The second December hits, I always find that there is suddenly a plethora of people in my life to whom I want to give gifts. It can get expensive quickly, or for some, it’s a smaller gift that would better show the appreciation I have for them. Gifts should not be measured in size, but in the amount of care, and a compact, budget-friendly gift can show the same appreciation as any large parcel when the right amount of thought is applied. But finding a unique gift while staying on a tighter budget can be challenging. If you find yourself in my same predicament come this holiday season, please take this list as a compilation of my best ideas under $10 stemming from the seemingly endless time I spend coming up with gifts for my family and friends.
Small Pack of LEGOs
While LEGO holds somewhat of a reputation for being one of the more expensive toys on the market, you can, at the right stores, find miniature packs for bargain prices. At Barnes & Noble, for example, they have packs of various categories. They have little Santas, Star Wars, flowers, and many other assortments. A little pack of LEGOs can double as both a fun activity and a creative decoration. They’re perfect for anyone who is a LEGO-fanatic in your life. But also, in my own experience, I have never found anyone who doesn’t enjoy putting together LEGOs from time to time. In total, a small LEGO pack can be a foolproof gift for those in your life who could enjoy some time to relax and build a cute little set in their life.
Now, is this a basic suggestion? Possibly. Bad idea? Certainly not. EOS lotions have been somewhat of a viral phenomenon for years now. Known particularly for their long-lasting, perfumed scent and non-greasy application, all while boasting a $9.99 price tag. And this year, EOS came out with three Holiday scents: Cocoa Cashmere, Caramel Cashmere, and, returning from the holiday season last year due to popular demand, Peppermint Cashmere. Cocoa Cashmere smells like a cup of cocoa in a lotion. To me, Caramel Cashmere smells just like a bucket of sweet caramel popcorn. And fan favorite Peppermint Cashmere is described on the Target website as “A cool yet cozy blend of crisp peppermint, whipped vanilla, and sweet cream.” Any of the scents would be a great gift, sure to please whoever it is you gift it to, and since the Christmas scents are limited edition, it will be a nice way to mark the 2025 holiday season.
Hot cocoa mix and a cute mug
A mug is hardly a revolutionary choice for a gift, but what makes this suggestion unique is the personal touch that can be so easily applied, all with one run to your local Target and at most $10. All you have to do is find a cute mug you think the giftee would love. At Target, you can easily find a cute holiday-themed mug for $5 or under. Next, find a bag of hot cocoa mix suitable for whoever is receiving the present. I recommend either the Starbucks mixes for $1.69 or one of the Ghirardelli mixes for $2. While at Target, pick up a packet of goodie bags, whatever color suits your fancy, which should be around $3. After you get your supplies, go home, put the mix packet in the mug, then put said mug into one of the goodie bags. Write a heartfelt note to the person receiving the gift. Next, find a small piece of ribbon and string, and tie the note to the ribbon via the string. Finally, tie the bag and mug with the ribbon. And there, you have a thoughtful yet simple gift to give someone, who can enjoy your thoughtful note while warming up from the bitter winter cold by drinking a rich cup of hot chocolate in a fun, new mug.
The plight of finding the best gifts for the most special people in your life is never-ending, especially when you have to maintain a budget. But this list should help you check off a couple of people on your to-gift list, or at the very least give you new inspiration.
