I know a thing or two about finding the best products on the internet. After all, I’ve been covering products, sales, and sales for six years, which gives me a level of expertise that helps when shopping for myself. After trying hundreds of products this year, I can say these are my favorites. All are under $50 on Amazon.
On my list are some picks that I have used over and over again to see if they are worth buying. This is just a day in the life of an Amazon shopping expert at Real Simple. So I test, try, and buy a ton of products, including these eight that I fully plan to use well into 2024 and beyond. Discover clever Stanley cups, tear-proof Spanx tights, and dual products. Go for Vera Bradley bags and more, with prices starting at $9.
2024 Amazon Discoveries Our Editors Loved
nest holiday classic candle
I love that nest candles are essentially functional decorative pieces that look beautiful and deliver a pleasant scent. This holiday candle is no exception. When lit, it releases seasonal scents such as clove, vanilla, pine, and cinnamon, giving it a Christmas-like scent. The glass jar is decorated with the most festive gold details, making it perfect for holiday decorations.
vera bradley sling backpack
I recently purchased this Vera Bradley bag and was pleasantly surprised to discover that it can be worn as both a sling and a backpack. Designed with a clever zipper, the crossbody strap can be “split” in half, allowing each strap to rest over your arm, evenly distributing the weight of your water bottle, book, headphones, etc.
Clinique Almost Lipstick Black Honey
This Clinique Almost Lipstick is one of my favorite beauty picks this year. The hydrating formula glides on smoothly and the raisin hue looks great with seasonal outfits. It’s a little sheer at first, but it’s very easy to assemble and I like the wine stain look. I have both the shades Black Honey and Pink Honey, but the former is perfect for winter.
Stanley The IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler
The classic Stanley Cup is loved by thousands, but we know it leaks when you knock it down. (Trust me, I have the watermark to prove it). That’s where the IceFlow tumbler comes in. The clever flip straw design ensures that water won’t leak out no matter how many times you drop or knock it over. Like the original, this tumbler features an insulated design, durable exterior, and cute color options.
Spanx shaping tight end tights
How many times have you ripped your stockings while out and about? Well, these Spanx tights can prove to be pretty tear-resistant. I’ve worn them countless times to work, to church, to dinner, and I still have them. In addition to their durable construction, the tights are stretchy yet hug the body, making them comfortable for all-day wear.
Color wow pop and lock high gloss finish
My cousin introduced me to this Color Wow hair serum over the summer. I can’t go back now. With just one pump of Pop and Lock, you can relax flyaways, frizz, and static baby hair without leaving any greasy residue. It can be used on wet or dry hair, but I often apply the serum after styling.
Catosum 80 Piece Metal Book Corner
Book lovers, unite! These metal book covers will keep your novel as fresh as the day you bought it. Perfect for those who read on the go, these protectors slip into the corners of paperbacks to prevent them from fraying or bending in your bag. I’ve used pliers to secure it to multiple books and it’s never come loose, but shoppers say a butter knife works just fine, too. Also, could you please take a moment to explore the cute romantic patterns and metal color options?
full star vegetable chopper
I tested this Full Star Vegetable Chopper earlier this year and it’s been in my kitchen arsenal ever since. It comes with large and small blade inserts, allowing you to chop cherry tomatoes, deli chicken, onion halves, and garlic cloves without holding a knife (and in quick motions). Close the lid and watch the cubed ingredients fall into the plastic container below.
These are my top picks under $50, but there are a few higher-end items I’ve tried (and loved) this year. Scroll down to find the comfy Rothy’s flat, the clever Apple Watch, and the time-saving Ninja air fryer. There are also some beautiful finds like the Cadence Skin Care Travel Container Set and this Elizabeth Arden perfume that I always get compliments on.