Finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. In fact, some of the most cherished presents are those that show thoughtfulness, not extravagance. This year, discover a curated collection of the Best Gifts Under , proving you can give impressive and delightful items without overspending. From tech gadgets and stylish accessories to delicious treats and home comforts, this guide is packed with affordable treasures for everyone on your list. Say goodbye to budget stress and hello to smart, savvy gifting with these top picks that deliver big smiles for under $30.
Top Picks: Best Gifts Under $30 Overall
Tiny Tech with Big Impact: Apple AirTag
For the friend who’s always misplacing their keys or the family member prone to leaving their luggage behind, the Apple AirTag is a game-changer. This small but mighty device offers peace of mind by helping locate everyday essentials. Simply attach it to keys, bags, wallets, or anything else, and use the Find My app to pinpoint its location. Executive editor Dave Johnson highlights its practicality: “Priced so cheap, Apple AirTags make a great high-tech gift that virtually anyone can find some use for.” The audible tone feature for close-range finding and the long-lasting battery make it a truly helpful and budget-friendly tech gift.
Luxurious Lip Care: Laneige Midnight Minis Lip Masks Set
Treat someone special to a touch of everyday luxury with the Laneige Midnight Minis Lip Masks. This set of five mini lip masks provides intense hydration and nourishment for dry lips. Kim Peiffer, features and special projects director, raves about her obsession with Laneige sleep masks, noting this set as perfect for overnight lip rejuvenation. Ideal for anyone seeking soft, supple lips, this gift set offers a spa-like experience at home for under $30.
Cozy Reading Companion: Glocusent USB Rechargeable Book Light
For bookworms who love late-night reading, the Glocusent USB Rechargeable Book Light is a thoughtful and practical gift. This lightweight light clips onto books and provides adjustable brightness levels and warm or cool lighting tones. Assistant deals editor Jordan Thomas recommends it highly, sharing, “It’s super lightweight, comes in cute colors and offers a variety of brightness levels as well as cool and warm lighting tones.” Its swiveling light and rechargeable battery make it a versatile and appreciated gift for any reader.
Elegant Drinkware: Libbey Capone Speakeasy Coupe Cocktail Glasses
Elevate happy hour at home with the Libbey Capone Speakeasy Coupe Cocktail Glasses. This set of four sophisticated glasses is perfect for cocktails, champagne, or even desserts. Special projects editor Jennifer Ferrise loves their versatility, stating, “I love that I can use these for all sorts of drinks, not just bubbly.” These elegant coupe glasses bring a touch of vintage charm to any home bar and make a stylish gift for under $30.
Personalized & Sentimental Gifts Under $30
Cherished Memories Mug: Shutterfly Gallery Of Three Mug
Make someone’s morning routine extra special with a Shutterfly Gallery Of Three Mug. Personalize this ceramic mug with photos, creating a daily reminder of cherished memories. With options for multiple images, colors, and sizes, this mug is a heartfelt and custom gift. Shutterfly offers customization and quality, making this a truly personal and thoughtful present.
Miniature Kitchen Helpers: GIR Mini Best Tool Set
For the home cook or baking enthusiast, the GIR Mini Best Tool Set is both practical and charming. These mini silicone cooking utensils are high-quality, functional, and come in a giftable confetti set. Senior updates editor Karen Tietjen suggests looking for “a ‘nice version’ of something that’s within that budget—in this case, kitchen utensils,” and GIR tools fit the bill perfectly with their quality and design.
Travel-Friendly Fragrance: Marc Jacobs Daisy Drops Eau De Toilette Capsules
The Marc Jacobs Daisy Drops Eau De Toilette Capsules offer a fresh and floral fragrance in a convenient, travel-ready format. This set includes 30 single-dose capsules, perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Special projects editor Jennifer Ferrise appreciates the portability, saying, “I can easily take it with me on the go with this Daisy Drops set.” This is an ideal gift for anyone who loves the classic Daisy scent and values practicality.
Fun & Unique Gifts Under $30
Lunar Ambiance: Mydethun Moon Lamp
Bring the magic of the moon indoors with the Mydethun Moon Lamp. This realistic moon-shaped night light creates a soothing glow and comes with a remote to adjust color and intensity. Updates writer Claire Epting loves the ambiance it creates, sharing, “I love the glow it creates as I’m winding down for the night.” This playful and visually appealing gift adds a touch of wonder to any space.
Gourmet Olive Oil: Piro. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
For food lovers, Piro. Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a premium treat they might not buy for themselves. This high-quality olive oil is perfect for drizzling, dipping, or enhancing any dish. Senior updates editor Karen Tietjen enjoyed a sample, using it on “olives and cheese.” This gourmet food item makes an excellent host gift or stocking stuffer for culinary enthusiasts.
Daily Dose of Dog Joy: WeRateDogs 2025 Day-To-Day Calendar
Dog lovers will adore the WeRateDogs 2025 Day-To-Day Calendar. Featuring adorable and funny dogs from the popular social media account, this tear-off calendar brings a smile every morning. Executive managing editor Brinda Ayer received it as a gift and will “gladly pay it forward to friends and family for years to come.” It’s a fun and heartwarming gift for any dog enthusiast.
On-the-Go Power: Anker Portable Charger
Keep devices charged on the go with the Anker Portable Charger. This slim and stylish power bank provides multiple phone charges and is easily portable. Tech editor Melissa Perenson recommends it as a “slim, stylish companion for any smartphone” and a great stocking stuffer due to its affordability and usefulness.
Pizza Perfection: Brightland Pizza Oil
Elevate pizza night with Brightland Pizza Oil. This flavorful oil, made with premium olive oil and spices, is perfect for drizzling on pizza or using as a dipping sauce. Special projects editor Jennifer Ferrise, a self-proclaimed pizza enthusiast, calls it her “favorite new way to dress up a slice.” This gourmet condiment is an ideal stocking stuffer for pizza lovers.
Stylish Stationery: Rifle Paper Co. Garden Party Stitched Notebook Set
The Rifle Paper Co. Garden Party Stitched Notebook Set offers a touch of beauty to everyday note-taking. This set of three beautifully designed notebooks is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Managing editor Emmy Favilla points out, “everyone needs a notebook, so why not gift them a set of three beautifully designed ones.” These notebooks are a delightful gift for anyone who appreciates stylish stationery.
Unique Beer Glasses: Dragon Glassware Upside Down Beer Glasses
For beer enthusiasts, the Dragon Glassware Upside Down Beer Glasses are a unique and conversation-starting gift. This set of two glasses is cooler than average beer mugs and makes a steal-worthy white elephant gift. Senior updates editor Karen Tietjen suggests they are “especially great for gifting to men, who (in my opinion) can be particularly tricky to buy for.”
National Parks Calendar: Parks Project National Parks 2025 Calendar
Celebrate the beauty of nature with the Parks Project National Parks 2025 Calendar. Featuring illustrations of national parks, this calendar is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Special projects editor Jennifer Ferrise loves that “the company gives back to parklands across the country,” making it a gift that gives back.
Cozy Body Care: Beekman 1802 Spiced Orange Bodycare Gift Set
Indulge in holiday scents with the Beekman 1802 Spiced Orange Bodycare Gift Set. This trio of goat milk-based body care products in a warm spiced orange scent is hydrating and softening. Updates writer Claire Epting appreciates Beekman 1802 sets as gifts, noting, “the Spiced Orange scent, which is warm and cozy—it instantly makes me think of the holidays.” The gift box packaging adds to the appeal.
Exotic Dried Fruit: Yun Hai Dried Fruit Sampler
Delight foodies with the Yun Hai Dried Fruit Sampler, featuring Taiwanese dried fruits. This set offers unique flavors like pearl guava, pineapple, and mango. Senior reviews editor Anna Perling highlights the “flavor-packed and beautiful set” and the company’s mission to support Taiwanese farmers.
Advent Puzzle Fun: Galison Home For The Holidays 500 Piece Advent Puzzle Calendar
Combine advent calendars and puzzles with the Galison Home For The Holidays 500 Piece Advent Puzzle Calendar. This calendar reveals mini puzzles each day, eventually forming a 500-piece holiday scene. Updates writer Fran Sales notes it’s perfect for “folks who love advent calendars and puzzles.”
Powerful Sound on a Budget: Baseus Bowie MA10 Wireless Earbuds
The Baseus Bowie MA10 Wireless Earbuds offer impressive sound and features at a budget-friendly price. With long battery life, waterproof rating, and customizable app features, these earbuds are a great tech gift. Consumer tech and electronics editor Rebecca Isaacs highlights the “great sound” and “up to 140 hours” of battery life.
Greenery Delivery: BWH Plant Co. 4-Inch Calathea Ornata Pin Stripe
Gift a touch of nature with a plant from BWH Plant Co.. They offer a variety of plants, including easy-care and pet-friendly options, starting as low as $10. Senior updates editor Karen Tietjen suggests plants as “a creative, thoughtful gift to give (or send to) hard-to-buy-for recipients,” emphasizing the affordability and variety available.
Nut Butter Indulgence: Ground Up Holiday Nut Butter Tasting Flight
Treat nut butter lovers to the Ground Up Holiday Nut Butter Tasting Flight. This sampler box features handcrafted nut and seed butters made with high-quality ingredients. Editorial director Brinda Ayer, a nut butter enthusiast, praises the “good stuff” from Ground Up PDX and their mission to support women facing adversity.
Smart Home Starter: Amazon Smart Plug
Transform any home into a smart home with the Amazon Smart Plug. This gadget turns any outlet into a smart outlet, controllable via smartphone or voice commands. Tech writer Jason Rich calls it “an easy, low-cost way to start transforming anyone’s home into a smart home.”
Viral Beauty Blush: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
Beauty lovers will appreciate the TikTok-viral Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush. This highly-pigmented blush provides a natural, long-lasting flush. Senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone switched to this blush, stating, “I ditched my holy grail blush in favor of this one and I haven’t looked back.”
Retro Photography Fun: Kodak M35 35mm Film Camera
Capture memories with the Kodak M35 35mm Film Camera. This point-and-shoot film camera is easy to use and comes in fun colors. Consumer tech and electronics editor Rebecca Isaacs recommends it for “the budding photographer” and its nostalgic appeal.
Sweet Treat Set: Sugarfina Sweet And Sparkling Candy Bento Box
Satisfy a sweet tooth with the Sugarfina Sweet And Sparkling Candy Bento Box. This sophisticated candy set includes champagne-flavored gummy bears and popping candy chocolates. Updates writer Claire Epting loves the “sophisticated yet whimsical” nature of Sugarfina’s candy and gift-ready packaging.
Retro Home Decor: Oxford Pennant Gimme Some Sugar Mistletoe Mini Pennant
Add a touch of retro charm with an Oxford Pennant Mini Pennant. With various designs and collaborations, these pennants add personality to any space. Director of audience development Spencer Dukoff has multiple Oxford Pennants, highlighting their “old-school charm” and variety.
Tinned Fish Cookbook: Tin To Table Recipe Book
For those embracing the tinned fish trend, Tin To Table Recipe Book is a chic and useful gift. This cookbook offers aesthetically pleasing photos and recipes for enjoying tinned fish. Deals writer Jordan Thomas calls it “the chic little recipe book you’ve been looking for” for both beginners and experienced tinned fish lovers.
Artistic Puzzle Challenge: Piecework Puzzles Sugar & Spice Puzzle
Puzzle enthusiasts will enjoy the Piecework Puzzles Sugar & Spice Puzzle. These modern and cool puzzles are worth displaying after completion. Deputy editor Kari Molvar, who recently got back into puzzles, finds Piecework’s puzzles “modern and so cool—definitely worth displaying.”
Car Air Freshener Upgrade: P. F. Candle Co. Car Fragrance 2-Pack
Upgrade car air fresheners with the P. F. Candle Co. Car Fragrance 2-Pack. These sophisticated scented cards offer lovely fragrances like Golden Coast. Updates writer Claire Epting recommends them as “a sophisticated alternative to those little trees” and great for small spaces beyond cars.
Hydrating Lip Treatment: Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment
Treat dry lips with Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment. This moisturizing formula provides hydration and shine without feeling sticky. Commerce lifestyle editor Katherine Louie uses it daily and as an overnight mask, planning to gift it to “skincare-obsessed friends and family members.”
Foodie Memoir: What I Ate In One Year (And Related Thoughts) By Stanley Tucci
For foodies and fans of Stanley Tucci, What I Ate In One Year (And Related Thoughts) is an engaging memoir. Special projects editor Jennifer Ferrise recommends it for those who enjoyed Tucci’s food and travel show or have a passion for food and culture.
Modern Chess Set: Anthropologie Say Yes To The Chess Game Set
The Anthropologie Say Yes To The Chess Game Set combines a classic game with a fresh, modern design. Deputy editor Kari Molvar, who is learning chess, appreciates this “beautiful, travel-ready set.”
Shower Speaker Fun: Soundbot Water Resistant Bluetooth Shower Speaker
Enjoy music in the shower with the Soundbot Water Resistant Bluetooth Shower Speaker. This affordable speaker offers good sound quality and water resistance. Special projects editor Jennifer Ferrise received it as a gift and uses it “almost every day since,” highlighting its value as a stocking stuffer.
Non-Alcoholic Celebration: NON1 Salted Raspberry & Chamomile Wine Alternative
For non-alcoholic celebrations, NON1 Salted Raspberry & Chamomile Wine Alternative offers unique and delicious flavors. Senior reviews editor Anna Perling describes it as “somewhere between a sparkling tea and wine” with a “perfect sweet-tart balance.”
Self-Care Sheet Masks: Patchology Moms’ Night In Bundle
Encourage self-care with the Patchology Moms’ Night In Bundle. This set of sheet masks is perfect for relaxation. Managing editor Emmy Favilla recommends Patchology masks as “some of my favorite affordable face masks” and giftable bundles for self-care.
Upgraded Roku Remote: Roku Voice Remote Pro
Enhance streaming with the Roku Voice Remote Pro. This remote offers voice control, personal shortcuts, and a rechargeable battery. Consumer tech and electronics editor Rebecca Isaacs calls it “one of the most accessible streaming accessories on the market.”
Bathroom Odor Eliminator: Loo Toilet Drops
Keep bathrooms smelling fresh with Loo Toilet Drops. These playful and practical drops deodorize discreetly with pleasant scents like Lavender Cedarwood Rosemary. Updates writer Claire Epting finds them “playful and practical” and a thoughtful gift.
Portable Fan & Power Bank: Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan
Stay cool on the go with the Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan. This folding fan doubles as a portable charger, making it perfect for travel. Senior travel editor Astrid Taran calls it “incredibly useful gift for the traveler in your life.”
Brain Teaser Game: Box One Presented By Neil Patrick Harris
Challenge minds with Box One Presented By Neil Patrick Harris. This escape room puzzle in a box offers a captivating solo or partnered experience. Deputy editor Dave Johnson describes the puzzles as “challenging without being overwhelming” and a great gift for puzzle lovers.
Shimmering Eyeshadow Sticks: Wander Beauty Wandering Eyes Shadow Sticks
Simplify eye makeup with Wander Beauty Wandering Eyes Shadow Sticks. These easy-to-apply eyeshadow sticks glide on smoothly and last. Commerce lifestyle editor Katherine Louie finds them a “total game changer,” especially for those who struggle with eye makeup.
Engaging Picture Book: My Big Wimmelbook: Cars And Things That Go
Toddlers who love vehicles will enjoy My Big Wimmelbook: Cars And Things That Go. This wordless picture book is filled with detailed scenes that engage and develop language skills. Home and kitchen editor Sholeen Damarwala finds it helps keep her toddler “calm and engaged” in various situations.
Slow Feeder Dog Bowl: Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl
Help dogs eat slower with the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl. This bowl design encourages mindful eating for dogs who tend to eat too quickly. Gear editor Cam Vigliotta’s dog has used one for years, proving its durability and effectiveness.
Travel Packing Cubes: Bagail Packing Cubes 6-Pack
Organize luggage with Bagail Packing Cubes 6-Pack. This set is a practical gift for travelers of all levels. Senior travel editor Astrid Taran recommends packing cubes as “always a welcome gift” for both beginner and experienced travelers.
Ms. Rachel Doll: Ms. Rachel Speak & Sing Doll
Delight babies and toddlers with the Ms. Rachel Speak & Sing Doll. Inspired by the popular children’s show, this doll plays phrases and songs beloved by little ones. Special projects editor Jennifer Ferrise is “buying one for all of the kiddos on my list.”
Camping Cookbook: Feast By Firelight: Simple Recipes For Camping, Cabins And The Great Outdoors
Elevate outdoor cooking with Feast By Firelight: Simple Recipes For Camping, Cabins And The Great Outdoors. This cookbook offers creative recipes for campers and glampers. Updates writer Claire Epting received it as a gift and appreciates the “creative recipes that elevate a simple cookout spread.”
Minimalist Playing Cards: Eames Playing Cards
Upgrade game night with Eames Playing Cards. These minimalist playing cards are stylish and functional. Senior home and kitchen editor Christina Poletto would “love a deck like this for game night.”
Gratitude Journal: Intelligent Change The Five Minute Journal
Promote mindfulness with Intelligent Change The Five Minute Journal. This journal helps cultivate gratitude with daily prompts in just 5 minutes. Updates writer Francesca Sales finds it “helpful in keeping me on track with my gratitude practice.”
Toddler Busy Board: Polkrane Busy Board With LED Light
Entertain toddlers screen-free with the Polkrane Busy Board With LED Light. This lo-fi toy offers engaging activities for road trips or restaurants. Branded content editor Dana Holmes bought it as a gift and received “rave reviews” for its entertainment value.
Vanilla Lip Balm: Alder New York Vanilla Kush Lip Balm
Hydrate lips with Alder New York Vanilla Kush Lip Balm. This lip balm has a smooth texture and pleasing scent, made with high health and environmental standards. Baby and kids gear editor Margaret Badore calls it her “all-time favorite lip balm.”
Inspiring Children’s Book: The Idea In You By Questlove
Inspire creativity with The Idea In You By Questlove. This children’s book encourages kids to pursue their ideas, with beautiful illustrations. Special projects editor Jennifer Ferrise recommends it as “a sweet read for kids of all ages” with an inspiring message.
Small Business Coffee: Blanchard’s Coffee Handshake Blend
Support small business with Blanchard’s Coffee Handshake Blend. This high-quality coffee from a beloved Richmond, Virginia small business makes a great gift for coffee drinkers. Audience development director Spencer Dukoff highlights their “high-quality, delicious coffee varieties.”
Overnight Oats Jars: Smarch Overnight Oats Jars With Lid And Spoon 2-Pack
Simplify mornings with Smarch Overnight Oats Jars With Lid And Spoon 2-Pack. These jars are perfect for prepping overnight oats or mini salads. Home and kitchen editor Sholeen Damarwala finds them “perfect for prepping overnight oats, chia puddings or even mini salads for quick lunches.”
Revitalizing Sheet Mask: Pineapple Bliss Revitalizing Raw Juice Mask
Refresh skin with Pineapple Bliss Revitalizing Raw Juice Mask. This sheet mask leaves skin soft, hydrated, and refreshed, making a great stocking stuffer. Commerce lifestyle editor Katherine Louie finds them “easy to use and leaves your skin feeling soft, hydrated and refreshed.”
Decoder Puzzle for Kids: Petit Collage Monster Party Decoder Children’s Puzzle
Challenge young minds with Petit Collage Monster Party Decoder Children’s Puzzle. This puzzle includes 3D glasses to reveal a hidden puzzle within. Deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala highlights the brand as “thoughtful, well-designed toys and games for kids.”
Energy Drink Shots: Magic Mind Focus Energy Drink Shots
Boost energy naturally with Magic Mind Focus Energy Drink Shots. These shots contain green tea, functional mushrooms, and turmeric. Updates writer Claire Epting recommends them for those seeking an alternative to coffee or energy drinks.
Vietnamese Coffee Kit: Nguyen Coffee Supply Original Phin Kit
Experience authentic Vietnamese coffee with the Nguyen Coffee Supply Original Phin Kit. This kit includes a traditional stainless steel press and Vietnamese coffee. Updates writer Francesca Sales has gifted it “a couple of times to coffee lovers, especially ones who like it strong.”
Vegetable Cookbook: Tenderheart: A Cookbook About Vegetables And Unbreakable Family Bonds
Explore vegetable-forward cooking with Tenderheart: A Cookbook About Vegetables And Unbreakable Family Bonds. This cookbook offers delicious and creative vegetable dishes. Senior reviews editor Anna Perling finds “every one of these vegetable-forward dishes has been a hit.”
Festive Christmas Record: Andrew Bird HARK! LP
Enjoy unique holiday music with Andrew Bird HARK! LP. This folk album with subtle Christmas flourishes is perfect for setting a festive ambiance. Updates writer Claire Epting listens to it exclusively during the holidays, appreciating its “subtle Christmas-y flourishes.”
Non-Alcoholic Drink Recipe Book: Party Drinks Recipe Book
Create delicious non-alcoholic drinks with Party Drinks Recipe Book. This recipe book offers a variety of mocktail recipes for all ages. Senior updates editor Karen Tietjen highlights the “vibrant photography” and usefulness for holiday gatherings.
Portable Label Maker: Phomemo D30 Labeler
Get organized with the Phomemo D30 Labeler. This pocket-sized label printer creates custom labels via a mobile app. Tech editor Melissa Perenson finds the process “quick, easy and handy” for organization enthusiasts.
With this extensive list, finding the best gifts under $30 is easier than ever. Give thoughtful, budget-friendly presents that are sure to delight everyone on your list this year.
