The 75 most impressive, clever gifts if you want to spend less than $30

Win gift-giver of the year — & keep your wallet happy.

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Just because something is inexpensive doesn’t mean it’s not fantastic. Some of the most impressive things I’ve bought have set me back the cost of dinner (or less). It just takes some time and effort to find them. If you don’t have either, never fear, as Mic’s shopping editors have done the legwork and compiled their best and budget-friendliest findings here. From mini dashboard flower vases to keychain screwdrivers, you can add more than a few of these to your cart and keep your bank account in the black.

01This mini flower vase that sticks to your dashboard

There’s no denying that this flower vase would be a cute addition to your dashboard. It’s made from a combination of real glass and rustic walnut wood — no plastic within sight. Plus, the adhesive base makes it easy to mount into place.

02A unique coffee mug that doubles as a hand warmer

Unlike every other coffee mug you’ve likely seen, this one is designed so that you insert your hand inside of its ceramic walls, allowing it to keep your hand warm while you sip hot drinks. The high-quality porcelain body is microwave- as well as dishwasher-safe, and can withstand oven temperatures up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

03A vintage necklace that doubles as a magnifying glass

With its elegantly engraved border and sleek glass charm, this necklace is sure to be a gorgeous addition to any outfit. The charm doubles as a magnifying glass, and can enlarge anything underneath by up to 10 times. The best part? You also have the choice of three finishes: silver, gold, or pure gold.

04Metallic markers to create art on glass, rock, & more

Keep track of your glass during dinner parties by writing your name on it using these markers. They’re so versatile that you can use them on ceramic, wood, rock, glass, and more, making them suitable for all sorts of creative projects. “I also like that when you cap them you can actually hear the “click” sound so I know they’re closed well and they won’t dry,” wrote one reviewer.

05Little soot sprites you can stick all over the place

From your rear view mirror to your office computer monitor, these soot sprites are a cute addition to all sorts of spaces. Each order includes glue dots so that you can easily mount them onto flat surfaces. And since they come packaged in an iron tin, there’s no need to worry about them getting damaged while in transit.

06The unique loaf pan in a wildflower pattern

Cake, bread, meatloaf — this wildflower pan is a fun way to add a unique touch to all sorts of meals. It’s made from cast aluminum that delivers superior heat conductivity, which helps ensure that your foods bake evenly across its entire surface. Plus, the nonstick frame contains zero PFAS or PTFE.

07A portable sticker printer that doesn’t require costly ink

Unlike some sticker printers, this one utilizes thermal paper in order to create stickers — so you won’t be stuck having to buy costly ink refills. The downloadable phone app lets you customize your stickers with a variety of text, emojis, and more. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to stash away inside a drawer when not in use.

08Sweet magnets that look like tiny flower vases

Add a pop of green to any fridge or office whiteboard with these cute magnets. They’re designed to look like miniature vases — and each order includes faux flowers for you to place inside of them. “These magnets are super strong!” raved one reviewer. “Very impressed with the quality especially since they are such a great price!”

09A warming lamp to enjoy candles without flame

Having an open flame in your home always carries at least some risk. Luckily, this warming lamp is a clever solution. The bulb is strong enough to melt wax, allowing you to enjoy scented candles without having to light them aflame. But if that isn’t enough? The base is even made from real wood — not plastic.

10A drum that resonates when hit with raindrops

Add a touch of whimsy to any outdoor space with this drum. It resonates when hit with rain, playing soothing notes that transform gardens, patios, and more into a tranquil concert venue. Plus, the rust-resistant finish helps keep it looking good from season to season.

11The mini archery bow that’s playful (for adults only)

Not only is this miniature bow made from durable stainless steel, but each order also includes 10 reusable arrows, as well as a paper target to get you started. It works great as a gift for teens — though you can just as easily use it to blow off steam while at the office. “Awesome quality for value,” wrote one reviewer. “Boyfriend was very happy with the present and it's fun to play with.”

12Compact flashlights with a range of up to 59 feet

Glove compartments, emergency kits, camping packs — these flashlights are so compact that you can fit them practically anywhere without having to worry about wasting space. The LED bulbs produce a strong beam of light that can reach up to 59 feet in length. And unlike some flashlights, these ones come with batteries included as an added bonus.

13Cozy winter gloves compatible with touchscreens

You won’t have to take these winter gloves off in order to use your phone, as the thumb, index, and middle fingers are all compatible with touchscreens. The woven pattern on the backs of the hands give them an upscale look — and their elastic cuffs help keep your hands safe from snow and wind.

14Rechargeable hand warmers that heat up in 3 seconds

Stop wasting money on disposable hand warmers and upgrade to these reusable ones. They only take about three seconds to heat up — and the batteries can deliver up to five hours of warmth before they’ll need to be recharged. Choose from seven colors: purple, green, pink, and more.

15Unique highlighter pens in cool colors & patterns

Whereas standard highlighter markers can cause smudges, these pens leave behind a thin, patterned line, making them great for underlining important text. The best part? Each one also features a fine-tip point so that you can use them to write notes as well as underline.

16Refreshing solid colognes that won’t get confiscated by the TSA

Liquid colognes will be confiscated by the TSA when going through security. Instead, pack these solid ones. They’re made from a blend of beeswax, coconut oil, and sunflower seed oil, giving them a balm-like texture that’s easy to swipe onto skin. Each order also includes four scents: vetiver, sandalwood, cedar/pine, and clary sage.

17A watercolor paint set that’s easy to take with you

Painting a gorgeous naturescape is no trouble at all when you have this set of watercolor paints. Each order includes two brushes, an extra-fine tip pen, as well as dozens of watercolors — all of which come packaged in a conveniently portable case. “I absolutely love this watercolor set!” raved one reviewer. “The colors are vibrant, smooth, and blend beautifully on paper.”

18Aesthetic tissue holders that fit in your car’s cup holders

Few things are as annoying as having to dig around in your glove compartment when you need a tissue. Enter: these holders. Their cylindrical shape allows them to fit inside cup holders — and each one comes with 200 tissues already inside. Choose from two colors: pink or blue.

19A unique puzzle that challenges you to untangle complicated knots

Searching for fun ways to spend time with family? Then this puzzle game is worth a look. Players must move the ropes over each other (never under) in order to untangle them and clear the board, and you can easily adjust its difficulty by adding or removing ropes when setting up the board. “It’s the perfect mix of fun and brain exercise,” wrote one reviewer. “Great for both kids and adults.”

20Colorful ballpoint pens with fun sarcastic messages

I’m a huge fan when it comes to these ballpoint pens — and not just because they’re a great way to be passive agressive at work without getting in trouble. Each one is printed with a different sarcastic message, including “Stop talking,” “That’s not my job,” and “I hate everyone too.” Plus, the opposite end on each pen features a handy stylus tip.

21Collapsible storage crates to help hide clutter in plain sight

Office supplies, crafting materials, toiletries — these storage crates are great for hiding all sorts of clutter in plain sight. Their stackable design helps you save space, and they even collapse down to a fraction of their size when not in use. “Just what I needed to organize and store small bathroom supplies,” wrote one reviewer.

22Easy-to-install puck lights with rechargeable batteries

From closets to the undersides of kitchen cabinets, these puck lights are a clever way to illuminate all sorts of dark spaces. The powerful batteries deliver up to six hours of light before they need to be recharged — and installation is a total breeze using the included adhesive. You can also switch them between three light temperatures: warm, natural, or cool.

23Handy screwdriver tools for your keychain

You never know when you’ll need a screwdriver, so why not add these ones to your keychain? Each order includes both a Phillips as well as a flathead bit. Plus, the opposite end of the handle on both even has a hex wrench slot for added versatility.

24A glowing fidget snake that’s weirdly satisfying

There’s no need to worry about accidentally breaking this fidget snake, as it features a hinged design that makes it just as flexible as it is durable. It’s great for helping ease anxiety, regardless of whether you’re at work, home, or even waiting to catch a flight. Choose from eight colors: glowing rainbow, pink, orange, and more.

25The memory foam travel pillow with an attached hood

Don’t even think about heading to the airport until you’ve packed this travel pillow. It’s filled with soft memory foam that contours to the shape of your head and neck, helping you stay comfortable when stuck sitting upright. But if that isn’t enough? The attached hood also helps block out light so that it’s easier to fall asleep.

26Colorful modeling clay that dries rock-solid in 24 hours

You won’t need to fire this clay inside a kiln if you want to preserve your sculpture, as its unique formula allows it to dry rock-solid within just 24 hours. Each order includes four colors as well as step-by-step tutorials that walk you through making 12 different cute animals (chickens, dogs, owls, and more). But if that isn’t enough? One reviewer described it as “so adorable and the instructions make it so easy” to use.

27Hydrating under eye masks that help soothe & refresh

No skin-care routine is complete without these under eye masks. A blend of glycerin and hyaluronic acid works to deliver a nourishing dose of hydration to dry skin, while horse chestnut extract helps boost its resilience. Plus, the individualized packaging makes them easy to take with you when traveling.

28A crystal growing kit with display cases included

Not only does this kit come with all the material you’ll need in order to grow seven different crystals, but you’ll also receive protective cases so that you can put your crystals out on display. It’s recommended for kids aged 10 or older — and many reviewers noted how the “quality is great.”

29Glamorous press-on nails that come in 15 sizes

The cost of getting your nails done every two week quickly adds up. Enter: these press-on nails. Not only are they affordable, but each order also comes with 15 different sizes, making it easy to find the perfect match for your fingers. Choose from dozens of styles: nude, pink, ocean, and more.

30Gorgeous leather bookmarks that won’t crimp pages

Don’t bend the corners of your pages to keep track of where you are in that book. Instead, use these bookmarks. The magnetic ends allow you to fold them overtop of your page — and the soft leather exterior helps keep the page from developing crimps. Choose from 10 styles: cookie/donut, lemon/acorn, butterfly/pony, and more.

31The precious door chime made from real wood

Whether you place this chime outside your front door or bedroom door is up to you — but either way, it’s sure to have guests asking where you found it. The wooden frame gives it a rustic vibe, and each order includes double-sided tape for easy mounting. Choose from four styles: chinchilla, cat, penguin, or crab.

32Waterproof string lights great for dressing up campsites

Dress up any campsite with these charming string lights. The battery keeps them lit for up to 12 hours before it needs to be recharged — and since they’re waterproof, there’s no need to take them down if it starts to rain. They’re also easy to take with you, as you can retract them back into their base simply by twisting a handle on the top.

33The unique coiled candle that burns up to 80 hours

There’s a good chance you’ve never seen a candle like this one before. It self-extinguishes when the flame reaches the clip, requiring you to pull the coiled wax upwards in order to keep it burning. There’s enough wax for it to burn for up to 80 hours in total – and the stand is even made from sleek copper rather than glass.

34Invisible ink pens with UV flashlights built in

Whether you’re five or 55, these invisible ink pens are a fun way to write secret messages to family and friends. You’ll only be able to see the ink when they’re placed underneath a UV light — and each pen even features a UV flashlight built into the opposite end. “My kids absolutely love using them for secret notes, scavenger hunts, and little spy games,” wrote one reviewer.

35Ultra-silky sheets that are smooth & sexy

Seriously upgrade your bed-scape with these satin sheets. Their ultra-silky texture creates minimal friction, and can even help smooth away frizz simply by sleeping on them. Plus, the fitted sheet features an extra-deep pocket that can easily fit mattresses up to 15 inches tall.

36Quirky measuring spoons that look like a little cactus

Professional and home chefs alike can appreciate these measuring spoons. They look just like a quirky little cactus when placed inside their caddy (which comes included) — and each one is made from sleek ceramic rather than plastic. Plus, the inside of the caddy is marked with lines so that you can use it to measure in cups.

37Versatile glow-in-the-dark tape that charges in 30 minutes

From making stairways visible at night to illuminating your bike spokes, this glow-in-the-dark tape is a fun way to light up all sorts of things. It only needs about 30 minutes of light exposure in order to stay lit for up to 10 hours in the dark. And since the adhesive is waterproof, there’s no need to worry about it staying sticky when used outside.

38Breathable ankle socks with cute smiley faces

These socks are a fun way to add some personality to your outfit if your work requires you to dress business casual. Not only are they made from soft, breathable cotton, but the heel tabs are also embroidered with cute smiley faces. “They fit great, don’t slip down in your shoes and are very comfortable,” wrote one reviewer.

  • Available colors: 8
  • Available sizes: 5 — 11 Women

39A paint-by-sticker book great for unwinding

If regular coloring books feel too childish for you, consider trying out this paint-by-sticker book instead. Each book comes with dozens of stickers for you to place inside the designs, effectively “painting” them without the risk of accidentally making a mess. “It's so relaxing to do while you're watching a show, and some of them can take hours to create, so the 12 pages will last you for months [...],” wrote one reviewer.

40The ultra-slim wallet that helps protect from digital pickpockets

Digital pickpockets can access your credit card information simply by scanning your pocket or bag — unless you keep them inside this wallet. Not only does it block RFID signals to help protect your cards, but it’s also made from sleek leather for an upscale vibe. Choose from dozens of colors: sky blue, red, orange, and more.

41Mini screwdrivers that hold onto the screws

I’m a huge fan when it comes to these miniature screwdrivers — and not just because they’re the perfect size for use on tiny eyeglass and laptop screws. Their magnetic tips hold onto the screw so that you’re less likely to lose it upon removal. Plus, their nonslip grips make them easy to use if your hands are sweaty.

42A kid-friendly karaoke machine that won’t break the bank

You’re sure to get any party started when you whip out this karaoke machine. Five different vocal effects (chipmunk, robot, and more) make it fun for kids as well as adults — and the color-changing LED on the front of the speaker makes it seem way more expensive than $20. “Setup was super easy,” wrote one reviewer. “Just plug it in, connect via Bluetooth, and you’re ready to sing your heart out.”

43The mini table lamp that makes an adorable night-light

Got a crummy night light plugged into your wall? Then this little table lamp is a definite upgrade. It’s designed to look like a dog, complete with floppy ears and four legs that can be adjusted into all sorts of positions. Each order also comes with batteries included.

44The unique flower vase made to fit on bookshelves

Add a pop of green to any dull bookshelf with this unique vase. It’s designed to look like a unique book, complete with printing on the front, back, and “spine.” The clear acrylic body makes it easy to see when it’s time to refresh the water inside — and it looks just as good holding real flowers as it does faux.

45A handmade suncatcher made from real stained glass

Whereas some suncatchers are made from acrylic, this one is made from 100% real stained glass, making it a total steal for less than dinner. It’s sure to look just as good hanging outside on your patio as it would sitting on a window sill or desk. You also have the choice of three colors: orange, blue, or green.

46A safety hammer that can help you escape your car in an emergency

This safety hammer is one of those rare items that’s best to have and not need, than need and not have. It combines three tools into one: a spike for breaking windows, seatbelt cutter, as well as a flat hammer for roadside repairs. And since it glows in the dark, locating it in your glove compartment or trunk at night should be no trouble at all.

47This weighted lap blanket that’s easy to take with you

Taking a giant weighted blanket with you when traveling is unbelievably impractical. Instead, opt for this weighted lap blanket. It’s designed to look like a giant leaf, and the soft microfiber fabric feels oh-so plush against skin. The best part? Each order includes a carrying bag so that it’s easy to take with you.

  • Available weights: 3, 5, 7, or 10 pounds

48A stylish table lamp with beautiful pressed flowers

Add a touch of nature to any space by putting this table lamp out on display. The clear charms are filled with gorgeous pressed flowers, while the frame is made from real pine wood — not plastic. You can also adjust the light between three different temperatures: plain white, warm white, or yellow.

49Flameless LED candles with a realistic flicker

The cost of always buying new candles quickly adds up, so why not save some money and grab these LED ones? The bulbs flicker just like real flames, giving them an incredibly realistic look — even when up close. Plus, each candle only needs two AA batteries (which are not included) in order to stay lit for more than 350 hours.

50Chic eyeglass holders lined with soft faux fur

Leaving glasses sitting out on your desk or nightstand is an easy way to wind up with scratched lenses. Instead, store them inside these holders. The faux fur lining helps protect your lenses from damage, while the wide bases work to keep them from tipping over. Choose from three color combinations: brown/black, gray/champagne, rose gold/silver.

51An adorable reading pillow filled with plush memory foam

ADon’t fumble around with all those cushions when trying to find a comfortable position for reading in bed. Instead, grab this this reading pillow. It’s filled with plush memory foam that contours to the shape of your body, giving you support where you need it. And if it ever gets dirty? The cover zips off for easy cleaning.

52This cordless table lamp that creates a warm, romantic vibe

Creating a romantic dinnertime vibe is as easy as turning on this table lamp. The filament on the inside can be bent and twisted into nearly any shape you like — and the battery can deliver hours worth of light before it needs to be recharged. Choose from five finishes: gray, dark green, yellow, and more.

53The quirky pickle that can help boost your mood

Place this quirky pickle on your desk at work, and it’ll always be ready to give you a quick pick-me-up whenever you’re feeling down. His little sign reads: I will always be around to let you know that you are a BIG DILL! And if you aren’t into pickles? You can also grab it as a burger, hot dog, or packet of French fries.

54Inexpensive caged pearl earrings with 18-karat gold

You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg in order to afford quality jewelry, and these earrings are proof. The genuine pearls are encased inside of a metal frame that’s plated with real 18-karat gold — and since the metal is hypoallergenic, the chances of the posts irritating your ears is incredibly low.

55The polarized sun visor extender that helps reduce glare

Ever notice how your sun visor isn’t quite long enough to protect your eyes when the sun sits low in the sky? Then this extender is worth a look. The see-through panel is polarized, helping protect your eyes from annoying glare so that it’s easy to see the road regardless of where the sun is. Each order also includes a cloth so that you can wipe it clean if it ever gets dirty.

56An adult coloring book that can help you de-stress

Few things feel as good as kicking back on the couch with a coloring book after a long day. This particular book features 50 different artistic illustrations that you can color mindlessly — and the single-sided pages mean there’s no need to worry about marker ink bleeding onto the next design. “The patterns are gorgeous, calming, and just the right level of detail,” wrote one reviewer.

57A unique bird lamp that makes striking decor

Don’t have a ton of space to work with on your nightstand? Then this little bird lamp is worth a look. Not only is it compact, but it’s also completely cordless — so there’s no need to plug it into an outlet until it’s time to recharge the battery. “I bought this to put on top of the toilet in my small bathroom,” wrote one reviewer. “It is the perfect size and provides the right amount of light”

58The clever mat that helps you craft without making a mess

Whether you’re five or 55, this mat is a clever way to embrace your inner painter without creating a giant mess. It’s made from durable silicone that easily rinses clean in the sink, with multiple partitions where you can squirt your paint colors. The best part? Each order also includes a collapsible cup so that you have somewhere to rinse your brushes.

59A lightning cable adorned with fun, colorful beads

Don’t be surprised if friends ask where you found this lightning cable. Not only is it adorned with cute, colorful beads, but the tinned copper wire on the inside can also help charge your phone up to 30% faster than standard lightning cables. Plus, reinforced stress points help keep it from fraying over time.

60Magnetic building blocks that help spark imagination

These aren’t your average building blocks. Each one is printed with a different texture, including grass, water, lava, and more, making them great for constructing all sorts of detailed structures. A magnet on the inside of each one also helps keep them stacked together. And since they’re waterproof, so you can build rain or shine.

61Privacy film that makes windows look like stained glass

Consider this privacy film a must-have if you live on a busy street. It stays put on your windows using the power of static cling — no need for any adhesive — and the 3-D laser printing makes it look just like stained glass. It can even help insulate your home against the sun’s harsh rays, so don’t be surprised if you notice a slight dip in your utility bills.

62An adorable planter suitable for indoor & outdoor use

With its cute rocking chair and smiling face, this adorable little planter is a fun way to ad a touch of whimsy to any space in your home. A drainage hole in the bottom helps keep your plants safe from being overwatered. And unlike some planters, this one is suitable for indoor as well as outdoor use.

63Waterproof lip liner enriched with vitamins C & E

Consider this lip liner a must-have if you’re looking to give your pout an extra pop of color. The waterproof formula works to keep lips looking vivid for hours at a time — and it’s even enriched with vitamin C and E, both of which deliver a nourishing dose of hydration to your pout. Choose from seven colors: burgundy, chestnut, cappuccino, and more.

64A keychain game console with 5 pre-loaded games

With six tactile controls and an OLED display, this keychain console delivers a high-quality gaming experience without breaking the bank. It comes with five games already loaded onto it — though you can easily switch them up by connecting it to your laptop via USB. Plus, the battery delivers up to two hours of gameplay before it needs to be recharged.

65A genius purse holder made from stylish faux leather

Don’t put your purse down on that dirty car floor. Instead, place it inside this holder. Straps on the top and bottom let you secure it around your seat’s headrests so that it sits on your center console, while the faux leather exterior makes it a stylish addition to any car. One reviewer also described it as “a wonderful solution of how to keep my purse within easy reach when I have a passenger in my car.”

66Door hinge toppers that look like little birds

There’s no denying that these little sparrows would look cute perched atop your door hinges. Their magnetic base keeps them held firmly in place — no need for any tools or adhesive during installation. Plus, the sleek brass metal gives them an upscale vibe, all for currently less than $20.

67A propagation station that helps you grow more plants

Propagating plants is a cost-effective way to add more greenery to your home, so why not grab this propagation station? All three of the mushrooms are made from sleek glass — not plastic — and the base is even made from real wood. “The colors are beautiful in the light,” wrote one reviewer. “An excellent display for trimmings.”

68A bougie earring holder that can hold up to 16 pairs

Put your earrings on display by storing them on this bougie holder. It’s made from sleek, high-quality acrylic — and there’s enough space on it to store up to 16 pairs of earrings. Choose from five finishes: gold, silver, pink, and more.

69A freaky duck lamp with a bulb sticking out the butt

You’re basically guaranteed to get more than a few laughs out of this duck lamp. The LED bulb sticks out its butt, making it look like the duck is laying an egg — and the compact base takes up minimal space. Or, if you aren’t into ducks, you can also grab it as a chicken.

70A genius plate that makes it easier to fill tacos

No Taco Tuesday is complete without this plate. The silicone mold in the center holds your taco shells upright, making it easy to fill them up without making a mess. The best part? It’s also BPA-free as well as microwave- and dishwasher-safe.

71Quirky earrings that look like animals are biting your ears

Anyone who enjoys quirky pieces of jewelry is sure to appreciate these earrings. Not only do they make it look like little animals are biting your ears, but each order also includes a variety of different animals: sharks, dinosaurs, dogs, and more.

72Genius aloe vera patches that help hide shaving nicks

Know someone who is always nicking themselves when shaving? Then these patches are worth a look. They’re dressed with aloe vera and witch hazel, both of which work together to help small cuts heal quickly — and their translucent appearance gives them an ultra-subtle look on skin. “The guys in my life love these!” raved one reviewer. “No more toilet paper pieces sticking all over their faces!”

73This rustic incense holder that looks like a tiny house

Burn incense or sage in style with this rustic holder. It’s made from sleek ceramic, with a stylish little chimney for the smoke to rise out of as your incense/sage burns. Plus, the smooth interior easily rinses clean from ash once it’s finally too dirty to ignore.

74A fairy door that adds whimsy to any space

Adding a touch of whimsy to any room in your home is as easy as installing this little fairy door. It’s great for encouraging children to have an active imagination, as each order includes a door, welcome mat, ladder, bottle of fairy dust, as well as a stencil so that you can add footprints leading up to the door. “I bought this in advance of my 5yo granddaughter starting losing her teeth,” wrote one reviewer. “She is sooooo excited for when she gets to use it!”

75A cozy body pillow shaped like a giant llama

You don’t need to like llamas in order to enjoy this body pillow. The llama’s body, neck, and head can be bent into any position to help keep your back and hips supported, while the ultra-plush fabric makes it great for snuggling on chilly nights. “Not only is is adorable, but it’s comfy to cuddle with,” wrote one reviewer.