12 gifts under $10 I’d like to see under my tree
Posted
Dec 14 2007, 10:51 AM
by
Karen Datko
Rating:
This post is from Trent Hamm at partner blog The Simple Dollar.
When I started working on this article, I made a list of holiday gifts under $10 to give at family gift exchanges and as stocking stuffers. Then I realized that I actually would not like most of the stuff. If I wouldn't like these frugal gifts, why would I ever recommend them to you?
I threw out the list and started over.
This time, not only did the gift have to be under $10 to make the list, it had to be one I would like to receive. That being said, here are 12 great frugal gifts I'd love to see under my tree:
High-quality basic tools. My toolbox is filled with $1 screwdrivers, most of which are stripped to some degree. A good, top-quality screwdriver designed to last for years and years is a wonderful gift for a handyman -- and can be easily found under $10.
Homemade powdered mixes. I mentioned my hot chocolate powdered mix a few days ago, but I like any homemade mixes, like spice mixes and popcorn flavoring mixes. Just mix it up and put it in a jar, and I'll like it.
A memory stick full of memories. If you have a USB memory stick sitting around, load it up with pictures, videos and song files that elicit fond memories of the relationship you have with that person.
A paperback novel that the giver really loves. Think of a book you've read that had a big impact on you. See if it's available in paperback. Even better, put a note inside the front cover that explains why you love the book and why you want to share it.
A "coupon" for a big favor. When my wife and I recently had a baby shower, someone gave us a coupon for a night of baby-sitting for both of our kids. It was the best gift we received, and it cost only a piece of paper. This is a great gift for parents, especially those with multiple young children; it's hard for them to find time together.
A single pair of very warm, high-quality socks. I get a pair or two every year, and they're among my favorite gifts. Nothing is nicer than warm feet, especially if you live where the winters are very cold.
A container of homemade cookies. The container doesn't have to be special -- a large GladWare container will do. But it should be filled with the best homemade cookies you can turn out.
A day of volunteering. This can be a great gift for environmentally and socially minded folks. Agree to spend a Saturday volunteering for the local charity of their choice. Better yet, agree to go with them on a volunteer outing, or offer to watch their children so they can participate.
An old-fashioned safety razor. This may sound completely crazy, but you can find a beautiful one for far less than $10 if you ask around at resale shops. Then package it up with some razor blades. I am a big fan of shaving the old-fashioned way with a safety razor. If you know a young man who is shaving with disposables, give this gift and see what happens.
Quality pens. I have a burning, undying hatred for cheap pens, but the cost difference between a cheap Bic and a decent pen often makes me stick with the cheap ones. Because of that, I love getting a great pen as a gift, one of the low-end types you buy at a real pen store, not in the office supply section at Target. You can get a very nice pen for general use for right around that $10 sweet spot.
A picture frame. Gift a simple, elegant picture frame. People often feel obligated to put a photograph in the frame. Don't. If you want to give pictures with the frame, include several in an envelope and tell the recipient to choose one of those or any other photo.
A heartfelt, handwritten letter or note. This one seems absolutely bonkers to some, but it is often the best gift you can give, especially to someone estranged. Tell the person how you feel about him or her, and if the relationship is strained, put to rest any bad feelings you have. It will leave you feeling much better and will often move the other person to tears.
Other articles of interest at The Simple Dollar:
"How to celebrate Christmas without money"
"Christmas is over: Now is the time to capitalize"
"Christmas morning reflections"
