, a luggage tag and a transparent pouch for storing things from liquids to snacks and anything else. The passport holder even comes with a pen and holder for filling out any customs forms or jotting down any vital information when traveling.

    $45 at Away

    Away The Packable Sling Bag

    We’re big fans of Away, from the OG roller bags to the packing cubes and the brand’s newest drop, a ’90s-inspired, bubbly and colorful collection. But one of the brand’s other products that also makes a perfect gift is The Packable Sling Bag. It can double as a shoulder sling, fanny pack or handheld bag in which you can easily slip your keys, boarding passes, passport, phone and a few other handy items. It even comes in a limited edition color, “Psych!” as well as the standard blue and black and bright color tones.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $300 at Amazon

    Kindle Oasis

    Traveling readers will appreciate Amazon’s Kindle Oasis, which won the title of best overall e-reader in our testing. It has warm light and page-turning technology that makes a digital reading experience feel (almost) like reading a real book. It’s apt for beach bums and adventure travelers, too, withstanding accidental immersions in the pool or drops in a muddy pond.

    $20 at Amazon

    Benevolence LA Velvet Travel Jewelry Box Organizer

    Any traveler bringing jewelry along on their trip needs a safe space to store their most precious items. This travel jewelry case from Benevolence is one of Oprah’s Favorite Things of 2022 — and we can see why. The plush velvet case offers dedicated spaces to store rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more and can be zippered to keep jewelry safe and untangled. Plus, at just $20, this case is the perfect gifting option that won’t break the bank.

    $875 at Rimowa

    Rimowa Essential Cabin Bag

    This polycarbonate trolley bag from Rimowa is lightweight but durable enough to withstand the stress of frequent travel. Complete with the brand’s multi-wheel system (the spin is truly magnificent, whether you’re rolling along carpeted hotel hallways or a smooth airport floor), a telescopic handle and adjustable flex dividers, this carry-on bag comes in a variety of colors and your choice of a glossy or matte finish.

    From $26 at Uncommon Goods

    Scratch Map

    Help your traveler track where they’ve been with this innovative scratch-off map. Scratch off each country as they’re ticked off any traveler’s bucket list for a colorful display of adventure sure to bring back terrific memories.

    $38 at Amazon

    Flight 001 5-in-1 Adapter

    This color-coded adapter set was made for anyone who frequently travels abroad. The set features four different adapters for different countries, plus a cube with two USB ports. It’s easy to find the right adapter thanks to the varying colors based on plug shape and size.

    $80 $44 at Everlane

    Everlane Cotton Tourist Shirt

    Everlane’s Tourist Shirt is the perfect fit for travelers of all kinds. It’s a cotton, loose-fitting button-down for women that’s wearable in a number of ways. Your favorite traveler can sport it all day tied over a tank, paired with jeans when touring around or dress it up at night over a dress.

    $11 at Amazon

    Melsbrinna Premium Leather Passport Holder

    If you’re buying for someone who’s planning an international trip in the coming months, consider this versatile passport case from Melsbrinna. We like this option because not only does it fit a passport, but it also has space for documents like a boarding pass or vaccine card, credit cards, cash and even a pen, and a snap button closure keeps everything in place during transit. Plus, it comes in 10 different colors and designs to best suit any traveler’s style.

    $390 at Amazon

    Jet&Bo Cashmere Travel Kit

    Make any travel experience (even a middle seat) feel more luxurious with the Jet&Bo Cashmere Travel Set. The pack comes with a soft blanket, sleep mask, socks and a carrying case (all cashmere, of course). The items won’t wrinkle and will get softer with each use.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $230 $180 at Amazon or Samsonite

    Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner

    This bag from Samsonite took the title as the best budget checked suitcase in our testing. At just $180 from a recognizable travel brand like Samsonite, the traveler in your life will look forward to checking a bag on all of their upcoming travels. We loved how smooth-rolling and lightweight this suitcase was, as well as how much it could fit thanks to its expandable zippers.

    From $19 at Amazon

    Kootek Travel Hammock

    Perfect for the hedonist traveler, sway and relax anywhere in the world with the Kootek Travel Hammock. The large size fits up to two travelers and the hammock folds up into a small bag that can be easily tucked into a backpack or suitcase.

    $1,158 at Amazon

    DJI Mini 3 Pro (DJI RC) & Fly More Kit Plus

    The newest of the DJI Mini family, the Mini 3 Pro is a lightweight, compact drone that weighs less than 250 grams and offers 4K/60fps video and 48MP photos. With 34 minutes of air time and vertical shooting capabilities, this drone will capture all those special travel moments but still fit in a carry-on.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $40 $26 at Amazon

    Philips One by Sonicare Rechargeable Toothbrush

    Travel is no reason to skimp on dental hygiene. Consider gifting your favorite traveler this rechargeable travel toothbrush. In fact, we loved the Philips One by Sonicare so much that we gave it the title of best electric toothbrush for travel. It’s slim and compact, so it can be slipped into any travel bag and carries up to 30 days of battery life in one charge — long enough to last for most vacations.

    From $35 at Groove

    Groove Ring

    Even the most active or adventurous travelers may still want to accessorize. Groove rings are made from durable silicone with breathable grooves, which means you can still wear a comfortable wedding ring (or otherwise) even when hiking Everest, running the Chicago Marathon or just hopping on a long flight. The perfect gift for your partner or favorite pair of newlyweds, these rings come in pink, basic black and everything in between.

    $35 $30 at Amazon

    EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow

    A quality travel blanket can make any journey more comfortable. This option from Eversnug is a solid one no matter if the journey involves air travel, road trips, train travel or anything in between. The micro plush blanket is a great option for keeping warm and when not in use, it can be stored in the included pouch to be used as a pillow.

    Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards of 2022.

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  • 39 gifts under $25 that you might just keep for yourself | CNN Underscored

    39 gifts under $25 that you might just keep for yourself | CNN Underscored

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    If your wallet is feeling the pinch heading into the holiday season, you’re not alone. As you begin to make your holiday gifts list, surveying all those names and assessing who’s been naughty and who’s been nice, you may also be tallying up how much all those presents might cost and having a bit of a yikes moment.

    If you’re in need of gift ideas that won’t break the bank, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite under-$25 items that are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Need more ideas? Check out our favorite gifts for him, gifts for her, Nordstrom gifts, practical gifts and gifts from Oprah’s Favorite Things.

    $18 at Nordstrom

    Everyone could use another pair of comfy socks, and these from beloved brand Ugg will be appreciated by anyone.

    $21 at Etsy

    TomDesign Birthstone Stacking Ring

    These pretty little stacking rings, which are available in silver, gold or rose gold, are inset with your choice of one of the 12 birthstones for a pretty, personalized gift that looks way more expensive than it is.

    $25 at Target

    Stars Above Women's Beautifully Soft Long Sleeve Notch Collar Top and Shorts Pajama Set

    Pajamas are an old classic when it comes to holiday gifts. We love this two-piece pajama set that looks way more expensive than its $25 price tag.

    $15 at Urban Outfitters

    Urban Outfitters Gabbi Knit Bucket Hat

    For the fashionista in your life, this knit bucket hat will be the perfect accessory to all their outfits this winter.

    $24 at Etsy

    Knottinger Colour Block Bracelet Bangle

    Colorblock jewelry is so hot right now, and this bangle is a great way to indulge in the trend without breaking the bank. Choose from 12 colors in any combination to make your own custom bangle.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $10 at Amazon

    Mavogel Sleep Mask

    The gift of a good night’s sleep is priceless and, luckily, our favorite sleep mask is only $10, so getting that deep, restorative sleep you’ve been longing for is more attainable than you think.

    $10 at Amazon

    Bedsure Satin Pillowcase for Hair and Skin

    This polyester satin pillowcase can help reduce irritation to your hair and skin, thanks to its super-smooth surface, just like silk pillowcases but at a fraction of the price. Check out our full guide on the best silk pillowcases here.

    $25 at Sur La Table

    Cole & Mason Self-Watering Indoor Herb Garden Planter

    Give the gift of fresh herbs with this self-watering indoor herb garden planter! The budding home chef will love this self-watering potted herb keeper that prevents over- or under-watering.

    From $13 at Etsy

    Lavisainte Oyster Shell Jewelry Dish

    Trinket dishes are so useful, and can also be beautiful objets d’art in their own right. We love this gold-rimmed painted oyster shell that can be used as a jewelry dish, or a holder for any other small item.

    $20 at Amazon

    A Game of Cat & Mouth by Exploding Kittens

    This hectic game from the makers of Exploding Kittens is a pinball-esque competition that will have you catapulting balls at each other for hours.

    From $11 at Etsy

    Keyaiira Flag End Customizable Leather Cord Keeper Earbud Holder

    This little leather cord keeper is as functional as it is attractive. Have it embossed with the recipient’s name or initials to make the gift something truly special.

    $9 at Amazon

    Crepro Love Neon Sign

    This neon LOVE sign punches way above its price tag. The LED neon wall art is powered by batteries (not included) or by USB charging, and can be propped upright on a hard surface or mounted to the wall.

    $10 at Etsy

    PinkPeppermintShoppe Handmade Embossed Note Cards Set of 5

    Even in our increasingly digital world, having note cards on hand is such a smart thing — you never know when you need to dash off a thank-you note or tuck a birthday card into a gift bag.

    $20 at Amazon

    Sondiko Butane Torch

    For the one who’s obsessed with grilling or crème brûlée, this handheld butane torch is an easy way to up their cooking game.

    $15 at Amazon

    lifestraw lead CNNU.jpg

    Amazon

    Ensure your adventurer can always have a clean drink of water wherever they go with this personal filter. Read our review of it here.

    $25 at Uncommon Goods

    Storm Cloud

    This cute desk decoration features a special liquid inside that crystallizes and reacts to different air pressures so you can get help predicting the weather.

    $25 at Etsy

    PeanutEcoSesame 10 Pack Compostable Swedish Dishcloths with Abstract Floral Design

    These reusable, biodegradable dishcloths are the perfect paper towel replacement and help you cut down on waste. We tried them ourselves and think they’re the perfect eco-friendly stocking stuffer this holiday season.

    $20 at Amazon

    MMmat Silicone Baking Mats - Set of 2

    The baking enthusiast will be thrilled to ditch the tin foil in favor of these nonstick silicone baking mats, which are safe for the oven, dishwasher and freezer, and which lend a professional air to home kitchens.

    $25 at Amazon

    Dash My Pint Electric Ice Cream Maker

    Let your giftee indulge in their sweet tooth with this cute mini ice cream maker. Churning up one pint at a time, it’s the perfect way to add some extra sweetness to their next movie night. Check out more of our favorite ice cream makers here.

    $18 at Clevr

    Clevr Frother for Perfect Prep

    Milk frothers take a morning cup of Joe and elevate it to a coffeehouse-worthy drink. The Clevr Frother is rechargeable, easy to wash and portable, making it perfect for coffee lovers on the go.

    $20 at Bloomingdales

    Sugarfina Champagne Bears Bottle

    The sweet lover in your life will celebrate receiving Sugarfina’s bottle of champagne bears! A bottle-shaped display box showcases Sugarfina’s champagne bears, which are infused with Dom Pérignon Vintage Champagne.

    $25 at Amazon

    Yeti Rambler 10 oz Stackable Mug

    This simple yet useful gift will find a permanent spot on your giftee’s desk. Featuring Yeti’s double-wall insulation, it can keep coffee hot all morning long.

    $5 at Sur La Table

    Olo’s Chipotle Paste

    Spice things up with a tube of Olo’s Chipotle Paste. The smokey, spicy concentrated paste comes in a tube, making it super easy to add a kick to your cooking, and the bright red packaging elevates it to a giftable item.

    $25 at W&P Design

    Nordstrom WP Design The Popper Microwave Bowl

    For the popcorn aficionado, this popper allows you to simply fill the bowl with kernels, let it cook in the microwave and in a matter of minutes start snacking. Even better: The bowl is collapsible.

    $10 at Amazon

    Stasher Bags

    If someone in your life is trying to reduce their single-use plastic waste, these Stasher bags are the perfect gift. They’ll never need another Ziploc bag, since these high-quality silicone pouches can be frozen, microwaved, tossed in the oven and even cleaned in the dishwasher. We’ve used them ourselves and won’t ever go back to plastic bags.

    $15 at Amazon or $18 at Truff

    Truff Hot Sauce

    Add some gourmet spice to their life with this delicious, truffle-infused hot sauce. One of our favorite brands, Truff also offers pasta saucemayonnaise and more.

    $16 at Uncommon Goods

    Astrology Wine Glass

    These gorgeous wine glasses feature all 12 astrology signs so you can find one to match everyone on your list.

    $24 at Uncommon Goods

    Vintage Baseball Park Map Glass

    Baseball fans will love this customized glass, which features the map of famous baseball parks like Fenway, Dodger Stadium, Yankee Stadium and more.

    $18 at Puffin Drinkware

    Puffin Beverage Jacket

    As winter rolls in and you start bundling up, grab a coat for your beer too. This cute and funny beverage jacket comes in three different colors so your drink can stay cozy and stylish.

    $13 at Amazon

    Goshi Exfoliating Shower Towel

    Don’t you think their shower deserves to feel like a spa? We tried the Goshi towel and it’s completely revolutionized our shower experience, with an exfoliating weave that sloughs off dead skin and left us feeling silky smooth.

    $12 Amazon

    Sheet Mask by Glam Up, 12-Pack

    These hydrating masks are the perfect addition to your next at-home spa day. Featuring natural ingredients like tea tree, shea butter, aloe and more, it’s about time to pamper yourself.

    $19 at Amazon

    Esarora Ice Roller

    Whether it’s for puffiness or headaches and migraines, this ice roller from Esarora is a cheap yet effective beauty essential that remains an Underscored editor favorite.

    $16 at Skin Gym

    Skin Gym Cleanie Puffs

    The makeup lover in your life will love these makeup removing puffs. To use, simply wet the puff and massage it on the face to remove makeup. They can be machine washed and used over and over again, so you can say goodbye to expensive and wasteful makeup removing wipes.

    $18 at Apto Skincare and Target

    Apto Orange Blossom Cleanser

    This cleanser is a favorite of Rachel Lubitz, our senior lifestyle editor, who says, “It smells like oranges in a non-overwhelming way and really does help wake me up in the morning.” It also comes in a striking orange bottle, making it a giftable — and affordable! — choice for the beauty-obsessed person on your holiday shopping list.

    $24 at Uncommon Goods

    Aromatherapy Body Patches

    Here’s a fun twist on giving the gift of perfume: The scent-lover in your life will adore these aromatherapy body patches. Each set of eight stick-on patches includes four different scents, so you can mix and match them to your mood.

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  • Shopping for someone you don’t know that well? Check out these 29 expert-approved gift ideas | CNN Underscored

    Shopping for someone you don’t know that well? Check out these 29 expert-approved gift ideas | CNN Underscored

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    Buying gifts for someone you don’t know very well can be a tricky endeavor. Not only is it hard to get it right, but it is all too easy to get it wrong! You can also run the risk of turning a kind gesture into an inconvenience or a burden. “As professional organizers, one of the most common items we come across in our clients’ homes are unwanted gifts that are hanging around because our clients feel too guilty to get rid of them,” Ann Lightfoot and Kate Pawlowski, authors of the book “Love Your Home Again,” say.

    “Of course it’s the thought that counts,” Lightfoot and Pawlowski say, “but we recommend giving gifts that get used up or can easily be regifted.” Their gift guide motto is “Eat It, Drink It, Burn It, Spend It” because presents that fall into those categories, once used, don’t have to be stored.

    Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach, offers some general — and very modern — advice when picking out a gift for someone you don’t know very well. “If you don’t know someone very well, try to find out something about the person,” she says. “You can do this by asking a mutual friend or family member or by checking their social media pages (if they are on social).”

    Ahead, with the help of Lightfoot, Pawlowski and Whitmore, are 29 gift ideas for someone you don’t know very well, and plenty of tips for avoiding a gifting gaffe. Need more ideas? Check out our favorite gift ideas for women, gift ideas for men, Nordstrom gifts, Amazon gifts and practical gifts.

    Plants and home goods

    $48 at Anthropologie

    “Personal things like jewelry, perfume and home decor can be very hard to get right,” Lightfoot and Pawlowski say, “so we advise steering clear of those types of items.” A picture frame in a classic or neutral style, however, is an example of home or office decor that can be quite easy to get right, and makes a nice gift for someone you don’t know well.

    From $40 at Nordstrom

    Diptyque Baies Candle

    While staying away from scented items altogether is one way to avoid a gifting faux pas, you could certainly opt for a high-end classic like the Diptyque Baies candle. It is a gorgeous berry-scented candle that makes a beautiful gift.

    $68 $48 at The Sill

    Hoya Heart

    Small plants, such as this adorable Hoya Heart, are a great gift for someone you don’t know well. The Sill is a great place to shop for a plant for someone you don’t know well because they have a gift finder that allows you to sort by occasion and price.

    From $30 at Horti

    Silver Dollar Vine

    A heart-shaped plant may not be appropriate to give on certain occasions, or to certain people, but this Silver Dollar Vine plant is a safe bet for almost anyone.

    $22 at The Home Depot

    4 in. Phalaenopsis Orchid in Grower Pot

    Plants of all types are lovely gifts, but orchids in particular feel special and elegant. They can also be quite pricey! The Home Depot may not be a place you think of when it comes to buying fine plants, but the brand has an excellent selection at just about every price point.

    $25 at Etsy

    Long Dog Shop Linen Monogrammed Hand Towels - Set of 2

    “Avoid anything too personal,” Whitmore cautions, “such as perfume, body lotions, cosmetics or clothing.” One way to get personal without botching a gift is with monogrammed gifts. A tip: If you don’t know the person’s full name, opt for a single letter monogram.

    $31 at Amazon

    Let's Get Lost: The World's Most Stunning Remote Locations

    Whitmore suggests asking yourself these questions when picking out a gift for someone you don’t know especially well. “If you’ve met the person before, what did you notice about their home or office? Do they collect anything or have any particular hobbies or interests?” A travel book is a lovely choice for someone who displays souvenirs or photos from trips.

    Useful and practical gift ideas

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $20 $10 at Amazon

    mavogel sleep mask

    Amazon

    A practical gift, especially one that you can personally vouch for, is a smart way to be a thoughtful gift-giver, even when you don’t know the recipient terribly well. This cotton sleep mask — our pick for best overall sleep mask — is one of those gifts people won’t know they needed until they have it.

    $22 $18 at Amazon

    Bagsmart Universal Cable Organizer Electronics Accessories Case

    As electronics proliferate, so do their accessories, and our bags sometimes can’t keep up with the clutter of cords and chargers. This tech accessories case solves that problem, which at this point is a fairly universal one, making this practical gift a safe bet for just about anyone.

    $10 at Amazon

    Favoto Car Trash Can with Lid and Tissue Holder

    Another practical gift idea that will work for a lot of people is this super-clever car trash can. It has a lid to hide its ugly contents and a compartment for tissues or wipes, so it does double duty in keeping the car clean when dirty hands need a quick cleaning.

    $22 $18 at Amazon

    Tundras Hot Hand Warmers Long-Lasting - 40 Count

    If the person on your gift list lives in a cold climate, or is a fan of cold weather activities, a set of hand and toe warmers will be a very welcome gift indeed.

    $12 at Amazon

    W&P Peak Silicone Water Bottle Ice Tray w/ Protective Lid

    “Try to avoid ubiquitous items that are going to take up room in cabinets, such as mugs or water bottles,” Lightfoot and Pawlowski say. “Most people have enough of those!” Instead, think around those things to come up with a useful and thoughtful gift, such as this silicone tray that makes ice perfectly shaped for use in a water bottle.

    $41 at Biom

    Biom Hand Sanitizing Wipes Starter Kit

    Disinfecting wipes are here to stay — and they’re getting a makeover! Typically, cleaning products do not make great gifts, but an elevated example of the form can be something that is truly welcomed, such as this attractive hand sanitizer wipe dispenser kit.

    $42 at Anthropologie

    Capri Blue Volcano Hand Soap & Lotion Gift Set

    This gorgeously scented hand soap and lotion combo is another example of elevating an everyday experience — in this case, washing your hands — with a luxe version of a household item.

    $24 $16 at Alo

    Keep It Dry Fitness Zip Pouch

    Wet bags are incredibly useful things, and this version from the super-popular fitness brand Alo is an especially cool-looking take on the form. Wet bags can be used for stashing sweaty gym gear, toting a wet bathing suit or dealing with soiled kids’ clothes, and they’re great for travel, making for a gift idea that serves a lot of needs and interests.

    Food and drink

    $30 at Uncommon Goods

    Instant Colorful Tea Latte Kits

    Gifts of food and drink are smart choices for someone you don’t know well, but there are some risks to consider. “Never assume that food or alcohol are always the best gifts,” Whitmore says. “Some people have allergies or dietary restrictions and can’t drink alcohol or eat sweets or nuts.” She suggests looking for gifts of specialty teas or coffees instead of alcohol to avoid a potentially awkward moment.

    $40 at Blue Bottle Coffee

    Blue Bottle Coffee Cold Brew Set

    The experts we spoke to all emphasized coffee gifts as good choices for someone you don’t know well. Blue Bottle Coffee products is a favorite among our staff, and the brand offers a large selection of giftable items like this cold brew set.

    $39 at Bean Box

    Bean Box Coffee + Chocolate Tasting Box

    “Even if you don’t know someone very well, you may still be aware that they love coffee,” Lightfoot and Pawlowski say. “We like to give smaller amounts of coffee with a couple of different options in case your recipient is particular about their morning brew.” They recommend this tasting box, which features four coffees paired with gourmet chocolate bars. “Coffee and chocolate — a match made in heaven!”

    $16 per pound at Goldbelly

    Mike's Pastry Pistachio Macaroons

    “Gifts from your home state or country” make great presents for someone you don’t know well, Whitmore says. Goldbelly is a perfect way to easily gift some of your hometown favorites, such as these pistachio macaroons from Mike’s Pastry in Boston’s North End (this author’s hometown favorite).

    $49 at Amazon

    Pralus Pyramid Pyramide des Tropiques - 10 Dark Chocolates from Around the World

    Gifts of food rooted in a place, or places, make for good conversation starters with someone you may not know very well, when the occasion requires a gift, like this set of 10 chocolates from around the world.

    $30 at Harry & David

    Harry & David Snack Box

    “Gift baskets with a variety of foods are typically a safe bet,” Lightfoot and Pawlowski say, “because even picky eaters are likely to find something they like. They’re great for people who have families because everyone in the household will feel included. We’ve purchased holiday gift baskets from Harry & David for years and have never been disappointed!”

    $32 at Sur La Table

    Charbonnel et Walker Marc de Champagne Pink Chocolate Truffles

    When it comes to picking out a gift for someone you don’t know well, don’t overlook the wow factor that packaging can bring to the occasion. This set of eight pink chocolate truffles comes in a beautiful pink and gold box that is practically a gift on its own.

    $30 at Food52

    Raaka Chocolate Daily Dose Chocolate Pack (30 Pieces)

    Chocolate gifts come in many forms, including this cheeky “daily dose of chocolate” boxed set of 30 bite-size chocolates. Pick from their four flavors (pink sea salt, 100% cocoa, oat milk or coconut milk) or the mixed set, which includes all four flavors.

    $11 $9 at Amazon

    Portland Pet Food Company All-Natural Dog Treat Biscuits

    Whitmore offered a very clever food gift idea: pet treats! If you know that the person has a dog, cat or another species of beloved pet, something for their animal companion is sure to bring a smile to their face!

    From $31 at Etsy

    YellowPaperHouse Junque Journal

    Even in an increasingly digital world, paper goods can be a wonderful gift, especially because there is such a range of styles to choose from. For a younger or more creative person, we love this multicolored Junque Journal that has lined, dotted and blank spaces, because it’s a surprising take on an old standard.

    $21 at Amazon

    Moleskine Classic Notebook

    Of course, you can’t go wrong with an old standard when picking out a journal for a person you don’t know well, such as this classic Moleskine notebook that’s available in 22 colors, including basic black.

    $35 $28 at Paper Source

    Border Monogram Mixed Personalized Note Pads

    Personalized stationery seems like a true luxury, but it doesn’t necessarily have to break the bank. This set of five notepads comes in three different sizes, and can be monogrammed with a single letter if you don’t know the recipient’s full name and monogram.

    $14 at Etsy

    PetitePaperie Dragon Note Cards Stationery Set of 10 Cards

    While much of our correspondence is now done electronically, there are times that call for a handwritten note, or when you need a card for a gift. A small set of blank note cards is a surprisingly useful gift, and offers almost endless options in terms of motif and style, like these dragons.

    From $12 at Etsy

    Southernkickleather Personalized Leather Card Holder

    “In some instances,” Lightfoot and Pawlowski say, “gift cards can be frowned upon. But the fact is, if you’re trying to give a present to someone you don’t know very well, a gift card can be the most thoughtful option.” They suggest making a gift card more personal by purchasing one from a local business such as a restaurant, an independent bookstore or a gift shop. A personalized card holder is a nice way to present a gift card.

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  • 30 Hanukkah gifts you’ll wish you thought of sooner | CNN Underscored

    30 Hanukkah gifts you’ll wish you thought of sooner | CNN Underscored

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    Unlike the Christmas holiday, the celebration of Hanukkah begins on a different date each year and lasts eight nights, usually in late November or December. However, like Christmas, there really aren’t any hard-and-fast rules for Hanukkah gifts. Although we love a cute blue-and-white print or a stylish new menorah, it’s really the thought that counts during the holiday season.

    A quick reminder, the Festival of Lights kicks off on Dec. 18 this year (which yes, means it overlaps with Christmas), so be a real mensch and pick up your gifts soon! We’ve found some of the most creative, surprising and delicious gifts, so keep reading for some holiday inspiration. Need more ideas? Check out our favorite gift ideas for women, gift ideas for men, practical gifts, Amazon gifts and Nordstrom gifts.

    $32 at Anthropologie

    We love this hand-carved acacia wood serving set because the braided handles evoke a delicious loaf of challah. They’ll make a practical and beautiful addition to any holiday table.

    $109.99 at Harry and David

    Harry & David 8 Nights of Hanukkah Gift Box

    They’ll feast on rugelach, jordan almonds, milk chocolate gelt coins, dried fruit and nuts and more when this big blue box — shaped like the Star of David — arrives.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $15 From $14 at Amazon

    Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Maker

    With our pick for the best cold brew coffee maker of 2022, they’ll be able to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee from the comfort of their home.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $429.99 at Dyson

    Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

    This special-edition hair dryer in Vinca blue and Rosé includes five different styling attachments and is designed to protect your hair from extreme heat damage. Naturally we named it the best high-end hair dryer on the market too.

    $17.99 $12.59 at Personalization Mall

    Choose Your Icon Personalized Hanukkah Whiskey Glass

    They’ll enjoy a glass of whiskey — or any drink of their choice — with these cute, customizable glasses. Just select the Star of David and your color choices and add their family name or another meaningful phrase, then hit send to get the gift going their way.

    $67.99 at Truff

    Truff Hot Sauce Variety Pack

    They’ll enjoy more flavorful food with this variety pack of hot sauces from Truff which includes the Original, the Hotter and the White Hot Sauce.

    $149.95 at Goldbelly

    Ess-a-Bagel New York Bagel Brunch for 12

    Clichéd? Probably, but who doesn’t love a good bagel spread? This one from New York fave Ess-a-Bagel ships nationwide, so the whole fam can nosh on big, chewy, crusty hand-rolled and kettle-boiled bagels with nova, cream cheese and whitefish salad.

    From $99 at Allbirds

    Allbirds Women’s Wool Runners

    A perfect for gift someone who’s always on their feet, these cozy and machine-washable sneakers from Allbirds are made with merino wool and designed with a cushioned midsole for comfortable all-day wear.

    $35 From $18.99 at Amazon

    ‘Sababa: Fresh, Sunny Flavors From My Israeli Kitchen: A Cookbook’ by Adeena Sussman

    This cookbook, from Chrissy Teigen’s award-winning co-author for her Cravings line, is a joyous celebration of the romance and beauty of Israeli cuisine. Gift this accessible cookbook and they’ll be cooking up the flavors of Tel Aviv markets at home — a gift you’ll both enjoy!

    From $28 at Uncommon Goods

    Invigorate Shower Steamers Gift Set

    Give them the relaxing gift of a yummy, invigorating spa experience at home with these steamers packed with energizing essential oil aromatherapy scents like cedar orange and pine.

    $35 at Harry’s

    Harry’s Shave & Shower Travel Kit

    Get your dad, your brother or anyone in your life who shaves this handy travel kit that pretty much encompasses everything but the bathroom sink. They’ll get a travel bag, a razor with a Truman handle and weighted grip and TSA-approved body wash, face wash and dual shampoo-conditioner.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    From $98 at Lululemon

    Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant

    Our pick for the best workout leggings of 2022, these soft, lightweight yoga pants are stretchy, opaque and sweat-wicking so you can tackle your hardest workouts worry-free.

    $50 at Nordstrom

    Bracha Initial Pendant Necklace

    This dainty pendant necklace, plated in 14-karat gold, makes the perfect gift for your niece, little sister or anyone who loves personalized jewelry.

    $399 $299 at Moon Pod

    uniquemothersdaylead

    Moon Pod

    Available in five different colors, this updated version of the traditional beanbag is designed to conform to your body shape and would make a great addition to anyone’s family room or playroom.

    From $40 at Jiggy

    Jiggy Puzzle

    Is there a puzzle enthusiast in your family? If so, why not gift one of these beautiful puzzles from Jiggy that can double as a framed art piece when completed?

    $495 at Nordstrom

    Bony Levy Icons Diamond Star of David Pendant Necklace

    This 18-karat yellow gold pendant sparkles with six diamonds and falls delicately from an 18-inch chain.

    $20 at Uncommon Goods

    Handmade Felt Menorah

    This festive felt menorah will keep little spirits bright all eight nights, and is the perfect gift for little ones — they can add a cloth candle every night without burning their fingers.

    $19 at Uncommon Goods

    Murder Mystery Jigsaw Puzzle

    Every family has at least one true-crime-obsessed member, and maybe more! Get the whole crew involved and solve this puzzle while revealing clues that help solve the mystery of who did it.

    From $59.99 at Bokksu

    Bokksu Gift Snack Box

    Whether you choose to gift a one-, three-, six- or 12-month subscription, they’ll look forward to trying different Japanese snacks and candies.

    From $60 at Atlas Coffee Club

    Atlas Coffee Club

    Why not gift a three-, six- or 12-month coffee subscription this Hanukkah? Your lucky gift recipient will receive a shipment of coffee from a different country each month along with a beautiful postcard. Read our review here.

    $98 at Wild One

    Wild One Harness Walk Kit

    The perfect gift for a dog lover, this Wild One Harness Walk Kit is available in 12 different colors and comes with a cushioned dog harness, a waterproof leash and a poop bag carrier. It’s an Underscored editor favorite.

    $545 $395 at Caraway

    Caraway Cookware Set

    This non-toxic, ceramic-coated cookware set includes a 10.5-inch fry pan, a 3-quart sauce pan, a 4.5-quart saute pan, a 6.5-quart Dutch pan and storage.

    From $199 at Bearaby

    Bearaby Cotton Napper

    Perfect for those chilly winter nights, why not gift this cozy weighted blanket from Bearaby that comes in six different colors and four different weights?

    $38 at Homesick

    Homesick Latkes and Lights Candle

    Shopping for someone who is fragrance-obsessed? This bestseller from Homesick has a burn time of up to 80 hours and features notes of baked apple, pomegranate and vanilla.

    $100 at Nordstrom

    Ugg Ansley Water-Resistant Slipper

    These comfy, water-resistant moccasin slippers from Ugg are available in seven different colors and are perfect for wearing around the house or out for quick errands.

    $99 $92.88 at Amazon

    Apple AirTag, 4-Pack

    If you’re in need of a gift for someone who loves to travel, these little Apple trackers will help them keep an eye on their luggage.

    From $15 at Masterclass

    Masterclass Subscription

    Whatever their interests, with a MasterClass subscription they’ll have access to a variety of online classes led by world-class instructors.

    $239 at Amazon

    Airpods Pro 2

    These noise-cancelling wireless earbuds from Apple fit comfortably in the ear and offer 6 hours of continuous playback.

    From $19 at Grafomap

    Grafomap

    Surprise them with a personalized gift from Grafomap by buying them a custom map of the city of your choice.

    $75 at Naadam

    Naadam The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater

    Made from Mongolian cashmere and available in a variety of different colors, this bestseller will quickly become a staple in their wardrobe.

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  • 32 practical yet thoughtful holiday gifts you’ll wish you’d thought of sooner | CNN Underscored

    32 practical yet thoughtful holiday gifts you’ll wish you’d thought of sooner | CNN Underscored

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    We love practical gifts — after all, we spend a lot of time thinking about what makes the perfect example of any given product. So when we find the best-ever travel pillow or an absolutely perfect cooler, we want everyone we know to have one.

    When giving a practical gift, however well intentioned or thoughtful, you risk disappointing the recipient — or worse, outright offending them! Our general advice when it comes to giving a practical gift is to find the sweet spot of items that are useful but also feel like a true gift to your friends and family. Ahead, we’ve rounded up our favorite gifts that do just that. Need more ideas? Check out our gifts for him, gifts for her, Nordstrom gifts, favorite Amazon gifts and gifts for everyone else on your list.

    $15 at Amazon

    We live in an increasingly paperless world, which is great, but sometimes you just need to jot something down by hand. This gift set from Post-it includes a round notepad, a to-do list notepad, a prenumbered notepad and five felt tip pens, all in a festive red and pink colorway.

    $6.95 at Etsy

    ThreeBlueBirds3 Winter Cardinals Swedish Dishcloth

    Swedish dishcloths are incredibly versatile reusable cleaning rags that can take the place of sponges, cotton dishcloths and paper towels. They also come in loads of colors and patterns, like this Winter Cardinals motif, that make them feel festive and more present-y than a stack of flour-sack dish towels.

    $25 $12.99 at Amazon

    SameTech Pineapple Corer Slicer

    As an organizing expert, I typically avoid single-use kitchen tools like the plague. But I bought this pineapple corer and slicer after seeing it on “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” and quickly fell madly in love with it. It makes quick work of hollowing out the flesh of a pineapple into rings, and by my back-of-the-envelope math, it paid for itself in three pineapples. (Precut pineapple is expensive!) As a bonus, the tool leaves the exterior of the pineapple intact so you can serve drinks in it, which I have done several times and which is currently my most impressive party trick!

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $49.99 $39.99 at Amazon

    Pure Enrichment MistAire Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

    The Pure Enrichment MistAire was our pick for best humidifier for the bedroom, because it’s whisper-quiet. A good humidifier can improve your skin, your sinuses and your sleep, making it a great practical gift for almost everyone on your holiday shopping list.

    $19.99 $18.99 at Amazon

    Tundras Hot Hand Warmers Long-Lasting, 40-Pack

    If the person on your gift list lives in a cold climate or is a fan of cold weather activities, a set of hand and toe warmers will be a very welcome gift indeed.

    $11.95 at Amazon

    Oxo Good Grips 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer

    Everything you need to prep an avocado — from slicing to pitting — in one compact, dishwasher-safe tool. It’s an Underscored reader favorite.

    $12 at Amazon

    W&P Peak Silicone Water Bottle Ice Tray With Protective Lid

    Ubiquitous items like mugs or water bottles don’t make great gifts, because most people have enough of those. But items that are related to those things can make useful and thoughtful gifts, like this silicone tray that makes ice perfectly shaped for use in a water bottle.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $129 $99 at Tushy

    Tushy Classic 3.0

    A gift for someone you know really, really well … to say the least. Our pick for the best bidet attachment, the Tushy 3.0 is incredibly easy to install on a wide variety of toilets, and even easier to enjoy. It’s a complete bathroom game changer we can’t recommend enough.

    $18.95 $15.95 at Amazon

    Drill Brush Power Scrubbers

    If chances are high that the person you’re shopping for owns a drill, then this tool set can turn that device into a cleaning machine. If they’re a bit of a neat freak and are itching to make that grout and those baseboards look brand new, this is the gift for them. It’s a true Underscored reader favorite.

    $99.95 $82.99 at Amazon

    AeroGarden Sprout with Gourmet Herb Seed Kit

    An indoor LED grow light garden is a perfect gift for a budding home cook, providing fresh herbs right when you need them. The easy-to-use gardening system comes with a gourmet seed kit featuring six herbs — Genovese basil, curly parsley, dill, thyme, Thai basil and mint.

    $44 at Pura

    Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser

    I was sent a Pura smart diffuser a few months ago, but I set it aside because I already had a traditional plug-in diffuser and I figured there wasn’t much difference. How wrong I was! When I finally set up the Pura I was absolutely WOWED by it. I love the scents, I love that you can program it to go on at certain times, I love that it allows you to adjust the scent’s potency and I especially love the customizable night-light feature. This thing is so cool, I’m giving one to everyone I know this year.

    $35 at Flourish

    Flourish All-Purpose Plant Food Kit

    If you’ve got a plant parent on your holiday gifting list, this organic plant food kit is the perfect thing. The set includes Flourish’s organic plant food and a limited-edition dilution vessel that makes feeding plants feel like a formal affair.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $39.99 at Amazon

    Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

    In our testing of travel pillows, The Cabeau Evolution S3 stood out among the competition: Our reviewers call it “the Goldilocks of travel pillows.” They praised its design, which is firm enough to support the head and neck but soft enough to fall asleep on, and noted that it is eminently portable, thanks to its being made of springy memory foam that enables you to compress it to half its size.

    $16 at Liberty

    Liberty Margaret Annie Print Square Measuring Tape

    A small tape measure is one of those items that is absurdly handy, and a pretty one, like this Liberty print, is a great small gift idea. Toss it in a bag or a junk drawer and marvel at how many times you reach for it!

    $799 at Hyperice

    Normatec 3 Legs

    One approach to practical gift-giving is to go big! Our reviewer loves the Normatec 3 Legs compression system, which provides a customizable massage experience to help improve athletic training and recovery.

    $12.99 at Hex

    Hex Performance Dual-Action Gear Wash Kit

    The care of sporting equipment like protective pads, gear bags, workout gloves, etc. is often overlooked, resulting in nasty-smelling gear. Hex’s Gear Wash Kit is designed to deep clean a variety of gear and apparel and makes a great gift for the sporting sort on your holiday shopping list.

    $18 at Clevr

    Clevr Frother for Perfect Prep

    A milk frother is a simple tool that elevates a cup of morning coffee to a work of art. Our associate beauty editor, Sophie Shaw, loves Clevr’s frother, which she praises for being super easy to clean, store and charge.

    $12.50 at Etsy

    TheNorthBeeShop Wax Sachet

    Sachets are small scented deodorizers designed to be used in drawers or closets to keep the contents smelling fresh. Typically, they are made of bags filled with botanicals like lavender, but these pressed wax sachets are a more modern approach that make a surprising and lovely gift item.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $149 at Patagonia

    Patagonia Women's Torrentshell 3L Jacket

    In our test of rain jackets, the Patagonia Torrentshell outperformed all other jackets in key areas. Our reviewer calls it “ridiculously waterproof” and praised it for being “extremely breathable, durable and comes with Patagonia’s lifetime Ironclad Guarantee.”

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    From $189 at Parachute

    Parachute Linen Sheet Set

    Really good sheets, like Parachute’s linen sheets, which were our pick for best linen sheets, are such a great gift. For more recommendations and gift ideas, check out our guides to the best luxury linens and the best cooling sheets.

    $199 $179 at Therabody

    Theragun Mini

    Massage guns are popular tools for post-workout recovery, making them a great gift for the runner, powerlifter or Pilates devotee in your life. While many massage guns can be bulky, loud and quite expensive, the Theragun Mini gets high marks for being quiet, small and comfortable to use, and its under-$200 price tag makes it a reasonable option for gift-giving.

    $138 $117.30 at Buffy

    Buffy Wiggle Pillow and Cover

    Buffy, the maker of those cloudlike duvets, took the pregnancy pillow and redesigned it for the masses. The Wiggle Pillow is a floppy yet supportive, tie-able pillow that offers full-body support for sleeping or lounging. A removable, machine-washable cover is available in three colors: Cream, Puff and Toast.

    $289 at Uncommon Goods

    Sarah Burrows and Nick Behr Growlight Frame Shelf

    For the indoor gardener, this frame-style shelf fitted with a growlight is a functional showstopper. The frame is also fitted with a timer, and is the perfect way to keep indoor plants and herbs happy and thriving in low-light settings.

    $45.99 $35.09 at Amazon

    Asakuki Essential Oil Diffuser With Oils

    An essential oil diffuser serves two functions: It will fill your home with the aroma of essential oils — which are thought to be major mood boosters. This diffuser has multiple mist modes, seven different LED colors and an automatic shutoff safety feature. It comes with six bottles of essential oils in lavender, lemongrass, eucalyptus, tea tree, sweet orange and peppermint.

    $12.99 at Amazon

    AWinjoy Gold Kitchen Scissors

    Kitchen shears are such a useful thing to own, but they’re a bit on the practical side to give as a gift — unless you elevate the form by picking a luxe-looking style. These gold-handled kitchen shears fit the bill perfectly.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $28 From $26.60 at Frontgate

    Frontgate Resort Cotton Bath Towel

    In our test of bath towels, Frontgate’s Resort Cotton Bath Towel was among the most luxurious-feeling, making it our pick for best towel. “Thick, soft and snuggly,” our reviewer says, “this product truly feels like a fine hotel bathing experience,” which elevates towels from home basic to luxurious gift.

    $125 at Magic Linen

    Magic Linen Linen Bath Robe

    When asked about our own favorite robes, senior lifestyle editor Rachel Lubitz declared of this linen number, “The sleeves are a perfect length and it drapes so elegantly from my shoulders. If you’re looking for a linen robe, this is the one to buy.” The robe comes in three colors: light gray, gray blue or woodrose and a dusty pink shade.

    $11.99 at Target

    Aquaphor Ointment Body Spray & Dry Skin Relief

    This is my own personal recommendation: I have never met an ointment I didn’t love, and when I learned that Aquaphor was offering their beloved ointment in spray form, I flipped my lid. This stuff is amazing, and honestly I think you should buy a case and put a can in the stocking of everyone you know.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $88 at Lululemon

    Lululemon Reversible Mat

    Exercise mats have a life span; when they lose their loft or start showing signs of wear and tear like nicks, shredding or curling, it’s time for a new one. The Lululemon mat is our pick for best overall yoga mat, and it makes a great gift for the home workout enthusiast or yogi who is super happy to be back to in-studio classes.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $29.99 at Amazon

    Emart 10-Inch Standing Ring Light

    The Emart ring light is our pick for the best ring light. It comes with a fully adjustable tripod, giving users a lot of flexibility, and it has three light modes along with 11 brightness levels. Just think of how great you’ll look in your daily Zooms.

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  • Oprah’s Favorite Things 2022 list has arrived: Here’s what to buy | CNN Underscored

    Oprah’s Favorite Things 2022 list has arrived: Here’s what to buy | CNN Underscored

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    Oprah’s Favorite Things have just been announced for 2022, and if anyone knows what’s good, it’s Oprah Winfrey. This year, the tastemaker has rounded up a highly giftable shopping list that includes categories like travel, kitchen, beauty, self-care and more, meaning there’s something for everyone from her curated selection. And, like previous years, she’s focusing on small businesses — more than 87 are featured on her list this year.

    We’ve rounded up our favorite picks from her list below, but you can check out the whole thing over at Oprah Daily.

    Style and beauty

    From $70 at Amazon

    Girlfriend Collective’s leggings are the stuff of legend by now, so it’s no wonder that they made Oprah’s list of favorites. Pick up a pair of the compressive leggings in a year-round three-quarters length on Amazon now — and yes, they have pockets. See more of our favorite leggings here.

    $200 at Amazon

    Sterling Forever Five Days of Hoops

    This five-pair set of hoop earrings in all different shapes and sizes is a perfect splurge for your favorite jewelry lover — the only hard part is choosing between gold and silver. See more of our favorite Advent calendars here.

    From $35 at Amazon

    Dearfoams Warm Up Bootie

    “Some days you need your slippers to go the distance, like from the house to the mailbox,” Winfrey says. “With quilted nylon on the outside and memory foam insoles, this plush pair, perfect for both moms and dads, makes it feel like you’re walking on a cloud.”

    $65 $52 at Amazon

    Paravel Fold-Up Backpack

    As much of an everyday essential as it is a travel essential, this backpack can fold up into a remarkably tiny zippered pouch. As Winfrey explains: “Made from 15 upcycled plastic water bottles fashioned into lightweight, water-resistant nylon, its party trick is that it can fold up into a zippable pouch you can stow away in your luggage, so you have an extra bag.”

    $96 at Amazon

    Savannah Bee Company Queen Bee Body Butter Gift Set

    “These decadently creamy body butters are hard to beat,” Winfrey says. “They’re so easy to apply and contain shea butter, cocoa butter and royal jelly to hydrate, strengthen and protect skin — including extra-rough spots. Original is scented with blackberry and rose; Rosemary Lavender is calming; and Chamomile & Myrrh and Tupelo Honey are extra gentle for sensitive skin. Split them among you and your friends.”

    $29 at Amazon

    Peepers by PeeperSpecs Take a Bow Readers

    Oprah and distinctive glasses go hand in hand, and these Peepers are a surefire way to get a ton of compliments, thanks to their striking looks. Think combos of tortoiseshell and green, black marble and more for statement looks all season long.

    $89.95 $69.95 at Amazon

    Poppy & Pout Lip Tint Premium Gift Set

    “These natural beeswax, sunflower and coconut oil balms are making their return to Favorite Things, but now they come in six new tints,” Winfrey says. “Hand-poured in Idaho with recyclable cardboard packaging, these sheer colors would be great for a young person in your life.”

    $40 $32 at Amazon

    JW Pei Aylin Canvas Phone Bag

    For the equally tech- and fashion-obsessed, we can’t get over how cute and practical these phone slings are. It even has slots for your credit cards and cash.

    $199 at Amazon

    Lands' End Quilted ThermoPlume Insulated Coat

    Lands’ End has been making solid outdoorwear for years, so when it comes to the elements, the brand literally has you covered. This quilted puffer coat is more quilting than puff, meaning you get all the warmth minus the bulk (and the hood is great for those wet winter days too).

    $42 at Amazon

    Archive Bubble Bath

    Bubble baths are pretty much the ultimate way to decompress at the end of a long workweek or, uh, a family visit at the house. Gift yourself or someone dear the joy of a great soak with this bubble bath, which is just as prettily packaged as it is wonderfully perfumed, thanks to a blend of natural oils. “Something I know for sure is that you need a generous pour of bubble bath for the best tub experience. I’ve picked Margot Elena’s bubble baths a few times before because the extra-large glass bottles are so gorgeous,” says Oprah.

    $95 at Amazon

    Sperry Seacycled Duck Float Boot

    Sperry’s duck boots have long been a winter essential, but Oprah is super excited about this monochromatic version with some eco-credentials, thanks to a “SeaCycled” nylon upper.

    $75 at Amazon

    Dr. Barbara Sturm Cleanser

    It’s no surprise Dr. Barbara Sturm made Oprah’s favorite things list — a few rounds with this cleanser by the German dermatologist, and you’ll see exactly what she means. Any product from the line is good, but this is a great intro the full assortment, especially as winter’s harsh weather sets in.

    $45 $31 at Amazon

    Grace Eleyae All-Satin Knot Turban

    These protective turbans help reduce the friction that damages hair and helps to lock in moisture overnight — and there’s literally no effort involved since all the hard work is done by the adjustable knot in front.

    $118 at Amazon and Spanx

    Spanx AirEssentials Wide Leg Trousers

    Spanx’s Air Essentials line is all about comfort and stretch with just enough shaping compression to make you feel slightly more polished wearing these than if you’d thrown on a pair of sweats. (Not only is Oprah a fan of these, this writer lives in hers too). According to Winfrey: “When I tell you this set feels light as air, I’m not kidding.” She recommends pairing them with the Spanx AirEssentials Pullover too, naturally.

    $20 $16 at Amazon

    Dock & Bay Reusable Makeup Remover Pads

    Perfect at the under-$20 price point, this trio of reusable makeup remover pads replaces cotton pads (not so eco-friendly) with a washable version that’s easy to use and then wash with the rest of your clothes. The only hard part is picking out which color your friend or family member will like best.

    $48 at Amazon

    K. Carroll Accessories Taylor Tote

    A carryall bag like this is something you can take with you literally everywhere — the gym, work, drinks after work, a dinner date and more. Made of vegan suede and available in lots of pretty colors, at under $50 it’s a true steal.

    $40 at Amazon

    Bodynanny Eucalyptus Body Scrub With Sponge Set

    Give yourself a good scrub with this two-piece set of a eucalyptus sugar exfoliator and a sponge to buff with. “Gloria Williams, aka the Footnanny, has been caring for my feet for years,” says Oprah — and this is part of Williams’ latest launch inspired directly by Winfrey. “She knows I love the smell of eucalyptus, so she made this sugar scrub scented with it. It’s divine!”

    From $150 at Amazon

    Roverlund Out-of-Office Pet Carrier

    Heading OOO with your pet this season? Roverlund’s Out-of-Office carrier (an Underscored editor favorite) is airline-compliant and comes in two sizes for small and larger pups. Forgot your leash on a busy travel day? No sweat — this one comes with a bright bonus one that’s just as durable and travel-ready as the rest of the bag.

    $900 at Amazon

    De'Longhi Magnifica Evo Espresso Machine

    “Latte? Cappuccino? Macchiato? Whatever strikes your fancy, this machine is like having your own personal barista at home with you,” Winfrey says. “The best part? All you have to do is roll out of bed and touch the button with the drink you want.” We named a De’Longhi machine the best espresso maker on the market too, so we can vouch for the quality.

    $49 at Amazon

    Jiggy The Eve Art Puzzle Kit

    A puzzle set from Jiggy, one of our favorite woman-owned brands, made the list this year. As Winfrey explains, “The 800-piece puzzles feature artwork by emerging female artists and come in a reusable glass jar that includes a tube of jigsaw puzzle glue and a straight-edge tool to spread the glue to transform the finished product into a piece of art.”

    $44 at Amazon

    Snif Old Saint Wick Scented Candle

    If your gift budget is under $50 or so, you can never go wrong with a candle — especially a Snif one. This seasonal scent is all about pine, apple, rosemary, jasmin, sandlewood and cedar for a festive aroma that never overwhelms (and you’ll get 50 hours of burn time from this 8.5-ounce size too).

    $239 at Amazon

    Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Towel Bundle

    Cozy Earth’s new waffle-weave collection really lives up to the brand’s name, and this set of toweling for the bathroom is a great one-stop shop for your family member or friend moving into a new apartment — or for a little holiday refresh for your own bathroom. Choose from charcoal, white or light gray. See more of our favorite towels here.

    $50 at Amazon

    The Life You Want Daily Inspiration Cards

    For those of us intimidated or put off by the thought of journaling, this card-by-card take on Oprah’s The Life You Want Planner (also on the list for $30) is a great way to start your day with intention and purpose over a cup of coffee — no notebook required.

    $21 at Amazon

    'Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Inspiring Young Changemakers' by Rebel Girls

    The now classic children’s book is inspiring no matter your kid’s gender, and this “Changemakers” edition gives them a host of under-30 role models like Bindi Irwin, Keke Palmer and more that they can learn about and emulate as they grow up. ““If you read it, you can be it,” notes Oprah in her guide.

    $129 at Amazon

    Rumpl The Original Puffy National Parks Collection

    Rumpl’s puffy blankets look light, but they pack a ton of warmth into their quilting — and they’re made to be water-resistant so you can curl up in them just as easily in front of the campfire as you can in front of the fireplace. Pick your lucky recipient’s favorite national park — or one you’ve shared together — for a winning holiday gift.

    $87 at Amazon

    PlantOGram Frantoio Olive Tree

    An olive tree is a stunning sight, whether you’re passing by a grove of them or admiring the way a single branch’s silvery leaves catch the glint of sunshine. Now you can gift one of Mother Nature’s most stunning creations with this PlantOGram, which is honestly so much better (and more sustainable) than a bouquet that’ll wilt in a week.

    $198 at Amazon

    House No. 23 Sherpa Fleece Throw Blanket

    It’s the time of year to say yes to (and gift) all things cozy, and this lightweight-looking but super-warm blanket will deserve a place on your sofa or bed year-round (or on your family member’s or friend’s, if you can bear to gift it away). “This throw is lined in the softest sherpa, but the outside is chic organic cotton that comes in three colors — a cinnamony shade, a cream color and, my favorite, a mossy green,” says Oprah.

    $84 $67 at Amazon

    Trvl Luxe Case

    This travel bag is a quad of organizers in one: You get two small pouches (one for skin care, one for cosmetics?), plus a case that has a large open space and an interior zipper for storing extras you pick up on your next trip.

    $120 $96 at Amazon

    The Nori Press

    As someone who’s literally used a Chi to iron her clothes in desperation, the knowledge that this travel steamer exists is a really good thing to have. Oprah’s named it one of her favorite on-the-go products, and it gets rid of wrinkles in no time (it takes three minutes to reach its highest temp) when you need it most. However, we tested it and weren’t completely impressed — but we did find an even cheaper alternative.

    $20 at Amazon

    Benevolence LA Velvet Travel Jewelry Box Organizer

    We’re always here for a practical but luxe-feeling $20 gift, and this velvet jewelry organizer is perfect for traveling during the holidays with all the jewelry that goes with the season’s festive looks. But back at home, it’s great as a jewelry box too — and looks great on the dresser.

    $45 at Amazon

    The USB Lighter Company Electric Lighter

    This handy device is a rechargeable lighter, which justifies the price tag if you think about how many lighters you’ll buy over the course of a lifetime. Not only does the rechargeable lighter come with an LED flashlight, but the fact that we’ll never burn our thumb lighting a candle again is also a very strong point in its favor.

    $199 at Amazon and Therabody

    Theragun Mini

    Theragun’s percussive massage devices have been exploding in popularity lately, and this mini version is perfect for using at home or on the go. The fourth-generation version is quieter than ever, and there’s a ton of other improved features too: This one “is even more compact and lighter than the original Mini,” writes Oprah.

    $900 $600 at Amazon and Samsung

    2-samsung the freestyle

    Samsung

    A splurge, yes, but both Oprah and Underscored highly approve this purchase. “Point this smart projector onto any wall to turn it into a big screen,” Winfrey says. “You can use your favorite streaming apps from it, and it’s got powerful speakers, just like a movie theater.”

    $63.99 at Amazon

    Brouk and Co Ace 3-in-1 Portable Wireless Fast Charging Pad

    Wireless charging is getting more and more ubiquitous, and this sleek wireless pad can juice up your iPhone (or Android/Samsung), smartwatch and headphones in no time flat. And speaking of flat, thanks to its easily portable size, the 15W fast-charging device can come with you when you’re on the go too.

    $250 $170 at Amazon

    Amazon Echo Show 15

    According to Oprah, “Adam Glassman hung the latest Echo Show on the wall of his kitchen and uses it every day.” No wonder: The Echo Show is sleeker than ever, with a vibe that’s more picture frame than tech, and it performs a myriad of highly useful functions like syncing family calenders, giving you weather updates and streaming shows while you cook. Read our review of it here.

    $40 at Amazon

    The Cravory Best Sellers Mix

    “Not just your average chocolate chip cookies (though they have those, too!), this San Diego–based business offers fun flavors like birthday cake, red velvet and lemon bar,” Winfrey says. “This 18-cookie pack comes with a mix of its bestsellers, which are baked to order and so soft, ensuring that the lucky recipient gets the freshest possible treats.”

    $85 at Amazon

    Kitchens of Africa East Meets West

    “This set of sauces takes inspiration from traditional dishes of East Africa all the way to Senegal,” Oprah writes in her guide. Her serving suggestions include drizzling the sauces (developed by Jainaba Jeng from the Gambia) over roasted vegetables, blending them into stews or using them with meats for super-flavorful dishes.

    $63 at Amazon

    Truff Truffle Lovers Pack

    Truff has been on the lips (and tongues) of hot sauce and truffle lovers for a while now, and this three-bottle pack gives a lucky recipient (or you) a trio of flavors to excite the taste buds. It comes with the signature black truffle hot sauce (Oprah’s fave), black truffle pomodoro pasta sauce and black truffle oil so there’s always a reason to use at least one.

    $150 at Amazon

    Brightland The Artist Capsule Cold-Pressed Olive Oils

    Turns out we’re not the only fans of Brightland’s cold-pressed California olive oils: Oprah’s obsessed with them too. This quad of high-quality infused oils makes a great gift for spicing up your favorite foodie’s dishes by giving them a bit of extra zing, whether they opt for the garlic, lemon, basil or chili version.

    $85 at Amazon

    From Roy Panettone

    This traditional Italian Christmas cake is airy and light, with just enough sweet — exactly as you’d expect from Roy Shvartzapel, who spent a decade perfecting his recipe. Each one serves up to 12, making it perfect for bringing along to your host of holiday dinners.

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  • 49 gifts every woman in your life would love to receive | CNN Underscored

    49 gifts every woman in your life would love to receive | CNN Underscored

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    Believe it or not, it’s holiday shopping season already. And we know that finding the right gifts for her can be a daunting task. To help you take holiday shopping off your to-do list, we’ve rounded up some stellar gifts for your mom, grandma, wife, girlfriend or any other female figure in your life. Whether it’s a tear-jerking gift for your significant other or something practical for Mom, these editor-approved picks have you covered. Need more gift ideas? Check out our favorite gifts for guys, Amazon gifts and gifts for everyone else on your list.

    $249 $169.99 at Amazon

    If their headphones need a serious upgrade (or if they’re still suck using corded ones), Apple’s Airpods Pro feature noise cancellation, excellent sound quality and a transparency option that can help heighten the sounds around them (a fantastic feature for someone who’s experiencing any sort of hearing loss as well).

    $199 $179 at Therabody

    Therabody Theragun Mini

    We tested the Theragun Mini ourselves, and found that it’s an innovative massage tool to alleviate tense muscles because it’s tiny, portable and affordable. For the busy, stressed-out mom, this is a thoughtful, practical gift.

    $10 at Amazon

    Knock Knock

    No matter how old you get, you’re never too old to tell your mom how much you love her. Grab this fill-in-the-blank journal as a stocking stuffer or as part of a larger gift to share sweet heartfelt messages.

    $28.99 at Amazon or $94.98 for a 4-pack at Amazon

    Apple Airtag

    Are they the kind of person who is never not losing stuff? Check out the Apple AirTag, the latest Apple device that they can slip into their purse or coat, or even clip onto their keys or luggage, that allows them to easily track their whereabouts. And if they’ve got a newer iPhone model, they can even get turn-by-turn directions that make sure they absolutely never lose their daily essentials again. Check out our review of it here.

    $147 at Nordstrom

    Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw Blanket

    A cozy blanket as a gift really needs no explanation. So good that it’s garnered nearly 400 5-star reviews at Nordstrom, this microfiber blanket is known to be ultra soft and warm.

    $78 at Mejuri

    Mejuri Croissant Dôme Hoops

    Her favorite classic hoops with a twist. That’s why we’re huge fans of Mejuri’s Croissant Dôme Hoops — available in gold vermeil or sterling silver, these are a classy, minimalist earring that pairs well with any outfit.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $99.95 From $55.96 at Amazon

    Fitbit Inspire 2

    If Mom is looking to be more active this year, gift her our pick for the best fitness tracker of 2022. The FitBit Inspire 2 got top marks in our testing thanks to its streamlined design and robust data offerings.

    $24.99 $17.99 at Amazon

    Swedish Dishcloths

    A great practical gift, Swedish dishcloths are one of our favorite eco-friendly kitchen swaps as they take the place of paper towels. You can even throw these guys in the dishwasher or washing machine once they start smelling gross.

    $37 $25.90 at Etsy

    CaitlynMinimalist Dainty Mama Necklace

    Simple, sweet and perfect for everyday wear, she’ll cherish this “mama” necklace for years to come.

    $18.99 From $15.19 at Amazon

    Esarora Ice Roller

    Gift her this editor-favorite ice roller to quell headaches, migraines and puffiness in an instant. We truly don’t know what we did before we bought ours.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    From $98 at Lululemon

    Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant

    Our pick for the best workout leggings, the Lululemon Align are prized for their buttery-soft feel, stretchiness and thick waistband that never rolls down.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    From $45.79 at Amazon

    Manduka Begin Yoga Mat

    We gave this yoga mat top marks in our testing because of its incredible anti-slip grip that makes it ideal for hot yoga or really any extra-sweaty situation.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $429.99 at Dyson

    Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

    Yes, the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is totally worth the price — we tried it ourselves and even named it the best luxury hair dryer. It does a phenomenal job at giving you salon-quality blowouts right at home. It’s also speedy fast, relatively quiet and designed to protect hair from heat damage.

    $12.99 at Amazon and Stasher

    Stasher Reusable Sandwich Bag

    If Mom’s an organizing pro and is looking to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle, these silicone Stasher bags will be a hit. We tried them ourselves and fell in love, because essentially they’re an eco-friendly swap for plastic baggies, and you can even use them to make popcorn! Pro tip: They can use them to organize your toiletries when they travel too.

    $49 at Bloomscape

    Bloomscape Mini Money Tree

    Start or expand your mom’s plant collection with this mini money tree that’s easy to care for.

    $105 at Allbirds

    Allbirds Tree Runners

    These Allbirds Runners are some of the most comfortable sneakers out there. The sneakers are particularly flexible and supportive, and truly engineered for all-day comfort. They’re the perfect type of shoe for city trekking, day trips or long walks. They’re available in a men’s version too.

    $599.99 at Dyson

    Dyson Airwrap Complete Long Styler

    The Dyson Airwrap is the ultimate luxury present to get this year. While its almost $600 price tag is intimidating, we tried it ourselves and think it’s worth it. You can read our full thoughts here.

    $75 at Naadam

    Naadam The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater

    Nothing says winter luxury like a cashmere sweater. If you want to gift one this holiday season without breaking the bank, consider Naadam’s The Essential $75 option — available in a plethora of colors in sizes XXS to XXL.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    From $189 at Parachute

    Linen Venice Set

    If her bed needs an upgrade, these linen sheets, which we named the best of the year, are such a dream. While you may think linen equals itchy, these are impossibly soft, and get softer with each wash. We love all the calming shades they come in too.

    $100 at Uncommon Goods

    Uncommon Goods Personalized Family Recipe Board

    There’s something so special about a handwritten recipe passed down from one generation to the next. Help her cherish that beloved dish forever by getting her a personalized family recipe board — etched in her loved one’s handwriting.

    $59 at Godiva

    Godiva Assorted Chocolate Holiday Gift Box

    Chocolate is always a good idea. And giving this 36-piece gorgeous box from Godiva is a surefire win.

    $75 at Nordstrom

    Nordstrom Moonlight Eco Pajamas

    Since we’ve all spent more time at home in the past two years than probably ever before, some ultra-soft, pretty pajamas will surely make them happy. These come in a whole array of sweet colors and patterns for a bargain price.

    $168 at Free People

    Free People Hit The Slopes Printed Fleece Jacket

    An Underscored editor favorite, this adorable printed fleece jacket will keep them cozy all year round. If you’re overwhelmed by the variety of prints, it’s available in a ton of pretty solid colors too.

    $55 at Charlotte Tilbury

    Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk On The Go Eye & Lip Set

    Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk collection is the perfect buttery pink shade. If she’s already a fan or you think it would look great on her, consider this eye and lip set that includes a lipstick, lip liner, eyeliner and eyeshadow for just $55.

    From $20 at Uncommon Goods

    Uncommon Goods Himalayan Salt Tequila Glasses

    For many of us, tequila is always better with a hint of salt. If your wife agrees, gift her this stunning set of tequila glasses crafted from Himalayan salt to make her next shots that much more festive. An excellent touch to any home bar.

    From $29 per household at Sur La Table

    Sur La Table Online Cooking Classes

    We all know that sometimes experiences are the best gifts. If your wife’s favorite room is the kitchen and she’s always looking to try new recipes for the family, consider gifting her an online cooking class by Sur La Table that starts at just $29 per household. In two hours or less, she can learn to make anything from beef bourguignon to macarons.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $119.95 at Amazon or $119.99 at Target

    De'Longhi Stilosa

    A cup of coffee feels like a mini gift each morning, so naturally they’d love to receive a machine that makes the cup that much more special. We know she’d love this De’Longhi machine, which we named the best espresso machine of the year.

    $198 at Lunya

    Lunya Washable Silk Tee Set

    Want their current pajamas to get a real upgrade? This silk set is an Underscored editor favorite, with the best part being that it’s machine-washable.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $35 at Billie

    Billie Smooth Operator Gift Set

    Billie has officially made shaving cool again thanks to a simplistic, affordable subscriptions and a razor that not only looks good, but works well too. That’s why we named it the best women’s razor, and recommend the brand’s Smooth Operator Starter Kit that features not only the razor, but a holder and refill blades as well as the brand’s shave cream and body lotion.

    From $150 at Hill House Home

    Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress

    Nap dresses are always a good idea. This pick from Underscored-favorite brand Hill House Home helped spark the trend a few years ago, with its easy silhouettes, built-in pockets and simply adorable prints.

    From $99 at Uncommon Goods

    Uncommon Goods Long Distance Friendship Lamp

    A thoughtful gift to your long distance girlfriend will be appreciated. With this friendship lamp, you can let her know you’re thinking of her by simply touching it.

    $36 at Rifle Paper Co.

    Rifle Paper Co. 2023 17-Month Large Planner

    Is she the kind of girl who wants to stay organized? Rifle Paper Co. is home to some of the cutest planners on the internet, including this bright floral one that spans from now until December 2023.

    $100 at Nordstrom

    Ugg Tasman Slipper

    For the fashionista in your life, these are the true slippers of the season. We love that they’re available in neutral tones as well as bright pink and green too.

    From $145 at Sijo

    Sijo AiryWeight Eucalyptus Sheet Set

    A new set of silky, soft sheets is truly the gift that just keeps on giving. Treat your partner to these sustainably sourced cooling sheets that are made of 100% Tencel lyocell fibers — a material made from a blend of eucalyptus and other woods — for a bedding experience that’s breathable and friendly to her skin and hair. No wonder they’re an Underscored editor favorite.

    $14.99 at Amazon

    Bees Knees Spicy Honey

    From pizza to biscuits to cheese and even ice cream, this is what she’ll grab if she’s ever looking for a kick of spice in her food — and a little sweetness.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $29.99 at Amazon

    Emart 10-inch Selfie Ring Light

    Maybe your girlfriend wants to be a TikTok star or simply wants to create content for a living. There’s no better gift than a sturdy, reliable phone tripod, and we named this one the best ring light on the market.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $59.99 $48 at Amazon

    Sony XB13 Portable Speaker

    For singing in the shower or taking their tunes on the go, this portable speaker will surely come in handy. In fact, we think this is the best travel portable speaker out there.

    $60 at Amazon

    Olaplex Bond Maintenance Conditioner and Shampoo Set

    This set comes with Olaplex’s bestselling No. 4 shampoo and No. 5 conditioner. Together, they promise not only to leave your hair feeling silky soft, but to actually strengthen your strands by re-linking broken bonds. Read our Olaplex review here.

    Holiday gifts for grandmother

    From $199 at Bearaby

    Bearaby Cotton Napper

    Stay cozy all winter long with this plush and soft weighted blanket from Bearaby, our favorite weighted blanket brand. Built with organic cotton and available in four different weights, this blanket can help keep you comfy and calm.

    $42 at Baggu

    Baggu Standard Baggu, Set of 3

    Make her grocery shopping hauls much cooler (and more eco-friendly) with these Baggu reusable bags. She can lug pretty much anything in these roomy, recycled nylon bags, which come in a ton of cute patterns — from ladybugs to poodles. Plus they can be packed away into a tiny little drawstring pouch for easy storage.

    $99 at Storyworth

    Storyworth

    Storyworth is a one-year subscription that will send your grandmother a question about her life every week, and at the end of the year will combing all those stories into a beautifully bound book. You can read our full review here.

    $395 at Caraway

    Caraway Cookware Set

    If Grandma’s been complaining about her dated cookware set all year long, now’s your chance to snag her a new one. The Caraway Cookware Set would be a lovely choice — not only for its assortment of vibrant, modern colors but for its reputation as top-notch pots and pans to cook just about anything with.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $79.99 From $69.95 at Amazon

    Cuisinart 1.5-Quart Frozen Yogurt ICE-21P1

    Does Grandma have a sweet tooth? We named this Cuisinart machine the best ice cream maker of the year. It churned some of the best, creamiest ice cream of the entire group while also being one of the cheapest.

    $399.95 $299.95 at Sur La Table

    Phillips Automatic Pasta Maker Plus

    The Philips Automatic Pasta Maker Plus will make Grandma’s dinner preparation that much easier. With this, she’ll just need to measure and add the ingredients in — then the machine, mixes, kneads and creates four pasta shapes: spaghetti, penne, fettuccine or lasagna.

    $189.99 From $149.97 at Amazon

    Nixplay Smart Digital Photo Frame

    Nixplay’s sleek digital frame lets multiple users securely upload photos directly from their phones or email, making it easier to feel connected with loved ones when you’re far apart.

    From $49.99 at Book of the Month

    Book of the Month Subscription

    If your gran is always raving about her newest read, give her a Book of the Month gift. Each month, she can choose from the five best new books and get one delivered right to her door. You can choose between a three-, six- and 12-month plan.

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  • Nordstrom’s 2022 holiday guide is live: Here are 42 items you should buy | CNN Underscored

    Nordstrom’s 2022 holiday guide is live: Here are 42 items you should buy | CNN Underscored

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    Looking to get a head start on your holiday gifts? You’re in luck — Nordstrom just launched its annual holiday gift guide and it’s chock-full of the season’s most stylish gifts. With thousands of amazing gifts to choose from, knowing where to start can be a bit daunting, so we picked out our favorite holiday gifts to help get you started. Need more ideas? Check out our gifts for her and gifts for him too.

    $98 at Nordstrom

    Soft and comfortable enough to lounge or exercise in yet stylish enough to wear out and about. These jogger sweatpants really do it all.

    $89.95 at Nordstrom

    Ugg Scuff Slipper

    Keeping your feet warm and cozy is easy, thanks to these Ugg slippers, which feature a pillowy-soft shearling-lined insole and gorgeous suede.

    From $18 at Nordstrom

    Nest New York Holiday Candle

    If you’re not sure what to gift someone, you can never go wrong with a candle. This one from Nest New York is a limited-edition holiday scent that was meticulously crafted so it burns evenly.

    $320 at Nordstrom

    The North Face Men's Nuptse 1996 Packable Quilted Down Jacket

    This quilted down jacket from The North Face is an absolute must-have. Not only is it supremely warm, thanks to its 700-fill power goose down lining, but it’s a classic coat that never goes out of style.

    $36 at Nordstrom

    Bombas 3-Pack Solids Ankle Socks

    Once he slips his feet into these impeccably cushioned and breathable Bombas socks we can pretty much guarantee they’ll be his favorite gift of the season.

    $63 at Nordstrom

    Le Labo Beard Oil

    The Le Labo beard oil is the perfect gift for any man who prides himself in maintaining well-manicured facial hair. This plant-based oil helps to nourish and protect even the roughest beards, thanks to ingredients like jojoba, grapeseed and sunflower oils.

    $179 at Nordstrom

    Bose Sport Earbuds

    Upgrade his headphone game with the Bose Sport Earbuds. Sleek, water-repellent and made for high-performance activities such as gym workouts or cardio, the batteries last up to five hours and fit comfortably in your ears. See more of our favorite wireless earbuds here.

    $49 at Nordstrom

    Marble Serving Board

    If he likes to entertain, this beautiful marble serving board is sure to put a smile on his face every time he uses it. Available in white or gray, it makes any charcuterie look instantly chic.

    $550 at Nordstrom

    Rag & Bone Leather Commuter Backpack

    For the guy on the go, this luxe backpack is sure to come in handy. Made with buttery Italian leather and multiple compartments — including a padded laptop space — it can fit all of his essentials and more in major style.

    $38 at Nordstrom

    Herschel Supply Co. Hank RFID Bifold Wallet

    Keep your money, cards and everything else important secure and safe in this stylish RFID wallet from Herschel Supply Co.

    $28 at Nordstrom

    Carhartt Work In Progress Watch Hat

    Gift him a cozy yet fashionable beanie that he can wear with anything already in his closet.

    From $75 at Nordstrom

    Teva ReEmber Convertible Slip-On Sneaker

    These cozy slippers have a tread so they can keep your toes warm in the house and on the way to the store. Plus, their quilted upper is water-resistant and made with recycled ripstop fabric.

    From $180 at Nordstrom

    David Yurman Baby Box Chain Necklace

    There’s something so special about this sterling silver Baby Box Chain Necklace from David Yurman. Whether he wears it every day with jeans and a T-shirt or dresses it up for a night out, it’s sure to elevate his look.

    $49.50 at Nordstrom

    Nordstrom Cotton & Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

    A cotton-cashmere blend crewneck sweater will become a staple in his closet. Choose from a variety of colors, including burgundy, brown and navy.

    $520 at Nordstrom

    Burberry Giant Icon Check Cashmere Scarf

    When temperatures drop he’ll be able to keep warm and stylish with this ultra-soft cashmere scarf in Burberry’s classic check print that’s equally as timeless as it is fashionable.

    From $17 at Nordstrom

    supergoop glowscreen

    Supergoop!

    This sunscreen has a cult following — and for good reason. The lightweight, pearlescent cream features SPF 40 for protection from the sun and acts as a makeup-gripping primer that melts into any skin tone.

    $49.99 at Nordstrom

    Crocs Classic Clog

    Crocs are back, so it’s officially time to restock. Available in 10 colors, these bright rubber clogs are a blast from the past but still are somehow hideously cute.

    $45 at Nordstrom

    The North Face Etip Gloves

    The temperatures are dipping fast, so if you want to keep your hands warm but still need to use your phone, check out these Etip gloves from The North Face.

    $225 at Nordstrom

    Via Maris Block Chanukiah

    This gorgeous, cast-aluminum menorah not only holds candles upright but also opens up to reveal a storage compartment that can fit 44 candles.

    $75 at Nordstrom

    Nordstrom Moonlight Eco Pajamas

    This stylish and comfy pajama set comes in eight colors and is made from a modal and spandex mix.

    $57 at Nordstrom

    Charlotte Tilbury Super Nudes Easy Eye Palette

    With various shades of bronze and caramel brown, this universally flattering eyes hadow palette from Charlotte Tilbury is the ultimate makeup essential for anyone and everyone. It’s easily blendable and buildable, and it looks gorgeous on any skin tone.

    $125 at Nordstrom

    Slip Silk Queen Pillowcase Duo

    Sleeping on Slip’s pure mulberry silk pillowcases is not only heavenly because of how soft they are, but they’ve been proven to reduce bedhead frizz and have anti-aging benefits. Sounds like a perfect holiday gift to us!

    $49 at Nordstrom

    Street Level Reversible Faux Leather Tote & Wristlet

    With a magnetic closure and removable zip wristlet, this fashionable bag from Street Level is the perfect bag to stay by your side.

    $65 at Nordstrom

    candle Maison Margiela Replica By The Fireplace Candle

    Nordstrom

    You can never go wrong giving someone a delicious smelling candle for the holidays, especially when it’s made with warm and spicy notes of clove, chestnut, pepper and orange — like this one from Maison Margiela.

    $39.95 at Nordstrom

    Hydro Flask 24-Ounce Standard Mouth Water Bottle

    Hydro Flask has a large number of loyal fans, and if you’re trying to convert someone, this 24-ounce bottle is the perfect gift. Available in gorgeous colors, this bottle can keep your drinks hot or cold all day long.

    $69 at Nordstrom

    Zella Restore Soft Pocket Joggers

    We don’t know about you, but when the weather gets cold, the sweatpants come out. And they don’t come off. If you’re in need of a new stylish pair of sweats, check out these high-rise joggers, which have an elastic waist with a drawstring and slanted front pockets and are made from spandex and recycled polyester.

    $248 at Nordstrom

    Reformation Liam Cashmere Long Cardigan

    A long cashmere cardigan is the wardrobe workhorse that she’ll be sure to reach for time and time again. It’s soft, elegant, ridiculously comfortable and not to mention ultra–stylish.

    $140 at Nordstrom

    Hoka One One Clifton 8 Running Shoe

    Hit the roads in comfort with these ultra-supportive Hoka One One running shoes.

    From $50 at Nordstrom

    Ugg Fluff Yeah Genuine Shearling Slingback Sandal

    The ultimate cozy slipper, these slides from Ugg come in tons of fun colors, including a cheetah print and bright pink.

    $49 at Nordstrom

    Nordstrom Recycled Cashmere Gloves

    If you’re looking for a luxurious gift that won’t break the bank, look no further than these cashmere gloves. Made from a recycled cashmere blend, they’re sustainably sourced and sure to keep your hands cozy and warm.

    $29 at Nordstrom

    Nordstrom Bliss Plush Throw

    There’s nothing that can get you cozier this fall than a warm, plush blanket. This one from Nordstrom is made with 100% polyester and under $30.

    $68 at Nordstrom

    Kyi Kyi Wool Blend Beanie With Faux Fur Pom

    We’re convinced this might just be the coziest beanie ever! Aside from its adorable faux fur pom-pom, its plush lining adds extra warmth and comfort.

    From $139 at Nordstrom

    Casper Dog Bed

    Your furry friend deserves a present too, so make sure they can relax in comfort with this ridiculously cozy Casper dog bed that’s an Underscored editor favorite.

    $52 at Nordstrom

    Skims Cotton Rib Thermal Leggings

    Everyone needs a pair of thermal leggings for the fall and winter months and this pair from Skims certainly does not disappoint. The stretchy cotton material is soft and breathable and hugs in all the right places.

    $219.95 at Nordstrom

    Jeffrey Campbell Maximal Bootie

    These platform booties are the perfect gift for the fashionista on your holiday shopping list. They’re majorly on-trend this season and look amazing with jeans, trousers, skirts, dresses and more.

    $145 at Nordstrom

    Always Pan

    Whether she’s a master in the kitchen or simply looking for a set of pans to make cooking easier in a small space, she’s going to love this nontoxic and nonstick pan set from Our Place. Made for easy storage, this fry and sauté pan set really does it all. From braising and searing to steaming, straining and more, the possibilities are endless. Read our full review here.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $429.99 at Nordstrom

    Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

    Every holiday season, the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is a big-ticket item you probably wish someone would buy you. Well, if this is the year you finally go for it, you won’t be disappointed. We tested it ourselves and even named it the best high-end dryer on the market.

    $170 at Nordstrom

    Birkenstock Boston Genuine Shearling Lined Clog

    What’s another must-have fashion item for the style-savvy woman on your shopping list? The Birkenstock Boston Clog. It’s a timeless shoe that’s having a major moment, and we especially love the shearling-lined version for added warmth and comfort.

    $1,125 at Nordstrom

    Rimowa Essential Check-In Large 31-Inch Wheeled Suitcase

    If your jet-setter needs a new suitcase, splurge on them (or yourself) with this luxurious checked bag from Rimowa. We tested it when we found the best checked luggage of 2021, and while it didn’t win our top spot, it’s still an outstanding suitcase.

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  • 21 gifts the Scorpio in your life will love | CNN Underscored

    21 gifts the Scorpio in your life will love | CNN Underscored

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    Welcome to Scorpio season … enter if you dare!

    Syd Robinson, an astrologer and the author of “Who Do the Stars Say You Are?” says, “Those born under the sign of Scorpio are trademarked by their passion, intensity and undying curiosity with what lies under the surface. These people are not interested in small talk and may seem reserved to others; they tend to be guarded, especially when first opening up and building trust with someone new.”

    With birthdays from Oct. 23 to Nov. 21, these intense, moody and mercurial water signs are surprisingly easy to shop for. “When choosing a gift for a Scorpio loved one,” Robinson says, “I’d recommend things that are a little occult-ish. This sign tends to gravitate towards the supernatural, and since they were born during peak spooky season, this should come as no surprise!”

    Ahead, with Robinson’s help and input from the Scorpios in our own lives, we’ve picked out 21 gift ideas for the Scorpio in your life.

    $50 at Nordstrom

    Christian Louboutin nail varnish is dramatic and glamorous and can be used as a weapon if necessary, making it a perfect Scorpio gift! (Unless the Scorpio uses the bottle to stab you, in which case you may not consider it such a perfect Scorpio gift.) You can’t go wrong with any shade, but we especially love “Delicotte,” a super-rich, deep berry color.

    $28 at Etsy

    Boredwalk Grievance Journal

    Like their fellow water signs, Pisces and Cancers, Scorpios tend to get lost in their feelings, and journaling can help them sort through complicated emotions. Unlike their fellow water signs, however, Scorpios are unlikely to embrace earnest expressions of emotions, so skip the journals emblazoned with inspirational messages and give the Scorpio in your life this hilariously dark Grievance Journal.

    $8 at Etsy

    ThePoshShopCo Funny Astrological Scorpio Pencil Set

    A great gift on their own or to complement a journal, this set of astrology-inspired pencils pokes gentle fun at the dark, antisocial side of Scorpios.

    $290 at Sleeper

    Sleeper Party Pajamas Set With Feathers

    “Scorpios are also known to be quite seductive,” Robinson says, “so anything along those lines — a spiced candle, lingerie, you name it — is sure to be a hit with them.” We’re obsessed with this high-glamour pajama set with detachable feather cuffs in Scorpio’s signature black.

    $59 at Urban Outfitters

    Out From Under Modern Love Corset

    Resident Scorpio and Underscored social lead Stephanie Griffin helped to pick out the very best gifts for her sting-y brethren. “This flattering corset is the perfect gift for your Scorpio friend,” Griffin says. “They’re notoriously known for mystery and sex, after all!”

    $6.36 at CB2

    CB2 Eve Coupe Cocktail Glass

    Champagne coupes are a sexy and unexpected alternative to traditional champagne flutes, making them a perfect display piece for a Scorpio’s at-home bar setup.

    $695 at Mansur Gavriel

    Mansur Gavriel Mini Cloud Clutch

    “Scorpios like to make a statement wherever they go,” Griffin says, “so if you’re looking to splurge on their birthday gift this year, they’re sure to cherish this cozy plush mini clutch from Mansur Gavriel.”

    $55.25 at Etsy

    LifeafterDeathByRob Vietnam Forest Scorpion

    The symbol of Scorpio is, of course, the scorpion. This one-of-a-kind piece of art features a Vietnam forest scorpion (Heterometrus laoticus) inside a black shadow box lined with a gothic rose print background.

    $16 at Amazon

    Province Apothecary Cedar Wood Incense

    “An incense set will help any Scorpio unwind and connect with their higher self,” Robinson says.

    $44.98 at Amazon

    101 Horror Movies You Must See Before You Die

    Scorpio season overlaps with spooky season, so it’s no surprise that this sign, more than any, is likely to be a horror movie enthusiast. This book is both a display piece and a guided journal for the Scorpio with a goal of being a horror movie completionist.

    From $275 at Away

    Away The Carry on

    Curious and independent Scorpios who gravitate toward travel will love this super-sleek luggage, which we named the best carry-on luggage in our testing.

    From $75 at Etsy

    LavRender Glitter Glass Painting

    When picking a gift for a Scorpio, it can be helpful to know the color palette that is most appealing to this sign. Look for things in shades of violet, burnt orange, pomegranate and, of course, black. This gemmed painting in shades of violet will also appeal to the Scorpio’s love of crystals and healing stones.

    $29 at Sephora

    Pat McGrath Labs Mini Eye Shadow Palette: Midnight Voyage

    A dramatic eye shadow palette in shades of purple is a fantastic gift for the beauty-obsessed Scorpio in your life.

    $185 at Bandier

    Sincerely Jules For Bandier The Lotus Kit

    “Powerful and always moving with intention,” Griffin says of her sign, “there’s no doubting Scorpios will obsess over these high-waisted, front-slit leggings whether they’re working out or hanging in the comfort of their own home.”

    $78 at Uncommon Goods

    Hidden Crystal Bath Bomb Set

    “A floral bath balm will rejuvenate your Scorpio after a long, stressful day,” Robinson says. These bath bombs, which are made with essential oils and which have crystals hidden within, will take the Scorpio’s bath to the next level.

    $26 at Anecdote Candles

    Anecdote Candles Homebody Candle

    “Get this candle for your homebody Scorpio friends,” Griffin suggests, “who can light it while they tune out the rest of the world.”

    $45 at Uncommon Goods

    Floral Fizz: DIY Bath Bomb Workshop

    Scorpios tend to have a crafty and creative bent, so instead of giving a set of bath bombs, you might consider this DIY bath bomb workshop. Created by Kerrigan Quenemoen, the workshop guides participants through the steps to making your very own bath bombs. A subscription to the class comes with an organic bath bomb making kit, and includes a cloth wrapping to make it giftable.

    $179 at Amazon

    Cricut Explore Air 2

    Electronic cutters are souped-up crafting machines that can turn out professional-grade stickers, vinyl decals, party decorations, scrapbooking elements and custom stationery. Crafty, artistic Scorpios will flip for this die-cut machine. Check out our Cricut review here.

    $140 at Ugg

    Ugg Classic Ultra Mini

    In many places, Scorpios season coincides with the arrival of fall weather and fashions. Griffin picked out this pair of Ugg ultra-mini boots that will keep them extra cozy.

    $295 at Amavii

    Amavii Kobe Black Sunglasses

    Griffin picked out these titanium and rose gold sunglasses because, she says, “Scorpios are totally the type to wear sunglasses when it’s not even sunny.”

    $165 at Stagg

    Stagg EKG Electric Kettle

    For the Scorpio in your life who could use some self-care, Griffin recommends this incredibly chic matte black electric kettle. “Some hot tea served in a chic electric pour-over kettle will certainly get Scorpios through every season that’s … not theirs,” she says.

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  • 44 gifts every man in your life would love to receive | CNN Underscored

    44 gifts every man in your life would love to receive | CNN Underscored

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    Yes, it’s already time to start checking everyone off your holiday shopping list again. To help you find the best holiday gifts as soon as possible, we’ve rounded up our absolute favorite gifts for the men in your life. So whether it’s for your dad, husband, boyfriend, grandfather or any other guy, here are some gifts they’ll actually want this holiday season. Need more ideas? Check out our favorite gifts ideas for women and favorite Amazon gifts here.

    $14.99 at Amazon

    For the most outdoorsy person you know, this portable water filter has a microfiltration system that removes 99.999999% of waterborne bacteria (including E. coli and salmonella), and 99.999% of waterborne parasites (including giardia and cryptosporidium). At under $20, it’s a no-brainer. You can read our review here.

    $29.99 $14.94 at Amazon

    Sondiko Butane Torch

    For all his grilling adventures, get him this handheld butane torch so he can add a little fiery flair to anything from a rack of ribs to a crème brûlée.

    $28.99 at Amazon or $94.98 for a 4-pack at Amazon

    Apple Airtag

    Are they the kind of person who is never not losing stuff? Check out the Apple AirTag, the latest Apple device that they can slip into their wallet, or even clip onto their keys or luggage, that allows them to easily track its whereabouts. And if they’ve got a newer iPhone model, they can even get turn-by-turn directions that make sure they absolutely never lose their daily essentials again. Check out our review of it here.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $19.99 From $7.98 at Amazon

    Mavogel Sleep Mask

    Underscored readers haven’t been able to get enough of this eye mask ever since we named it the best sleep mask on the market. It completely blocks the light, and at under $20? Why wouldn’t you buy it for him?

    $105 at Allbirds

    Allbirds Men's Tree Runners

    These Allbirds Runners are some the most comfortable sneakers out there. The sneakers are particularly flexible and supportive, and truly engineered for all-day comfort. They’re the perfect type of shoe for city trekking, day trips or long walks. They’re available in a women’s version too.

    $14.98 at Amazon or $17.98 at Truff

    Truff Gourmet Hot Sauce

    If you can’t tug at his heartstrings but you still want your dad to cry this holiday season, try giving him this hot sauce from Truff. Made from chili peppers, agave nectar and black truffle, this sauce is equal parts complex, spicy and delicious.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $40 at Yeti

    Yeti Rambler 26-Ounce Bottle

    Whether your guy is always on the go or always working at his desk, make sure he stays hydrated with this Yeti Rambler water bottle. Featuring dual-wall vacuum insulation, his water will stay ice cold all day. This bottle was our pick for the best water bottle of 2021, and you can even customize it so it’s extra special.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $104.99 $87.49 at Amazon

    Oxo Good Grips Thermocouple Thermometer

    Never overcook meat again with this nifty thermometer that we named the best stylish meat thermometer on the market. It’s very accurate and easy to read to boot.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $129 $99 at Tushy

    Tushy Classic 3.0

    If you want to give him a gift he’ll put to good use, there’s nothing better than Tushy’s bidet attachment. It’s simple to install and use, plus it’s adjustable so he can get a perfect clean every time.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $39.99 at Amazon

    Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

    If they’ve got a bunch of trips planned this year, gift them our pick for the best travel pillow. The Cabeau was firm enough to support our head and neck, soft enough to fall asleep on and perfectly portable, allowing you to compress it to half its size.

    $249 $169.99 at Amazon

    Apple Airpods Pro

    If their headphones need a serious upgrade (or if they’re still suck using corded ones), Apple’s Airpods Pro feature noise cancellation, excellent sound quality and a transparency option that can help heighten the sounds around them (a fantastic feature for someone who’s experiencing any sort of hearing loss as well).

    $11.80 at Amazon

    Knock Knock

    If you’re looking for a personalized, heartfelt gift, this one will have your dad in tears in no time. This fill-in-the-blank book lets you write about why your dad is so great in your own words.

    From $40 at Uncommon Goods

    History by Mail Six-Month Subscription

    If your dude is a history buff, he’ll love this subscription that will send him replications of historical letters. He’ll get an inside look at correspondences from Einstein, FDR, Rosa Parks and more.

    $24.95 at Amazon

    Dash My Pint Electric Ice Cream Maker

    For the person who’s got an insatiable sweet tooth, this ice cream maker is easy and fun to use. Plus, at only 1 pint, it makes the perfect amount of ice cream for a movie night. Check out more of our favorite ice cream makers here.

    Holiday gifts for husband

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $59.99 at Logitech

    Logitech Litra Glow Premium Streaming Light

    Want to make sure they look well-lit in every Zoom call? This is our hands-down favorite streaming and WFH light, which clips right onto your computer. Ultra compact and priced at under $60, it’s every remote worker’s dream.

    $11.95 at Amazon

    Oxo Good Grips 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer

    Everything you need to prep an avocado — from slicing to pitting — in one compact, dishwasher-safe tool. It’s an Underscored reader favorite.

    $18.95 $15.95 at Amazon

    Drill Brush Power Scrubbers

    If the person you’re shopping for has a drill, this tool set turns that device into a cleaning machine. If he’s a bit of a neat freak and is itching to make that grout and those baseboards look brand-new, this is the gift for him. It’s a true Underscored reader favorite.

    $399 at Ooni

    Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven

    If he’s really into fire, gourmet pizzas or enjoying time in the backyard, an Ooni pizza oven makes an excellent gift. We tried out the Ooni Karu 16 for ourselves and found it to be an extremely simple and delicious way to cook up a pizza.

    From $90.31 at Etsy

    LiliDiPrima Personalized Family Portrait

    Cue the waterworks this holiday season with a gorgeous, hand-drawn portrait by artist Lili DiPrima. The ultimate way to memorialize your growing family, the piece can include up to six figures (both human and pet!).

    From $139.99 at Carhartt

    Carhartt Relaxed Fit Washed Duck Sherpa-Lined Utility Jacket

    This durable jacket from Carhartt not only keeps you warm with its heavyweight cotton duck material, but it also features six pockets so you can keep everything you need with you.

    $49.95 at REI

    REI Camp X Chair

    REI built this chair with comfort and practicality in mind. It’s one of the quickest-drying, most breathable and most durable camp chairs you can find on the market. The mesh webbing fabric on the back and base of the chair helps distribute weight for maximum comfort and heavy-duty steel tube legs can hold up to 300 pounds.

    $169 at Shaker & Spoon

    Shaker and Spoon Subscription Box

    If he likes to enjoy a tasty cocktail, he’ll love this subscription from Shaker & Spoon. Each month he’ll get a box featuring all the ingredients (minus the alcohol) and directions to make interesting, complex and delicious themed cocktails.

    $897.99 $797.99 at Amazon

    Samsung The Freestyle

    Definitely a splurge-but-worth-it gift pick, we fell in love with this portable, easy-to-use projector in our Samsung Freestyle review. It can be not only an excellent projector that can project up to a 100-inch screen but also a speaker, a light or a groovy star show projector.

    $24.99 $17.99 at Amazon

    Swedish Dishcloths

    A great practical gift, Swedish dishcloths are one of our favorite eco-friendly kitchen swaps as they take the place of paper towels. You can even throw these guys in the dishwasher or washing machine once they start smelling gross.

    $45.99 $29.99 at Amazon

    Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

    One of our favorite travel backpacks, this one is divided into three compartments, and in addition to being able to accommodate a 15-inch laptop, it’s got loads of key design details you’ll want. Think of a top handle, hanging clasps, a USB port and adjustable straps, not to mention a ton of pockets for storing all your things. Boasting a 4.8-star rating, the backpack’s highlight is a padded mesh backing that will keep you as cool as can be, no matter how many times your flight is delayed. Did we mention it’s less than $30 right now? Done and done.

    $27.95 at Hydro Flask

    Hydro Flask 12-Ounce Mug

    Whether he’s working from home or back at the office, this insulated mug from Hydro Flask will never leave his side.

    $749.99 $439.99 at Solo Stove

    Solo Stove Yukon 2.0

    If your hubby wants to spend more time in the backyard, this fire pit from Solo Stove is a must-have. Plus, it burns super clean, so there’s nearly no smoke, and it comes in multiple sizes to fit any backyard or adventure. If you’re still on the fence, check out our full review.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $16.34 $14.90 at Amazon

    Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Coffee Pot

    There’s nothing like having a pot of cold brew ready in the fridge, so make it easy on him with this beautiful cold brew coffee maker from Hario. The winner in our best cold brew maker test, it’s easy to use, brews delicious coffee and is one of the cheapest ones we tested.

    $14.99 at Amazon

    Bees Knees Spicy Honey

    From pizza to biscuits to cheese and even ice cream, this is what he’ll grab for if he’s ever looking for a kick of spice in his food — and a little sweetness.

    From $159 at Amazon and Big Blanket Co.

    Big Blanket Co. Original Stretch Blanket

    Yeah, sure, they may have plenty of blankets around the house, but do they have a big blanket yet? This snuggly blanket is quite literally big enough for the whole family and comes in a whole array of colors and prints.

    From $149 at Sonic Editions

    Sonic Editions Anthony Bourdain in New York

    Home to tons of limited-edition photography, with subjects ranging from Anthony Bourdain and Steve McQueen to Tupac and Dolly Parton, Sonic Editions makes getting some super-special art for your partner exceptionally easy.

    $46.99 $37.59 at Amazon

    Hamilton Beach Dual Breakfast Sandwich Maker

    This all-in-one sandwich maker will give him the extra time he needs in the morning while making a delicious breakfast.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $275 at Away

    Away The Carry-On

    There’s luggage and then there’s Away. Immediately elevate his travel gear with this hard-shell carry-on, which we named the best carry-on of the year. It’s perfectly sized for the overhead bin, has 360-degree spinner wheels and an interior compression system, and it comes with a handy laundry bag.

    $39 $32.99 at Uncommon Goods

    Beer Blanket 6-Pack

    His beers deserve to be cozy this winter too, so bundle them up with these beer blankets. And with this six-pack, he can always snag his favorite design or share with his friends.

    $130 at Gravity

    Gravity Fleece Weighted Robe

    Some guys need to be reminded to treat themselves every now and then, so this holiday season make sure he gets enough rest and relaxation with this weighted fleece robe from Gravity.

    From $209.95 at REI

    Blundstone Original 500 Chelsea Boots

    Some boyfriends don’t always have the best fashion sense. Spruce up his closet a bit with these timeless Blundstone Chelsea boots.

    Holiday gifts for grandfather

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    $96 at Amazon or Coop Home

    Coop Home Goods Premium Eden

    The winner in our test to find the best pillow, the Eden pillow from Coop Home Goods is supportive and plush, and lets you adjust its fill to accommodate your preferences for height and firmness, making it the best, most versatile pillow we tested.

    CNN Underscored Best Tested

    From $13 per shipment at Blue Bottle Coffee

    Blue Bottle Coffee Subscription

    Java their new best friend? Of course it is. We named Blue Bottle the best coffee subscription of 2022 due to its balance of variety, customizability and, most importantly, taste. The flavors are complex and bold, but unmistakably delicious. Beyond its coffee, Blue Bottle’s subscription is simple and easy to use, with tons of options to tailor to their caffeine needs.

    $76 at Cadence

    Cadence Build Your 6 Capsules

    Streamline his summer packing process (and add a hefty dose of sophistication!) with Cadence, a system of buildable, customizable, refillable and leakproof magnetic containers that are designed to keep his personal care products in order — and remove single-use travel-size items from his regimen. Check out our Cadence review here.

    $99 at Storyworth

    Storyworth

    A great gift for any grandparent, Storyworth is a service that will send your grandfather a question every week that will prompt a story from his life. Then, after one year Storyworth collects all those tales and turns them into a beautifully bound book. Check out our full review of the service here.

    From $110 at Nordstrom

    Ugg Ascot Slippers

    Keep his feet comfy and cozy with these fluffy wool slippers from Ugg. Plus, with a leather exterior and rubber sole, these slippers can be worn by him in the morning when he gets the mail.

    $35 at Rastelli’s

    Rastelli’s Faroe Island Salmon Filets, 4-Pack

    There’s nothing quite like a delicious home-cooked meal, so whether your grandpa is a top-notch home chef or you want to cook for him this year, try out these salmon filets from the meat delivery service Rastelli’s. We tried it ourselves and it was legitimately some of the best salmon we’ve ever tasted.

    $40 at UncommonGoods

    Easy-to-Flip BBQ Skewer Rack

    Upgrade grandpa’s BBQ setup with this nifty skewer rack. It holds six kebabs and flips them all at once to help him get an even cook every time.

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