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I’ll say it—spending quality time with family and friends during the holidays is way more important than just buying presents for the sake of it. Of course, I love gift-giving (I am a shopping writer, after all!), but I’m super intentional about what I buy. The goal? Thoughtful gifts that won’t break the bank. It’s all about being strategic—no unnecessary splurging here.
Now, don’t get me wrong, quirky gifts are a blast for White Elephant parties or for those random coworkers you don’t know that well, but when it comes to the people who matter most? I’m on a mission to find meaningful gifts they’ll actually use. This year, I’ve set a $25 per person budget, and I’ve been on the hunt for practical, fun, and budget-friendly finds that still feel special.
Even though scrolling through Amazon is literally part of my day job (don’t ask how many hours I’ve spent doing this!), I was surprised by just how many amazing gifts I found under $25. Some are right at the $25 mark, ready to be gifted solo, while others are less and perfect for combo gifting. From cozy socks to sleek mug warmers, here’s what’s making the cut—and prices start as low as $8. Shop my faves below!