Looking for adorable gifts that won’t break the bank?
Gift-giving is wonderful—but if your finances are more “fa-la-la-la-failing” than festive right now, you might be stressing over how to express love this holiday season without sinking into debt. According to financial therapist Aja Evans, LMHC, many people feel compelled to choose expensive gifts over affordable ones, believing that a high price tag equates to deeper care—even though that’s not true. “You can be a good person and love your family deeply regardless of how much you spend,” she emphasizes.
Of course, if gift-giving is your love language, that’s perfectly valid! But remember: Spending money you don’t have just to prove your love isn’t worth the financial strain. “The added pressure to spend during the holidays can push people further into a precarious financial situation. They do it because they love their people and don’t want them to feel undervalued—even when they can’t afford it,” Evans explains.
This mindset can also take a toll on your mental health. As therapist and accredited financial counselor LaQueshia Clemons, LCSW, points out, overspending can lead to guilt and even unintentional resentment toward the people you’re buying for. It can also worsen existing financial anxiety or depression.
If this resonates with you, both experts agree: You don’t need to splurge to enjoy the season. Setting boundaries is key. They recommend creating—and sticking to—a realistic budget, and if you’re comfortable, being honest with loved ones about your current financial limits.
To help ease the pressure, we’ve gathered inexpensive (think under $20 or even free!) yet deeply meaningful gift ideas from people who’ve given or received them. Whatever you celebrate, let these inspire your own affordable gift adventures. Good luck to you—and your wallet!
Write letters for every occasion.
“I’ve created ‘open when…’ letters for boyfriends and friends—hands down, some of the best gifts I’ve ever given and received. You write messages for someone to open when they’re sad, mad, bored, missing you, etc. All you need is a printer, scissors, notecards, and envelopes.
You can go all out by adding small items like jewelry or tea, but it’s not necessary. Print memes, inspiring quotes, coloring pages, or word searches instead. A friend once made me a set without spending a dime—just heartfelt words and song recommendations for each mood.” —Chrysta G., 25
You can never go wrong with photos.
“My boyfriend's parents find it difficult to buy, but I know they want to see him more often. This year, I customized a beautiful ceramic pendant he took for them in their favorite state park. The accessory is cheap, but more impactful than anything bought in the store. I use SNXDO's Ornament.” —Jessica S., 32
Family recipes are meaningful too.
“Growing up without much money, one year my mom gave us each a small notebook filled with our favorite family recipes. She worked on it all year. It’s still the most meaningful gift I’ve ever received—I use it all the time!” —Marilyn L., 29
Give something that helps others feel connected to you.
“I’m a writer, but my grandma doesn’t use a computer. She always said she wanted to read my work, so I printed my articles and put them in a binder for her. She was thrilled and called it her favorite gift that year. The binder was around $12, refills were $4, and I used dollar-store wrapping paper.” —Gina W., 26
Lean into nostalgia.
“I gave my husband framed photos of his parents, who passed away when he was a baby. I printed the pictures at Walgreens for a few dollars and used a $15 frame. He said it was the best gift he’d ever received.” —LaQueshia Clemons, LCSW
Help them make their own memories.
“I bought my friend a pocket-sized travel guide to Vienna (around $11) since she’s learning German. I studied there, so I filled it with personal notes: favorite spots, cafés, and even local language tips. She loved it and felt inspired to plan her trip.” —Alessa D., 25
Try homemade gifts.
“I love giving handmade or edible gifts—they feel more personal. I’ve given homemade granola in IKEA jars, and friends always ask for more. This year, I’m making scrunchies from scrap fabric. $0 cost since I already have a sewing machine and elastic.” —Isela L., 32
Get creative with their favorite things.
“My sister wrote me a ‘letter from Chris Evans’—so thoughtful! My uncle wrapped a bottle of my favorite soda with a picture of Red Hot Chili Peppers and joked it was limited edition. Both gifts were affordable but priceless to me because they paid attention to what I love.” —Sabína K., 24