’Tis the season to be jolly, but if you’re not methodical about how you spend your time, it’s also the season to be stressed, overextended and staring down a lengthy Christmas gift list with just one week left to go. Since you’re likely already hitting Costco for last-minute bulk olives, Christmas lights and $1.50 hot dogs, why not knock off some gifts for the key players still on your list while you’re there? Of course, nothing beats a thoughtful, locally made present, but in the big Christmas crunch, there’s no shame in letting capitalist haven Costco swoop in and play Santa. You can always save the “no big-box stores” resolution for next year. Here are six ideas to help get you in and out even quicker.
For Mom: A lounge set she can answer the door in
Lemon Women’s 3-piece Sleep Set, $22.99, Costco
I never truly understood how cliché most gifts for Mom can be until I became one myself, and now I pray I never see another bottle of generic bubble bath. That said, some presents are go-tos for a reason, like a pair of soft pyjamas that are put-together enough to keep on while making Christmas morning pancakes. And since this three-piece set, comprised of a tank top, cosy pants and a slouchy cardigan, is an absolute steal, you’ll want to package the PJs up with her favourite Chardonnay, a fancy candle she’d never buy herself, a gift card to Indigo and a promise to not ask her a single question for seven to 10 business days.
For Dad: A sturdy but stylish carry-on
Bugatti Milos Hardside Carry-On, $99.99, Costco
Because it’s a statistical fact that nine out of 10 dads have at least one piece of questionable luggage, upgrade Pop’s travel wardrobe with a killer carry-on. Complete with double 360-degree spinner wheels, a built-in combination lock and the ability to expand to a larger size via a handy zipper, this sleek suitcase has reviewers noting that it rolls well and meets carry-on requirements nicely. Some even call its quality “impressive” and “surprising,” which is no small feat for discerning Costco shoppers. Plus, it comes with a variety of compartments for foolproof packing.
For kids: A brain-stimulating track set that’s anything but boring
Stunttracks 190-Piece Set, $79.99 (on sale), Costco
If your heart’s one true wish is to never hear the drone of a too-loud toy set again, consider an educational present that doesn’t spew dinosaur roars or catch phrases like “Chase is on the case!” (no disrespect to Paw Patrol, of course). This beefy set comes with 190 pieces so the kiddos can build more than 32 feet of track, including two stunt loops. The set includes three LED vehicles and five sheets of glow-in-the-dark stickers so they can customize their tracks and (hopefully) buy you at least an hour of peace.
For teens: A pair of portable speakers (because they’ll lose one eventually)
Skullcandy Kilo Bluetooth Speaker Black, 2-pack, $79.99, Costco
A couple of near-universal truths about teenagers that transcends generations: They don’t want to talk to you and they want to blast their music choices (preferably not on public transit, mind you) as loud as reasonably possible. This pair of bluetooth-enabled portable speakers will let them drown out the noise at their next park hang and with up to 24 hours of battery life, they can always have one charged up and waiting for their next great adventure. Bonus: They’re waterproof because, you know, teens.
For your child’s teacher: Nice coffee
Ethical Bean Coffee Lush Medium Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee, 2 x 907 g, Costco
Teacher gifts can be a unique challenge. How do you offer something that isn’t too personal or extravagant, conveys your appreciation for wrangling dozens of feral kids all year and doesn’t have “Best Teacher” printed anywhere on it? I’m partial to gifting educators sustenance for the long days spent at the chalkboard, like this fair-trade, organic coffee. Add in a lovely mug (sans motivational message on it!) and you’re set. These ethical java beans come in a two-pack, so you can cross off multiple teachers at once.
For your best friend: Shearling slippers that won’t break the bank
Kirkland Signature Unisex Shearling Slipper, $41.99, Costco
Dupe culture might be a bit out of control, but so is the prospect of dropping $200 on a pair of slippers, no? These genuine shearling mules offer the look of big-name brands without the sticker shock. A sock lining gives them a cosy, cushioned feel that reviewers say doesn’t make your feet sweat. Plus, they like how the snug mule style stays put on the heels when walking. Fans of the slippers also caution to size down, as they run big — and to grab them while you can, because they go out of stock often.
