Christmas is a time for giving. More importantly, it’s a time for getting. I like a surprise gift at Christmas as much as the next man, but why leave it to chance? Each year I collate a wishlist of my must-have items, from men’s fashion to gadgets, experiences and novelty gifts. Here are my WOOTs for this year (Want One Of Those!) and my top tips on finding and buying gifts this Christmas.

Mr D’s Ultimate Wishlist

So I already have an iPhone, iPad, 3DTV, a good car and an awesome wardrobe. I travel, holiday and socialise a lot. I also know what I like. I am, apparently, ‘hard to buy for’. So let’s make it easier:

• Flip video. I’ve never owned a camcorder, but the new Flip UltraHD is super-portable, uploads videos easily to YouTube and comes extremely well-priced. So it won’t be a problem if things don’t work out between us.
• Moleskine diary. These Italian classic diaries are a great leveller. Forget high-tech, their hard-wearing hard covers and timeless design help me organise my time. You’ll find there’s a layout and size to suit you too.
• Kinect. Microsoft’s controller-less addition to the Xbox 360 is going to change the way we play games. It’s going to be a hot piece of kit when it launches, so naturally I want in.
• Sports tickets. Whether it’s Rugby World Cup 2011 tickets or Champions League football, two tickets to a big game make a great gift. There’s a lot to be said for experiences as gifts -- make a day of it, have a few beers and create new memories.
• Men’s fashion. So many to choose from - scarves from British crowd One True Saxon, Penguin jumpers, Camper or Sneaky Steve shoes, streetwear from Superdry or jeans from Diesel.
• Men’s grooming. Who really knows which brands work? I put my faith in boutique US brands Antony and Malin & Goetz, purely because they remind me of great trips to New York.
• Subscriptions. Whether it’s for a magazine or iPad app, wine (Berry Bros & Rudd), even coffee (Has Bean) there’s something about getting packages in the post, or a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year that’s a winner every time.

Top tips on finding and choosing gifts:

• Remember who you’re buying for. Sure, think about what you’d like for yourself, just think about who you’re buying for more.
• The internet is your friend. Search for value, do your research and ask friends and family for tips (also helps avoid doubling up with the same gift).
• Get ahead of time. Amazon and eBay can take time to deliver, so get ahead to free up some time for yourself.
• Avoid vouchers. It’s like money, only a lot less useful, unless they are Haagen Dazs, of course.

Of course, adding ‘a date with a stunning celebrity actress and a new Porsche’ to your wishlist doesn’t make it any more likely, but if you don't ask, you'll never get.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas with friends and family. Mr D.