Healthy Stocking Stuffer Ideas (To Make and Buy)

What is it about a Christmas stocking? Old or young, waking up on Christmas morning to a stocking lumpy with little surprises has its own special joy. These healthy stocking stuffer ideas have the perfect gift for everyone on your list!

It’s always fun pulling the hidden items out to reveal the unique gifts inside. Even if it’s something as small as a pack of gum or as practical as a pair of fuzzy new socks! Having all of these ideas in one big list makes your holiday season shopping even easier (even if you did miss the Cyber Monday deals).

The Tradition of Christmas Stockings

Thanks to the famous poem “The Night Before Christmas” we know Christmas stockings have been “hung by the chimney with care” for over 200 years. But exactly how long ago the tradition began and why it became so popular are more unknown.

Most agree the Christmas stocking tradition pays tribute to St. Nicholas. He’s the Christian saint of ancient times known for his generosity and gift-giving to those in need. He’s the real man behind today’s Santa traditions.

The legend goes that St. Nicholas heard of a widowed man who couldn’t pay a dowry for his three daughters. This was a desperate situation in those times. St. Nicholas dropped gold coins down the widower’s chimney by night. One of the coins fell into one of the stockings hung by the fire to dry. The widower and his daughters were overjoyed to find the coins the next morning, their worries over.

The example of St. Nicholas continues to shape our idea of the true spirit of Christmas today! My kids also participate in the St. Nicholas Day tradition of leaving a boot out for “St. Nick” to fill with treats every December 6th.

Best Stocking Stuffer Ideas for the Whole Family

Here are some stocking stuffer ideas on the healthier side. I’ve come up with these over the years or heard others recommend them. And don’t forget to check out my 2023 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide. It has plenty of last-minute ideas for your whole Christmas list!

I have several individual gift guides, one for kids, one for her, and another gift guide for men. Those include some great stocking stuffer ideas separated by gender and age. The lists below are divided by category and include perfect stocking stuffer ideas for various ages and people.

You can pick up some of these gifts at Amazon, and I’ve included plenty of other high-quality brands I love. The best gifts are the ones that are heartfelt.

On to the list…