Top 10 most-hated Christmas gift hamper items revealed

Coronavirus restrictions this Christmas means gifts are more important than ever before but a new report has revealed the top 10 most-hated hamper items to avoid gifting this year.

The new Christmas Hamper Index report by the consumer spending experts at money.co.uk has revealed that over a third (36%) of shoppers admitted that their most-hated Christmas hamper gift was caviar.

When it comes to our other most-loathed Christmas hamper gifts, those surveyed said they would not like to receive blue cheese (30%), pickles (19%) and surprisingly, charcuterie (19%).

Top  10 most-hated hamper items:

1. Caviar – 36%

2. Blue cheese – 29%

3. Pickles – 19%

4. Charcuterie – 19%

5. Dried Fruit – 19%

6. Christmas Pudding – 18%

7. Iced fruit cake – 17%

8. Wensleydale Cheese – 15%

9. Bread – 13%

10. Condiments/Sauce – 12%

What should you buy and how much should you spend?

A YouGov poll from 2019 found that the cost of Christmas in the UK can add up to £1,116, with a whopping £381.60 being spent on presents alone.

One in three (34%) consumers would only be willing to pay between £50 and £100 for a hamper, making entry level hampers more popular with UK shoppers than the high price tag luxury hampers.

Nearly half (43%) of consumers said their favourite item to receive in a gift hamper is chocolate, followed by  biscuits (29%) and spirits/liqueur (28%).

Salman Haqqi, personal finance expert at money.co.uk, said: “With over a third of consumers (35%) willing to pay between £50 to £100 on Christmas hampers this year, it is clear that there is more of an appetite for ‘entry level’ and cheaper gift options compared to the more ‘high end’ statement buys.

“However, our research reveals that some of the most popular hampers on the high street are not as cost-effective as it would seem, so our advice would be to check whether a DIY hamper is a better option before you part with your money on a pre-made gift basket.

“This year has been a difficult year financially and the research suggests that shoppers are clearly looking to save money on Christmas treats like hampers, whilst still enjoying everything the season brings with it.

“As we haven’t been able to spend as much time with each other this year, it could be tempting to try to make up for it by spending more cash than we can afford.

“It’s important to budget carefully and shop around for the best deal when parting with your cash this Christmas. Careful budgeting can help you stay organised and keep track of how much you are spending, whilst still being able to treat your loved ones.”