Many of us have “that” relative that we simply cannot pin down. Perhaps they never had kids and live as free as the wind. Maybe they’re constantly moving and have many exploits under their belt. Perhaps they have a brand new passion and focus each year that they invest everything into and move on.
While these people are certainly exciting and interesting to be around, they’re also exhausting to shop for. It’s hard to understand what to gift someone who seemingly acquires anything themselves, or maybe has a few new passions they haven’t told you about.
This is interesting, of course, and it’s fun as a challenge. But during those seasonal events when you’re shopping for so many people, you’re hardly looking to run an assault course just to provide a nice gift.
We think we have some pointers you can use. So, in this post, let’s help you gift “that relative.”
Cultural Interests Of Note
The constantly changing relative usually has a few steady cultural interests hiding under all those shifting hobbies. Listen for those random mentions throughout the year that seem somewhat throwaway but actually reveal what they genuinely care about. For instance, maybe they talked about some old band they saw back in college, or an author they’ve followed forever.
Cultural gifts work really well because they tap into who your relative actually is, not just what they’re into this month. A cool book by their favorite author will mean something to them regardless of whether they’ve moved on from pottery to paddleboarding since you last talked. For instance, a deluxe edition copy of a John le Carré novel might be a real collector’s item they love. It’s a nice way to show tribute to their somewhat constant interests even if they have a new one every day.
Clothing & Merch That Connects With Them
Your shape-shifting relative probably has a personal style that stays fairly consistent even while everything else changes, at least for now. They might switch hobbies constantly but still enjoy certain colors, patterns, or overall vibes in what they wear and keep around. They might like the alt style even if they transition into several expressions of that, for instance.
Look for quality stuff that matches their general aesthetic rather than directly connecting to whatever they’re into right now. A really nice bag in a style they’d actually use will serve them well whether they’re currently obsessed with hiking or learning to DJ. If they’re into politics, they might like slogan t-shirts like those with funny jokes or topical discussions like the Gulf of America. You get to decide what is appropriate and suitable.
High-Quality Grooming Kits
Everybody needs to wash their face and brush their teeth, even your impossible-to-shop-for relative. A nice grooming kit they can use doesn’t tell them you think they need to clean more, it’s just a nice convenience, and good for travel too.
After all, nicer versions of everyday necessities feel like a treat they might not splurge on themselves. A really good shaving set, fancy soaps, or premium hair products feel special but don’t collect dust like something else might, they’ll use this and thank you for it.
These gifts work because they’re about the person, not their current interests and can be used no matter what they’re up to right now.
Portable Travel Conveniences
We mentioned portable travel conveniences in the above subheading, so let’s go into that a touch more. Your footloose relatives generally enjoy freedom and flexibility above pretty much everything else, so gifts that make moving around easier always hits the mark, regardless of whatever else they’re into at the moment.
That might involve a very high-quality duffel bag, travel kit, or vacuum packed sealant bags for important clothes. You might give them a travel kettle or iron. Perhaps you have something even more specific in mind. These gifts show you actually get their lifestyle instead of subtly trying to make them more settled.
Experience Tickets
For someone who cares more about doing things than owning things, tickets to cool events, perhaps two so they can choose who they go with, can be worthwhile. Gift cards for fun experiences, wherever they currently live, is also a good idea.
You could choose anything they love, from cooking classes, concerts, plays, food tours to track days, as these all offer enjoyment without long-term commitment. Or, a yearly pass can give them even more room, such as VIP yearly passes for the National Trust places around the country.
With this advice, you’ll be sure to buy the best gifts for that relative and have fun doing so. They’ll no doubt appreciate your hard work finding something suitable.