Every holiday season, I’m tasked with finding gifts for everyone—my parents, teen siblings, friends, my partner and his 14-person family—without blowing through my paycheck. It’s hard enough to find a perfect gift. Then there’s the added challenge of shopping for presents that won’t break the bank; with so many giftees on my list, I need gifts that are easy on my wallet, too. If you’re in the same boat as me, the best gifts under $20 are a boon for us both.
Even when working with a limited budget, you can still find great presents or stocking stuffers that won’t drain your bank account. Whether you’re shopping for the best gifts for a homebody, home chef, outdoor enthusiast, or someone serious about self-care, there’s something budget-friendly for every personality. Ahead, browse the 20 best gifts under $20, proof that with some searching, 20 bucks can go a long way in this economy.
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Better Homes and Garden Candle Warmer Lamp — $16.00
As a candle lover, I’ve become obsessed with candle warmer lamps like this one. It adds an ambient candle-like glow without creating soot or smoke, and the lightbulb warms the surface of a candle to diffuse its scent—which, in turn, prevents me from burning through my candles too quickly.
P.F. Candle Co. Incense Sticks — $11.00
The P.F. Candle Co. incense sticks come in a selection of captivating scents—like Ojai Lavender, Sandalwood Rose, and Teakwood and Tobacco—that I can personally attest linger for several hours after burning. For $11, they make a wonderful gift everyone can enjoy.
Dusen Dusen Stripe Napkin (Set of 4) — $14.00
I’m a longtime fan of Dusen Dusen for its fun and functional wares. These colorfully striped napkins will make a cheery addition to a table. It’s sold as a set of four and comes in multiple colors to suit a variety of preferences.
Food and drink gifts
Fiesta Medium Heart Bowl — $20.00
Anything that is filled with love—like this heart-shaped bowl—is the perfect gift for a home cook. It’s microwave- and oven-safe up to 350 degrees, and it adds a touch of color to any tablescape.
Ghia Le Fizz — $20.00
Of all the nonalcoholic drinks I’ve brought to parties, Ghia isa constant crowd-pleaser. Its newest drink, Le Fizz, feels especially festive. A bubbly without the buzz, it has strawberry and orange flavors and a slightly dry finish that make it reminiscent of sparkling wine.
Lodge 6 1/2-Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet — $15.00
A cast-iron skillet is a workhorse in the kitchen. It’s suited for pan-frying, searing, roasting, and baking, and it’s stovetop- and oven-safe. With proper care, it can also last a very long time. (I’ve owned mine for years!)
Transcendence Coffee Mini Founder’s Flavors Bundle — $18.00
Transcendence Coffee creates flavored syrups that are inspired by its founders’ upbringing. The set features the flavors of baklava and gulab jamun (my personal favorite), a South Asian dessert perfumed by cardamon, saffron, and rose water. Drizzle them in coffee, tea, or matcha for a barista-worthy treat.
Self-care and beauty gifts
Quince 100% Washable Silk Scrunchies — $20.00
Silk scrunchies aren’t just cute, they’re also kind to your hair. This set of three is made from 100 percent Mulberry silk and won’t snag, pull, or tug at strands. Luxury on a budget.
Starface Hydro-Stars (32-Pack) — $13.00
Got a skincare buff on your list? Zits get the star treatment with these pimple patches. The star-shaped hydrocolloid patches absorb fluid from blemishes, minimize inflammation, and prevent scarring. (Also, aren’t they just adorable?)
Glamnetic Press-On Nails — $20.00
For that friend who is always getting their nails done, Glamnetics press-on nails are perfect for achieving a polished look in minutes—and look like a professional manicure. Better yet, you can select from dozens of different styles.
Style gifts
Baggu Puffy Glasses Sleeve — $17.00
For glasses wearers, a protective sleeve like this pick from Baggu can keep spectacles scratch-free and out of harm’s way. It’s filled with recycled Poly-fill to safeguard against scratches and scuffs, and it’s as cute as it is functional—something which Well+Good Fitness Editor Danielle Zickl has previously confirmed.
Nordstrom Mini Round Jewelry Box — $15.00
Anyone who wears jewelry may appreciate an organizer that’s as beautiful as their baubles like this one. It features various-sized compartments lined with fabric to protect against unwanted scuffs while keeping bracelets, necklaces, and earrings neatly stowed away. Plus, it’s compact enough for travel.
Fitness gifts
Waterfly Running Belt — $15.00
The runner who can’t leave home without their phone, wallet, and keys will appreciate a running belt. This one has multiple compartments to keep their essentials in neat order and a slim profile that helps to avoid bulk. The best part? It’s $15.
Ozark Trail Pearson Creek 2-Liter Hydration Pack — $20.00
This hydration pack will keep an outdoors person hydrated on adventures. It features a two-liter reservoir and the drinking straw has a bite valve to prevent water from leaking. Compared to a water bottle, it’s easier to drink from as you run, hike, or cycle.
Smartwool Everyday Solid Rib Ankle Socks — $19.00
Socks aren’t the most exciting gift, but a runner or outdoors enthusiast can never have too many socks. Smartwool makes some of the best out there. Made from merino wool, this is a perfect pair for colder days—it’s soft, warm, and moisture-wicking.
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