How to pack the ultimate Christmas hamper.

Christmas is a challenging time. There is so much to do and there are so many people to buy gifts for as a way of saying thank you for all their wonderful support during the year.

I like to give practical presents, not things that will be re-gifted or left sitting on a shelf in the cupboard. It’s important to me to know that my gifts will not only be loved but they’ll actually be used.

Forget candied almonds and random bottles of sauce that will never be finished – I love to give and receive hampers that are filled with products that I would take for myself in a heartbeat.

Christmas hamper — " It’s important to me to know that my gifts will not only be loved, they’ll actually be used." Image via iStock.

And I don’t have to scour the depths of the Internet or drive across the country to find these things – I can get them from my local Woolies.

These are some great hamper ideas that won’t break the budget. Oh and we can guarantee these items won’t last longer than New Year.

The World’s Best Choccie Hamper

Give me chocolate and I’ll be yours forever. From an acquaintance you don’t know that well to your BFF -- this kind of gift is just right for anyone with a sweet tooth. Include these treats on your shopping list for a hamper that’s a chocoholic’s dream come true:

Tim Tams
M&M’s Red and Green Festive Edition
Jarrah Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Toblerone
Lindt Chocolate Santa (for that extra Christmassy touch!)

You can never stop at one. Image via @timtams Instagram.

The Pamper Hamper

Most of us stick to the middle price range when we’re shopping for beauty supplies but at Christmas time it’s nice to receive some more special products. This style of hamper is perfect for a girlfriend, babysitter or your children’s teacher. Search the shelves for:

Macadamia Rejuvenating Shampoo
Organix Nourishing Coconut Milk Conditioner
Milk Face Moisturiser and Sunscreen
Olay Regenerist Revitalising Night Cream
Modelco Tanning Airbrush in a Can

The Baker’s Bounty

Woolworth’s has everything you need, no matter what you want to whip up in the kitchen. Buy your favourite cooking fan a selection of goods that they’ll love for Christmas.

Taste Summertime Cookbook
Pyrex Bakeware Mixing Bowl
Adriano Zumbo Choc Malt Milkshake Macaron Mix
Queen Vanilla Bean Pods
Inspire Silicon Spatula

Using a 'Macaron Mix' means these delicacies aren't TOO difficult to whip up. Image via iStock.

The Perfect Nibblies Hamper

Summer is the perfect time for sitting out on the deck with a selection of cheese and dips. Choose a selection that will last mere seconds on the table, rather than being shoved to the back of the pantry. This gift is ideal for a neighbour (who you’re hoping will share with you) or even that Secret Santa match that you don’t know so well. Because who doesn’t love delicious snacks?

Sandhurst Sun-dried Tomatoes
Chris’ Dips (try delicious Three Olive dip)
King Island Camembert
San Marino Rindless Proscuitto
Arnott’s Cheeseboard Cracker Selection

This gift is ideal for a neighbour. Image via iStock.

Deluxe Tea and Bikkies

Forget buying overpriced hampers and make your own by getting creative in the grocery aisles. Give your favourite tea connoisseur a tailor-made selection they will love and be able to share with friends. There are so many options for an afternoon tea hamper - here are just a few:

Twinings Pure Peppermint Tea Bags
Woolworth’s Gold Earl Grey Pyramid Tea Bags
Tetley Extra Strong Tea Bags
Walker’s Shortbread
Wonderful Copenhagen Butter Cookies

At Christmas time, it all starts at Woolworths. Whether you’re shopping for a close friend or a loved one, you’ll find everything you need in store or online.

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