Savvy Parents Share 12 Tips for Affordable Stocking Fillers

With Christmas approaching, many parents are looking for affordable stocking filler ideas to make their kids’ Christmas extra special without breaking the bank. In a lively forum discussion on Latest Deals, members shared their best recommendations for stocking fillers. Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, weighs in alongside the community to offer savvy Christmas shopping tips.

1) Pound Shops and Discount Retailers

Several members suggested bargain-focused shops like "Toys For A Pound" and "PoundFun" for low-cost toys. "Never heard of Toys For A Pound or PoundFun," admitted MrsCraig, who was excited to check them out. These shops are known for offering everything from toy cars to puzzles for as little as £1. Tom adds, "These shops are great for finding affordable, high-value items, making it easy to create a fun stocking on a budget."

2) B&M and Home Bargains

For a one-stop-shop of affordable stocking fillers, Latest Deals member who goes by the username possy recommended Home Bargains, saying, "I found it great and got a lot from there, especially for stockings, and such good prices." Though some stores have limited selections, B&M and Home Bargains generally have toys, chocolates, and themed items. Tom says, “It’s worth checking these stores, especially as the holiday stock changes weekly."

3) The Entertainer and Bargain Max

"Have you looked on The Entertainer or Bargain Max?" asked martinlufc5637. Both stores frequently offer discounts on branded toys, making them ideal for car-themed finds. Tom advises keeping an eye out for The Entertainer’s holiday sales: “They often discount popular toys close to Christmas, making them a great source for filling up stockings affordably."

4) Kids Stuff For Less and Maqio

Not everyone has heard of these smaller online retailers, but Karen331 vouched for Kids Stuff For Less, saying, "I use Kids Stuff For Less and Toys For A Pound a lot. Home Bargains have nice affordable bits too." With their toy collections priced low, these sites are ideal for online shoppers seeking unique or harder-to-find items. MrsCraig planned to check out Maqio for additional options, adding, "I forgot about Maqio, will have a look."

5) Hot Wheels Cars

Hot Wheels were a fan-favourite item, perfect for young car enthusiasts. "What about some Hot Wheels cars?" suggested PinkElephant26. "They're around £1.50 each and last for years!" With multipacks offering even more savings, Hot Wheels are affordable and widely available in stores like B&M. Tom highlights Hot Wheels as an enduring classic, saying, "They're a perfect go-to for young kids who love cars, and with multipacks, you can get more value for money."

6) Argos with Nectar Points

Argos made the list, especially with its free click-and-collect service. MrsCraig mentioned, "I could look on Argos, use some of my Nectar points." For those with loyalty points to spend, Argos can be a budget-friendly source for toys and small gadgets. Tom adds, "It’s a great way to stretch your budget, especially if you use those points and collect at no extra cost."

7) The Works

Another tip came from Mango4, who said, "Try The Works for books, stationery, craft items, games, and novelty items. Some great Christmas toys and stocking fillers from just £1." The Works has books, crafts, and small games perfect for stockings. Tom agrees, saying, “The Works is brilliant for creative gifts and educational toys that are budget-friendly."

8) Halfords Bargain Racks

Halfords, known more for car accessories, was a surprise suggestion from intherealworld: "If you're passing a Halfords, they have 'Bargain Racks' where end-of-range stuff is sold for a fraction of the original price." This can include mini car accessories, tools, or novelty items, ideal for young car fans. Tom says, "Halfords is a great idea for car-themed fillers—perfect for any teenager just learning to drive!"

9) Poundland and Poundstretcher

Poundland and Poundstretcher are classic go-tos for affordable fillers, with everything from stationery to seasonal decorations available for £1. Jerseydrew had a word of caution, though: “Personally, I wouldn’t go with pound shop stuff as it’s cheap and likely to fall apart.” Tom agrees that these stores are great for simple items but recommends checking quality, especially for younger children.

10) Temu Deals

Although some shoppers were hesitant about Temu, lilyflower shared her experience: “I've had a few things, and they normally arrive within two weeks, with full tracking." Temu’s selection of budget-friendly, novelty items makes it a fun choice for stocking fillers. Tom adds, “Temu has great deals for under £1, perfect for budget shoppers looking to add something quirky or unique. If you're a new Temu shopper, use the code afc12475 to get 30% off."

11) Tesco and Sainsbury’s

With Christmas approaching, supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s begin to offer sales on seasonal toys and treats. kitty88uk suggested, "Have a look at Tesco, they should have more in now with Christmas coming." While selection varies by location, Tom advises, “If you’re already grocery shopping, browsing the toy and book sections can yield some surprises at a reasonable price."

12) eBay Cashbacks and Online Finds

possy recommended eBay, noting, "eBay is quite good, with a lot of shops, and you can earn cashback." For those willing to hunt, eBay’s vast marketplace often has deals on toys and novelty items, especially with cashback offers. Tom adds, "eBay’s cashback options make it even more appealing, particularly for bulk buys or harder-to-find items."

This year, families can make stockings magical and affordable by mixing traditional stocking fillers with new finds from both high street and online stores. Tom Church said, “Christmas doesn’t have to be about big spending. With tips like these from the community, there are plenty of ways to fill stockings with high-quality, fun items without stretching your budget.”