These Gifts Are So Cool, Nobody Will Be Able To Tell They're Under $30
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Giving gifts is as rewarding as it is costly. Yeah, playing Santa feels great but at the end of the day, it takes a toll on the old bank account. Luckily, there are some excellent finds out there that don't even surpass the $30 mark.
Don't believe us? Just have a gander at this great pedicure kit or lumbar pack for storing your necessities as you run. Shoot, if you really do your homework, you can even find a perfectly-appointed pouch for the right price.
That's right, all the items below cost less than, well roughly a half-tank of gas these days. But don't for a minute think you'll be offed as the hyper-frugal friend who values her budget more than her friends and family. These gifts offer much of the joy, style and utility of their much more expensive cousins.
What makes a top thoughtful gift under $30? Obviously, it can't be too expensive. More importantly, it's a gift that acts bigger than its price tag suggests, offering personal value. The list we created is for all types of giftees, from young to old, bookish to fitness-oriented.
Read on for the 48 most thoughtful gifts that won't break the $30 mark. Best of all? Every one below is in-stock and ready to shop for your last-minute holiday gift-giving!
Best Gifts for Wife | Best Christmas Gifts | Best Gifts for Women | Best Gifts for Girlfriends | Best Gifts for Your Sister | Best Gifts for Teen Girls | Best Gifts Under $50 | Best Gifts Under $25
Cocooning Time 3-in-1 Spa Pedicure Set
You can't sniff around most spas for under $30 but you can get the three-in-one treatment here. Including a bath bomb, dual-sided brush and pumice and shea butter, it'll pamper in all the rights ways.
Four Flavors of Chocolate Almonds Box
Hailing from the chocolate-loving land of Switzerland, this box of treats will satisfy the sweet tooth on your list. Featuring the brand's best-selling chocolate almonds, it's equal parts sweet and nutty (just like the recipient).
Go Getter Pouch Mini
Here's a pouch that defies its price, made of water-repellent fabric and featuring just the right amount of storage. It's perfect for valuables like phones, makeup, keys and more.
Half-Terry Low-Cut Women's Socks [3 Packs]
Give the gift of great athletic socks times three with this trio pack from Puma. We like the streamlined design and reinforced heels and toes.
Flamingos On A Booze Cruise
Seems surprising to have a good pair of sunglasses in the mix and that's even more so when you realize what this pair can offer. With colorful lenses, mirrored frames to reduce glare and UV400 protection, these shades are sensational.
Zipster Lite Lumbar Pack
For the friend who loves a good jog, the lumbar pack is the way to go. They can stow their phone, listen to tunes via Bluetooth as they go and keep their hands free and at the ready. This one's even breathable and stretchy and has a nice zippered compartment.
Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is a thing of the gods, cleaning and nourishing hair without the addition of water and the requisite drying stretch. This one is powered by pomegranate extract and works with any color hair on the spectrum.
Cool Clementine Mate
Give the gift of not losing the important things with this digital tracker. It works with an app and is great for keeping a leash on things like keys, bags, pets and more.
Anker Nano Power Bank
As the nano name suggests, this power bank is small, but it's still mighty. Ideal for charging phones and other Apple devices, it throws 12w of power and is a great little carry-along for those who need to binge the whole podcast season or do a lot of gaming as a passenger on a road trip.
Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
Soothing is an understatement when it comes to applying this body treatment. We love the evenness it imparts, not to mention rejuvenating kick one gets from a bit of retinol.
Mini Brazilian Crush Body Fragrance Mist
This fragrance mist is as vibrant as the bottle looks, with an incredible aroma mixing spicy and warm elements. There are layers of pistachio, toffee and vanilla and it works best on body, hair, even lingerie.
Layered Metal Pendant Necklace
We're still scratching our heads at the price of this remarkable pendant necklace. We love the elegant simplicity and suggest getting multiple and layering up.
Pot Holders
Pot holders sounds boring on the surface, but not these ones. The soft organic cotton is great for the hands, as is the extra layer to keep heat in check. Use them to cup a hot kettle or roasting pan or set them on the table as trivets.
Carry Cap 20 oz Bottle
Camelbak has always been a leader in the hydration game and this product is no different. Carrying 20 ounces, the bottle has a sleek handle and is compatible with sibling vessels. What's more, the bottle has sweat-proof insulation and is a breeze to clean.
Drop Pearl Earring
We love this inventive take on pearl earrings. They're iridescent and flow freely, dangling elegantly from the ears. Oh, and the price is bonkers so stock up.
Freshwater Pearl Linear Statement Earrings
Yes, you can make an earring statement at this price point, trust us. These swingy takes couple classic pearls with a playful little dangle. And they're made from recycled scrap that would otherwise go to waste.
Extra High-Waisted Cloud+ 7/8 Leggings for Women
Old Navy has done it again, outfitting us with something we genuinely want to wear at a rate we can't quite believe. The feel is butter-like, the fit is just above the bellybutton and the likelihood of us ever taking them off is about zero.
Memory Foam Fluffy Slippers
Memory foam does wonders, especially when it's cradling every curve of your feet. Seven color options, a warming interior and a durable sole, that's the recipe for some stellar slippers.
Re-Tool Headband
We appreciate any old headband but especially like a functional one. This Patagonia option is made of fleece, thawing your skull and staying in place thanks to some clever trim. Oh, and per the brand, it's made at a Fair Trade-certified factory (applause).
The Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee
The best tee-shirt is one you want to wear everyday. That's what this box-cut option from Everlane is, made of organic cotton and built like a classic crew neck with a single breast pocket. It sits right above the hip, so let it flow or give it a French tuck.
Harper Paperclip Chain Bracelet
Incredibly charming, this chain bracelet with please the most playful of your friends. The brass base can be adorned with any number of charms, customized to reflect the wearer. Warning: Once you have one, you may want many, many more.
Indoor Electric S'mores Maker
The lucky recipient of this gift will love camping in their living room to make toasty s'mores without even needing a fire. All they need is an electrical outlet to operate this flameless heater.
Pair with some graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate.
Morse Code Bracelet
To the untrained eye these look like regular ol' bracelets, but each one of these handmade items feature a secret message designed using morse code. There's one available for all the special people in your life, from your sister to BFF.
Mini Backpack Purse
The person who receives this cute and compact backpack will find it hard to believe it was less than $30. But believe it—this baby is worth every penny.
Ice Shaver and Snow Cone Machine
This tiny appliance will let your friend make snow cones on the spot. Trust, they'll be using this thing even in the winter.
Youth Stacks Daily Skin Health
I can personally attest that if you've never tried YTTP's superfood cleanser you're seriously missing out. This mini kit makes the perfect plant-based gift for the clean skincare lover, who never skips their routine. It includes the cleanser and a moisturizing cream. both packed with vitamins C, E, and K.
Infuse & Pour Alcohol Kit
Why head out to happy hour when you can bring the happy hour home? This alcohol infusion kit will be *chef's kiss* for the friend who loves getting crafty with their alcohol orders.
Silicone Donut Mold
Your friend will have the best time prepping and decorating homemade donuts, preferably the next time you're over.
Press-On Manicure Nails
Press-on nails have come a long way. All it takes is a few minutes to feel like you've just walked out of the nail spa. Put your friend on to the magic of these by throwing a few boxes into a gift bag. It'll be the gift that keeps on giving!
Merry Melon Set
Give someone the pampering sesh of their dreams with this kit that packs everything they need for baby-soft skin, including Burt's Bees' hand cream, lip balm, and tinted lip balm.
Sugary Flip Flop
If your friend isn't in to making a statement, these aren't the flip flops for them. But if they are, congrats—you've found your gift. These pink bow-tie sandals will do.
Bright Crystal
This luxurious Versace perfume packs on the floral scents. It's made with a blend of fragrances including peony, magnolia, and chilled yuzu. There are also hints of musk and amber in it too, which makes the fragrance appropriate for even the winter months.
Dry Brush Set
Introduce your bestie to the benefits of dry brushing if they aren't aware already. This 4-piece set has 2 brushes and a set of gloves for ultra exfoliation.
Moonstone Huggies
Not only are these earrings so chic, but they're also meant to enhance intuition. Each earring is made with a moonstone in a bezel pendant.
Herb Garden Kit Indoor
Sting the special person in your life with the gardening bug. Even better, these are plants they'll actually be able to use for cooking and more, like infusing drinks.
DIY Sushi-Making Kit
Your friend who dishes $$$ on sushi will def appreciate learning how to make it on their own. This sushi-making kit includes all the tools they'll need to make marvelous maki at home without the actual food. If you're feeling generous, throw the ingredients into your gift bag too!
Waterproof Playing Cards
These sleek-looking waterproof playing cards are a thoughtful gift that won't break the bank.
Super Soft Throw Blanket
One can never have enough fleece blankets—and the softer and cozier, the better. This ribbed fleece blanket is lightweight and breathable, but as plush and warm as a wool blanket, so it's really perfect for any season.
Set of Four Solid Wood Bowls
These bowls are hand-carved, making each one unique in design.
They'll be the first thing the foodie or home decor lover will pull out of their cabinets for rustic-themed dinner parties.
Succulents Plants
The plant lover in your life will appreciate these hand-picked succulents. Bonus: They're super easy to maintain and are safe to keep around your pets.
Vegan Liquid Matte Lipstick
This cruelty-free liquid matte lipstick delivers tons of color without being too dry. No wonder hundreds of Amazon reviewers are obsessed with it.
Disposable Single Use Black and White Camera
Remember these? Every '80s or '90s kid has fond memories with them. But, they're still great for special occasions when you want to actually get physical copies of pictures to frame. And the black and white will give your pics an extra sentimental twsit.
Booty Bands
For the friend who's always trying a new workout, these booty bands come in three different resistance levels: light, medium, and heavy for everything from HIIT workouts to pilates and more.
And though they're technically booty bands, they can be used to train any part of the body, including the back and arms.
Grip Food Chopper
If your friend is prone to cooking fatigue, this food chopper might make the task a little easier.
Just by pushing down on a button, you can chop up ingredients both in the enclosed cup or directly on a cutting board—great for anyone with a tiny kitchen.
The Campout Cookbook
One of the hardest parts of camping trips is figuring out dinner. (Though s'mores do count as a food group in the outdoors.) This book offers tons of easy-prep recipes for making meals at a camp site or cabin.
Deadsea Plant Scrub
This mandarin and cedarwood-infused body sorbet smells amazing.
Thanks to its clean formula, it delivers tons of easy exfoliation from head-to-toe. Say bye bye to winter dry skin.
Lined Journal Notebook
Inspire your friend's creativity with this minimalistic leather journal they can spill all their free-flowing thoughts onto.
Washable Pee Pads for Dogs
These little rugs are great for younger pets and add a little style to your pet space. They come in classic patterns, can be used inside an out and are machine washable. Even those without pets can find a great home for one beneath a chair or as a welcome mat.
Bombay Baby Eyeshadow Palette
This ultra-pigmented eyeshadow palette is compact but gives tons of royalty-inspired color options to choose from. You or the makeup lover in your life will be looking like a magical maharani in no time.
“Eat More Plants” Baggu Bag
You know your very cool friend who gets all their groceries from their local farmer's market would love carrying this bag around. The vegan in your life will appreciate it, too.
Lip Serum
This lip serum will add a pop to any holiday look while prioritizing hydration. It has a gorgeous glossy finish that stays on from appetizers to the dessert round.
Hand-Poured Scented Jar Candle
If the scent of jasmine and orange blossom doesn't scream lit vibes, I don't know what does. Relax and imagine yourself in Rome on at the same time, as you breath in the fresh aroma.
Cologne Mini Discovery Set
A whole bottle of perfume may be out of your price range for this gift, so instead get your fave family member five mini perfumes instead. This set features five signature fragrances from luxe brand Jo Malone London.
Mystery Colors Edible Glitter Packets
The baker in your life will be obsessed with this super fun edible glitter that they can use to top all of their treats this holiday season.
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