28 Frugal Christmas Gifts For Adults {That They Won’t Hate}
First things first. If you’re looking for frugal Christmas presents because you don’t have a lot of money, the best thing to do is cut back on the number of people you’re buying for. Not everyone needs something from you.
But if you want some frugal and practical ideas and it’s not a struggle for you to buy gifts, I have some ideas.
Remember, being frugal isn’t the same as being cheap. Some of these are frugal because they’re practical… and some are just plain inexpensive 😉.
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Practical Holiday Presents
Books + a bookmark
Not everyone likes books, but a reader will always appreciate a good one. An enriching and personal gift that lasts, if you put some thought into it.
Canvas tote
Durable and eco-friendly, this tote is perfect for shopping, beach trips, or daily errands, marrying style with utility.
gift card with a themed mug
Give the gift of choice with a card, while the mug adds a personal touch.
Diy kitchen mix (spices, etc.)
Elevate someone’s cooking game with a custom blend of spices or ingredients. It’s a touch of homemade love for their kitchen.
Handmade soap
Infused with natural ingredients and care, this gift offers a luxurious bathing experience without the high-end price tag.
Plant cuttings
Share a piece of your garden, promoting growth and greenery in their space, and potentially introducing them to a new hobby.
DIY recipe book or binder
Pass down cherished family recipes or gather new ones; it’s a heartfelt way to bond over shared meals. Print this out and fill with your favorites.
Board game or card game
Unplug and reconnect. Games offer hours of entertainment and are a gift of shared memories.
Candles
Create ambiance and tranquility; make this a personal gift by picking a scent you know the person will truly LOVE.
Journal and pens or stickers
Encourage self-reflection or creative expression. This is a fun gift for someone you don’t know much about.
A collection of gourmet teas in a pretty tin
Explore flavors from around the world, a cozy and aromatic journey from the comfort of home.
Reusable silicone food storage bags or containers
Ditch the disposables; this eco-friendly alternative is practical and saves the recipient money over time.
socks!
A cozy essential that’s always appreciated, especially in playful or unique designs.
DIY cocktail or mocktail mix set
Elevate their drink game with curated ingredients for a memorable beverage experience at home.
Decorative key holders or wall hooks
Organize in style; it’s a blend of décor and utility for any entrance or room.
Scarf and glove set
Either choose something super cute or super warm… either way, it will get used!
rechargeable flashlight
Reliable light in unexpected moments. An essential tool, ensuring they’re never left in the dark.
Drawer organizers
Help them simplify and declutter their space, making daily routines smoother and more efficient.
Kitchen scale
Precise measurements lead to culinary success, making recipes more consistent and delicious. This can also help with cleanup (no measuring cups needed) and the analog ones are cute.
portable phone charger
For the person who is out of the house a lot. No one ever regrets having one of these tucked away for an emergency.
Insulated drink tumbler
Keep beverages at the perfect temperature on-the-go, marrying convenience with sustainability.
Silk pillowcases
Silk pillowcases are great for your skin and hair, and they are surprisingly affordable.
Mason jars or mason jar toppers
Transform jars into usable containers for drinks, storage, or decor. You can buy shakers, flower arrangers, spray bottles, pumps, and much more.
Cast iron skillet
A kitchen workhorse, this skillet offers even heating and improves with age, perfect for countless dishes.
laptop stand or lap desk
Will be much appreciated by anyone who works from home. Some people like a cozy pillow version that works with the couch, some prefer an ergonomic desk stand like this one.
USB charging hub
Streamline and organize device charging, making tangled cords and lost chargers a thing of the past. These are also great for frequent travelers.
reusable batteries with charger
Power devices sustainably, cutting down on waste and saving money in the long run. Not everyone loves these, but I do.
magnetic notepad or wall clipboard
Keep reminders or grocery lists handy, ensuring no task or ingredient is forgotten.
Tips for making a frugal gift a success
- Personalization. This makes an affordable gift feel, well…personal! Consider hand-painting a canvas tote or adding a handwritten note inside the cover of a book. Many things can also be embroidered or printed professional for a small fee.
- Bundle. A “themed” gift can feel more special. For example, the journal and pens could be bundled with a cozy blanket for a “cozy evening in” gift set.
- Presentation counts. A simple plain Kraft paper wrapping with a homemade tag is all you need.
Brown Paper Roll 15G2PLUS 100PCS Blank Gift Tags,3.5” x 1.7” White Kraft Paper Gift Tag with String, Rectangle Hanging Tags for Arts and Crafts Wedding Holiday, Teachers Day,Christmas,Thanksgiving,Party FavorsSunmns 3 Roll Christmas Twine Cotton String Rope Cord for Gift Wrapping, Arts Crafts, 984 Feet (Multicolor A)
These touches can make sure your present doesn’t come off as cheap. It’s cheesy to say that it’s the thought that counts, but it really is true ❤️.
More ideas for a simple Christmas
This doesn’t have to be a hectic, expensive season. Promise.
- How to Have a Frugal Christmas
- Old-Fashioned Homemade Christmas Decor
- How to Make Your Home Cozy for Christmas
From the practical to the pleasantly unexpected, it’s clear that thoughtfulness doesn’t have to break the bank. Even the simplest presents can leave a lasting impression. I hope this list sparks joy and inspiration for your holiday season. I wish you the best this time of year (and always).
By Katie Shaw
Katie lives in Virginia with her husband, three daughters, a chocolate lab, and over thirty chickens. She loves creating simple tutorials for sourdough, bread, and soap. Her recipes, articles, and YouTube videos reach millions of people per year.