60 cheap gifts that are way bougier than what you usually give

Shopping
By Jaime Campbell
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If you're constantly scrambling to find gifts people actually want without spending a ton of money, you're going to want to bookmark this list. I've found sets of 14-karat gold-plated stacking bracelets, vibey outdoor lighting, and cult-favorite beauty buys all for $35 or less, so you can give the best gifts without blowing your monthly budget. Because while a coffee shop gift card isn't exactly a bad gift, it is kind of boring. So whether you're shopping for a birthday, graduation, or thank-you gift, you'll find something here that your giftee will be legitimately excited about. In fact, these gifts are so good, you might even want to buy a few for yourself.

01A giant mug that’s microwave- and dishwasher-safe

This floral mug and soup bowl is a practical gift with a polished feel. The wide bowl is great for soup, tea, coffee, or snacks, while the oversized handle makes it easy to hold. Its colorful floral design and scalloped rim add a decorative touch without feeling too fussy.

02A vibey plug-in night light that turns on automatically

This LED nightlight has a double-sided design that projects light both above and below the outlet it’s plugged into, making it especially great for corners and small spaces. The faceted bulbs cast crystal-like projections onto the wall, so it feels gift-worthy while still being super useful.

03A tinted lip balm with a cult following

Fans are obsessed with this vegan-friendly tinted lip balm from Honest Beauty, which means it’s a solid bet for gifting. The formula contains no beeswax or harsh ingredients, so it’s particularly good for people who have sensitive skin—and the Plum Drop color looks good on just about everyone.

04Flameless candles that instantly create a romantic mood

Each of these jars comes with three faux-taper candles that look like they’re melted down to different levels, creating a realistic effect without the risk of open flame. They’re sold in a pack of two, and come with a remote control that lets you adjust the brightness, effects, and set them on an automatic timer so you can set the mood from across the room.

05A cute koozie that keeps iced coffee cold

We all know that one person who always has an iced coffee in their hand, and that person is going to be psyched to unwrap a JavaSok. This neoprene sleeve is specifically designed for to-go cups of iced coffee. It keeps cold drinks cold for longer and stops condensation from getting on your hands.

06Scented gel pens that have lava lamp effects

Remember lava lamps? These gel pens are like tiny hand-held lava lamps, and they make an excellent nostalgia-inducing gift for anyone who grew up between the 1970s and early aughts (lava lamps have serious staying power!). If that’s not enough reason to get these, the ink is also scented.

07Hanging lanterns that charge up in the sun

These solar-powered lanterns have an antique-style cracked glass finish that makes them look extra vibey, and they couldn’t be easier to install. You can hang them from a tree, fence post, or even inside a tent for a glamping experience, and they automatically charge in the sun and turn on and off.

08An expandable toiletry bag with multiple compartments

Bougie toiletry bags make excellent gifts because they’re the kind of practical upgrade most people don’t think to buy for themselves. This one has a genius flat-bottom design that makes it easy to sort through all the compartments without dumping everything out onto a hotel bathroom counter.

09A pretty mug that makes brewing tea way easier

This ceramic mug is the perfect gift for avid tea drinkers, since it comes with a stainless steel infuser that fits the mug perfectly. There’s also a lid to keep the drink warm while it steeps, and the lid doubles as a coaster where you can set the infuser down once your beverage is ready.

10A soft and supportive body pillow

This lumbar pillow is made from supportive memory foam that contours to your body and helps with posture and alignment while you sleep. It has a soft, washable fabric cover and an extra-wide wraparound design that provides extra support for the lower back and hips.

11A bag charm that doubles as a little flashlight

If you know someone who is always digging around in their giant bag in the dark trying to find their keys, get them this clever purse light. It clips on like a bag charm, lights up in seconds, and automatically turns off so it doesn’t drain the rechargeable battery.

12Moisturizing heel socks that feel like a spa pedicure

A gift certificate might be out of your budget, but these heel socks are the next best thing. They’re super soft, and infused with hydrating ingredients like jojoba oil and vitamin E that can help repair dry, cracked skin while you sleep. They come in several colors and boast thousands of five-star ratings on Amazon.

13Air vent clips that make your car look and smell amazing

These air vent clips look like jewelry for your car, and while they do make your air vents look cool, they have a secret function, too. Each clip has space for a small solid scent tab that permeates your car once you turn on the heat or A/C, which is way cooler than one of those little trees.

14Rolling stamp pens that stationary nerds will obsess over

Know someone who is obsessed with bullet journaling and or taking very detailed notes? These highlighter pens will make them squeal with delight. The rolling stamp side is great for highlighting, underlining, or creating page dividers, and the other side has a fine-liner tip.

15A moisturizing lip oil with a subtle tint

This tinted lip oil has over 2,800 flawless five-star ratings from fans who say it’s moisturizing and glossy, but never sticky. The pH-reactive formula will turn the right color pink for any individual’s complexion, so you don’t have to worry about color-matching when you give it as a gift.

16A set of hair ties that double as stacking bracelets

These cleverly designed hair ties are the ideal gift for people with long hair who always keep a hair tie on their wrist. The snag-free bands can be matched to a variety of natural hair colors, and they have metallic accents that make them look like casual jewelry when they’re not in use.

17Cleverly-designed claw clips that are super comfortable to wear

Most people with long hair are always excited to receive claw clips and scrunchies, because you can simply never have too many. These claw clips have a unique flat design that makes them more comfortable to wear than traditional claw clips, since you can lean your head against a headrest without discomfort.

18A lip balm that’s always your personal perfect shade of pink

This popular lip balm has a pH-reactive formula that creates a universally flattering shade of pink, which is just one of the reasons why it makes an excellent gift. It also has a unique visual appeal, since the balm itself is clear and has a tiny dried flower inside.

19A set of gorgeous glass stirring spoons

These gorgeous glass spoons would make a perfect gift for someone who is really into making cocktails or fancy coffee at home. They’re exactly the right size and shape for stirring, and their colorful glass design makes them look way more expensive than they are.

20A gold-plated necklace that soothes anxiety

This worry stone necklace has a thumprint-like indentation that can help soothe anxiety when you rub it. It’s made from 14-karat gold-plated stainless steel, so it will last for years, and it comes on an adjustable chain so it can be styled as a choker or a drop necklace.

21A coloring book for people who love to draw

If you know someone who is more into drawing than coloring inside the lines, they’ll love this unique “reverse” coloring book. Each page comes with a pretty unfinished watercolor design, so all you need to do is grab an ink pen or marker and add in some lines.

22A genius countertop water dispenser

Refilling your water bottle from the sink doesn’t feel especially high-end, but this clever countertop water bottle filler changes that. It’s a sophisticated alternative to bulky water coolers, and it can help you conserve water as well.

23A water bottle sling that doubles as a purse

This water bottle carrier comes with a shoulder sling and a phone pocket, so you can stay hydrated without having to carry your giant water bottle and a tote bag. You can fit your phone, keys, and wallet in the front pocket, and it’s compatible with 32-to-48-ounce water bottles.

24A cute lamp that’s also an aromatherapy diffuser

The brightness of this adorable bird lamp can be adjusted with a simple tap, but that’s not all it does. There’s a secret aromatherapy diffuser built into the design, so you can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil and create the ultimate soothing setting on your bedside table.

25A foaming hand soap dispenser that looks so expensive

This cut-glass soap dispenser is a perfect budget-friendly gift for people who love bougie bathroom stuff. It’s compatible with any bulk foaming hand soap, and has a wide-mouth design that makes it easy to refill without messes or spills.

26Garden lights designed to look like a flock of butterflies

These whimsical garden lights look like a flock of fluttering butterflies has descended on your yard, especially when a gentle breeze blows. They’re solar-powered, so you don’t need to plug them in, and they automatically turn on at dusk and off when the sun begins to rise.

27A powerful portable personal fan

This portable fan is an especially great gift for people who frequent music festivals or theme parks, but anyone who likes to keep cool during the summer months will appreciate it. It has a slim, lightweight design that’s easy to fit in a pocket or small purse, and it pulls double-duty as a flashlight.

28A ceramic mug that keeps your hands warm

This isn’t just a regular mug, it has a built-in hand warmer so you can tuck your fingers underneath the handle and keep them toasty. It’s made from high-quality ceramic, comes in a few different colors, and is both microwave- and dishwasher-safe. Both right- and left-handed options are available, as well as an ultra-cozy double version.

29A whimsical strawberry vase

This strawberry-shaped vase is perfect for anyone who wants to add some more dopamine decor to their home. It’s made from ceramic with a cheerful red glaze, and is large enough to hold a full-sized bouquet of flowers. Fans say that it’s also surprisingly durable, so it’s a solid gift choice for a household with pets or kids.

30The most adorable reusable straws for big tumblers

Want to give someone a small gift to upgrade their hydration routine? These heart-shaped reusable straws are too cute for words, and they’re compatible with most 30- and 40-ounce tumblers. They’re made from durable Tritan, and you can also purchase matching heart-shaped straw caps to go with them.

31A pair of optical-illustion earrings

Know someone who wants multiple earrings, but only has one piercing? These optical-illusion earrings will make their ear stack dreams come true. Each one gives the look of three separate earrings on a single backing, and fans say they’re lightweight and comfortable to wear.

32A dainty layering necklace

Want to give someone sparkly jewelry, but don’t want to drop diamond-level money? This herringbone layering necklace catches the light just like cut gems, but at a fraction of the price. “Stunning necklace that looks waaaay more expensive than it actually is!” raved one happy recipient.

33An oceanic projection lamp

This projector is a rare gift that can please recipients of all ages, from literal babies to adults who need help making their space feel a little more chilled out. The cube-shaped lamp doesn’t take up a lot of space, but it has a big impact thanks to its 16 color modes and multiple ocean wave settings.

34Wildly popular collagen sheet masks

These collagen masks have over 7,600 perfect five-star ratings on Amazon from fans who say their skin looks better after just one use. They’re made with collagen and hyaluronic acid that help firm and refine skin texture, and the unique hydrogel design dries clear, so you can wear the mask to bed.

35Self-heating eye masks with a soothing scent

These self-heating eye masks are so soothing, you might want to pick up a pack for yourself. Just open the package, put one on, and it will instantly warm up and release a relaxing lavender scent. They come in a pack of 16 masks, and are particularly great for frequent travelers.

36A weighted eye mask that makes it easy to fall asleep

Light sleepers will love this weighted eye mask, which has a contoured design that completely blacks out light without putting pressure on your eyes. It has a comfortable, adjustable band and is made from memory foam covered in soft, breathable cotton fabric to help you get a good night’s sleep.

37A portable fan you can wear around your neck

This hands-free fan is designed to be worn around the neck, so you can keep cool even when you’re dancing at an outdoor concert or doing yard work. It has a quiet motor and a durable, rechargeable battery that can run for up to 16 hours. Plus, it comes in cute colors, so it doubles as a fashion accessory.

38A meditative coloring book

Know someone who’s looking for a screen-free hobby? This meditative coloring book comes with specialty dot markers and easy-to-follow guides on every page, making it easy to relax while creating artworks that look nice enough to frame and hang on the wall.

39Hydrogel masks that make your lips super soft

These hydrogel lip masks will stay in place even if you get up and do chores around the house. They’re made with hydrating, cooling ingredients like aloe vera and jojoba seed extract that will leave lips looking and feeling soft and plump.

40An automatic page turner for e-readers

People who love to read books on their Kindle will love this remote control page turner, which makes finding the ultimate cozy reading setup so much easier. It’s compatible with Kindles, Kobos, iPads, and more, and it lets you turn the page with the touch of a button instead of leaning over to swipe the screen.

41Melatonin-infused pillow spray

This calming pillow spray is formulated with lavender, chamomile, and melatonin to help create the ultimate soothing sleep environment with almost no effort. Fans say the scent feels surprisingly high end and instantly helps them relax—just mist it onto your pillow and blankets before getting tucked in, and you’ll be asleep in no time.

42A silicone holder for shower steamers

Shower steamers can make your daily routine feel less like a chore and more like self-care, and this silicone tray enhances the effect. It uses strong suction to stick directly to the shower tiles, keeping your shower steamer from falling down the drain before it’s finished.

43An essential oil diffuser you don’t have to plug in

If the idea of another device that needs to be charged or plugged in doesn’t sound especially relaxing, this passive essential oil diffuser is a great alternative. It’s made from natural materials like ceramic and wood, and uses ambient heat to diffuse scent into the air.

44A pack of energizing aromatherapy shower steamers

Few things are as invigorating a morning shower, but adding one of these energy-boosting shower steamers can take it up a notch. They make an excellent gift for people who could use a little more self-care but don’t have a ton of extra time, since they can incorporate it into their shower routine.

45A set of cute mini cermamic magnets

These fun ceramic magnets are actually fully functional mini vases, giving you the opportunity to make your gift extra delightful by adding teeny tiny floral arrangements. Each one has a strong magnetic back, and can be filled with fresh or dried flowers.

46Moisturizing hand cream in a fun container

Cult-favorite K-beauty brand Tony Moly’s strawberry hand cream will look great sitting out on a desk or vanity, and it’s also super effective. Made with luxuriously hydrating ingredients like shea butter and strawberry extract, it absorbs quickly and leaves hands feeling super soft.

47A low-profile grow light for individual potted plants

These adjustable grow lights are an amazing gift for plant parents who are very particular about their setup. Each light is designed to be used with an individual potted plant, and has an adjustable height with dimmable full-spectrum LED lights. They come in black, white, and bamboo color options, and take up very little space.

48A solar-powered lantern that glows with pretty patterns

This decorative lantern charges up during the day and at night, it casts stunning butterfly and floral patterns on the ground around it. It’s fully waterproof, so you can leave it outside no matter what the weather is like, and it has a built-in handle so you can easily hang it from a hook or tree branch.

49A wedge pillow that makes bed way more comfortable

This genius wedge pillow spans the entire width of your mattress, making it easier to get an optimal pillow arrangement and prevent things from slipping between your mattress and the wall or headboard. It also has side pouches so you can keep your phone nearby without having it out on your bedside table.

50A tablet stand for reading and watching movies

This storage stand is a great gift for people who loe to read or watch TV on their tablets. It has a pillow-soft bottom that’s comfortable to keep on your lap, and adjustable stand so you can find the best angle, and plenty of storage so you can keep your phone, headphones, and charging cables within easy reach.

51A pill case that looks like a delightful dessert

Sometimes the best gifts are little things that make everyday tasks seem more delightful, like these adorable macaron-shaped pill cases. They’re sold in a pack of 16, and can be used for daily medications or other small items like storing jewelry or beauty products while you travel.

52Luxurious pillow cases that are good for your hair and skin

Making someone’s bed more comfortable is a great way to show you care, and these luxe satin pillowcases are an inexpensive way to do just that. They’re sold in a pack of two and will stay cool all night, so they’re a great gift for hot sleepers. They can also help reduce frizz and keep your skin looking its best.

53Stylish sheer socks with fun designs

These sheer socks are a fashion-forward take on the classic novelty sock gift. The have a versatile crew length and come in a variety pack of cute designs like vintage-inspired plaids and sweet florals. They look great with just about every kind of footwear, from Mary Janes and pumps to sneakers.

54A set of gold-plated stacking bracelets

If you’re looking for a gift for someone whose vibe is understated elegance, this set of stacking bracelets is guaranteed to hit. They’re made from 14-karat gold-plated brass that looks and feels expensive, and the set of six comes with six different chain styles that can be stacked, layered, or worn individually.

55A wax melt that looks like a miniature fireplace

Know someone who really wants a fireplace, but doesn’t have the right kind of space? This fun wax melter will let them have the cozy vibes without the open flame. It comes in both black and wood grain color options, and has multiple light modes that can be set on a timer.

56Retinol eye masks you can wear to bed

These overnight eye patches are packed with ingredients that will give tired eyes a much-needed boost. They have caffeine, collagen, and hyaluronic acid, as well as a relaxing rose scent that will make them become an essential component of a beauty sleep routine.

57A thoughtful gift for teachers

This presentation clicker is an especially great gift for teachers who use slideshows and digital presentations in their day to day jobs. It has a wireless design that lets you control all the elements of a slideshow presentation, from changing slides to volume control. It’s rechargeable, and comes in a few different colors.

58Satin scrunchies that keep hair frizz-free

This pack of satin scrunchies won’t leave a dent in long hair, even if you wear it in a ponytail all day. The gentle elastic is strong enough for thick hair and won’t snag, and they can help reduce frizz and extend a blowout. They boast a whopping 6,400+ five-star ratings on Amazon from fans who say they’re the best hair ties ever.

59A mini Crock-Pot you can bring to the office

Taking a hot lunch to work is so much easier when you can bring it in an actual Crock-Pot. This electric lunch box has a convenient carrying handle and a leak-proof lid, making it a great option for people who don’t have access to a microwave. All they’ll need to do is plug it into an outlet, and they’ll have a hot meal in around 20 minutes.

60An elephant-shaped mug with a built-in tea bag holder

This adorable elephant-shaped mug solves the problem of not knowing where to set your teabag down once your drink has steeped. It’s sturdy enough to go in both the dishwasher and the microwave, and it has a charming aesthetic that’s guaranteed to be smile-inducing.