10 things NOT to buy for Christmas 2025

7. Gift cards that require the planets to align. A few months ago I wrote about the cynical tactic that theaters specifically use to avoid having to offer three-year validity.

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This applies to cash-like gift cards. Instead, offer a bundle of real products at a discount; The expiration date can be ridiculously short. You know, you get your Gold Class ticket, your slides, your popcorn, your chocolate, but you only have 10 seconds to get it all.

This has been the subject of most of the consumer complaints I’ve received from readers this year. If you are going to go this way, be sure to explain to the person you will give the gift to that they have a very limited time to use it.

6. Provides comedy. Besides the giant talking “no” button we use on a disturbingly regular basis in one of the offices where I hang out (I guess that counts as free therapy!), the joke gift is a one-time entertainment deal.

And it’s not just the cost to your bank account that’s worrying, it’s also the environment.
In fact, most people enjoy it just as much, if not more, than a funny meme on social media, and it’s free.

5. Pets. Step away from the festive furbaby; Unless, of course, you’re sure you’ll be equally in love with a new member joining the family. to relax of the year.

These are the gifts that keep on receiving. And not just your money, but your flexibility and holidays too. According to insurance company PetSure, January 2024 had the highest number of new pet insurance policies issued that year.

And expensive breeders are still the most popular way to get a dog; By 2025, only 14 per cent of Australians would prefer a rescue pet. pets in australia report.

Meanwhile, RSPCA NSW data shows: As Christmas approaches, shelters are at or nearing capacity; There are often waiting lists of up to 12 months for those wishing to surrender their animals (one-third due to financial stress). Think carefully.

4. Soap and similar things. How many fancy soaps do we really need? I mean, really! Most of us use liquid substances now – of course? (And the soap still leaves a mess on your shower glass.)

3. Clothes. Do you remember that feeling you had as a child when you finally touched the gifts under the Christmas tree and came upon a soft present?

“Boring,” you thought, secretly or openly, as you threw it over your shoulder. Children’s clothing is almost guaranteed to fail. (Except my daughter, if you miraculously get it right).

And for adults, these are a huge gamble. How confident are you about its dimensions, let alone its taste?

2. Cheap jewelry. It’s discouraging and even disgusting how some jewelry sold in “bulk bling” chain stores tarnishes so quickly and becomes ready to be thrown away.

How can they avoid selling silver that darkens within days? Or is it gold that serves no purpose other than staining your skin? Buying better quality the first time can save a fortune in the long run. Which brings us to number 1…

1. Slime. I hope you’re not thinking of giving something like this to an adult… but if you give it to your child, you can kiss their parents’ friendship goodbye.

think your favorite gifts ever – I would argue they are personal, purposeful and/or meaningful rather than expensive. But if you know me and have given me a gift from the list above, thank you; I loved this. And I’m sorry!

Nicole Pedersen-McKinnon is the author of: How to Get Mortgage-Free Like Me?Available at: www.nicolessmartmoney.com. Follow Nicole Facebook, X And instagram.

• The advice given in this article is general in nature and is not intended to influence readers’ decisions about investments or financial products. They should always seek their own professional advice, taking into account their personal circumstances, before making any financial decisions.

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