Best Holiday Gifts Under $50

I’ve been testing out a bunch of eye masks and will have a full post on all my favorite ones early next year. In the meantime, these DRMTLGY brightening eye masks are effective, affordable, and one of my favorite holiday gifts under $50. We all deserve to pamper ourselves!

Available at DRMTLGY and Amazon.

DRMTLGY Return Policy: They want you to be happy with your DRMTLGY purchase, so if you are not completely satisfied, please contact them via their contact page before 60 days of your purchase date.

INK+ALLOY Star Large Post Earrings

These star earrings are so charming and lightweight!

INK +ALLOY Return Policy: Return accepted within 30 days of the original purchase date.

Nail Polish

 

These are some of the best nail polishes I’ve recommended to my clients recently. The brown color is so fun for fall/winter, while the mint and pale pink are very versatile everyday colors, and the bright red is a sexier option.

Available at (left to right) Amazon ($11.76), Amazon ($22), Nordstrom ($20 $17), and Nordstrom ($32).

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Brümate Winesulator Wine Canteen

The Brümate Winesulator Wine Canteen is perfect for picnics. This insulated bottle is designed to keep 25 ounces of your favorite wine in its ideal temperature range for over 24 hours.

BrüMate Return Policy: Free return labels on all domestic (USA) orders for unused items in their original packaging within 30 days.

Lululemon Always In Motion Boxer 5″

The fellas need a good pair of underwear, and you know they don’t own enough “good ones.”

Lululemon Return Policy: Any items purchased between October 16 and December 24 can be returned for a full refund or exchange until January 23.

Quince 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

A silk pillowcase prevents wrinkles and protects your hair. I firmly believe everyone should be sleeping on a silk pillowcase. Feel free to push this belief on everyone you know during the holidays. It’s a fabulous gift idea.

Quince Return Policy: Items may be returned for a full refund or exchange within 365 days of the purchase date.

Nordstrom Woven Raffia Hoop Earrings

Lightweight and fun! These raffia earrings are a great gift for women under $50, whether it be for your girlfriends, nieces, or the bohemian on your shopping list.

Nordstrom Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.

Tyhengta Men’s Swim Trunks

Inexpensive, yet chic! These are some of the most stylish swim trunks available right now. It is shocking how inexpensive they are. Gift this to your ocean-loving babe.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Jaxkelly Shower Affirmations

I am obsessed with these shower affirmations. This may sound a little dramatic, but these have changed my thoughts and therefore have changed my life.

Jaxkelly Return Policy: Returns of unused and undamaged items can be refunded within 14 days of delivery.  Shipping costs are non-refundable.  Customers are responsible for return shipping costs.

AveFare Pro Chicken Shredder

Get this chicken shredder for the foodie on your shopping list. It helps you shred chicken and other meat quickly and efficiently.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Quince Cashmere Trouser Socks

Who doesn’t want luxuriously soft cashmere socks? I’ll take three, please.

Quince Return Policy: Items may be returned for a full refund or exchange within 365 days of the purchase date.

Body Restore Shower Steamers

These shower steamers help turn any shower into a calming aromatherapy experience. As the tablets dissolve in the water, they release essential oils designed to help you relax. At under $20, they make the perfect stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Siam Hill Tribes Tassel Earrings

I adore these statement earrings from Etsy. They are lightweight, inexpensive, and come in so many fun colors. You can see me wearing the pink ones here and an orange and yellow pair here.

Siam Hill Tribes Return Policy: Returns & exchanges are accepted within 7 days, and buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.

Cadie Silver Polishing Rouge Cloth

So many people have no idea they can just polish their older jewelry into newness. A jewelry cloth is a stocking stuffer that keeps on giving.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

J.Crew Long-sleeve Crewneck Girlfriend Tee

This is one of my favorite long-sleeve tees for winter and a great gift for women under $50. Gift this to any sensible gal on your shopping list.

J.Crew Return Policy: 30-day return policy from the date of purchase. Mail-in returns cost $7.50 per order.

Lekue Store Microwave Popcorn Popper

This microwaveable popcorn maker is the perfect under $50 Secret Santa gift idea for anyone who likes munching on popcorn while they binge Netflix (so all of us, right?). It makes it super easy to make healthy popcorn that you can customize with your own toppings. My editor says she uses hers all the time and likes adding Trader Joe’s Everything But the Elote seasoning for a bit of a spicy kick.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Papaya Reusables Paper Towels

Who doesn’t want to waste less? Help someone break their addiction to paper towels with these reusable paper towels. This gift is available at Papaya Reusables and The Container Store.

Container Store Return Policy: Returns are accepted within 120 days of the purchase date.

AINOPE Car Phone Holder Mount

After fumbling and fiddling with a bunch of different car cell phone car holders, I finally found one that works with the very heavy iPhone. You’re not going to be blown away by its brilliant high-end construction, but this is the best one I have found. We all need this in our cars!

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Baublebar Hera Link Choker and Bracelet

If you follow me on Instagram you probably recognize this pair of gold chain link pieces by Baublebar — I wear them all the time. This set is my favorite of the chainlink jewelry trend because it’s lightweight, classic, and versatile. Either the necklace or bracelet would make for a great under $50 gift for any on-trend woman on your list.

Bloomingdale’s Return Policy: 90 days to return most Bloomingdale’s purchases for a refund, as long as your purchase is still in saleable condition.

Adoric Life Reusable Straws with Case

To this day, this is one of my favorite small gifts I have ever received. I keep these reusable straws in my car and use them anytime I have to hit a drive-thru, which is more often than I like.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

We The People Book

One of my favorite quotes I have heard this year was by Nina Turner, who said: “I don’t do politics – Well, baby, politics is going to do you regardless.” It made me realize how important it is to teach our children about the country that governs their lives. I wish I had learned more about my country’s constitution in a real way when I was young, and this book does a cool job of teaching it. When we learn about this at a young age, being an informed adult citizen becomes an unquestionable part of our identity — and less of a chore. This book is available at Amazon and Target.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

HEAT HOLDERS Oversized Warm Super Soft Winter Thermal Fleece Throw Blanket

Any Heat Holders product is the perfect gift for all those cold people you know.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Cards Against Humanity

Cards Against Humanity is my favorite game of all time. I have never laughed harder than when I’m playing this game. This would definitely make for a great Secret Santa gift as pretty much anyone would get a laugh playing this game. It is available at Amazon, Target, and Cards Against Humanity. If someone on your gifting list is already a big Cards Against Humanity fan, gift them this expander pack with all new prompts!

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025; Apple brand products can be returned until January 15, 2025.

Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick

This has been my go-to lip stain for five years now. It stays put without drying your lips. It is utterly amazing and deserves a spot as one of the best gifts for women under $50.

Return Policy: New or gently used products can be returned for a full refund within 30 days of purchase, in most cases. Returns that are made from 31-60 days after purchase are eligible for online credit (if returned to us by mail) or store credit (if returned in-store). Gift returns should be made in store and require one of the following: an original packing slip, Sephora.com Order or Shipping Confirmation email, or Gift Receipt email.

The Set Boundaries Workbook

I have become Nedra Glover Tawwab’s superfan. She is basically the reason that I log onto Instagram. You have to follow her if you’re not already. And of course, you need to get her book for yourself as well as any person you know who is struggling with boundaries. This workbook is available at Amazon and Target.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Hanky Panky Organic Cotton Original Rise Thong w/ Lace

These Hanky Panky Organic Cotton Original Rise Thongs w/ Lace are my favorite underwear ever made. If the woman you are getting these for is extremely petite, get her the LOW RISE version. (See my full list of the most comfortable women’s thongs, here.). These thongs are available at Zappos, Macy’s, and Nordstrom.

Zappos Return Policy: Returns accepted for a full refund within 365 days of purchase.

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Books make for great holiday gifts under $50. This is my favorite “self-improvement” book I have ever read. I believe every single human on this planet should read it.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder

I love how my skin is more luscious and my joints feel better when I drink collagen every day. Everyone can benefit from this, so gift away the gift that keeps on giving. Oh, and J.Lo recommends it. Enough said. It’s available at Amazon and Target.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for Hiking, Camping, Travel, and Emergency Preparedness

I think this LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for Hiking, Camping, Travel, and Emergency Preparedness is one of the most useful and unique holiday gifts under $50. There is no one who can’t use this.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Sierra Club Adopt a Wild Animal

The Sierra Club’s Adopt a Wild Animal is a wonderful gift for a child. The one-time payment you spend on this stuffed animal and book combo will help protect wild animals and the wild places they live. Founded by legendary conservationist John Muir in 1892, the Sierra Club is the nation’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization.

Madewell Knotted Covered Headband

I am so drawn to headbands right now and often people don’t think about getting one for themselves. Be the inspiration they need. Anyone with luscious or long hair could use one, and this Madewell Knotted Covered Headband is lovely and comes in so many different colors,

Madewell Return Policy: Return unworn, unwashed, undamaged or defective merchandise for full refund or exchange within 30 days of the original purchase.

Say Goodbye to Plastic: A Survival Guide for Plastic-Free Living by Sandra Ann Harris

For those who follow me on Instagram, you know a dear friend of mine passed away recently and she was the most environmentally conscious human I have ever met. To honor her life, I have made it my mission to cut my plastic use in half. If you know someone who would like to join me on this journey, gift them this book: Say Goodbye to Plastic: A Survival Guide for Plastic-Free Living by Sandra Ann Harris.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

S’well Elements Collection Blue Granite Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

This stainless steel S’well bottle is one of the most beautiful — and functional — reusable water bottles out there. I love how the design looks like granite, and the bottle retains the temperature of both cold and hot beverages. My editor said this is her all-time favorite water bottle — she can leave it in her car during Texas summers when the weather is over 100 degrees and the water inside still stays cold and refreshing all day long. A miracle bottle! This water bottle is available at Revolve, Amazon, and Bloomingdales.

Revolve Return Policy: Returns accepted within 60 days for a full refund and within 90 days for an exchange.

Kindness Makes Us Strong – by Sophie Beer

Research has shown that the pursuit of “happiness” can actually lead to sadness. When our goal is raising our children to pursue “happiness,” they will most likely be self-centered, and not understand their role in a community that needs their support to thrive, and vice versa. I am no expert, but I think the pursuit of purpose and having a strong community are the keys to a truly fulfilling life. Prioritizing kindness to those around us is paramount for a strong community, and this book, Kindness Makes Us Strong by Sophie Beer, is an excellent way to introduce your littlest ones to the importance of being kind. This book is sold at Target and Amazon.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Wax Apothecary Scotch Glass Candles, White Sage

I have fallen in love with Idylwild and its little shops, especially Wax Apothecary. I am bonkers for the smell and ambiance of these candles and have been gifting them to every precious human I know. Plus, this is such a great way to shop local. I know I love to suggest holiday gifts under $50 from major stores and corporations, but here is one of my suggestions to “shop small.”

Wax Apothecary Return Policy: 30 days. If 30 days has gone by since your purchase, unfortunately, they can’t offer you a refund or exchange.

Hue Wide Waistband Leggings

These Hue leggings are another one of my favorite gifts for women under $50. They’re incredibly comfortable and flattering — that friendly wide waistband prevents muffin tops and the quality fabric hides any skin dimples. You may in fact recognize them from my post on the best leggings. They’re available in an array of yummy and versatile colors at  Bloomingdale’s, Zappos, and Amazon.

Nordstrom Return Policy: There are no time limits for returns or exchanges.

Amica Gold Champagne Stopper

I can’t own enough of these! These Amica Gold Champagne Stoppers come in a pack of three, but each one has its own chic little brown box, so you can give them all to one bubbly-loving friend or to three separate friends. As an extra touch, you can pair them with a bottle of bubbly.

Tip: After popping a bottle of your favorite sparkling wine and pouring your glass, put the stopper on the bottle immediately. If you use it properly, this stopper will keep your bubbles fresh for days. Seriously. If you put the stopper on after the bottle has been opened for hours it doesn’t really keep the freshness.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Baleaf 5″ High Rise Butt Lifting Pocketed Yoga & Workout Shorts

These Baleaf 5″ High Rise Butt Lifting Pocketed Yoga & Workout Shorts are my absolute favorite running shorts. It’s hard to believe they’re under $50. The fit is fabulous, they’re super comfortable —  and look at those pockets. I love them so much I featured them in my post on my favorite workout clothes of all time. I’m sure any of the sporty women, and not so sporty women, in your life will love them too.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Mott & Bow Fitted Crew Marcy

The Mott & Bow Fitted Crew Marcy is one of my favorite crew neck tees for women. It’s so incredibly soft and flattering.

Sizing Tip: Runs small, order one size up.

Mott & Bow Return Policy: 30-day return policy on unworn/undamaged/unwashed items.

Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls – The Chapter Book Collection

I love stories for girls that involve real female figures to inspire them, like this Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls – The Chapter Book Collection.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Baublebar Deirdre Crystal Fringe Drop Earrings

These Baublebar Deirdre Crystal Fringe Drop Earrings are incredibly lightweight and gorgeous for special occasions. They’re perfect for the woman on your gift list who loves a good statement earring.

Baublebar Return Policy:  Unused, tagged merchandise, unless marked as final sale or otherwise noted, can be returned for a full refund to your original form of payment within 30 days of purchase.

firiKer 2Pcs Folding Scissors

I adore portable utilitarian items to put in my purse or bathroom. These foldable scissors twist into the perfect size to cut a loose thread, a tag off clothing, or whatever else needs trimming. I feel like I always need scissors, but don’t want to bother with a full-size pair and the small ones usually look so un-chic. Am I the only one who loves these firiKer 2Pcs Folding Scissors?

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Homemade Travel Pouch

 

Traveling is amazing if you have everything you need. If you don’t, travel is a nightmare. Create a travel pouch for your loved ones that will have them thinking of you with gratitude every time they leave town. Below are the key pieces for a travel pouch, whether it’s a gift for a man or woman!

• Clear pouch: I like a clear pouch so it’s easy to find what you need.
• Lotion: Planes are so drying! Apply this lotion when you feel yourself becoming brittle. I have linked to the travel size of my favorite lotion ever.
• Lip balm: This is the best lip balm of my entire life. I cannot recommend this enough. It’s hydrating, tasteless, luscious, and 100% non-addicting.
• Nail clippers and a mini file: I am always breaking a nail during travel.
• Snack: Since peanuts have left us, airplane snacks have been lacking to say the least. And now COVID has made it worse. Throw your loved one’s favorite snack into their homemade travel pouch. I personally love a granola bar, and they won’t expire for a year.
• Hand Sanitizer Spray: I love Trader Joe’s lavender hand sanitizer spray, but I have linked to another good one as well. Tell the receiver of your gift that once they finish the spray bottle, they can refill it with rubbing alcohol and three drops of lavender oil for an equally effective and pleasant hand sanitizer spray. You can use this custom sanitizer on cloth and hard surfaces as well.
• Flossers: Plackers makes the best travel cases, which I refill after every trip with my big bag of flossers.

Bonus: Get them some travel headphones as well. If they have an iPhone, throw in a headphone jack adapter so they can plug into the plane as well as their iPhone.

Fitflop Iqushion Super-Ergonomic Flip-Flops

I have been wearing these Fitflop Iqushion Super-Ergonomic Flip-Flops every weekend. The blushy nude shade is the only color of this shoe I would consider. It turns an ergonomic flip-flop into an intentional style choice.

Sizing Tip: True to size.

Fitflop Return Policy: Items can be returned within 28 days of the purchase date using the returns label included in your parcel.

The Boy with Big, Big Feelings – by Britney Winn Lee

Every boy and girl should know boys have feelings too. Enjoy reading The Boy with Big, Big Feelings by Britney Winn Lee with your child. This book is available at Target and Amazon.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Dial Industries, Inc. Spring Loaded Boot Shapers

If I see one more person storing their boots improperly, I am going to frown deeply — and that’s saying something. Gift these Dial Industries, Inc. Spring Loaded Boot Shapers to that person who loves their tall boots.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Hot Handle Holder

 

 

My best friend gave me a cast-iron skillet for Christmas one year and I just thought it was the most wonderful gift. It is the least toxic way to cook a meal and, like me, sometimes someone needs a push to get started. Try this Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder. I cook my egg and spinach on one every morning. I dare say cast iron skillets are one of the best holiday gift ideas under $50.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Little People, Big Dreams Book Series

I cannot get enough of the Little People, Big Dreams Book Series. This has been a regular on my gift guide for a few years now. They are stories about historical figures told in a brief and fun way. My favorites are the Frida Kahlo, Amelia Earhart, and Mahatma Gandhi books. These books are available at Amazon and Darling Clementine.

Tip: It really works for any age.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Heat Holders Women’s Thermal Stripe Socks

These Heat Holders Women’s Thermal Stripe Socks are the best socks. I live in these come cold weather — they almost feel like thin slippers.

Tip: They are also available in a gorgeous purple.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Wiggity Bang Games FURT Board Game

Wiggity Bang’s FURT Board Game is my all-time favorite board game, and I know your family doesn’t know about it. I highly recommend gifting this to someone in a big group so it can be opened up and played immediately. I promise, even people who hate board games will enjoy this game.

Fun Fact: Brought to you by a San Diego local crew.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

FineDine Store Superior Glass Meal-Prep Containers

Okay, here is the thing. Everyone needs glass tupperware, even people who already have glass tupperware they love. Why? Because you send people home with food and they don’t bring them back to you. Whenever I make this list I always think of myself, my clients, and the people we are all shopping for. I literally just gifted these FineDine Store Superior Glass Meal-Prep Containers to someone and they loved it!

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Flint Retractable Lint Roller, Refillable

Gift this Flint Retractable Lint Roller to anyone you know who owns a cat or dog. They can stick this in their bag and give their clothes a good roll before they need to look presentable. It’s available at Amazon and Kohls.

Amazon Return Policy: For the 2024 holiday season, items purchased between November 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, can be returned until January 31, 2025.

Holiday Gifts Under $50 From Years Past

I update my list of the best holiday gifts under $50 every year with fresh items that I’m loving. But I always like to keep a few ideas from past years in here as a bit of a time capsule — and hey, maybe one of them will inspire a gift idea for you!

SAFEGO Portable Indoor/Outdoor Lock Box Safe with Key and Combination Access

This lockbox is amazing for storing your cell phone and keys while you and your partner go jump in the ocean together with no one to watch your stuff. This is a fantastic gift idea for couples under $50 — if they love the beach of course.

WoodLife Prints Personalized Photo On Wood

My editor told me about these WoodLife Prints Personalized Photos On Wood. She got it for a friend and was delighted with the results. We also love that they are based in San Diego. This is one of the best holiday gifts under $50 because it’s so customizable.

BP Mock Neck Sweater

The BP Mock Neck Sweater is the softest, yummiest sweater I have ever owned. No itching or scratching. It is cropped so your giftee will want to pair it with high-waisted jeans and skirts. It also comes in a gorgeous burgundy and of course a black. This is one of the best gifts for women under $50 because it feels so luxurious.

Sizing Tip: It runs big so order a size down.

Treasure & Bond Plissé Scarf

The Treasure & Bond Plissé Scarf is one of my favorite scarves ever made. The colors are versatile, and it’s so soft and lightweight. Everyone can use this. If they don’t know how to use it, tell them to read my blog post How To Wear A Shawl.