One of the joys of gifting is giving presents that are sure to bring a smile to someone's face. Even if pricey tech gifts are on their list, you can still find plenty of thoughtful gifts that they'll appreciate — and won't break the bank.
Inexpensive gifts don't always have to be something cheesy or small enough to be included on top of a package. Whether they're into self-care, fashion, food or games, there are plenty of budget-friendly gifts that look way more expensive than they actually are.
Here are some of the best cheap but thoughtful gifts for him, her, kids and everyone in between. Click on the links below or scroll through our picks of last-minute inexpensive gifts that anyone will want to unwrap this year.
For tech lovers | For beauty lovers | Cozy gifts | For your home and kitchen | For kids | Unique gifts
Cheap gifts for tech lovers
Yootech Wireless Charger
With over 129,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, we'd say this wireless charger is definitely worth the hype! It's compatible with almost every phone that allows wireless charging, as well as AirPods and AirPods Pro.
LapGear Microbead Tablet Pillow Stand
Whether you want to enjoy watching a show on Netflix or are reading a suspenseful novel (and would prefer to do so hands-free), this tablet pillow is here to help! Stuffed with cushion filling, it both holds and stores your device. With a snap-on handle you can conveniently transport it from the couch to the bed and it's comfortable enough to keep on your lap for hours.
Oontz Angle Solo Portable Speaker
This portable speaker comes in three different colors and provides up to 100 feet of wireless range, meaning you can bring your phone downstairs and still play music upstairs. It's amassed more than 23,000 verified five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers who praise the speaker for its sound quality and quaint size.
Smoko Lil B Dumpling Ambient Light
At Shop TODAY, we like to think of ourselves as gift experts. That's why we rounded up a list of gifts we love to let our readers know which items are the best of the best. One item on the list? This dumpling-shaped ambient light, which immediately captured our hearts with its cuteness.
“I bought this for my sister and she loves it! (And she’s 43.)” deputy editorial director Alexandra Deabler says. “It’s a cute stocking stuffer for all ages.”
JBL GO2 Waterproof Ultra Portable Bluetooth Speaker
A portable speaker is one of the best gifts you can give the music lover in your life. This wireless bluetooth option from JBL offers up to five hours of runtime on a full charge and comes in six eye-catching chrome colors.
Casely We've Peaked Après Ski Mountains Case
Whether they just got a new phone or like to keep their current phone looking fresh, you can't go wrong with a new case. This aprés ski-inspired one will evoke all the wintery vibes.
Cheap gifts for beauty lovers
Peripera Velvet Longwear Lip Tint
A Shop TODAY Amazon bestseller, this bold lip tint will last the whole day, according to the brand. We love it for its bold pigmentation. Better yet, it’s under $10!
Cleverfy Shower Steamers
The person you're buying for will be able to take a sweet-smelling, luxurious shower, all thanks to these shower steamers. They're made with essential oils and are designed to emit pleasant scents as they melt alongside the water stream.
e.l.f. Embellished Holiday Brush Gift Set (9 Pieces)
What better time to refresh your makeup brush collection than around the holidays? This set will provide nine fresh, synthetic brushes just in time for the new year. There are options for concealer, blush, eyeshadow and more.
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Kiss away that early morning dryness! Laneige's overnight mask leaves your lips soft and supple thanks to an enriching mix of antioxidants and minerals that lock in hydration while you sleep.
Origins Bestsellers Best Skin Set
This gift set comes with everything they'll need to prioritize their skin regimen for a long time coming. It includes customer faves like anti-aging serum, a frothy face wash and a purifying mask.
Skin Gym Jade Mini Facial Roller
Ideal for any wellness lover, this mini face roller releases tension while bringing out your natural radiance. It's also the ideal size to give yourself a quick pick-me-up while you're on the move.
Cheap gifts to stay cozy
Sharper Image Neck and Shoulder Wrap Body Massager
This neck wrap was designed for unwinding after a long day's work. You can toss it in the freezer or heat it in the microwave to cool or warm your muscles after a long day.
Donpapa Slip-On Slippers
This pair of plush, fuzzy slippers is perfect for anyone hoping to stay cozy this holiday season (and beyond). The slip-ons are built with cushiony memory-foam insoles covered in fluffy faux fur. At the time of publication, they're 40% off.
CUTEKING Weighted Blanket for Kids
With the option to choose from five to 20 pounds, this weighted blanket is also available in a number of widths, lengths, colors and patterns. Made with glass beads, reviewers give this weighted blanket a high rating on its impeccable weight distribution, noting that it's the "perfect weight" for alleviating stress.
Anecdote Comfort Zone Candle
From "Flannel & Fedoras" to "Vinyl Records," these candles are another cozy pick for upcoming colder weather. The scents are inspired by comforting scenes and experiences, from succulent gardens to bottomless mimosas.
Cheap gifts for your home and kitchen
Instant Pot Mini Mitts
If they've already got their hands on an Instant Pot, gifting them the accessories to go with it will be much appreciated. These mini mitts make it easy to grip the inner pot while protecting your fingers from any burns.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Straw and Brush Set
For anyone who's aiming to be a little less wasteful and a little more eco-mindful, these stylish stainless-steel straws will get them on the right track.
Anthropologie Festive Bistro Tile Monogram Mug
Whether you’re shopping for a coffee lover or a hot chocolate fan, this monogram mug will allow for festive sipping all year long. You can pick the letter on the mug, which means your affordable gift will also have a personalized touch.
“Rebel Homemaker: Food, Family, Life,” by Drew Barrymore
This pick is ideal for the aspiring home chef or the one who wants to diversify their repertoire. Sprinkled amongst the recipes are stories from Barrymore’s life that can help provide a new layer to the meals.
Truff Black Truffle Hot Sauce
Hot sauce kits are no strangers to a home cooks kitchen, but this hot sauce from Truff packs a punch. It's crafted with ripe chili peppers, black truffle oil and organic agave nectar for a delectable taste they'll want to put on everything from omelets to popcorn.
W&P Collapsible Popcorn Popper
Popcorn makers went viral on TikTok years back, and there's no better time to snuggle up on the couch with a bowl of buttery goodness and a movie than now. This collapsible bowl is made from silicone, so you can easily fold it up and store it once you're done.
Modern Sprout Mason Jar Indoor Herb Garden
Plenty of us are cooking at home, so why not gift a little flavor? Not only does this herb garden make for excellent decor, it includes everything they'll need to grow their own mini garden without the mess.
Benevolence LA Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Storage Box
This travel jewelry box is a Travel Gear Awards winner and gift we love. It has two compartments separated by a mini mirror. Which of the thirteen colors will you gift it in?
Corkcicle 3-in-1 Wine Ciller
Not only does the Corkcicle Air keep wine at the perfect temperature, it also aerates it as you pour it from the bottle into the glass. It's ready to use after sitting in the freezer for just 90 minutes and can keep your drink cold for as long as you choose to sip.
Uncommon Goods Birth Month Flower Glass
It's easy to personalize your gift with these glasses, since they can be customized with birth flowers of your choice. The pressed-flower design is available for each month, and the glasses can be cleaned on the top rack of the dishwasher. Chic and simple.
Uncommon Goods State Spoon Rest
Bring them a little dose of hometown pride with these state-shaped spoon rests. They're the perfect inconspicuous accessory that will make them feel a little closer to home.
Uncommon Goods Handwarmer Oatmeal Bowl
A great gift for people who love to stay cozy, this unique bowl allows you to eat and drink while warming your hands at the same time. It features a handle large enough to fit your hand through and a notch where you can rest a spoon or other eating utensils.
OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel 8" Frying Pan
Upgrade their cookware with this carbon steel frying pan from OXO. This pre-seasoned piece is not only aesthetically pleasing, it's also oven-safe (up to 660°F) and works on any cooktop, including induction.
Cheap Gifts for Kids
"Paint by Sticker: Dogs"
Hone their creativity without worrying about all the mess. The blossoming artist in your life will adore this paint-by-stickers activity book filled with a dozen canines waiting for their time to shine.
Infantino Press & Stay Sensory Blocks
Perfect for curious youngsters ages 1 and up, this 24-piece block set is easy to stack up (or even sideways!) and encourages growing imaginations and engineering skills. They're also parent- and grandparent-approved, earning 4,300+ verified five-star ratings on Amazon.
Exploding Kittens Throw Throw Burrito
A dodgeball/card game hybrid, Throw Throw Burrito is sure to provide hours of hilarious fun, not just kids but for the entire family!
Lumipets LED Kids' Night Light Lamp with Remote
Give their room an instant makeover with this adorable night lamp that's sure to get a lot of use. It features eight soothing colors and is available in a bear, owl, bunny or unicorn. The best part? It's portable, so they can take it on the go.
Cool Maker Go Glam U-Nique Nail Salon
If at-home manicures have become their new favorite thing, this nail stamper can help them get a little more creative. It includes five fun patterns they can use to customize their own glam look using kid-safe polish and it even has a built-in dryer so they can complete their salon experience.
Make it Real Mini Pottery Studio
For $30, you can give the child artist in your life the gift of knowledge. This mini pottery studio includes all the tools they’ll need to learn how to make beautiful ceramics — paint, clay, carving tools and more. Plus, it comes with a playbook with instructions for 10 projects from levels beginner to master.
Cheap gifts that are truly unique
Glimmerst Initial Pendant Necklace
A classic initial necklace is the perfect gift they won't want to take off. It comes in both gold and silver.
"You Are The Magic You Seek" Guided Journal
For your introspective friend who loves to reflect, this journal — filled with illustrated affirmations and daily prompts — encourages self-discovery through gratitude, self-compassion and more.
BethKateDesigns Long Distance Family Print
If your family won't be celebrating together this year, this thoughtful print will almost make up for it. You can print the digital download at home to mail it in a custom frame or opt to have it printed by the shop on stretched canvas.
Ladurée Napoléon Macarons (Set of 6)
Looking for a luxury gift on a budget? Look no further than this box of macarons from Ladurée! The box includes six macarons of various flavors depending on availability.
Celebs on Sandwiches Martha and Snoop Print
Gag gifts are a blast, especially if you can actually use the item after you unwrap it. The brand Celebs on Sandwiches sells watercolor prints of — you guessed it — celebrities sitting on sandwiches. This print features iconic duo Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg, but you can buy one of whichever celebrity your loved one is obsessed with.
Uncommon Goods Studio Session: Songwriting 101
If you're shopping for someone who's hoping to learn more about music (but hasn't had time to take a class), this songwriting course is perfect. It covers the basics of songwriting, from lyrics to melody and more. At the end of the two-hour course, they'll have their very own song.
Mint & Lily Statement Initial Necklace
At Shop TODAY, we love a deal. Let’s be honest — who doesn’t? You can score this statement initial necklace for an extra 30% off when you use the code TODAY30 at checkout.
