As Christmas 2024 approaches, holiday shoppers in the U.S. are gearing up for one of the most exciting shopping seasons of the year. Although money-related gifts dominated Statista’s surveys (36% of men and 50% of women want cash or bank transfers this year), other categories still enjoy significant interest.
This year, businesses can expect a blend of technology, personalization, sustainability, and traditional favorites to trend heavily, offering a wide range of choices for early planners and last-minute buyers. Here’s a deep dive into some of the most desired gifts and why they trend in 2024.
Table of Contents
What are the US Christmas spending projections for 2024?
7 of the best Christmas gifts to stock this year
Final words
What are the US Christmas spending projections for 2024?
Christmas is a great time for everyone, and consumers get to show and receive love, while businesses get to make money. According to projections, this year may have enough opportunities for more sales. According to Mastercard’s SpendingPulse insights, holiday spending in the U.S. will increase by 3.2% from last year’s total, with most purchases happening from November 1 to December 24, 2024.
Another report by PWC expects spending to grow by 7%. Its experts predict the average American will pay US $1,638 on gifts. One thing both reports have in common is that U.S. Christmas spending for 2024 will be better than last year, which means more profit opportunities.
7 of the best Christmas gifts to stock this year
1. Technology and smart devices
Technology continues to dominate wish lists, with many Americans eyeing the latest smart devices and gadgets. Smart home devices like smart speakers, doorbell cameras, and AI-driven thermostats are perfect options, as they provide convenience and efficiency to busy households. For example, generic smart speakers attracted 14,800 searches, while branded variants (like Google Home) have a 301,000 search volume (according to Wordstream’s keyword data).
Additionally, wearables like smartwatches have achieved 201,000 searches, and fitness trackers have had 550,000 searches, especially with more people becoming more health-conscious. However, businesses must stock options offering the latest features, including advanced health tracking features.
2. Eco-friendly and sustainable gifts
Sustainability has become a central theme in holiday shopping, with more consumers searching for environmentally friendly gifts. One standout category is living gifts, such as potted plants, miniature Christmas trees, or flowering bulb gardens. According to Jackson & Perkins, living gifts are gaining more attention for their lasting connection to nature and wellness benefits.
The report also says the trend’s driver is an increased awareness of the disposable gifts’ environmental impact and people’s desire to give more meaningful, lasting items. But that’s not all. Shoppers are also moving toward recycled or sustainably sourced materials, especially those who want to reduce plastic waste.
3. Personalized and custom gifts
Another trend receiving significant attention in 2024 is personalization. Check out its stats: Wordstream shows that “personalized gifts” have an impressive 110,000 average searches in the U.S., showing shoppers are looking for ways to make their gifts more meaningful. Think customized items like monogrammed accessories, engraved jewelry, and bespoke tech gadgets.
Businesses can also consider personalized art pieces or tailored gift boxes packed with the recipient’s favorite treats. The main takeaway is that offering these customization services caters to hundreds of thousands of customers who go the extra mile with their presents.
4. Health and wellness products
The focus on mental and physical health has never been stronger. According to McKinsey, up to 50% of Americans prioritize wellness daily, which marks a hefty boost from 2020’s 42%. This increased focus is also reflected in the popularity of health and wellness gifts.
Products like aromatherapy diffusers (110,000 searches on average), massage guns (201,000 searches on average), and yoga gear are super popular, catering to the growing number of people who focus on adding self-care and relaxation to their lives. Additionally, there’s demand for gifts that promote wellness at home (like air purifiers), which are practical yet thoughtful in today’s health-conscious climate.
5. Fashion and apparel gifts
Apparel remains a top choice for holiday shoppers. Statista ranked fashion and apparel as the third most wanted gifts for American men (28%) and women (42%) in 2023, and it doesn’t look like it will be different this year. As people continue to embrace casual, comfortable clothing, such brands will likely see an influx of gift orders.
On the other hand, high-end fashion items, like designer bags, watches, and shoes, remain classic gifts for those wanting to indulge in luxury. Additionally, accessories like Bluetooth earmuffs, heated jackets, and touchscreen gloves are perfect examples of fashion-meeting functionality, making them popular picks in colder climates.
6. Luxury and indulgent gifts
Some people just like to splurge, and luxury gifts are the perfect way to do so, meaning they are still highly sought after. Items like high-end beauty products, designer perfumes, and gourmet food baskets are incredible, timeless options businesses can add to their Christmas stores.
7. Gift cards
Gift cards may not be the most personalized gift, but they ranked second in Statista’s 2023 survey, with 42% of women and 34% of men wanting them as gifts. So, it’s no surprise they are among the list of the most desired Christmas gifts for 2024.
Another reason gift cards are so popular is their flexibility. They allow the gift recipient to choose whatever they want, making them the perfect gift for hard-to-shop-for individuals (and great last-minute gifts). Popular gift cards include those for major retailers like Amazon and Target.
However, consumers may also want more experiential options, like spa day gift cards or restaurant vouchers, or search for something more digital, like gift cards for gaming platforms or app stores.
Final words
The 2024 holiday season presents an exciting mix of old favorites and emerging trends, reflecting consumer behavior and societal value shifts. The gift-giving landscape will keep evolving as shoppers focus on personalization, sustainability, and wellness.
However, businesses will always benefit from this change if they stock products that resonate with the target audience’s values and lifestyle. Ultimately, these trends show that shoppers are looking to give the best gifts that offer meaning and longevity more than ever.
