Top-Rated Practical Gifts for Parents in 2019
Consumer Reports and Amazon ranked smart home devices and kitchen appliances among the highest-rated practical gifts for parents in 2019. The Amazon Echo Show 5, priced at $49.99, was a top seller in the smart display category. The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, priced around $89.99, remained a consistent best-seller in kitchen appliances. The Apple iPad 10.2-inch, launched in September 2019 at $329, was a leading tablet choice for parents who wanted a simple, supported device. The Dyson V7 Trigger cordless vacuum, priced at $499.99, ranked highly for cleaning performance and ease of use. These products were available at major retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target, with delivery options before December 25, 2019. For verified ratings and test results, see the Consumer Reports product reviews at www.consumerreports.org.
Best Buy reported that smart home devices, headphones, and video doorbells were among the fastest-growing gift categories in 2019. The Ring Video Doorbell 2, priced at $199.99, was a popular choice for parents who wanted remote monitoring. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II wireless headphones, priced at $299, ranked as a top-rated noise-canceling option. The Google Nest Thermostat, priced at $129.99, was frequently gifted as an energy-saving home upgrade. The Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance starter kit, priced at $199.99, was a leading smart lighting gift. These items were available at Best Buy, Amazon, and Home Depot, with many offering same-day or next-day delivery in major U.S. metros during December 2019. For additional gift inspiration and price comparisons, see the Forbes holiday gift guide at www.forbes.com.
Experiences and Subscriptions Parents Wanted in 2019
Experiential gifts and subscription services were among the most-searched Christmas gift ideas for parents in 2019, according to Google Trends and retail data. Airbnb Experiences and Viator offered parent-friendly tours, cooking classes, and spa days, with prices typically ranging from $50 to $500 per experience. Spotify Premium, priced at $9.99 per month, and Netflix Standard, priced at $13.99 per month, were among the most-gifted digital subscriptions. Amazon Prime, priced at $119 per year, offered fast shipping, streaming, and photo storage, making it a practical annual gift. ClassPass, priced at $19 per month, was a popular fitness subscription for parents who wanted access to multiple studios. These services were available for digital delivery or physical gift cards at the respective provider websites and at retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Target.
Travel and dining gift cards were among the top experiential gift categories in 2019, according to the National Retail Federation. Visa and Mastercard prepaid gift cards, available in denominations from $25 to $500, were the most versatile option for parents who wanted to choose their own experience. Restaurant gift cards from chains such as The Cheesecake Factory, Outback Steakhouse, and Starbucks were top sellers during the holiday season. Theme park gift cards from Disney, Universal Studios, and Six Flags were popular for family outings. Airlines such as Delta and Southwest offered e-vouchers and gift cards that could be used for flights and companion tickets. For data on consumer spending and gift card trends