The 11 Best Under-$20 Gifts of 2023

No matter who you're shopping for, or the occasion, finding the perfect gift can be a difficult task. Especially if you're looking for a thoughtful yet budget-friendly option that the lucky recipient will appreciate.

From puzzles to bud vases and beyond, there are tons of options out there that are under $20 yet still make for great gifts. While you shop, just be sure to consider each gift's style, size, and functionality to ensure you're finding the perfect pick.

Here, the best gifts under $20.

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look for
Why Trust MyDomaine

Honeycomb Studio/Etsy

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For a gift that's sure to brighten someone's day, consider a decorative piece like Honeycomb Studio's Coral + Gold Bud Vase. The 3.5-inch ceramic vessel features a peachy glaze and handpainted gold leaf finish, resulting in a piece that's eye-catching yet not too dramatic. In addition to acting as a traditional vase for flowers, the vase is a gorgeous piece of décor on its own, and can even act as a diffuser if you add a few reeds. In other words, you'll get three gifts for the price of one.

Seeing Stars.

Courtesy of Free People

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Whether your loved one reads their horoscope every day or is just getting into astrology, they're sure to appreciate a copy of "Seeing Stars: Harness the Power of the Zodiac." The book is sold individually for each sign and offers a deep dive into their inner workings.

From communication styles to career advice, the 112-page book is a go-to guide for all things sun, moon, and stars. Plus, each hardcover book has a vibrant cover that can double as a decorative accent on a coffee table or shelf.

Coming Soon New York

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There's nothing quite like the gift of quality time, and sometimes that comes in the form of game night. Whether it's for a round of Poker or Go Fish, the Fredericks & Mae Playing Cards are the perfect way to kickstart the evening.

The set includes 52 playing cards that come together to form a rainbow spectrum. Though they're sure to brighten up any gaming situation, they also come with a sturdy black box that makes it easy to transport and store—and hard to lose.

Soap Distillery

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Know someone who's a snob when it comes to liquor? Gift them a bar of Soap Distillery's alcohol-inspired soap. Available in a range of scents including tequila, gin, and limoncello, this soap has a high olive oil content, making it gentle enough to use all over the body. It's free from phthalates, artificial detergents, and other not-so-great ingredients, and is so good you'll probably want to snag one for yourself too.

Villeroy & Boch Artesano Hot Beverage Small Cup Pair

Macy's

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Clear coffee mugs add a fun twist to your morning coffee, and this set of two is one of the most affordable options out there. Made of sturdy and heat-resistant borosilicate glass, these glasses are perfect for the coffee lover in your life who's also a staunch minimalist. Pair with a gift card to their favorite coffee shop and you've got a gift they'll be extra grateful for.

Petite Retro Flower Shaped Candle.

Madewell

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Candles make for great gifts, especially when they have a decorative component as well. Designs like Yui Brooklyn's Petite Retro Flower Shaped Candle are great options as they offer a subtle floral scent yet can still be a piece of décor when it's not lit. Plus, you don't have to worry about getting the scent right, as they're unscented.

This candle has a retro flower silhouette that will bring a soft touch to any space. The budget-friendly candle sits pretty on its own but would pair well with a few others if you want to create a mini flower garden on your windowsill.

Seed Poppers.

Courtesy of Modern Sprout

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If you're shopping for the plant parent in your life, be sure to consider Modern Sprout's Seed Popper Kit. Whether they're a gardening pro or just getting started, the budget-friendly set includes all of the essentials for a successful harvest at home.

The set is offered in three themes—Cocktail, Wellness, and Wildflower—each of which includes four seed balls, recyclable kraft paper, and how-to instructions. Inspired by traditional English crackers, the popper packs make for great stocking stuffers as well.

Areaware

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If you want to give the gift of a screen-free activity, puzzles are a great way to go. Especially if it's Areaware's Little Puzzle Thing, which is mini in size and can be completed in 20 minutes or less. Each puzzle includes over 70 pieces that come together to form a colorful 8 x 8-inch party-themed design—there's a disco ball, birthday candle, and even an hors d'oeuvre spread. Low stress and fun, this is a great activity to do during their next night in.

Floral Heart Enamel Keychain.

Courtesy of Rifle Paper Co.

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If you're looking for a small yet practical gift, a keychain is certainly worth considering. Whether you're attending a housewarming party or want to celebrate your best friend getting a new car, options like Rifle Paper Co.'s Floral Heart Enamel Keychain are sure to be appreciated. This brass keychain has a 1-inch keyring and polished enamel with a glossy finish and is printed with a multicolor floral motif that'll be easy to find in a handbag.

Zodiac Trinket Box.

Urban Outfitters

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Any astrological sign is sure to appreciate this Zodiac Trink Box from Urban Outfitters. The ceramic design features a star pattern on the lid, while the inside lists traditional qualities about whichever specific sign you purchase. Plus, it comes in a giftable box that's perfect for any occasion.

Candle Accessory Set.

Courtesy of Amazon

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The candle-obsessed person in your life will be thankful for Calary's Candle Accessory Set. The three-piece kit comes with all of the essentials to keep their favorite home fragrances in good shape and burning strong, including a candle snuffer, wick trimmer, and wick dipper, in either champagne gold or rose gold. No matter the finish, they can style the trio in their home on a tray alongside their favorite candle as a decorative element between uses.

What to Look For in a Gift Under $20

Personalization

Just because something is under $20 doesn't mean it's a throwaway gift. While choosing a budget gift, try to add a personal touch that'll make the gift even more special. From zodiac signs to a favorite color, there are always little ways to ensure the gift is personalized in a way that the recipient will appreciate.

Size

While you're shopping for a budget-friendly gift, be sure to consider the size of the item. If the gift is for a gift exchange at work or is meant to be a stocking stuffer, you'll want to make sure the item is small enough to fit on someone's desk or inside a stocking.

Functionality

Functionality is a key component to consider when shopping for any gift, so be sure to think about the recipient's interests and design style. For example, if someone is particular about their home fragrances, be mindful of choosing candles or other scented items. With that in mind, you'll be able to find thoughtful gifts they'll actually be able to use in their home.

Why Trust MyDomaine?

Jamie Weissman is the associate commerce editor at MyDomaine and joined the team in October 2020. From furniture to decorative accents, she's written about a variety of home products and knows what makes a product great. To make this list, she considered each pick's size, style, and functionality.