Impulse buying often gets a bad reputation — many people have experienced the regret that follows a spur-of-the-moment purchase. However, when it comes to gifting, impulse buys can actually be a blessing in disguise. These spontaneous purchases sometimes turn out to be unexpectedly perfect finds that not only delight the recipient but also provide practical value. They can offer unique and thoughtful gifts that make the receiver wonder how they ever lived without them.
Recently, the team at CNET gathered some of their favorite impulse buys — all under $25 — that proved to be surprisingly useful and would make excellent gifts. Many of these items are also available at attractive discounts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, making them budget-friendly options for holiday shopping. Here’s a detailed look at some of the best impulse buys that combine functionality, fun, and affordability.
One standout gadget is a tiny magnetic charger designed specifically for the Apple Watch. CNET’s Russell Holly praises this compact charger for its convenience, especially when you’re away from home longer than expected. Its small size means it can easily be slipped into a backpack, purse, or even attached to a keyring, making it an ideal gift for anyone who relies on their Apple Watch and needs a portable charging solution.
Hiccups might seem trivial, but for some, they can be quite troublesome. Fortunately, there is a clinically proven device available that can help end hiccups quickly for both kids and adults. This handy tool is not only practical but also makes for a fun gift idea, perfect for a White Elephant party or as a stocking stuffer during the holiday season.
For those who love outdoor activities or simply need a reliable flashlight, the GearLight two-pack is a favorite among CNET readers. These flashlights offer five different modes and feature a zoomable beam, making them versatile and powerful for their size. During Black Friday, they’re available at a significant discount, making them a practical and affordable gift choice.
In the kitchen, a clever clip-on strainer can revolutionize how you drain pasta. Instead of using a large colander that takes up space and requires extra cleanup, this strainer clips right onto the side of your pot. When the pasta is ready, simply pour the water out through the strainer into the sink. It’s a smart space-saver and drastically reduces the number of dishes to wash, making it a useful gift for anyone who enjoys cooking but hates the cleanup.
Another foodie-friendly gift idea is a snack organizer that resembles a tackle box. This compact container is perfect for packing a variety of snacks like nuts, dried fruits, chocolates, and pretzels. Faith Chihil from CNET keeps hers stocked for a quick energy boost during workdays or picnics, offering a mix of sweet and salty options. It’s a fun and practical gift for snack lovers who appreciate portion control and convenience.
Smart plugs are becoming increasingly popular as part of home automation setups. The Kasa smart plug is a budget-friendly option that allows users to automate lights, control gadgets remotely, or use voice commands when paired with smart home assistants like Echo Dot. This plug makes a great gift for tech enthusiasts looking to dip their toes into smart home technology without breaking the bank.
For game lovers, “Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza” is an addictive card game that appeals to all ages and adds excitement to family game nights. CNET contributor Oliver Haslam calls it the most fun he’s had with a card game in a long time, noting how it made a recent vacation especially memorable. It’s a fantastic gift to bring people together for laughter and friendly competition.
Juicing citrus fruits can be messy or inefficient, but this compact juicer makes it easy to squeeze every last drop of lemon or lime juice. It even includes a built-in catcher to separate pulp and seeds, making it perfect for cocktail enthusiasts. David Watsky from CNET recommends it for making margaritas, highlighting its practicality and ease of use.
Strawberries are delicious but often tricky to prep because of their leafy tops. This simple tool quickly and neatly removes the green stem from strawberries, saving the edible portion from being wasted. It’s much easier and safer to use than a knife, making it a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves cooking or baking with fresh fruit.
For wine lovers, an electric wine bottle opener can be a game changer. CNET’s Corinne Reichert prefers this modern alternative to the traditional Rabbit opener. It effortlessly removes corks without straining your wrist