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So, I’m new to the “living on my own” game and let me tell you — it’s been a pretty big struggle. I really never understood how much the little things cost until I moved out a couple years ago. That being said, I will take free things whenever I can get them.
Maybe you’re already established and comfortable in your life — good for you! However, it’s still useful to ask for things that you would otherwise have to buy for Christmas. Hey — I didn’t want to be an adult either, but that’s just the way things are.
Whether you’re a young adult or a fully-fledged old person, here are five major categories of presents you should include on your wish list.
1. Kitchen supplies
Not only are quality pots and pans super expensive, but the little things count too — cutlery, appliances and tools all add up. Putting big items like a food processor or a slow cooker on your wish list takes the hassle and anxiety out of buying one for yourself.
Not to mention, kitchen supplies will last you pretty long — unlike that bottle of brandy you and your cousins killed in one night.
2. Music or movie and TV subscriptions
Music, movies and television are all consumed by subscription nowadays — I couldn’t live without my Spotify, Netflix and HBO GO. Asking for a year’s — or a couple years’ if it’s cheap — subscription to an online streaming service will save you a ton of money.
Let’s face it — we can’t keep mooching off of our family’s accounts or creating new identities for free trials. So ask for a Netflix subscription instead of expensive headphones you can get super cheap knockoffs of.
3. Warm clothing
Yet another unexpected expense in adult living — warm coats are expensive but needed for the northeast weather. Asking for a nice wool pea coat or a faux fur lined trenchcoat will ensure that you’ll be toasty warm for years to come.
Heck, why not even socks? Being the butt of so many Christmas jokes, it’s time that warm, fuzzy socks made its comeback. Both your feet and your bank account will thank you.
4. Gym Membership
Ah yes, time for the dreaded New Year’s resolution — instead of wasting your own money on a gym membership you’ll only use two weeks into the year, why not ask for one instead? This way, maybe you’ll even feel guilty for not going and continue your doomed resolution.
Memberships are also usually on sale this time of the year — praying on the weak, no doubt. But who knows? Maybe you’ll stick it out this year.
5. Money towards an investment
Do you have student loans creeping up behind you? Need to pay the rent to your swanky Brooklyn apartment soon? Why not ask for straight-up money for Christmas? Yes, it seems like a pretty shallow thing to do, but the holidays are for giving!
For my birthday, I asked my parents to pay that month’s rent so I would be worry-free and spent my money on other things I had been putting off. It’s not the most heartfelt present, but to me, paying off someone’s debt is pretty huge.
Of course, this list is definitely for families that are well-off or at least lower middle class. If your family and friends can’t afford these things, don’t be distraught if they buy you a cheap present or none at all. It’s important to keep in mind that the season is about coming together — while gifts are just an add-on.
