Gifts Under $25

If you're on the hunt for budget-friendly gifts that still feel thoughtful, this list of gifts under $25 has you covered! Whether you're shopping for friends, neighbors, teachers, or even just need a small "thinking of you" gift, there are plenty of options that won’t break the bank but still feel personal and special. 

In this post, you’ll find gift ideas under $25 — along with tips for how to make them feel even more meaningful. From cozy and practical finds to trendy products and more, there’s something here for every personality and occasion. These gifts are perfect for any holiday or birthday, or even as a simple "just because" gesture. 

My goal is to make holiday shopping easier and more fun for you, while also reminding you of all the great reasons for smaller gifts! 

When Gifts Under $25 Come in Handy

Gift-giving can be tricky. If you’ve ever questioned the amount you should spend on a gift — or felt guilty about it — let’s take some of that pressure off! 

There are so many great reasons to buy gifts under 25 dollars.

• Spread joy without splurging. If you have a lot of people on your list to shop for, gift purchases can add up fast. Keep in mind that small gifts can still put a smile on someone’s face — and you can still make them feel special without spending a lot.

• Small gifts make great stocking stuffers. While I do have separate posts on stocking stuffers, a lot of these gift ideas under $25 also work well for stockings. Not only are they physically small, but they’re useful and fun to get.

• You’re participating in a gift exchange. Secret Santa, White Elephant, and other friend or family gift exchanges usually have a set limit for spending. This way, instead of stressing about buying gifts for multiple people, you can focus on buying one thoughtful gift.

• Good things come in small packages. Everything in my list of gift ideas under $25 is an item I’ve used — or someone close to me has used — and loved. While an expensive ice cream maker might be an exciting gift, it probably won’t get used as much as a practical gift will.

• Experiences matter more. If you’re prioritizing experiences this year, you may want a smaller gift to go with it. For example, if you’re gifting an art class, you could pair it with new art supplies. Or, a movie marathon night could involve your kid’s favorite snacks.
  

Tip: If a small gift still doesn’t feel like enough, see if you can pool your resources. For example, maybe you and your coworkers can go in on a gift for your boss. Or, you and a few parent friends can all chip in a certain amount for a teacher gift. You could also do one larger gift for your kids to share. 

How to Make Small Gifts Feel Special

Searching for meaningful gifts while sticking to a budget can feel stressful. There’s that pressure of finding the perfect gift to show your love or appreciation, the annoyance of feeling limited in your choices, and the worry that your gift isn’t good enough. But I’m here to remind you that a great gift doesn’t need to be expensive!

There are plenty of ways to show how much you care through small gifts under $25. Here are some tips for making them feel more thoughtful. 

• It’s the thought that counts. Taking the time to think about what someone needs and what would make them happy matters more than the overall cost of a gift. If you aren’t sure, reflect on the person’s interests, what they talk about, or what stands out about them. 

• Small gifts can have a big impact. Consider the gifts under $25 that you love. Are there any items that make life feel easier, better, or more enjoyable? Think about the products you swear by and would recommend to anyone (while still considering who they are as a person!). 

• Create a gift basket or gift box. Put together 2-3 related items that focus on a theme, like self-care, gardening, or food. For example, you could create a cozy-up-at-home bundle with a candle, book, and cocoa packets. 

• Make it more personal. You can make any gift feel more thoughtful with a handwritten note. Your message can include why your gift made you think of them, what the person means to you, or any holiday wishes you want to express.

• Wrap your gift. Taking the time to wrap a gift shows the extra care and effort you put into it. Whether you use wrapping paper, a gift bag, or a gift box, it will add some excitement to your gift and make the person feel special.

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Gifts Under $25

These are some of the best gifts under $25 that I’ve found and have personally used or gifted. From cozy and practical finds to trendy products and more, there’s something here for every personality and occasion.

Bath, Beauty, & Skincare

Cuticle Oil Pen: I love using this pen on my cuticles and nails between manicures. It keeps them soft, protected, and healthy! Under $5

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm: I always keep one of these balms in my purse. I like that it lightly tints your lips while keeping them soft, hydrated, and glossy. Under $20 

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: My tweens and I use this regularly. If you’ve ever woken up with dry, chapped lips, this product will help! Under $25

Body Cream: You can’t go wrong with a good hand cream as a gift. I apply this heavy cream at bedtime, and my skin feels super moisturized by morning. Under $20

Eye Gel: This is my favorite eye cream. It’s lightweight, hydrating, and designed to reduce dark circles and puffiness. Under $10

Intensive Foot Repair: Always a best-seller! This ointment exfoliates and softens dry, cracked heels overnight. Under $10

Body Wash Buffer: This loofah combines body wash with exfoliation to keep skin healthy and hydrated. Just add water and squeeze! Under $10

Shower Steamers: Let your stress melt away! These tablets release essential oils to make showers even more relaxing. My girls and I also love this set. Under $15

Cuff Earrings: These earrings are a great everyday accessory for tweens and adults. They’re also made from 100% recycled materials! Under $15

Travel Makeup Mirror: Compact mirrors always come in handy! I love this one because it also lights up and magnifies. Under $10

Cookbooks

Everyday Italian: Giada is one of my favorite chefs, and this book includes tons of simple recipes for sauces, yummy sides, and delicious dinners. Under $15

Smitten Kitchen Every Day: This is such an underrated cookbook. Some of my favorite (and my kids’ favorite) recipes come from here. Under $20

What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking: This is one of my favorite cookbooks for easy, tasty recipes. It also includes lots of cooking tips and shortcuts, plus simple swaps. Under $20

Flour Water Salt Yeast: This is an amazing resource for anyone interested in making their own bread and pizza. I also love that it’s written for beginners as well as experienced bakers who want to learn different methods. Under $15

Babs Holiday Cookbook: Celebrate With Babs shares holiday recipes, entertaining tips, and party hacks to help you make every celebration feel special. Under $20

Gifts for Foodies

Truffle Salt: This is a fun and simple way to make snacks and meals even more flavorful. Use it on popcorn, french fries, eggs, pasta, and more. Under $15 for smaller sizes

Brown Sugar Saver: Anyone with brown sugar in their kitchen needs one of these! This keeps brown sugar soft, fresh, and easy to work with. Under $10

Frother: This electric whisk makes creamy froth in just seconds! Perfect for making lattes, hot cocoa, matcha, and more. Under $10

Practical Gifts

Cozy socks: These UGG socks are super soft, cozy, and warm — perfect for cooler weather! Barefoot Dreams is another favorite. Under $20

Diamond Dazzle Stik: This pen makes it easy to clean diamonds and other precious stones. It also reduces fine scratches and keeps jewelry shiny. Under $10

Wallet Ninja Multitool Card: I love a practical gift. This little card functions as a screwdriver, bottle opener, box cutter, phone stand, and more. Under $15

Electric Candle USB Lighter: This is much easier to use than matches, plus it’s rechargeable. Take it with you on outdoor adventures or use it at home. Under $10

Weeding Knife: Practical and handy! You can use this tool for planting, weeding, camping trips, and more. Under $25

The Clean Ball: Anyone else’s purse filled with crumbs? This little ball makes it easy to clean your purse, diaper bag, or backpack, plus it’s reusable. Under $15

Sneaker Deodorizer Balls: Another practical gift! Use these little balls to quickly freshen up shoes, gym/sports bags, lockers, and closets. Under $10

Folding Scissors: These small scissors are super handy to have around. They also fold up, so they’re easy (and safe) to store and take with you. Under $10

Desktop Vacuum Cleaner: This little vacuum makes it easy to clean dust, crumbs, and more from your desk, craft table, and any hard-to-reach areas. Under $15

Geometry Dinner Napkins & Tea Towels: This brand makes the best kitchen and table linens! They’re soft, absorbent, and come in so many fun prints. Use the code MKMMB15 for 15% off. 

Small Business Faves

Geometry Tea Towels: These eco-friendly towels are soft, absorbent, and come in so many fun patterns. Use the code MKMMBI15 for 15% off.

Geometry Dinner Napkins: These are the best table linens! You can use them for everyday dinners or holiday gatherings. Use the code MKMMBI15 for 15% off.

Verserd Rich Barrier Cream: Most rich creams are heavy, but this one is lightweight and extremely hydrating. It’s also great for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Gifts Under $30 

A few of these gifts have changed prices recently, so I’m putting them in their own gifts under $30 section. Even with the price increase, they’re still a great deal! I personally use and recommend everything listed here.

Necessaire The Body Wash: This is one of my favorite gifts to give (and get). It’s gentle on your skin, smells good, and will make you feel like you’re at the spa.

Move Night Popcorn Set: If you’re looking for family gift ideas to add to an experience gift, this one is perfect.

Microwave Popcorn Popper: A great addition to the movie night popcorn set! Use the lid to measure out kernels, add butter, and let your microwave do the rest.

Musee Shower Steamers: Made with natural ingredients, these shower steamers are infused with soothing essential oils. 

DedCool Fragrance Sample Pack: I haven’t bought perfume for years until this year. I have loved this sample pack as I can try out different fragrances before committing to buy the entire bottle. 

Divi Air Dry Cream: This gives you the perfect “done but not trying too hard” hair — soft, smooth, and air-dried in the easiest way.

Q&A: Gifts Under 25 Dollars

What ages are these gifts good for?

These gifts are geared toward older kids and adults. But there are plenty of gifts under 25 dollars that work well for babies, toddlers, and little kids! If you need more ideas, check out gifts for newborns, gifts for 1-2 year olds, and gifts for 3-5 year olds. 

How do I make smaller gifts feel more meaningful?

First, give a gift with intention. Think about the person you’re buying a gift for — consider their interests, hobbies, and overall style. You can also make note of what they like to talk about, what they have in their home, or what’s on their desk at work. Second, add a card with a personalized message to that person. Lastly, take the time to wrap your gift.

What type of gift under $25 would work best for a White Elephant gift exchange?

If you don’t know who the recipient will be, stick to a gift that’s practical, cozy, or consumable. If you know everyone in the group well, you may be able to get away with a gift that’s more personal, unique, or funny.

I have too many people to shop for. What do I do if a gift less than $25 still feels like a lot?

There are plenty of great gifts under $10! Even still, shopping for extended family, friends, and other important people can add up. Outside of your immediate family, you can see if certain groups of people would be into a gift exchange instead where you only buy one gift for one person. You can also have everyone chip in for a combined gift or shared experience.

What are some of the best gift ideas under $25?

If I had to pick a top five, I would choose the Geometry dinner napkins, the weeding knife, Laneige lip sleeping mask, Spongelle body scrubber, or a nice lotion. 

Wrapping Up Affordable Gift Ideas

Remember, even small gifts can have a great impact. And any gift given with thought and care behind it matters more than how much it costs. 

Have ideas to share? I’d love to hear about the best gift ideas under $25 that you’ve received! Just comment below to let us all know. 

If you need more gift suggestions, check out all of my gift guides.