If you’re giving a tech gift, here are 7 basic tips to add to your checklist, to make sure kids (and eager adults) can just rip open those packages and start playing. Not that we remember them ourselves all the time. Which is why we’re making a list that you can check twice, and keep your Christmas morning–or any holiday–more fun than frustrating.

1. Stock up on batteries. And not just any batteries; check boxes to see how many AA batteries you need, how many AAA batteries, how many D batteries (sorry). Bonus–put them in the toy or remote control or gadget before you wrap it.

2. Remember SD cards for cameras. Open that camera box and see if it comes with an SD card. Nothing is more frustrating than wanting to play with a fancy new camera and finding that memory card isn’t actually included. Even if you just snag one from an old camera you’ve got lying around in your “donate” pile, it makes a big difference Christmas morning.

3. Charge devices! That new iPad Air, kids’ camera, or Sony Lens is not nearly as fun sitting against the wall, tethered to an outlet, while everyone else is playing with their new gifts. Charge a night or two before, then wrap after.

4. Check that you have the right cables: TVs, routers,and gaming consoles require HDMI and Ethernet cables. Mostly, they don’t come with your purchase or if they do, they may not be the right length. If you still have time to order, Monoprice has outrageously good prices. Or you can bite the bullet and fork over a little more at your nearest electronics store, all in the name of last-minute preparedness.

5. Get a case for tablets and phones: While cases can definitely be a matter of preference and personal taste, I still remember the whole 48 hours between receiving my iPad and receiving a case I had ordered–during which time I dropped the tablet and cracked it. Argh! Especially with kids (or clumsy adults like me) it can be an inexpensive way to protect that investment.

6 Activate devices in advance: Plenty of retailers allow you to activate your phone or new tablet on the spot when you purchase. If you’re getting one for a member of your immediate family, it’s easy enough to just add the device to your existing plan. (Though you might not be so presumptuous if the gift is for a friend or grandparent.)

7. Preload devices with apps, movies or books. It’s not essential, but if you’re giving a tablet, MP3 reader or ereader, this is one of a few nice ways to personalize your tech gifts. Even a single special song to start an iTunes library can make the gift that much more special. Alternatively, include an Amazon gift card or iTunes gift card towards ebooks, apps, music, or movies.