Each year, the Toy Retailers Association releases the DreamToys list, a trusted guide to the toys expected to be top sellers for Christmas. This year there are 15 must-have toys this Christmas, and we’re sharing them all, plus links to the best prices† to help you plan ahead and save smart this festive season.
†Prices change, so it’s worth checking the links and comparing before you buy.
1. Dress to Impress Mystery Model Dolls
Why it’s on the list: These are blind-bag fashion dolls inspired by a popular game..
Where to buy: Argos – Series 1 Mystery Doll Pack £10
Tip: Because they’re collectable, buying a few can be fun and not too expensive, making them a nice stocking filler.
2. Gui Gui Shimmer Deluxe Pack
Why it’s on the list: A deluxe slime-making kit.
Where to buy: Argos – Gui Gui Shimmer Deluxe Duo Pack £16
Tip: Perfect for calm, mindful play and the glow-up sachets give it a lovely sensory twist without blowing the budget.
3. Hot Wheels Racing F1 Grand Prix Circuit
Why it’s on the list: High-speed track set with F1 styling – great for kids (or adults!) who love racing.
Where to buy: Smyths Toys – Hot Wheels F1 Grand Prix Circuit
Tip: Look out for bundle deals when buying the set plus extra cars – good for family racing nights.
4. Human Controller (by TOMY)
Why it’s on the list: Hilarious, interactive party game. One person wears a blindfold headset while others control them via phone.
Where to buy: The Toy Shop – Human Controller Game
Tip: Ideal for family get-togethers and because it’s a game, it doesn’t require as much storage.
5. Jurassic World Primal Hatch T‑Rex
Why it’s on the list: Interactive dinosaur hatches from an egg, with over 100 sounds and reactions.
Where to buy: Very – Jurassic World Primal Hatch T-Rex £44.99
Tip: Makes a big “wow” present. Pair with a lower-cost toy to balance spend.
6. Marshmallow Madness
Why it’s on the list: Family challenge game. Players use tiny hands to eat marshmallows in 60 seconds.
Where to buy: Smyths Toys – Marshmallow Madness
Tip: Marshmallows are not included, so add them to your shopping list when budgeting.
7. Mini Brands – Fill The Fridge Playset
Why it’s on the list: Mini fridge playset with tiny collectable items -fun for restocking and collecting.
Where to buy: Argos – Mini Brands Playset £15
Tip: Affordable but addictive. Make sure to set a limit to avoid overspending.
8. Monster Jam Smash & Bash Grave Digger RC
Why it’s on the list: Remote control monster truck that “smashes” on impact and reforms – very showy, very crash-y.
Where to buy: Argos – Monster Jam Smash & Bash RC £35
Tip: Use rechargeable batteries to save long-term.
9. LEGO One Piece: The Going Merry Pirate Ship
Why it’s on the list: Large, display-worthy LEGO set inspired by the One Piece ship.
Where to buy: Smyths Toys – LEGO One Piece Pirate Ship
Tip: Spread the build over a few weeks to manage both time and cost.
10. Peppa Pig Oinks & Snuggles Evie Doll
Why it’s on the list: Soft, interactive baby Evie doll with over 20 sound effects. Great for nurturing play.
Where to buy:
11. Pokémon Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box
Why it’s on the list: Collectible card set, with booster packs, sleeves, and more for Pokémon fans.
Where to buy: Check specialist retailers (Chaos Cards, Smyths, Amazon) for current prices.
Tip: Budget extra for booster packs if needed.
12. LEGO Speed Champions F1 Racing Cars
Why it’s on the list: Compact, collectable LEGO F1 cars – perfect for racing fans.
Where to buy: Smyths Toys or online LEGO retailers.
Tip: Pick one car for a display item or collect several over time.
13. Sticki Rolls Sticki Rolluxe
Why it’s on the list: Creative craft set with handbag case, stickers, beads, and jewellery-making fun.
Where to buy: Smyths Toys – Sticki Rolls Jumbo Studio Rolluxe
Tip: Storage case doubles as a handbag – great value for creative play.
14. Disney Ultimate Stitch Interactive Plush
Why it’s on the list: 17” plush with 100+ sounds and reactions. Stitch is cuddly and interactive.
Where to buy: Booghe – £79.99
Tip: Make sure you have space for this “wow” gift after Christmas.
15. Wicked: For Good Singing Dolls (Glinda & Elphaba)
Why it’s on the list: Singing dolls inspired by Wicked: For Good, featuring iconic lines.
Where to buy:
Tip: Very collectable so check stock early.
Smart Tips from Northern Community Bank
- Set a “wishlist budget” – allocate how much you want to spend for each toy.
- Use Click & Collect – saves on delivery costs.
- Watch for sales – pre-Christmas promotions can save you money.
- Compare online with high street stores – shop around to get the best deals.
Planning ahead is the key to a stress-free Christmas. With these DreamToys picks and our budget-friendly tips, you can give gifts your children will love, without worrying about overspending.
Looking to borrow or save this Christmas? Northern Community Bank’s affordable Christmas Loans can help. They let you enjoy the festive season with confidence, knowing your spending is manageable and that you won’t be facing worrying bills in January.
