How to Fill a Christmas Eve Box for Under £10: Community Tips and Expert Advice

Creating a Christmas Eve box on a budget is a challenge many families face, but savvy deal hunters from the LatestDeals.co.uk community have shared their secrets to crafting festive boxes without breaking the bank. From DIY solutions to affordable store-bought treasures, here’s how they do it.

Affordable Ideas From the LatestDeals.co.uk Community

1) Activity-Focused Boxes

EKWilkes89 recommends filling boxes with items to keep kids entertained: “I always get a new set of pyjamas, sweets, chocolate, snacks, a small present, and a colouring book with pens for them to do activities through the day.” Adding colouring books or puzzles from budget-friendly stores like The Works, where activity sets start at £1, can be a practical solution.

2) DIY Decorations and Treats

emmabeckz, a Latest Deals team member, suggests, “usually new Christmas pyjamas and fluffy socks, a decorate your own gingerbread person kit, some Christmas sweets maybe chocolate coins and a game to play and maybe some novelty thing like a stretchy santa or crystal Christmas tree. Its more to keep them occupied while I am slaving away prepping in the kitchen but its a nice tradition we started for us.”

3) Pound Shop Gems

SaveMeSunday highlights the treasure trove of items available at pound stores: “Maybe go to the pound shop and find some gems there—that’s my plan.” With options like festive mugs, mini games, or novelty socks, you can create a box that feels indulgent on a shoestring.

4) Keep It Simple

Lynibis takes a minimalist approach: “If this is instead of a stocking, I would put in what would have gone in a stocking. It’s crazy kids getting all this stuff, especially when prices have doubled in a year.”

5) Make It About Memories

Swimmer94 focuses on family time over material items: “I try and do things that are useful for the day or crafts/baking that we can do together as a family rather than gifts.” Baking supplies like cookie cutters and sprinkles from Aldi’s middle aisle, costing under £5, provide a shared activity that’s easy on the wallet.

Expert Insights from Tom Church

Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, weighs in:

"Christmas Eve boxes have grown in popularity, but they don’t have to drain your wallet. Think about multipurpose items like pyjamas they can wear beyond Christmas or activities that keep them entertained while you prep for the big day. Stores like The Range and B&M often have seasonal deals that can cut costs significantly."

For families debating the tradition, Tom adds, “Don’t feel pressured to spend. A heartfelt handwritten letter or a homemade gift can be just as magical. Use apps like Too Good To Go to source discounted festive treats—great for adding an extra touch without splashing out.”

Crafting a Christmas Eve box for under £10 is entirely possible with thoughtful planning and clever shopping. Whether you’re going traditional, DIY, or keeping it simple, the key is to make it personal and fun.

Tom concludes, “Christmas is about joy, not stress. Whatever you choose to do, remember, the best gift is time together.”