The Best Cheap (and Actually Useful) Gift Ideas

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We get it, holiday gift shopping is hard. Not only is it tough to find a good gift that won’t break the bank (especially when you’re shopping for a lot of people), it can also be nearly impossible to find a thoughtful gift on a budget. Key word: nearly.

Yes, you heard it here first: Affordable and useful gifts do exist — and we’ve gathered them into this nifty gift guide so that you won’t have to go broke trying to spoil your loved ones or resign to gifting them a lame pair of clearance section novelty socks again (it’s OK, it happens).

From cool tech accessories they’ll use daily to a journal that’ll challenge them to be more introspective to a best-selling cookbook that’s sure to inspire, you can find our round-up of affordable gifts they’ll actually use, below. Oh, and did we mention? Everything is under $50.

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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.

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Kitsch Rituals Satin Eye Mask

Courtesy of Urban Outfitters

This silky satin sleep mask is perfect for the beauty fanatic wanting to add a bit of luxury to their nighttime ritual.

To buy: urbanoutfitters.com, $14

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The Five Minute Journal

Courtesy of Amazon

A cult-favorite, this best-selling gratitude journal aims to improve mental well-being by simply asking you to record the highlights of your day in just five minutes or less.

To buy: amazon.com, $23

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Tile Sport

Courtesy of Urban Outfitters

For the person on your list who's always losing things. Just attach this waterproof device to keys, luggage, laptops, etc. and relax, knowing that those items will be trackable via the Tile Sport phone app.

To buy: urbanoutfitters.com, $35

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Peepers Blue Light-blocking Glasses

Courtesy of Amazon

These prescription-ready glasses feature lenses with blue-blocking technology to protect your eyes from the harmful light of digital screens. Plus, they're super-chic.

To buy: amazon.com, $24

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Urban Outfitters Perfect Selfie Ring Light and Lens

Courtesy of Urban Outffiters

For the selfie-enthusiast, an alternative to the light-up LuMee phone case that they can attach and detach to their phone anytime.

To buy: urbanoutfitters.com, $15

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Amazon Echo Dot 3rd Gen Smart Speaker with Alexa Voice Control

Courtesy of Amazon

Amazon's most popular voice-controlled speaker is back with an improved look and sound. Plus, it's $20 off right now.

To buy: amazon.com, $30 (originally $50)

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Nordstrom at Home Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw

Courtesy of Nordstrom

This super-cozy plush blanket looks more much expensive than it actually is.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $29 (originally $40)

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Beacoo Apple Watch, AirPods, and iPhone Charging Dock

Courtesy of Amazon

This thing can do it all. Perfect for charging all three Apple essentials in one place without having to deal with all those messy cords.

To buy: amazon.com, $25

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Recess Travel Kit

Courtesy of Recess

Recess' clever wipes are TSA-approved and, honestly, life savers for simple post–red eye hygiene. This kit includes five aluminum-free deodorant wipes, five sanitizing wipes, and five moisturizing and soothing aloe wipes that are safe for all skin types.

To buy: myrecess.com, $26

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Lexon Mino Bluetooth Speaker

Courtesy of Nordstrom

A shiny, little Bluetooth speaker that's as powerful as it is pretty.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $30

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BP. 'Giaa' Faux Fur Slipper

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Encourage more self-care nights with this pair of fluffy slippers.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $30

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Eddie Bauer Handwarmer and 5200mAH Power Bank

Courtesy of Eddie Bauer

Outfit your favorite adventurer with something clever like this handwarmer/power bank duo. It even has three temperature settings.

To buy: eddiebauer.com, $50

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'Cravings: Hungry for More' Cookbook by Chrissy Teigen

Courtesy of Amazon

Chrissy Teigen's back with yet another best-selling cookbook. And you'll have to admit: How could you not be tempted to try out at least one recipe from this book?

To buy: amazon.com, $14

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Anthropologie Printed Bags, Set of Three

Courtesy of Anthropologie

These gorgeous bags are perfect for the traveler on your list. Use them for storing tech chargers, undergarments, or anything else one may pack with them on a trip.

To buy: anthropologie.com, $16

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Retablo Candles

Courtesy of Anthropologie

This is more than just a candle, mind you. Embedded into the wax is a brass milagro charm (that you can retrieve after the candle is finished, of course) with an inspirational message.

To buy: freepeople.com, $28

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BP. Contrast Lining Faux Leather Tote

Courtesy of Nordstrom

A faux leather tote that's sure to replace their current old and tired go-to bag.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $49

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16 Affordable Gifts That Are Actually Useful