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The Ultimate Holiday Wishlist Guide

Beth Katic Student Contributor, University of Pittsburgh
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Pitt chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

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Every year, as the holidays approach, when someone asks me for my wishlist, I inevitably blank. Usually, I end up frantically scrolling through Pinterest and TikTok, scraping something together to share with my loved ones, and totally forgetting what I’ve actually been wanting or needing. This year, I decided to get ahead of it, so I scoured the internet for all the best gift ideas. Here are some of my favorite things, my favorite finds, and some helpful reminders to help you piece together your perfect wishlist.

Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS Digital Camera

To me, a digital camera has become a college essential. I searched high and low to strike a balance between something that was affordable, something that would take quality pictures, and something that would still be small enough to slip into your bag! While it took a little bit of practice, the Powershot ELPH 360 has yet to fail me, and it’s definitely worth the splurge. If you’re looking to upgrade your Instagram, add this to your wishlist. Check it out here!

A Restock On Self-Care

One of my biggest expenses tends to be all the products in my self-care routine: haircare, body care, skin care, and makeup. When I thought about gifts that would be the most helpful, I realized that a restock of any of these would be amazing. Anything you have that is almost empty can go on your list, and hopefully save you some money down the line.

Oura Ring 5

This isn’t one I can say I’ve tried, but it just released this summer. The new Oura Ring is the smallest it’s ever been, making it look like any other ring. The ring tracks over 50 health metrics, including sleep, activity, stress, and heart health, and only needs to be charged every 6 to 10 days. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but if you’re trying to improve your sleep or overall health, the Oura Ring is amazing. You can shop for it here!

Shark FacialPro Glow + Depuffi Facial Tool

This is one of my favorite finds from scouring the internet, and it’s definitely making the top of my list this year. The home facial system can both exfoliate and clean your pores and then rehydrate for glowing skin. The Depuffi tool provides hot and cold therapy as well, giving you a full facial experience at home. The FacialPro Glow and Depuffi are sold separately or as a bundle, available here!

Blindboxes

One of my favorite gifts, although they’re a little more fun and a little less practical, is a blindbox of some sort. I’m partial to Sonny Angels, the viral cherub figurines, but there are plenty of fun options out there. They make a great option for an inexpensive gift or fun stocking-stuffer, and you’ll definitely have fun opening them up!

Kayali Perfumes

If you haven’t seen them before, Kayali makes amazing perfumes, best known for their sweet and gourmand fragrances. My all-time favorite is the Yum Boujee Marshmallow, a sweet strawberry and vanilla scent. They also make an amazing peach scent, Eden Sweet Peach, if you prefer fruity scents. They have plenty of options, and are available here, so there’s definitely an option for everyone.

Medicube Skin Care

You may not be familiar with Medicube, but you’ve definitely seen their products on your FYP: overnight face masks, eye patches, and tons of other skin care finds. The K-beauty brand, now widely available in places like Target and Ulta, is both affordable and effective. I’ve personally tried their overnight brightening masks, and I have to admit that I am totally hooked. They make a large variety of products and tools that range in price, so there’s definitely something available to fit your budget and skincare needs. You can check it out here!

Pajama Sets

While most would consider pajamas an essential, you could argue that pajamas are trending right now. We’ve moved past throwing on sweats and an old t-shirt. Brands like Victoria’s Secret, Comfrt, and Roller Rabbit are making trendy, button-up pajama sets to replace your middle school graphic tees. My personal favorites are Victoria’s Secret sets, especially the holiday ones. I wouldn’t argue that I sleep any better, but they are definitely much cuter old sweat-sets.

UGG Blanket

With UGG back in style, everyone reaches for platform slippers and mini boots, but I would argue their best and most underrated product is their blankets. I got an UGG blanket a couple of years ago, and I have raved about it ever since. They range in price from moderate to high-end, but I’ve found very expensive ones on sale at department stores like Macy’s. Regardless of which one you get, they are so warm and luxurious, for a much lower price than other trending blankets. They also make an easy and perfect gift for basically anyone you have to buy for, and you can find them here.

Pursue a New Hobby

So this isn’t exactly a product, but one of the things I always forget when making a list is activities I’ve been wanting to try. This year, I’ve gotten really into yoga, so a mat and athletic clothes are at the top of my list. This can be anything you would need. In the past, I’ve gone for gel nail kits, sewing kits, all sorts of things. Once again, you can totally tailor this to your interests and anybody’s budget, so it’s a great way to top off your list.

Beth is a first year law, criminal justice, and society major at the University of Pittsburgh. She is also an honors college student and a Nordenberg Leadership Scholar. She hopes to attend law school and work in constitutional law.
On campus, Beth is involved in Her Campus. She enjoys writing about sports and culture. She also enjoys shopping, traveling, golfing, volunteering and spending time with her friends and family.