There is something really lovely about finding a Christmas gift that just makes sense for someone’s life. A that is practical but still feels special. I adore buying people gifts. It is my love language, and over the years, I have learned that the best gifts are the ones that effortlessly blend into someone’s daily routine. The ones they reach for without thinking about because they genuinely make their life easier, calmer or a little more enjoyable. So when Very.co.uk asked me to share a couple of tech gift ideas for the festive season and the run-up to Black Friday, I knew exactly what direction I wanted to take.
Life has been a bit of a whirlwind this year with moving house, rebuilding routines, making our smaller space work for us, and squeezing in long dog walks and cycling whenever I can. I travel a lot for my job as a blogger and mountain bike athlete, and because of all of this, I have become even more aware of how important it is to have tech that is simple, reliable and easy to use and nothing that gathers dust.
Just things that slot into real life and that can travel with me on my many adventures. That is why I chose the Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation) and the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition in Metallic Raspberry as my go-to gift ideas this Christmas. These are products I use regularly, and they have genuinely improved my everyday routine in ways I did not expect. Believe me, these are gift ideas that will be used daily.
My top picks from Very.co.uk
Apple AirPods Pro (3rd Generation)
A gift that becomes part of someone’s daily rhythm
If you know me, you know I am always doing something. Whether I am out walking Mylo and Millie, hopping between errands, editing photos for the blog or mountian biking or trying to get a moment of calm before bed, I always have something playing. Music, podcasts, audiobooks, even random YouTube voiceovers. I love to have background noise that motivates me. That is why headphones are such a big part of my day, and why the AirPods Pro 3rd generation have become an essential item in my bag. When you travel as much as I do, it is the little things that make you feel grounded even when you are not at home.
The headphones pair straight away with your iPhone or iPad, which takes the frustration out of using tech. The noise cancellation is noticeably powerful, and it creates a little pocket of quiet even if I am sitting in an airport waiting to board a flight or on a busy train. I often use them when I need to concentrate on writing, and they help me switch into work mode far quicker. They are also extremely comfortable, and if you are like me and wear headphones for hours, not just for work but on dog walks or working out or even while deep cleaning the kitchen, comfort matters more than we will admit.
The sound is clear and crisp, and they work brilliantly for everything from playlists to phone calls. I find myself using them constantly without really thinking about it. That is why they make such a brilliant Christmas present. They suit so many people. Teens who love their playlists. Busy parents who want to listen to an audiobook in peace. Commuters, remote workers, fitness fans or anyone who simply needs a reliable bit of tech that enhances everyday moments.
Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition
A cosy, thoughtful upgrade for readers, travellers and quiet evenings
I have always been a big reader, especially during winter when the evenings get darker and it feels like the perfect excuse to curl up with a blanket and a book. But carrying books around, especially when travelling, is not always practical. I am forever switching between different genres, and I like having options on hand at all times. I think this is the dylexic in me, I am always trying to learn something. That is where an E-reader like the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition comes in, and I honestly cannot recommend it enough for any traveller who loves to read on the go.
The screen is kind on the eyes and perfect for long reading sessions. The warm light setting means you can read comfortably in bed without glaring brightness, which is something I really value now that I am trying to wind down earlier.
As someone who can find certain printed text layouts difficult because of my dyslexia, I really appreciate how customisable the Kindle is. Being able to adjust the font, spacing, and warm light makes such a difference and lets me read for longer without getting tired.
The Kindle is waterproof, which makes it perfect for holidays, long baths, or even reading outside on cold but sunny winter afternoons. The Metallic Raspberry finish is beautiful and has that little festive touch that makes it feel special without being novelty. We all know I am a pink lover, but it does come in a few colours, like black and jade if you are gifting to non-pink lovers.
What I love most is the freedom it gives you. With 32GB of storage, you never have to choose between books. You can take thousands with you. Whether you are waiting in the car during a dog walk, travelling to a bike event, or simply hiding under a blanket when the house feels a bit chaotic, your next story is always there waiting for you to dive right in and escape the world with a good read. It is the sort of gift that feels personal because it gives someone a whole world of calm at their fingertip,s and it can travel the world with them. It is just so light and packable, giving the gift of thousands of books at their fingertips.
Why these tech gifts work so well together
The AirPods Pro and the Kindle Paperwhite seem like very different gifts on the surface, but they complement each other perfectly. Both help you carve out small moments of peace, creativity or rest. They are lightweight, portable and designed to be used every day. They suit a huge range of lifestyles, whether it is someone who travels a lot like I do or someone who simply enjoys slowing down at home. I really think both of these would make anyone's day this festive season.
The AirPods bring sound, focus and motivation. The Kindle brings stories, escape and calm. Together, they make a thoughtful pairing for anyone who loves practical gifts with purpose. These are the items that will still be used in February, in July and even next Christmas and for years to come.
A little more inspiration for choosing tech gifts
Over the years, I have learned a few simple rules when it comes to tech gifting. Pick something that fits into the person’s routine. Choose items that make everyday tasks easier or more enjoyable. The key to a really thoughtful gift. Look for travel-friendly products that are reliable and don’t require complicated setup. There is nothing more annoying than not being able to use your gift, as it's too complicated. Aim for items that feel personal without being overly specific. Both the AirPods Pro and the Kindle Paperwhite tick all of those boxes and could be gifted to any of your loved ones, from teens to grandparents. Who doesn't need these in their lives?
Final thoughts
If you want to choose Christmas gifts that will genuinely be appreciated and used well beyond the festive season. You know the ones that don't actually sit on a shelf or dont get used past the new year, then these two picks from Very.co.uk are a brilliant place to start. They are practical without feeling boring and they offer something we all need a little more of. Convenience, comfort, time out and ease. I always think the best gifts are the ones that support someone’s lifestyle, and both of these do exactly that. It's important to find some peace in life's chaos, and these are both great for that.
So which would you choose as your perfect gift this year?
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