Skip to content

Top Navigation

Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
  • Trip Inspiration
  • Plan Your Trip
  • World's Best
  • Destination of the Year
  • A-List Travel Advisors
  • Cruises
  • Travel Tips
  • News
  • Food + Drink
  • Travel Accessories
  • Check-In

Profile Menu

Your Profile

Your Profile

  • Join Now
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Help
  • Logout
Login
Subscribe
Pin FB

Explore Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
  • Explore

    Explore

    • World's Best

      The greatest islands, cities, hotels, cruise lines, airports, and more — as voted by you. Read More Next
    • The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2020

      Whether you're traveling solo or planning a family vacation, here are the 50 best places to visit in 2020. Read More Next
    • Let's Go Together Podcast

      Start listening to T+L's brand new podcast, Let's Go Together! Hosted by Kellee Edwards. Read More Next
  • Trip Inspiration

    Trip Inspiration

    • Trip Ideas
    • Weekend Getaways
    • Spring Travel
    • Summer Travel
    • Fall Travel
    • Winter Travel
    • Solo Travel
    • Romantic Getaways
    • Luxury Travel
    • Beach Vacations
    • Adventure Travel
    • Road Trips
    • Family Travel
    • National Parks
    • Holiday Travel
    • Travel Photography
    • Photo of the Day
    • Culture and Design
  • Plan Your Trip

    Plan Your Trip

    • Travel Guides
    • Flight Deals
    • Travel Deals
    • Ways to Save
    • Hotels + Resorts
    • Attractions
    • Amusement Parks
    • Disney Vacations
    • Festivals + Events
    • Airlines + Airports
    • Buses + Trains
    • Ground Transportation
  • World's Best

    World's Best

    • Top Hotels
    • Top Cities
    • Top Islands
    • Domestic Airlines
    • International Airlines
    • Tours
    • Safaris
    • All World's Best
  • Destination of the Year
  • A-List Travel Advisors
  • Cruises

    Cruises

    • Find A Cruise
    • Caribbean Cruises
    • River Cruises
    • European Cruises
    • All-Inclusive Cruises
    • Family Cruises
    • Alaskan Cruises
    • Disney Cruises
    • See All Cruise Vacations
  • Travel Tips

    Travel Tips

    • Travel Trends
    • Packing Tips
    • Points + Miles
    • Budgeting + Currency
    • Customs + Immigration
    • Responsible Travel
    • Travel Etiquette
    • Travel Warnings
    • Weather
    • Mobile Apps
    • See All Travel Tips
  • News

    News

    • Wellness
    • Celebrity Travel
    • Animals
    • Jobs
    • Offbeat
    • See All News
  • Food + Drink

    Food + Drink

    • Restaurants
    • Wine
    • Beer
    • Cocktails + Spirits
    • Bars + Clubs
    • Celebrity Chefs
    • Cooking + Entertaining
    • Food Fairs + Festivals
    • World's Best Restaurants
    • See All Food + Drink
  • Travel Accessories

    Travel Accessories

    • Travel Bags
    • Shoes
    • Travel Tech
    • Shopping
    • Style
    • Gift Guides
    • See All Travel Accessories
  • Check-In

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Your Profile

Your Profile

  • Join Now
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Help
  • Logout
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. Home
  2. Gift Guides
  3. 25 Gifts That Look Much More Expensive Than They Are

25 Gifts That Look Much More Expensive Than They Are

By Travel + Leisure Staff
Updated November 26, 2020
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin
Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

Whether you're in need of a birthday gift or something sweet to celebrate an upcoming holiday, our editors are here help you (and your paycheck) find a gift that's in your price range without sacrificing looks or luxury.

Below, you’ll find our guide to gifts that look like they cost an arm and a leg — but won’t break the bank. We’ve thought of all kinds of knick-knacks for your globetrotting family and friends, like stylish travel accessories (think luxe silk eye masks), on-the-go beauty products (hello, Drunk Elephant Head-to-Toe kit!), elegant stationery, cozy scarves, and much more. No matter the cost, they will love unwrapping these items.

Related: 25 Travel Gift Ideas Under $25

This year, Travel + Leisure is offering its most comprehensive gift guide ever. The goal? To make sure you can find the perfect present for everyone on your list, from the coffee connoisseurs to the royal family superfans. Below, our picks for thoughtful presents that won’t empty your wallet.

Start Slideshow

1 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Modern Rustic Airplant Holder with Airplants

Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

Perfect for friends or family who inhabit small space. These hanging plants are lovely to look at, and come at a fraction of the price of traditional standing plants.

To buy: holder, amazon.com, from $9; plants, amazon.com, $14

1 of 25

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

City Map Glass

Credit: Courtesy of Uncommon Goods

Drinking glasses can be expensive, but this intricate city map glass transcends typical cocktail glasses in style and creativity, while being sold at a very reasonable price. Made in the U.S. and hand-etched in New Hampshire, you can get a pair of these featuring your favorite city streets for just over $30.

To buy: uncommongoods.com, $16

2 of 25

3 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Giorgio Armani Travel Perfume

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

This gift is the perfect combination of feminine sophistication and affordability — not to mention that it’s totally ideal for travel.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $29

3 of 25

Advertisement

4 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Eco Lunchbox

Credit: Courtesy of Anthropologie

This set of three stackable, stainless steel lunch boxes are perfect for that person who is always on the go. Free of harmful toxins, BPAs, and all that icky stuff, these are ideal for packing your own meal for a road trip or a transatlantic flight.

To buy: anthropologie.com, $36

4 of 25

5 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Vietnamese Coffee Portable Pour Overs

Credit: Courtesy of Uncommon Goods

Two words. Portable. Coffee. This pack of five rich single-serve Vietnamese coffee packets and five pouches of sweetened condensed milk from sunny California makes coffee on-the-go easy, affordable, and downright fun.

To buy: uncommongoods.com, $15

5 of 25

6 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Mini Mac Lipstick

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

Everyone needs more lipstick, all the time. This little lip shade from Mac doesn’t sacrifice quality for size — the mini stick packs a real punch, and certainly won’t do much damage to your wallet.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $12

6 of 25

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Herschel Supply Co. Canvas Tote

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

It’s hard to find a sturdy, stylish, and well-made tote at a reasonable price. The Mica Canvas Tote from Herschel Supply Co. is just that. The durable canvas tote features comfortable shoulder straps, a zippered closure, and an internal smartphone pocket.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $50

7 of 25

8 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Rifle Paper Co. Coin Pouch

Credit: Courtesy of Anthropologie

This travel-themed coin pouch is a must-have for your carry-on bag.

To buy: anthropologie.com, $24

8 of 25

9 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Personalized Faux Leather Pouch

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

This faux leather pouch from Cathy's Concepts looks incredibly luxurious, especially with a gold monogram, but it's still a reasonably-priced gift at just over $40.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $41

9 of 25

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Bangle Set

Credit: Courtesy of Baublebar

This set of two simple, stackable bangles is the perfect piece for dressing up a cozy travel outfit.

To buy: baublebar.com, $44

10 of 25

11 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Banana Republic Oversized Color-block Fuzzy Scarf

Credit: Courtesy of Banana Republic

This cozy printed scarf from Banana Republic adds the perfect sophisticated pop of color to an outfit in any season.

To buy: bananarepublic.com, $58

11 of 25

12 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Woven Surya Home Wall Hanging

This gorgeous woven wall hanging will bring the hygge vibes of Scandinavia to any room.

To buy: bloomingdales.com, $30 (originally $45)

12 of 25

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

ban.do Laptop Sleeve

Credit: Courtesy of ban.do

Who wouldn't want this colorful floral laptop sleeve to transport their tech in style?

To buy: bando.com, $30

13 of 25

14 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Brooklinen Silk Eye Mask

Credit: Courtesy of Brookline

A silk eye mask will make you feel way more luxurious, whether you're spending the night in a fancy hotel or at home.

To buy: brooklinen.com, $24 (originally $29)

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week. 

14 of 25

15 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Parker Clay Layla Satchel

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

Ethically made in Ethopia, this roomy crossbody features buttery-soft full-grain leather that’s durable and looks even better with wear.

To buy: parkerclay.com, $148

15 of 25

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Parks Candle: Cactus Flower & Fern

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

The soothing scent of Paddywax’s clean-burning soy candle is meant to evoke the Grand Canyon. Bonus: the makers will donate a portion of sales to the National Parks Foundation and the ceramic vessel can be used as a planter once the wax is spent.

To buy: upwest.com, $30

16 of 25

17 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Lululemon Yoga Kit

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

Your favorite yogi (or anyone else who’s embraced the workout-from-wherever life) will appreciate the thoughtfulness of this all-in-one set, which includes a mat, block, and towel.

To buy: Lululemon.com, $98

17 of 25

18 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Drunk Elephant The Littles Head to Toe

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

This collection gathers miniature versions of the cult-favorite brand’s newest launches: hair and body products.

To buy: sephora.com, $49

18 of 25

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

19 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Softest French Terry Puff Sleeve Pullover

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

Subtly puffed shoulders elevate the look of this ultra-cozy sweatshirt, which works just as well for a work-from-home look as it does for a plane outfit.

To buy: summersalt.com, $75

19 of 25

20 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Italic Accessories and Apparel

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

It’s worth signing up for this membership site, especially if you have a lot of people to buy gifts for. For $120 a year, you get access to stylish wardrobe staples, luxe accessories, and even quality cookware at cost instead of paying a retail markup. (Many of the goods are made by the same manufacturers used by iconic brands like Prada and Tumi.) This means means scoring deals like a calfskin camera-style bag for $115 (vs. $160), a cashmere coat for $225 (vs. $595), or a sleek duffle — made by the same manufacturer Tumi uses — for $200 (vs. $395).

To buy: italic.com

20 of 25

21 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Draper James Crystal Star Pendant

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

Unlike a lot of holiday bling, this delicate celestial necklace doesn’t feel overtly wintry — making it a slam-dunk gift for the loved one who loves a subtle sparkle year-round. 

To buy: draperjames.com, $68

21 of 25

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

22 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Device Portable Utensil Set

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

Step up your eco-conscious friend’s game with this eight-piece kit, which corrals silverware (including chopsticks!) and two metal straws into a slim, carry-anywhere case. 

To buy: amazon.com, $10

22 of 25

23 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Apple Home Pod Mini

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

Despite its diminutive size — just over 3-inches tall — Apple’s newest smart speaker delivers impressive, room-filling sound.

To buy: apple.com, $99

23 of 25

24 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Desmond & Dempsey Silk Eye Mask

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

Whether you’re hitting the skies or hunkering down at home, a luxe, light-blocking eye mask is one of those flourishes that makes going to sleep an occasion. Add a monogram for an extra flourish.

To buy: desmondanddempsey.com, $74

24 of 25

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

25 of 25

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Sarah Flint x Crane Stationery

Credit: Courtesy of Respective Retailers

A handwritten note is even more special when it’s penned on a beautiful card. Shoe and accessories designer Sarah Flint (a Meghan Markle fave) took inspiration from her mom’s garden to create this collaboration with the legacy stationer.

To buy: sarahflint.com, $45  

25 of 25

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Travel + Leisure Staff

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook
Trending Videos
Advertisement
Skip slide summaries

Everything in This Slideshow

Advertisement

View All

1 of 25 Modern Rustic Airplant Holder with Airplants
2 of 25 City Map Glass
3 of 25 Giorgio Armani Travel Perfume
4 of 25 Eco Lunchbox
5 of 25 Vietnamese Coffee Portable Pour Overs
6 of 25 Mini Mac Lipstick
7 of 25 Herschel Supply Co. Canvas Tote
8 of 25 Rifle Paper Co. Coin Pouch
9 of 25 Personalized Faux Leather Pouch
10 of 25 Bangle Set
11 of 25 Banana Republic Oversized Color-block Fuzzy Scarf
12 of 25 Woven Surya Home Wall Hanging
13 of 25 ban.do Laptop Sleeve
14 of 25 Brooklinen Silk Eye Mask
15 of 25 Parker Clay Layla Satchel
16 of 25 Parks Candle: Cactus Flower & Fern
17 of 25 Lululemon Yoga Kit
18 of 25 Drunk Elephant The Littles Head to Toe
19 of 25 Softest French Terry Puff Sleeve Pullover
20 of 25 Italic Accessories and Apparel
21 of 25 Draper James Crystal Star Pendant
22 of 25 Device Portable Utensil Set
23 of 25 Apple Home Pod Mini
24 of 25 Desmond & Dempsey Silk Eye Mask
25 of 25 Sarah Flint x Crane Stationery

Share options

Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure

Magazines & More

Learn More

  • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Advertise
  • Content Licensing this link opens in a new tab
  • Sitemap
  • Travel Guide Sitemap

Connect

Follow Us
Subscribe to Our Newsletters
Other Meredith Sites

Other Meredith Sites

  • 4 Your Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Allrecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • All People Quilt this link opens in a new tab
  • Better Homes & Gardens this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Insights this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Surveys this link opens in a new tab
  • Cooking Light this link opens in a new tab
  • Daily Paws this link opens in a new tab
  • EatingWell this link opens in a new tab
  • Eat This, Not That this link opens in a new tab
  • Entertainment Weekly this link opens in a new tab
  • Food & Wine this link opens in a new tab
  • Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Hello Giggles this link opens in a new tab
  • Instyle this link opens in a new tab
  • Martha Stewart this link opens in a new tab
  • Midwest Living this link opens in a new tab
  • More this link opens in a new tab
  • MyRecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • MyWedding this link opens in a new tab
  • My Food and Family this link opens in a new tab
  • MyLife this link opens in a new tab
  • Parenting this link opens in a new tab
  • Parents this link opens in a new tab
  • People this link opens in a new tab
  • People en Español this link opens in a new tab
  • Rachael Ray Magazine this link opens in a new tab
  • Real Simple this link opens in a new tab
  • Ser Padres this link opens in a new tab
  • Shape this link opens in a new tab
  • Siempre Mujer this link opens in a new tab
  • Southern Living this link opens in a new tab
  • SwearBy this link opens in a new tab
Travel + Leisure is part of the Travel + Leisure Group. Copyright 2021 Meredith Corporation. Travel + Leisure is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation Travel + Leisure Group All Rights Reserved, registered in the United States and other countries. Travel + Leisure may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
© Copyright . All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.travelandleisure.com

View image

25 Gifts That Look Much More Expensive Than They Are
this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.