Giving awesome gifts doesn’t require a big budget. People’s PEOPLE Tested team curated a collection of 55 budget-friendly gems—picks endorsed by celebs like Hilary Duff and Oprah—that feel thoughtful, practical, and fun without costing more than $25 .Whether it’s a cheerful holiday gift, a fun Secret Santa exchange, or a quick surprise for a friend, here’s a snapshot of standout ideas anyone would be happy to receive.
Top Picks That Deliver
Simple Modern Insulated Can Cooler (~$20): Great for game‑day drinks or tailgating, this cooler blends classic style with smart thermal design and comes in NCAA team colors .
Apple AirTag (~$24): A tech-savvy gift perfect for travelers or anyone who misplaces their keys. Effortless tracking, small form, big convenience.
Benevolence LA Plush Velvet Jewelry Box (~$19): A favorite of Oprah’s, this velvet-lined organizer looks luxurious but stays under budget .
Ugg Cozy Socks (~$18): Soft, cozy, and practical—these plush socks are ideal for chilly nights and everyday comfort .
Stanley Snack Bowl (~$10): A dual-purpose bowl with a cooler and snack compartment, this clever design is perfect for road trips or desk snacks .
White Noise Machine (~$22): Portable and user‑friendly with multiple sound themes—ideal for travelers or dorm dwellers (People.com).
LEGO Creator Mighty Dinosaur (~$14): A fun buildable toy for kids, teens, or the young at heart, priced to delight without overspending .
Gifts by Theme
For Him (Under $25)
Mini white noise machine
Brass Monkey’s Venn Thinking card game
Compact lunch box or thermal items for work or travel
For Her (Under $25)
Velvet jewelry organizer
Cozy Ugg socks
Practical and pretty items that feel upscale on a budget
For Anyone (Generous Variety)
Can cooler
Apple AirTag
Novel gadgets or things people didn’t know they wanted—until they got it
What Makes These Gifts Shine?
High perceived value, low actual cost. Many items have that boutique or celebrity-approved look without the celebrity price tag.
Practicality meets personality. A cooler or AirTag solves a real problem while still feeling gift-worthy.
Thoughtful without overthinking. Practical, charming, or whimsical and easy to customize to someone’s lifestyle.
Great for group gifting or Secret Santa. Perfect for gift swaps—you get style and utility while staying budget-conscious.
How to Choose the Right One
Gather intel. A little info on their hobbies or daily routines helps choose wisely—AirTag for frequent flyers, cozy socks for homebodies, or snack bowls for commuters.
Share the experience. A white noise machine, LEGO kit, or insulated bowl can spark shared use and good conversation.
Add a personal touch. Wrap it creatively, include a handwritten note, or pair a small, meaningful item for added thoughtfulness.
Final Thoughts
A well-chosen gift under $25 can be memorable, useful, and stylish all at once. Whether it’s something practical like an AirTag or snack bowl, cozy like Ugg socks, or playful like LEGO or a card game, this list proves thoughtful gifting doesn’t require splurges. The PEOPLE Tested team’s selections deliver real-life value and enjoyment—making nearly anyone smile without emptying your wallet .