Stocking fillers have a reputation for being the gifts you pick up in a rush: a novelty keyring, a funny pair of socks, a chocolate bar from the checkout. Fun for five minutes, forgotten by Boxing Day.
But a stocking is also one of the nicest places for a small, thoughtful gift, especially for adults who'd rather have one lovely thing than ten forgettable ones. Here's how to fill an adult's stocking well without blowing the budget.
What makes a great adult stocking filler?
- Small enough to fit. A stocking is a limited space, so compact items work best.
- Something they'll use. Consumables and little luxuries tend to be more welcome than clutter.
- A mix of a treat and a practical item. A good stocking has a balance.
- Under about $15 each. It keeps the whole stocking affordable, even with five or six items.
Why a candle tin makes a good stocking filler
Our travel candle tins are 70g, hand-poured in Melbourne with 100% soy wax and priced at $14.99. They come in a sleek matte tin that burns for 15+ hours, which makes them neat enough to tuck into a stocking next to a pair of socks and a bar of chocolate.
Because there are plenty of scents to choose from, you can match the tin to the person rather than buying the same thing for everyone. And since they're small, they're easy to take on holiday or pop in a bag afterwards.
Match the tin to the person
| For the... | Try | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Person who loves fresh, clean scents | Rainstorm | Our signature scent: ozone, lemon and bergamot over cedar, vetiver and musk |
| Bushwalker or gardener | Australian Bush | Eucalyptus, lemon myrtle and pine needle on sandalwood and patchouli: fresh and green rather than sweet |
| Sweet-tooth | Raspberry Vanilla | Raspberry and blackberry with rose, jasmine and creamy vanilla |
| Beach lover | Coconut Lime | Lime zest, coconut and peach with a vanilla finish |
| The one who always says they're tired | Black Amber & Lavender | Lavender and clary sage over warm amber, vanilla and tonka bean |
| Cosy-season fan | Orange, Clove & Cedarleaf | Orange peel and fir needle with a soft vanilla base |
Not sure what they'd like? The scent matching guide can help you decide.
Stocking filler ideas by recipient
For her
A travel tin tucked in beside a lip balm, a nice hair tie set and a little box of chocolates feels indulgent without costing much. If you want to give a few scents, the Build Your Own Candle Tin Trio (any 3 tins for $39.99) can be split across several stockings or given together.
For him
Fresh, woody or herbal scents tend to be a safe bet. Fresh Sage & Driftwood and Teak & Neroli both have woody bases, and Dry Tobacco & Hay is warm and nostalgic. Pair with a pack of good coffee or a card game.
For friends and flatmates
Splitting a trio between a few stockings keeps things light-hearted. For group gifts, our Secret Santa gift guide has more budget ideas.
For parents and grandparents
Pick a gentle scent and consider adding a tin of shortbread or a nice pen. If they'd rather not burn candles, a room spray at $24.99 may be a better fit.
Not for kids' stockings
Candles, matches and lighters should be kept out of the reach of children. Fire Rescue Victoria recommends keeping candles away from children and pets, so these fillers are best for adult stockings only.
Build a stocking on a budget
A well-rounded adult stocking can be as simple as one Petrichor travel candle tin ($14.99), a favourite tea, coffee or chocolate, and one small treat such as a lip balm, a pen or a card game. Need to stretch to a bigger gift? Our Gifts Under $30 and Gifts Under $50 collections sit just above stocking-filler range.
A quick safety note
The National Candle Association recommends trimming the wick to about 1/4 inch (roughly 6 mm) before each use, never leaving a burning candle unattended, and keeping candles at least 12 inches (30 cm) from curtains, bedding and other flammable items. You can read more in our guide to burning a candle properly.
Frequently asked questions
What are good stocking fillers for adults?
Small, useful or consumable items work best: candles, snacks, tea, lip balm, a good pen or a small game.
How big is a Petrichor travel tin?
Each tin holds 70g of soy wax and burns for 15+ hours.
Can I mix and match scents?
Yes. The Build Your Own Candle Tin Trio lets you pick any three tins for $39.99.
Are travel tins just for travelling?
No. They're also a lovely way to try a scent before buying a full 180g jar, and a pretty little candle for a desk or bedside table. Read more in our travel candle guide.
Fill the stocking
Browse all travel candle tins, or choose any three for $39.99 with the Build Your Own Candle Tin Trio.
