Stocking Stuffers for Toddler Boys Under $20 (That They'll Actually Use)

Stocking stuffers are sneaky. A few $5 toys here and there and suddenly you've spent $80 on stuff that's broken or lost by New Year's. The trick is filling stockings with things they'll actually use and wear.

Here's my go-to list as a boy mom, with a few Little Rad Things favorites mixed in.

Stuff they'll wear

• Fisherman Beanie: cozy, cuffed and comes in walnut, navy, red and pumpkin. Rolls up small enough to fit in any stocking.
• Vintage Stripes Beanie: a retro striped beanie for cold car line mornings.
• Jolly Toddler Graphic Tee: a vintage holiday graphic made for Christmas morning.
• Sleigh All Day Monster Truck Tee: for the kid who'd rather Santa drove a monster truck.
• Organic Cotton Mystery Graphic Tee: a surprise tee for kids who love unwrapping.
• Salty Times Tee: a beach-day favorite to remind everyone summer is coming.

Find more in our $20 and Under and $10 and Under collections.

Stuff that keeps them busy

• Mini toy trucks or race cars. Always a hit, and they fit perfectly in a stocking.
• Sticker books or reusable sticker pads. Great for car rides and restaurants.
• Bath toys or color-changing bath tablets. Makes bedtime routines way easier.
• A small flashlight or headlamp. Boys love exploring the backyard after dark.
• Board books or early readers. Pick one about trucks, dinosaurs or whatever he's into.

Stuff that's actually useful

• A fun toothbrush. Makes brushing less of a battle.
• A new water bottle. Bonus points if it has his favorite color or character.
• Fuzzy socks. Every kid's feet are cold in December.

Boy mom stocking tips

1. Put the clothes on top. A new tee or beanie he can wear Christmas morning makes the photos.
2. Stick to a budget per stocking. $20 to $40 goes a long way if you skip the plastic filler.
3. Save one thing for the toe. A small treat at the very bottom keeps the excitement going.

Shopping for bigger gifts too? Check out our full Gift Guide.