The 11 Best Gifts Under $20 That Look Way More Expensive Than They Are
The more friends I’ve made over the years, the better I’ve gotten at tracking down special, unique gifts without breaking the bank. As much as I love Secret Santa parties, White Elephant exchanges, and general gift-giving, the costs can really start to add up. Before I know it, my wallet’s feeling the strain. Over time, I’ve gotten pretty creative with budget-friendly gifts, and to be honest, some of the less expensive ones have turned out even better than the pricey ones!
The Best Gifts Under $20
Finding great gifts under $20 doesn’t mean you have to stick to big retailers like Amazon (though it definitely has some gems!). Smaller brands often carry the most unique, thoughtful items. If you want your gift to feel like a little luxury, you’re in the right place. I’ve rounded up the best gifts under $20 from both big retailers and small direct-to-consumer brands — and yes, every one of them feels special.
Do you have a thoughtful, inexpensive gift you’re buying this holiday season? We want to hear all about it! Tell us about the items on your personal wish list below.
AT Best Gifts Under $20 October 2024
Le Creuset Silicone Coaster Set Le Creuset Silicone Coaster Set
Le Creuset
$18
If your giftee loves to host, this silicone coaster set might be the most useful present they receive. Why? Because it boasts Le Creuset’s gorgeous design while being made of easy-to-clean silicone that's heat resistant up to 482°F. In other words, these coasters are built to last — and they can even match their Dutch oven, too!
Buy Now
Mulberry Silk Beauty Sleep Mask Mulberry Silk Beauty Sleep Mask
Quince
$19.90
If you're giving someone a sleep mask, make it a good one! The editor-tested Mulbery Silk Beauty Sleep Mask made our Best List. “I love the Champagne color and silk material, which is cool and soft,” says commerce writer Nikol. "I also like that the elastic strap doesn’t cause headaches, even after sleeping with the mask on overnight.” Made with hypoallergenic and thermoregulation material, it's a comfortable find that won't break the bank.
Buy Now
Papier Metal Bookmark Papier Metal Bookmark
Anthropologie
$10
Pair this welcoming bookmark with a book they’ve been wanting to read, and you’ll have the perfect present. The brass is beautiful and durable, so your bookworm recipient will be using it for years to come.
Buy Now
Zodiac Mini Puzzle, Leo Zodiac Mini Puzzle, Leo
Piecework Puzzles
$20
Piecework puzzles arrive in a beautiful box, which is just a hint at the imagery that lies inside.This astrology-themed mini puzzle features a gorgeous picture to represent their zodiac sign. It’ll be perfect to frame and hang in a breakfast nook or bedroom. Plus, all of Piecework's products are printed on ultra-thick, 100% recycled art paper.
Buy Now
ACITHGL Bubble Candle ACITHGL Bubble Candle
Amazon
$9.99
If your loved one wants to use one of these stylish candles as decor and never melt it, we can't blame 'em. That's probably why it comes in a set — one to decorate, one to burn. Every candle emits a floral scent that's welcome during the holidays and beyond.
Wordle Party Game Wordle Party Game
Amazon
$19.34
Take the popular word game off your phone and into real life with the tangible card version, designed for two to four players. You'll take turns writing down a five-letter secret word while the other player tries to guess it in the fewest tries. Start studying that dictionary!
Parima Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Organizer Parima Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Organizer
Amazon
$13.59 (was $16.99)
Anyone who loves to travel knows that packing jewelry can be one of the hardest tasks — but not with this tiny case! Perfect for those seeking something compact, we love this adorable find for its multiple color options, divided storage space, and personalized monogram detailing.
Sweet Ash Everything Wash Sweet Ash Everything Wash
Snif
$19
A tried-and-true recommendation from yours truly is the Sweet Ash Everything Wash by Snif — a delectable laundry detergent that makes every load smell sweet and earthy. I loved mine so much that I even bought the matching perfume! With notes of juniper, fir balsam, white moss, golden cedar, vanilla bean, and creamy tonka, there’s so much goodness to take in.
Buy Now
Lifecapido Wine Goblet Lifecapido Wine Goblet
Amazon
$14.91
If your recipient is a huge fan of Love Is Blind, consider getting them the brushed gold wine glasses featured on the show! Their stylish design is perfect for sipping, and as an added bonus, they keep others from seeing what’s inside. In other words, your giftee can sip as much (or as little) as they want!
2025 12-Month Appointment Notebook 2025 12-Month Appointment Notebook
Rifle Paper Co.
$18
If your giftee is feeling bummed about being stuck inside this winter, why not give them a head start on planning all the fun things they'll do in the New Year? This gorgeous, gold-foil-stamped 2025 planner from Rifle Paper Co. is the perfect place to jot down appointments, parties, important dates, and more.
Buy Now
Emmaline Stoneware Lidded Monogram Trinket Dish Emmaline Stoneware Lidded Monogram Trinket Dish
Anthropologie
$18
Show the jewelry lover in your life that you love them with this adorable trinket dish. Its miniature size means they’ll definitely be able to find a place for it to go, and paired with a couple of rings, it makes for a stellar stocking stuffer.
Buy Now
Further Reading
Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Article’s DTC Furniture
See How a Stager Used Paint to Transform a 1950s Living Room
We Asked 8 Pro Travelers What They Never Pack in Their Carry-On, and Here’s What They Said
