56 cool and unique gift ideas under $50 for everyone on your list
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- You don’t have to spend a fortune to give a gift they’ll love.
- We found 56 gifts under $50 sure to please a wide range of interests and tastes.
- If your budget changes, here are our guides to gifts under $25 and gifts under $100.
Whether it’s for best friends’ birthdays, anniversaries with your significant other, celebratory moments with coworkers, or even just to tell a loved one you’re thinking about them, it’s easy for your gifting list to fill up quickly. Luckily, you can get a thoughtful gift for just about any occasion without going over budget.
We test products, comb through our favorite sites, and collect gift ideas all year for everyone on your list, all to make sure you find the best gifts possible. Below, we’ve rounded up our favorites that are all under $50. Whether these gifts are complements to a bigger present or are the star of the show, we know your recipient will love them.
Keep reading for 56 gifts under $50 that work for anyone on your list.
This list includes a Sponsored Product that has been suggested by Under Armour. It also meets our editorial criteria in terms of quality and value.*
Notepads chock full of affirmations
Knock Knock Notepads, available at Amazon, from $8.99
Whether you want to give them a quick pep talk or celebrate them just because, these notepads from Knock Knock provide a creative and encouraging way of doing so. Each comes with 50 sheets, so they’ll make plenty of use of these witty notes.
A small but mighty smart assistant
Google Nest Mini (2nd Generation), available at Best Buy, $49.99
Give the gift of a virtual helper. Currently on sale for under $25, the Google Nest Mini offers a compact, affordable smart speaker with Google Assistant built-in. Friends and family members will love being able to dim lights, control the volume on their TV, check the weather, and more, all with just the sound of their voice.
Read our full review of the Google Nest Mini here
A face mask designed for working out
UA Sportmask, available at Under Armour, $30
Under Armour’s Sportmask was designed with athletes in mind, as reflected in its breathability, water resistance, and UPF 50+ sun protection. Thanks to the Sportsmask, they won’t have to sacrifice their workout routine or their comfort.
*Sponsored by Under Armour
A 52-piece art kit
52-Piece Watercolor Art Set, available at Amazon, $18.38
Encourage them to pick up a new hobby (or take advantage of an existing one) with this watercolor set that’s built for both beginners and experts. The set includes various cakes and paints, watercolor pencils, paintbrushes, a paint palette, an eraser, and a pencil sharpener — all within a pre-packaged case that can save you the pain of gift wrapping.
A streaming stick that turns any TV into a smart one
Roku Streaming Stick +, available at Amazon, $47.68
Upgrade their Netflix binge marathons without actually buying them a whole new TV. The Roku Streaming Stick + offers 4K, HD, and HDR streaming in a portable package and affordable price.
A meal kit from their favorite restaurant
Goldbelly Restaurant Meal Kits, available at Goldbelly, from $25
Bring a bit of their favorite restaurant right to their door. From bagels to barbeque, Goldbelly ships food gifts nationwide from iconic eateries in major cities.
A Disney+ subscription
One-year gift subscription to Disney Plus, $69.99
It gives them unlimited access to movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and 20th Century Fox, and costs just $6.99 a month or $69.99 a year after a free seven-day trial. Read everything there is to know about Disney+ over here.
And if you need some binge-spiration, here are all the new movies available to stream.
A cult-favorite candle
Otherland Candles, available at Otherland, $36
We love Otherland’s candles, whether seasonally inspired or from the classic collection. Notable scent combinations such as champagne, saffron, and leather, gorgeous packaging, and a 55 hour burn time have deemed Otherland’s candles as a foolproof gift among the Insider Reviews team.
A set of loose-leaf teas that even Oprah loves
Vadham Chai Tea Reserve Set, available at Amazon, $34.99
This classy set of loose-leaf teas made it into Oprah’s Favorite Things back in 2018. It’s filled with three variations of chai tea that any tea lover will appreciate.
A smooth olive oil that'll instantly elevate any dish
Alive Olive Oil, available at Brightland, $37
If they spend a lot of time in the kitchen, they probably already know the merits of high-quality olive oil. A drizzle of Alive from Brightland adds a vibrant, zesty flavor to any dish, plus the beautiful bottle will look great on display in their kitchen.
An affordable electric toothbrush subscription
Toothbrush Starter Set, available at Quip, from $25
Help them upgrade their oral care routine with a Quip toothbrush. Not only is it a great electric toothbrush at a reasonable price, but Quip will send them a refill every three months with a new brush head and toothbrush.
Delicious mini cupcakes
Cupcake Gift Boxes, available at Baked by Melissa, from $32
Who doesn’t love getting a sweet surprise? With delicious flavors ranging from Cookie Dough to Pink Frosted Donut, these bite-size treats are sure to please. You can also add a special gift box to complete the gift.
Useful cable clips
Shintop Cable Clips (six-pack), available at Amazon, $5.99
Whether their phone charger is always falling under their desk or they simply have too many cables to keep track of, these affordable and efficient clips will allow them to simplify their workspace. Plus, the pink, orange, and green shades contribute a fun pop of color.
A head-to-toe mini care kit
Drunk Elephant The Littles Head to Toe, available at Sephora, $49
Give this mini set for head-to-toe care they can take on the road or just to test out some new products. The set is packed with Drunk Elephant minis, including a glossing shampoo, cream conditioner, scalp scrub, detangler, body cleanser, lotion, deodorant, and a comb. It also comes neatly packaged in a fun, neon bag.
An at-home spa kit
Eucalyptus Spa Gift Set, available at Uncommon Goods, $40
Let’s face it, 2020 has been a hard year. Give them the gift of soothing relaxation with this at-home kit that includes pampering botanical bath salts and natural jute body scrubber. The recipient will also be able to grow their own eucalyptus in the bamboo pot so they can continue to breathe deep and say ahh.
A set of magnets that are fun to play with and can boost concentration
Speks Magnet Balls, available at Speks, $24.95
Almost everyone on the Insider Reviews team has a set of Speks at their desk. The little magnetic balls can be mashed, molded, and built into fun shapes and are a fun fidget toy that even adults will love.
A personalized pillow of their favorite fur baby
Custom Pet Pillow, available at Etsy, from $29.99
If there’s nothing they love more than their cat or dog, this pillow — featuring a blown-up picture of their pet — is sure to make them smile.
A cute kitchen gadget that makes breakfast in a flash
Dash Mini Waffle Maker, available at Target, $9.99
This compact waffle maker makes a great addition to any college dorm or small kitchen. All they have to do is plug it in and they can make their favorite breakfast treat in a flash.
A set of shiny lip glosses
Laura Mercier Kisses From the Balcony Lip Glacé Set, available at Nordstrom, $29
Give them the gift of a fresh and glossy pout with this limited-edition Laura Mercier set. Each gloss includes moisturizing and plumping ingredients so they not only get shine, but can actually create the appearance of fuller lips, too. It comes with four shimmery shades and an elegant ribbon bag.
A sugary and fun snack
Sugarfina Champagne Bears, available at Neiman Marcus, $20
Elevate their next sugar fix with these fun champagne gummy bears. Don’t worry if they’re under 21, despite the name and flavor, these gummies are non-alcoholic. They also have rosé options too.
A taste of Japan by way of snacks
Bokksu Tasting Gift, 3-month box, available at Bokksu, $44.95
Adventurous foodies will love the chance to taste test a curated box of gourmet Japanese snacks. In this Bokksu box, they can expect to find between 10-14 snacks, a tea pairing, and an in-depth guide that details every product included.
A best-selling face mask for clear skin
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Mask, available at Target, $7.99
Anyone in on the latest skincare trends will know about this mask. Many claim it has helped clear their skin, and it has over 12,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. The best part is that this powerful facial is just $10.
A soft pair of socks made from sustainable fabric
SoftHemp Sock, available at United by Blue, $16
With cold weather approaching, there’s nothing better than slipping on cozy socks. Made from soft, sustainable hemp fabric, this pair is sure to do the trick.
A luxurious exfoliator to keep skin smooth
Necessaire The Body Exfoliator, available at Sephora, $30
Necessaire’s clean beauty products come in beautiful, minimalist packaging that looks as good in their bathroom as it feels on their skin. This gentle exfoliator will help them slough off dry winter skin for good.
Cruelty-free nail polish in a range of fun colors
Nail Polish, available at Smith & Cult, $18
Smith & Cult’s polish is vegan, cruelty-free, and chip-resistant. With 46 fun colors to choose from, you’re sure to find one (or two, or three) they’ll love.
A sheet mask that'll hydrate dry, stressed skin
Dr. Jart+ Soothing Hydra Solution, available at Sephora, $6
Fall and winter skin tends to be dry and dull. While you can’t change the weather, you can throw on a hydrating face mask to stay moisturized. This one will add lots of soothing hydration to their skin to keep it feeling fresh.
Makeup towels that make washing their face less of a chore
Makeup Towels, available at Weezie, $40
If they’ve never thought of washcloths as anything special, Weezie towels will change their minds. The adorable towels are embroidered with either hearts, winky eyelids, or the words “stain me.” Plus, the dark navy blue color will conceal makeup stains.
A silky-smooth sleep mask to block light
Slip Pink Marble Sleep Mask, available at Nordstrom, $50
If there’s nothing they appreciate more than a good night’s sleep, they’ll love Slip’s silk sleep mask. It’s made from 100% pure Mulberry silk for a luxe, light feel on their skin.
A simple necklace that reminds them of their intentions
Good Intentions Necklace, available at Amazon, $38
A sweet necklace with an even sweeter mission. Choose from a selection of positive intentions like “optimism,” “strength,” or “gratitude,” which they can carry with them throughout the day. For every necklace sold, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the non-profit Girls Inc.
A lip gloss that has all the benefits of a balm
Tower28 Beauty Jelly Lip Gloss, available at Sephora, $14
This clean-beauty favorite delivers the glossy sheen they’d expect from a lip gloss, but it’s loaded with nourishing oils to keep lips hydrated, too.
A beautiful way to store olive oil
Handblown Glass Olive Oil Pourer, available at Uncommon Goods, $44
These stunning handmade jars can hold up to 12 ounces of olive oil or vinegar. Plus, they look beautiful sitting out on the kitchen counter.
A bold lip color that'll last all day long
Lancome L’Absolu Rouge Lipstick, available at Sephora, $32
Whether it’s a pale peach or a deep-red look they crave, they’ll love this long-lasting lipstick with its saturated colors and hydrating formula.
A set of playing cards inspired by music's greats
Music Genius Playing Cards, available at Uncommon Goods, $10
Whether they love game night, music, or are equal fans of both, they’ll surely get a kick out of these playing cards. The pack features illustrations of all the big names in pop, rock, country, and R&B.
Editor’s note: This item is currently on back order until March 12, 2021.
A spray that any sneakerhead needs in their collection
Jason Markk Repel, available at Amazon, $17
If they love shoes, they should have the right products to take care of their favorite footwear. This spray protects shoes from stains caused by water and oil, and there are multiple people on our team who swear by it for every new pair of shoes they get.
A set of colorful silicone straws that reduce plastic waste
Five Two Silicone Straws Single Pack, available at Food52, $25
Bendable, sustainable, and portable (thanks to the set of carrying cases), these fun straws are the accessory any eco-conscious person should have.
An elevated hand sanitizer that fends off germs
Power Mist Hand Sanitizer, available at Touchland, $12
A lightweight, spray formula and refreshing scents make Touchland’s hand sanitizer one they’ll actually want to use. It dries quickly and doesn’t leave residue or stickiness behind.
A book subscription
Book of the Month 3-month plan, available at Book of the Month, $49.99
A subscription box that sends them an exciting new read catered to their tastes each month is the perfect gift for a bookworm.
A unique case that protects their phone
Casetify phone case, available at Casetify, starting from $40
Our phones are our lifelines these days and if you know someone who’s always glued to theirs, consider giving them a unique case that’s as protective as it is pretty thanks to being drop-tested and shock-absorbent. They have options ranging from watercolor forest scenes to cute sayings to cuddly animals. You can even do a customized option and put their initials on it.
A coffee mug that keeps their drinks hot or cold for hours
Hydro Flask Travel Coffee Mug, available at Amazon, $29.95
Hydro Flask’s Travel Coffee Mug is a team favorite. It combines the classic shape of a mug with Hydro Flask’s TempShield insulation to keep beverages hot, or cold, for hours— a great gift for the coffee or tea lover who’s always on the move.
An aromatherapy diffuser that'll make their space smell great and help them breathe easier
VicTsing Mini Oil Diffuser, available at Amazon, $19.99
If they’ve never dabbled in aromatherapy before, this mini diffuser is a great place to start. It’s easy-to-use, whisper-quiet, and works with their favorite essential oils and scents.
A cute reusable tote that can fit tons of stuff
Standard Baggu, available at Baggu, $12
It’s no wonder these bags are bestsellers — they can hold up to 50 pounds of stuff and come in a range of fun colors and patterns. Plus, at just $12, they’re a great deal.
A portable straw that makes water drinkable
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter, available at Amazon, $14.97
This portable, personal water filter was one of the bestselling products on Prime Day. It filters water from creeks and rivers, making it perfect for hiking, camping, and travel.
A classy carrying case to stash chargers
Leather Charger Roll-Up, available at Mark & Graham, $49
After they fill the three pockets with cables and chargers, all they have do is roll everything up and they’re good to go. The soft, supple leather comes in a variety of fun colors and patterns.
A cult-favorite cast-iron skillet
Lodge 12-inch Cast-Iron Skillet and Handle Holder, available at Amazon, $44.42
Every cook needs a cast-iron skillet in their kitchen. Lodge makes some of the best out there, but at prices that won’t break the bank.
A fitting vehicle for their post-run brews
Etched Marathon Pint Glass, available at Uncommon Goods, $18
If they like to celebrate a long run with a big pint, they’ll appreciate these pint glasses etched with famous marathon routes.
A candle that reminds them of their favorite place
Homesick Scented Candle, available at Amazon, $29.74
This is a great gift that’s sure to make anyone sentimental. Whether it’s their hometown, college town, or favorite spot to vacation, a Homesick candle, with scents inspired by all sorts of locations, will bring them back to that favorite place.
A cold brew coffee maker to keep up with their iced coffee habit
Takeya Cold Brew Coffee Maker, available at Amazon, $19.99
If their morning ritual includes a cup of cold brew, they’ll appreciate this convenient cold brew maker. All they have to do is fill it with their favorite coffee grinds, add water, let it sit, and they’ve got a glass of delicious cold brew on the way.
An easy-to-care-for plant
Snake Plant, available at The Sill, $40
Bring some life to their space with this cute snake plant that comes in a nice planter with multiple color options. With little attention needed, it’s a great gift for amateur plant parents and experienced ones alike.
A luxury wallet perfect for daily use or travel
Albee Leather Zip Card Case, available at Italic, $30
By partnering with the same manufacturers that make high-end pieces for brands like Celine, Burberry, and Prada, but ditching the designer labels and opting for a direct-to-consumer model, Italic is able to sell luxury goods at a fraction of the price. This sleek and simple leather card case would go for over $300 with a designer label, but at Italic it’s a steal at just $35.
A rocks glass etched with a city map
Urban Map Glass, available at Uncommon Goods, $16
Whether you want to bring back fond memories of a place you visited together or just want a gift that highlights their favorite stomping grounds, you can cheers to these rocks glasses intricately etched with a city map and interspersed street names. Over 30 major US cities are available to choose from.
To really up the ante, consider pairing the glass with a nice bottle of bourbon.
A dainty pair of gold hoops that go with everything
Midi Hoops, available at Mejuri, $50
Jewelry always makes a great gift, though it’s typically pricey. These dainty hoops from Mejuri are the perfect pair for every day, and they’re only $50.
An apron loaded with plenty of clever features
Five Two Ultimate Apron, available at Food52, $45
Anyone who spends a good amount of time in the kitchen will appreciate this durable apron with its sturdy fabric, clever pockets made to hold the essentials, and pot-holders built right in.
A lifetime of perks with an REI membership
REI Membership, available at REI, $20
A one-time, $20 payment will get them lifetime access to REI’s membership program. The outdoorsy types in your life will appreciate the special offers, 10% back on purchases, member-pricing on REI classes and events, and the host of other membership perks. Learn more about the REI membership program here.
A simple and elegant photo calendar
Walnut Desktop Photo Calendar, available at Artifact Uprising, from $30
All of Artifact Uprising’s customized photo gifts are simple, beautiful, and made from eco-friendly materials. This simple calendar is an easy choice for anyone on your list. Just pick 12 photos (one for each month) of the people and places they love most to add a special sentiment to their desk setup.
A cozy, slouchy beanie
Neff Beanie, available at Amazon, $16
Cold-weather accessories make a great gift for anyone who will be braving the cold come winter. Neff beanies come in a wide variety of colors and are the perfect combination of cute and cozy.
An easy way to grill kabobs
Kabob Grilling Baskets, available at Uncommon Goods, $17
Forget needing to spend time sticking every piece of meat or sliced veggie on a kebob stick. These baskets make it easy to perfectly grill you food and the basket makes for easy flipping.
Shop more gift ideas by budget
- Clever gifts under $10
- Gift ideas under $25 that won’t end up getting regifted
- Gift ideas under $100 for everyone on your list
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Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected].
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