4 Worst Holiday Gifts To Buy From Target This Season
Written by
J. Arky
Edited by
Cory Dudak
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Target is known for being a super store with super deals at bargain prices. However, when it comes to the quality of products, not all Target items are equal, especially when it comes to holiday gifts. Luckily, there are some alternatives in stock to consider.
Here are the four worst holiday gifts to purchase from Target this season, and some options for what to buy instead.
Glass Votive Scented Candle Gift Set
- Price at Target: $15.00
“Candle sets usually include three or more scented candles in a myriad of fragrances like vanilla, pumpkin and lavender, or holiday scents such as cinnamon or pin,” explained retail and shopping expert, Albert Varkki, co-founder of Von-Baer.
While Varkki admitted most of these candle gift sets at Target are affordable — usually being priced at $10 to $25 per set– he expressed how they are usually not customizable and come in decorative tins or jars which can be hard to know what to do with once the candle has burned out.
Lang Cardinal Christmas Pop-Up Boxed Holiday Greeting Cards
- Price at Target: $16.99
There is nothing inherently wrong with these three-dimensional festive cards featuring a vibrant red cardinal on them. What it really comes down to is the price — nearly $17 for only 8 cards to spread among your friends and family.
Compared to other retailers such as Dollar Tree — which offers similar 8-count Christmas card packs for just $1.25 that also include money holders — you are spending your money somewhat haphazardly. Perhaps it’s best to hang on to your hard-earned cash and skip these greeting cards the next time you are at Target.
Hickory Farms Favorite Bites Gift Box
- Price at Target: $19.99
Generic gift baskets are usually not a great way to go for a holiday present. Varkki pointed out that this gifting option (including the Hickory Farms set sold at Target) often lacks a personalized touch, and might not come with the best or healthiest options.
“Pre-assembled gift baskets usually priced between $20 and $50, contain a collection of snacks, teas and bath products,” noted Varkki. “They may include items such as crackers, chocolates, low-cost teas and standard lotions that are widely available.”
Gift Cards
- Price at Target: $15.00-$500.00
It used to be that cash was king, and the perfect gift to give someone who knows exactly what they want. Now, cash has been replaced by gift cards to your loved ones favorite retailers — just make sure you do not purchase them at Target this holiday season.
Whether it is a gift card to Starbucks or AMC, you’ll likely find a better deal on digital or physical gift cards to the same businesses somewhere like Costco or retailers that specializes in discounted gift cards. Many of them even offer gift cards that can be used at Target!
Disclaimer: Prices accurate and up-to-date as of Nov. 27, 2024.
More From GOBankingRates
