I’m a Gifts Editor—Here Are 15 Things I Always Buy on Amazon
It’s rare a product earns a permanent spot in my routine, but these have.
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
As a gifts editor, I’ve tried a lot of products and basically get paid to scroll Amazon all day. While I’m always on the hunt for the hottest gifts, there are a few Amazon finds I can’t help but recommend all the time—from the viral Owala water bottle (duh) to niche beauty finds that I swear by, like the E.L.F. bronzing drops that do more for my face than a day at the beach. There are the press-on nails that have earned me dozens of compliments, and the piece of tech I never expected to love so much. Since we’re all trying to embrace more offline hobbies, I included a few of my favorite ways to get off my screen.
I’ve also gifted these products again and again, because want to know a hack to great gift-giving? It’s all about finding items you know work, and if it’s something you love, chances are your bestie, mom, or husband might too.
I’ve tried a lot of face masks, but these are my favorite. The outer layer isn’t moist, so it stays in place and doesn’t drip—making it easy to do chores while the ingredients are at work. They help hydrate, brighten, and reduce the appearance of fine lines in only 15 minutes.
I can’t recommend Pavoi enough. The affordable jewelry brand has an array of trendy styles that are perfect for everyday wear. I don’t wear these pieces in the shower, but they haven’t tarnished at all.
I’ve recently gotten really into propagating my plants, and I’m obsessed with these modern glass terrariums. I have them hanging in my kitchen, and they’re perfect for rooting trailing plants, like pothos. Everyone always compliments them!
Everyone’s obsessed with Summer Fridays lip butter balms for a reason: The formula is creamy and nourishing. The flavors are all delish, and I love how glossy they are. The minis are great, because I can easily toss them in my bag or pocket.
After years of recommending this gift to readers, I had to try it. Now, I literally can’t stop making homemade ice cream—my go-to flavor is chocolate chip cookies. It takes less than 20 minutes to whip up soft serve, so long as you remember to pop the bowls in the freezer the night before.
READ MY FULL REVIEW: Dash Ice Cream Maker
Enjoy the scent of your favorite candles without the smoke or soot taking over your home. This isn’t the exact one I have, but I’m obsessed with this tortoise shell glass shade—it’s kind of giving vintage vibes.
Trust me, Owala bottles are worth the hype. I love that you can sip from the straw or tilt it back to drink through the spout. Plus it’s completely leak-proof, so you can toss yours in a backpack or weekender when traveling.
Whenever I wear these press-ons, I get so many compliments. They look really natural, and feel really secure—no chipping or breaking. The brand says they last upwards of 21 days, but I haven’t kept them on for longer than two weeks.
Years ago, I swore I’d never get a Kindle, because there’s nothing better than a paperback—I was wrong. Not to be dramatic, but my Kindle has changed my life. I read so much faster, can get way more comfortable while binging in bed, and can whip out my book at any time, because this 6-inch screen fits in my purse.
Beauty hack: These bronzing drops do more for my skin than a day at the beach. Mix them with your daily moisturizer and they give a subtle glowy tan that’s so good, I often skip foundation.
In an effort to spend less time scrolling, I’ve started coloring at night. These mini coloring books are perfect, because they’re super low commitment—I tend to look at a full-page illustration, and think, no way. The designs are so cute and every page only takes a few minutes. You’ll need to get something to color with, might I suggest colorful gel pens?
I give the Aura digital picture frame to everyone: my mom, mother-in-law, sister, fiancé. It’s such a special way to relive memories. You can quickly upload photos via an app, and there’s unlimited storage. Bonus points if you load the images before they even unwrap the frame.
Day-old iced coffee? No problem. These insulated travel mugs (I have four) keep my coffee burn-your-mouth hot for hours, and retain ice for literal days. They’re great for smoothies, yogurt drinks, or any beverages that belong in the fridge. They’re completely leak-proof, so I toss them in my bag and go.
We’re all on the hunt for more offline hobbies, and the Buddha Board is a great way to practice mindfulness. Dip your brush in water, doodle to your heart’s content, then watch your artwork slowly fade away. Once it’s gone, you can create again and again.
READ MY FULL REVIEW: Buddha Board
I always recommend Rifle Paper Co., popular for its pretty artwork. Their notebooks and journals are so beautiful, they make my thoughts and to-do lists feel a little more special.
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) leads Good Housekeeping’s gift guide strategy. She writes and edits commerce content, where she analyzes lifestyle trends, shopping data, and works closely with the Good Housekeeping Institute to recommend top-tested products. Previously, she was the associate lifestyle editor for GH and wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, BobVila.com, and Unique Homes Magazine. When she’s not tracking down buzzy products, you can find her walking her dog, Skye, around Jersey City.
Readers Also Read
50 Best Gifts for Men
45 Gifts for People Who Have Everything
36 Most Clever Amazon Gadgets
Trendy Stocking Stuffers for Teen Girls
