There’s always that one person who somehow turns a “small gift” exchange into an unspoken competition. And let’s be honest—between inflation, gift lists that never stop growing, and the fact that your cat needs a new advent calendar (yes, again), the holiday budget can disappear fast.
Enter: our favorite cheap Christmas gifts that don’t look cheap. Whether you’re building a cozy hot cocoa basket, a snack lover’s dream box, or just need something clever that won’t scream “I panic-bought this at the checkout aisle,” we’ve got you covered.
Of course, cheap is totally subjective—what feels like a splurge to one person is a stocking stuffer to another. That’s why we’ve have our favorites under three handy price ranges: under $10, under $50, and under $100. No matter your budget, there’s something here that’ll feel personal, festive, and just the right kind of extra.
Budget-Friendly, Affordable, and Thoughtful
Grab a basket, a bow, and maybe a peppermint mocha (we don’t judge). Let’s wrap this year up right.
Romantic Gifts
Chocolate Lover’s Love Card
Know someone who’s serious about their chocolate? This tiny matchbox card delivers a pretty bold statement! When you tell a chocolate lover that you love them more than chocolate, well… that’s basically a marriage proposal right there.
Made from a real matchbox and hand-assembled, it’s the perfect little surprise that says way more than your average card. Because let’s be honest – choosing someone over chocolate? That’s true love right there!
Hand-Written Love Letter
Probably the best gift your sweetheart could receive is a handwritten note. Nothing beats knowing that your partner sat down and took time to think about what you mean to them. A hand written love note is a romantic, priceless gesture and something they will cherish for many years to come.
Price: costs next to nothing!
However, you could splurge and buy some really nice handmade paper if you want.
Reasons I Love You with Hershey Kisses
Want to impress the heck out of them, without blowing the bank? Here’s an idea taken straight from our own book of love:
Take Hershey’s kiss chocolates, get little plain white stickers/paper and write reasons you love him on the stickers then attach them to the bottom of each candy. Put them in a pretty jar or a Christmas box with a note instructing him to open one a day for the next 50 days.
I did this for Andrew when we first started dating. He then kept those stickers and turned them into a card which he gave me on our wedding day. Super romantic!
Or, if you are not the DIY kind of person, simply get a DIY kit from Amazon (see link below)
Matching Secret Message Keychains
Remember those best friend necklaces from back in the day — the ones where each person had half a heart? These keychains are a modern spin on that sweet idea. On their own, they look simple enough. But put them together, and a secret message is revealed. How cute is that?
They come as a set — one for each of you — and make a charming little reminder that you’re better together. A low-key, meaningful gift they’ll literally keep close at hand.
Handmade Crochet Duck
This little crochet duck is the kind of gift that makes people smile instantly — small, soft, and packed with personality. Whether you’re looking for a cute anniversary surprise, a silly stocking stuffer, or just a sweet “thinking of you” present, this duck totally delivers. Each one is handcrafted with care and comes with an uplifting message card, making it not just adorable but meaningful too.
Custom Crochet Couple Dolls
We’re completely smitten with these handmade couple portrait dolls. Each one is a tiny, crochet version of you and your partner (or any duo you choose), crafted with love and incredible attention to detail. From hairstyle to outfit to skin tone, everything is made to match the photo you send — and yes, you can even request fun extras like glasses or a dad bod.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Take the classic ‘box of chocolate’ gift and turn it into an unforgettable, delectable experience.
If they have a sweet tooth, they will literally swoon when she opens this Ultimate Assortment Chocolate Covered Strawberries.
What makes these extra special is the Belgian chocolate coating and the variety of delicious toppings. Each juicy strawberry is first dipped in premium Belgian chocolate, then rolled in gourmet toppings like nuts, sprinkles, chocolate chips, and coconut – a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.
Get it from from GourmetGiftBaskets
“First Christmas Married” Photo Ornament
This is the way to blend keepsake charm with personal storytelling. Your wedding photo becomes the star here, printed in full color on your choice of acrylic, wood, glass, ceramic—or even a glitter-filled shaker style for extra sparkle. The ornament comes ready to hang with a cream or gold ribbon, making it a meaningful gift or a sweet addition to your newlywed tree.
Funny Gifts
Gas Money Ornament
This little red gas can might look like a tree ornament, but it’s secretly a creative way to gift cash. Pop in a rolled-up bill or two, hang it on the tree, or sneak it into a stocking—instant laughter guaranteed. Perfect for teens who just got their license, college students always running on empty, or any road tripper with a sense of humor.
Personalized Comic Book
Your comic-loving partner will absolutely geek out over this custom comic book. If they’ve ever dreamed of seeing themselves on the pages of a comic, this is their moment. Whether you’re telling the story of how you met or chronicling ten years of marriage, it’s a one-of-a-kind keepsake that’s sure to melt their heart.
With an easy-to-use template and endless ways to personalize, it’s a perfect gift for collectors — and a story like no other.
Get it from AJPersonalizedComics
Funny Beer Stickers
He’ll get a chuckle the next time he goes to grab a cold one from the fridge, and sees these funny stickers!
Funny Soy Candle
Your sweetie is guaranteed to snort with laughter when they see this — I know I did.
We’re absolutely in love with these conversation-starting candles that combine amazing scents with laugh-out-loud messages. Perfect for that friend who appreciates a good pun or needs a pick-me-up gift that keeps on giving (and glowing).
What makes these candles special is how they turn an everyday home accessory into a personal inside joke or a witty statement piece. Whether it’s sitting on your coffee table making guests chuckle, or brightening someone’s day with a surprise delivery, these candles do more than just smell amazing – they create moments of joy and connection.
These are funny AND smell amazing.
Funny “I’m Enough” Gift Card
Looking for a gift with just the right mix of sass and sweetness?
This card nails it with “Having me as your girlfriend is enough of a gift” (because let’s be honest, it totally is!).
Perfect for that guy who claims he “doesn’t want anything”. Now you can playfully agree with him while still showing you cared enough to pick out a card that’ll make him laugh. And isn’t that what relationships are all about – keeping each other smiling?
You can get a fancy one from Etsy that will be professionally made and shipped to you, or you can go a DIY route and buy a template that you can print out!
Toilet Target Light
Switching on all the lights when you need a bathroom break in the middle of the night can be a real pain. Give your relatives the chance to save themselves difficulty getting back to sleep with this practical (and hilarious) gadget.
Funny Prank Box
Got a gift you’d like to give, but want to make sure everyone has a laugh on the day?
This gift box will practically guarantee plenty of giggles and is just the right thing for an office full of techies.
Scratch Off To Find Out Card
You know that satisfying feeling of scratching off a lotto ticket? This gift brings a romantic twist to the classic scratch-off game.
Customize this print by writing your own 14 “things” and then apply the scratch stickers. They will sure to appreciate the thought you put in and will have it to keep as a reminder of how much they are loved.
Mood Flip-Over Messages
There are some things we’re all tired of saying and with this collection of flip messages, there’s a way to get your point across without having to actually voice those frustrations. Co-workers can spot their own pet peeves, as well as point them out to everyone else.
Funny Sarcastic Mug
This mug is just hilarious — we are mad about it!!
Dirty Santa gift pile, your mom, your dad, your sister, or your boyfriend – it’s so good it will work for any person and any occasion. You will also get a chance to see who really believes they’re the expert (or that they love mugs as much as we do).
Giant Snickers Bar
Some of the best presents are built for sharing and this massive Snickers bar is an ideal example. The victorious player who takes this home at the end of a game of Dirty Santa just has to decide whether they want to pass around the goodness or not.
Magic Flavor Changing Berries
This little gift packs a serious punch for the taste buds. Miracle berries temporarily alter your perception of flavor—turning sour into sweet, mellowing out bitterness, and making for a wildly fun food experiment. They’re a clever way to cut back on sugar or just shake up a tasting night with friends. A totally unique treat for the curious eater.
Get it from Nature’s Wild Berry
Handmade Bobblehead From Photo
For the person who has everything, a custom bobblehead is the kind of gift they never saw coming—but won’t stop showing off. Whether it’s a mini version of themselves, a partner, or the whole family, these completely handmade creations are full of personality. With tons of customization options, it’s a fun and quirky keepsake that’ll earn a permanent spot on their desk.
Get it from My Bobbleheads Shop
Holiday Survival Box
Skip the forgettable candy bags—give them a burst of cheer that actually rescues their December. This little box packs the kind of lift every worn-thin coworker, teacher, or employee secretly needs when the season hits full speed.
We love how each treat carries a story: Jolly Ranchers to keep them jolly, Smarties for those marathon shopping decisions, cocoa for a warm “hug-in-a-mug,” and a hit of emergency candy for the days that just won’t quit. Cookies, mints, and a pop of confetti round it out with pure holiday spirit.
Box of Chocolates
You would be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t love a box of chocolates, especially when they deliver a funny message! If you’re looking for a gift that is guaranteed to make them smile, this box of chocs from Diamond Chocolates will do the trick.
If this funny message is not really appropriate, you can always get a simple box of their favorite chocolates. Indulging in some chocolate therapy is sure to give them a lot of joy. Go for high quality and something unique and unusual – there are plenty of organic and artesian options to choose from.
Get a funny one from WhatCandySays
Things You Must Do to Make Me Happy Pad
Give them a laugh with this “Things You Must Do…” pad. For brownie points (and to even the score), buy two and tell them they are allowed to fill the other one out in reverse.
Why I like it:
- almost 200 requests to choose from
- great for grooms who love to laugh
- unique gift
Giant Card
You’re probably going to get a card anyway, so why not have a bit of fun with this oversized tin card?? Write a special message inside and show them just how big your love is. This is an extra special way to give a card for sure! GIANT stamp and envelope included.
Get it from Expressions & Occasions
Batteries Only Gift
We didn’t expect to laugh so hard at a pack of batteries, but here we are. This brilliantly silly gift includes real working batteries… and nothing else. That’s the joke. It’s labeled with “Gift Not Included,” and trust us — it gets funnier every time someone realizes what’s going on.
Paper Desk Pets
Because even desk breaks should spark joy. These foldable furballs offer a screen-free pause that doesn’t just kill time—it revives it. Whether it’s a beginner’s litter of cats or a challenge-packed pack of dogs, each pre-printed square folds into a quirky little companion that makes work feel a little less robotic. A geeky, charming pick for husbands who code, craft, or simply crave a brain break.
Highly Offensive Crayons
Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh. These are AWESOME!!! These are HORRIBLE! These are BOTH. It doesn’t matter, get them now for the person in your life who has a dark sense of humor and can take a seriously offensive joke like a champ. (Hint: Any of us who works here at L&L.)
Not Your Ordinary Strawberry Lip Balms
Bacon? Pizza? Pickles? Do you want to put those on your lips and walk around all day? Probably not. That’s exactly why you should give them to someone you love! Plus, you never know, they may end up tasting amazing and you’ll be jealous as heck. If you’re a good girl, maybe you’ll get some in your stocking next year.
Fun Socks
Because boring socks don’t start conversations—but these do. Whether it’s “Eff Off, I’m Reading” or “Ringmaster of the Shit Show,” Blue Q’s crew socks deliver attitude, humor, and just the right amount of chaos. Made for the bold, the sarcastic, and anyone who needs their ankles to do the talking. Gift them to the friend who always says what everyone’s thinking—or keep them for yourself and let your feet drop the mic.
Tortilla Blanket
Sometimes our day’s been so yucky, we just want to be wrapped up like a burrito. No? Just us? Well, even if you’ve never felt that way, give it a shot. Guarantee once your giftee rolls up and plops down on the couch in this cozy tortilla blanket, everything’s gonna be ok.
Chill Pill Earrings
For the doctor or nurse in your life, these chill pill earrings will remind her that whenever life throws you crazy, take a chill pill and soldier on. They’d be especially great for a nursing school graduation gift!
Slang Flashcards For The Hopeless
Again, these could go anywhere on this list, but let’s face it, it’s frequently the case that dads need a lot more help in the hipster department than anyone else. (Sorry dad, love ya.)
So if your dad is like a lot of others and manages to make your hair cringe every time he tries to speak to your friends like he just wants to “chill”, maybe it’s time for these slang flashcards.
Practical
Money Stocking Ornament
If you’re giving cash this Christmas, this mini stocking ornament is a clever way to do it. It’s designed to hold a rolled-up bill — whether it’s a crisp $20 or a generous Benjamin — and comes ready to hang right on the tree. It’s perfect for stuffing stockings, sprucing up gift wrap, or making your “boring cash gift” feel way more thoughtful.
Recycled Ski Coasters Set
Another fun recycled option: these coasters are cut from real skis, giving each one its own unique story and character. Since every pair has seen some action, no two sets are exactly alike — which makes them even cooler in our book.
They’re a great pick for the eco-conscious person in your life, and they come with a stand for easy display. Add a warm drink, and it’ll feel like you’re at the ski lodge — even if you’re just on the couch.
Tie Patch
This is another subtle but sweet idea. A tie patch allows you to literally weave your loving sentiments right into his outfit. Lots of personalization options, easy to install.
Wine Filters
Quite possibly the invention of the decade. These portable, disposable wine filters aerate wine while filtering out everything that gives us headaches and uncomfortable symptoms after even the best bottles.
Pair it with a nice bottle of vino, and you’ve got a great birthday gift!
Note – we could’ve put these in the last-minute gifts under $25 category. But we chose the 24 pack because we drink a lot of wine around here, and we always pick the stuff we’d want to get for ourselves. So just puttin’ that out there.
All Edge Brownie Pan
Have you ever met someone who doesn’t like brownies?
Didn’t think so. Elevate brownies to a whole new level with a pan that guarantees two crispy/chewy edges on each brownie. Bake up a batch for them before you gift it, and no one will even notice if it happens to be late.
From Crook to Cook
We have a theory that secretly (or not so secretly!) every guy wishes he were as cool as Snoop.
Well, wish granted. When your guy gets ahold of Snoop’s cookbook, he’ll be one step closer to realizing his dream of being the baddest chef in the kitchen.
It features 50 recipes, including classics like mac and cheese, and biscuits with tha’ thickness gravy. There are dishes for special occasions too, like rollin’ California rolls and go shorty, it’s your birthday cake.
It would make the perfect anniversary gift. Just make sure he whips up a martini, so clean we dirty. Or an O.G. gin and juice. Or both.
Bath and Body Gift Basket
Transform their bathroom into a mini resort with this indulgent spa basket! The vanilla-coconut duo isn’t just another scent combo – it’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle. The extra-large bath bombs make for quite the show (and amazing soak!), while the nourishing coconut oil and shea butter products are perfect for sensitive skin. Moms, new brides, or anyone needing a mental getaway will love unwrapping this little piece of paradise. Plus, the gorgeous basket makes a pretty storage solution for bathroom essentials long after the pampering is done!
Elastic No Tie Shoe Laces
Tying your shoes is so overrated. With these awesome laces, there’s no tying required. While these aren’t really made of lace, the name makes these close enough for tradition.
Why I like it:
- Multiple colors to choose from
- Easy to install
- Gives shoes a custom fit
Custom Photo Air Freshener
We love when a gift is both personal and practical, and this custom photo air freshener hits the mark. Upload two of your favorite images—one for each side—and choose from a variety of long-lasting scents like vanilla, ocean breeze, or blue wind chime. Whether it’s a snapshot from your anniversary, a goofy pet pic, or a meaningful moment, this turns any car ride into a walk down memory lane.
Reusable Foldable Bag
Functional, sustainable, and oh-so-cute, a reusable bag is a great last-minute gift for the environmentalist in your life. It’s meant to take the place of your typical plastic grocery bag and is made from sturdy nylon that’ll withstand even the most brutal abuse.
Five Year Journal
One line a day every day for five years will give you a whole lot of insight into where you’ve been and what you’ve done with your life over the past half-decade! (That may or may not be significant depending upon your situation, but it’s always fun to look back and compare.)
If someone in your life is celebrating a milestone birthday, they’ll thank you every year for five years, guaranteed.
Beer Chiller
When SOMEONE has to keep his beer cold, and that someone is you!
Warm beer? Never again. These stainless steel chiller sticks are built for the guy who takes his brews seriously—whether he’s manning the grill, kicking back in the yard, or holding court in his man cave. Just freeze, pop it in the bottle, and enjoy a cold one till the last drop. We love that they come gift-boxed with a built-in bottle opener—ready to hand off to your brother, your best man, or your favorite beer snob.
Thoughtful
Hug in a Mug
Sometimes a text just isn’t enough – that’s when you need this hot chocolate hug in a box! Inside a beautiful stoneware mug (that they’ll keep forever), there’s everything needed for an instant cozy moment: rich hot cocoa mix, fluffy mini marshmallows, and even a tiny silver tea light to set the mood. Perfect for that friend who’s having a rough week, or just because you want to give someone a warm squeeze from miles away. Add a personal message and they’ll think of you with every sip. Way better than another “thinking of you” text!
Get it from Little Gift Shop Boca
Leather and Stainless Steel Photo Key Holder
This is the husband’s gift for Father’s Day or your anniversary, hands down. A leather keychain etched with his name or initials is lovely as is, but inside you’ll find a stainless steel insert engraved with a photo of his favorite people, too.
To order, choose a customization option and the color he’d prefer. Next, download the photo and/or message you’d like to include along with the etching you’d like on the front of the keyfob.
It makes such an amazing keepsake; you know he’ll totally have it forever.
1000 Places to See Before You Die
For the traveler, dreamer, or armchair explorer, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die is the ultimate travel bucket list in book form. This bestselling guide features stunning full-color photography and detailed write-ups on unforgettable destinations across every continent—from remote coral reefs to bustling city festivals. Each entry includes practical travel tips, from where to stay and when to go, to local experiences you won’t want to miss.
Anniversary Cookie Jar
We couldn’t help but smile at this clever play on words. This square aluminum cookie tin is both durable and delightfully witty, featuring “Together Through Thick and Tin” in bold script with a little gold heart.
What makes it special is the personalization—you can add your names and a date to mark an anniversary, Valentine’s Day, or just your ongoing snack-filled love story. We love that it’s not only funny but also functional—perfect for holding cookies, candies, or even those late-night emergency treats.
50 Reasons I Love You
We love a gift that’s small in size but big on meaning—and this one totally delivers. This message capsule jar is a charming and customizable way to express your love with 50 handwritten notes, each tucked inside a tiny pill-shaped capsule.
Black Bounce DIY Box Gift Set
What caught our eye with this gift box is how unexpectedly fun it is—seriously, it pops. Literally. It includes six mini bounce boxes that spring to life when opened, a large drawer box for a hidden surprise, and a full set of DIY tools like stickers, watercolor pens, and a gift bag. Perfect for anyone who loves a dramatic reveal—great for birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, or even handing over some sneaky cash.
Bring the Cheer (Without the Credit Card Tears)
Whether you’re filling stockings, building a themed basket, or just trying to make someone smile without triggering a fraud alert from your bank, there’s something satisfying about finding a cheap Christmas gift that absolutely nails it.
Because it’s not about how much you spend—it’s about the “you thought of me!” moment. And that? That’s priceless.
So go ahead and mix, match, and get a little crafty. Your budget may be small, but your gift-giving game? Huge.
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