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The 75 dopest gifts under $30 you never knew existed

These under-$30 finds make for the ultimate gifts.

by Shelby Ying Hyde
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
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Landing on the perfect gift for your loved ones on birthdays or holidays is no easy feat. However, the key is finding something that will make their lives not only easier but more enjoyable, too, and nine times out of 10 it’s something they never knew that they needed — until now. If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve rounded up a list of some of the dopest gifts on the market, all of which are under $30 and are a foolproof way to ensure you really knock it out of the park, every time.

01This door chime that’s inspired by a Japanese shopkeeper bell

Instead of the more digitized options on the market, consider adding this charming, Japanese-inspired door chime as an alternative. It comes in a cat, penguin, and crab design, all of which are equally adorable. To install it just attach it to a smooth surface using the sticky adhesive and magnetic back.

02This 2-piece stoneware snail planter that’s beyond cute

Meant to be used indoor or outdoor, this two piece snail planter is a subtle yet cutesy way to store your favorite flowers. It’s made from ceramic stoneware with a neutral, reactive glaze that gives it a colorful effect. The included drainage hole allows for a proper water flow, allowing your plants roots to breathe.

03Hair ties that can also be worn as a stack of bracelets

Elevate a casual updo with these hair tie bracelets. Adorned with gold- and silver-tone accents, they also come in varying styles and shades to matching a wide variety of hair colors. Leave them stacked on your wrists when not in use and they’ll look like subtle jewelry.

04Self-steaming eye masks for peak relaxation

Whether you’re traveling or just need a quick pick me up after work, these steaming eye masks are a self-care staple. They come with 16 in a pack, each of which is individually wrapped for ease of carry while you’re on the go. To use them just unwrap and place them on your eyes and watch them heat up to rehydrate and relieve your eyes.

05A hand-warmer mug that looks like it’s fresh out the kiln

Between the colorful glaze and intentional design, this hand-warmer mug has a distinct artisanal feel. It’s made from a high-quality porcelain and comes in seven different colors, including a striking blue shade with hints of violet. What’s even better is it’s fridge, dishwasher, microwave and, even, oven safe — up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

06This rechargeable keychain flashlight that’s super small for ease of carry

Clip this rechargeable keychain flashlight to your bag and belt loops for easy access. It’s tiny, which means you don’t have to worry about it weighing you down. Plus, it comes with a built-in USB port for charging on the go.

07Mini salt & pepper shakers that you can take with you wherever you go

Keep your food seasoned wit these mini travel salt and pepper shakers. The two-in-one design is made from hard plastic with two different slots. Its secure fastening lets you control just how much is dispensed while ensuring it doesn’t spill when not in use.

08Rechargeable hand warmers with adjustable wrist straps

Stay toasty with these rechargeable hand warmers. They have a futuristic, egg design that comes complete with wrist straps that you can tighten and loosen as you see fit. Choose from five different colors on offer. These can also be adjusted to different heat levels, so you can customize your comfort.

09This marble balancing game for a fun white elephant gift

If you’re in the market for a fun game you can play with the whole family and holiday gatherings, this WobbleBall is a great option. The only rule of the game is to balance marbles on a tilted base by taking turns stacking them one at a time and whoever makes them all come crashing down loses. You can play with up to four players at a time.

10This beanie that comes with an LED headlight

Whether you’re going on an early morning walk or grilling when the sun goes down, this headlight beanie is a real game-changer for anyone that needs to go hands free. It has a cozy, knitted design that’s warm but won’t make you overheat on more active excursions. The light is rechargeable, just plug in the included USB cord.

11Genius pill pouches that are perfect for traveling

Keeping your medications and supplements organized when you travel is easy with these tiny pill pouches. Plastic with a easy seal, they’re available in several different bulk options, allowing you to divvy them up day by day. The best part are the frosted labels on the outside that will let you identify what’s what.

12This sunflower night-light that’s surprisingly lifelike

Ditch the outdated plug in for this cutesy sunflower night-light. Designed to look almost exactly like the real thing, it has a white plastic base that resembles a vase and 3D-printed silicone petals that light up using adaptive technology. It has three dimmable lighting features for you to choose from.

13An adorable armrest that doubles as decor

If you spend a lot of time at your computer, additional support is an absolute must and this adorable armrest is a great choice. They’re made a squishy foam material with a curved arch that will fit your wrist perfectly. It comes in a wide range of animal motifs, including a cat, a pig, and even a panda bear.

14A desktop dry-erase board to keep your day on track

If you’re not a sticky note person but like to write down your tasks to stay organized, this desktop dry-erase board is a great alternative. It’s about the size of a small tablet and has a stand that let’s you prop it up for visibility. Use the included markers and eraser to switch out your to-do list.

15A wax warmer with the coziest vibes

Give the gift of coziness with this wax warmer. Unlike other wax warmers and candle warmers, this one has a faux fireplace on the bottom to add to the hygge vibes. It can be set to a two-, four-, or eight-hour timer, and the wax tray on top is removable for easy cleaning.

16This mini incense holder that can also be used for tea candles, sage, & more

If you need someplace to burn your incense cones, this ceramic holder is a cheeky option. Designed in the shape of a house or kiln oven, the opening at the front works with everything from palo santo and sage to tea light candles, when decorating for holidays.

17A collapsible fidget toy designed for both adults & kids

This collapsible fidget toy is a great way to keep your hands preoccupied and your mind calm. It has a stacked, PopSocket design that is suitable for all ages. “The pops aren’t as loud as you think it is,” one fan said in their review. “And it’s fused together, so it won’t come apart.”

18A keychain prybar that’s sure to come in handy

This small but mighty pry-bar keychain is a tool you never knew you needed in your arsenal. Milled from solid stainless steel, it has an opening at the top for attaching a lanyard. It can be used for everything from scraping off an unwanted label, to prying a staple, to turning a screw.

19Freezable wine cups for keeping your drinks from reaching room temperature

These freezable wine cups are a great way to keep your beverage cold, even while you’re chatting and enjoying dinner. All you have to do is pop them in the freezer ahead of hosting, bringing them out when it’s time to serve. Each pack comes in a set of two.

20This fully functional tablet stand has a 2-in-1 design

Prop up your electronics with this two-in-one tablet stand. Aside from sitting on your desks or tables, it can also be mounted to smooth surfaces in your kitchen for entertainment. Most of the reviews highlight how easy it is move it around to different spaces in your home.

21A thermal Bluetooth printer that creates custom stickers

This clever wireless printer connects to a smartphone app to allow them to turn photos, templates, QR codes, and more into stickers. It’s great for journaling, of course, but this printer is also handy for organizing, crafting, and labeling because the app comes loaded with templates and more. It uses thermal technology to print, so no ink is required, and each printer comes with 10 rolls of paper.

22Drill bit extensions are great for DIY projects

If you’re looking for a gift for the handy person in your life, these drill bit extensions are probably right up their alley. Flexible and easy to attach, they’re meant to make your renovations or personal projects much less taxing, by allowing you to get into tight spaces that your drill might not otherwise fit.

23Activity dice to help boost your mood during the week

These activity dice are a great way to get your body moving, while increasing your mood in the process. Fun and easy to use, each set comes with 10 pieces that each have a different activity on it, from yoga or pilates, to a bubble bath, to going to a museum. Each activity is designed to be restorative and boost your mood.

24This drawstring cosmetic case that’s a cat lover’s dream

This drawstring cosmetic pouch is perfect for the cat lover in your inner circle. It has a cute feline design, that comes in four different color options to resemble your favorite breeds. The inside is surprisingly spacious, to fit all of your brushes and products comfortably.

25Adorable ceramic measuring spoons in a matching pot holder

Everday items deserve to be cute, too, and this measuring spoon set proves just that. This ceramic pot is secretly a holder for four measuring spoons that look like adorable posies. The spoons come in essential sizes — 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon — so they truly can use these for all cooking and baking. If flowers aren’t your giftee’s thing, this set also has a cacti variation.

26Metal plant supports that are so handy for large greenery

Great for the gardener in your life, these plant supports help to guide monstera and other large plants into proper growth while keeping the roots upright. “Excellent solution for gathering steams and helping train growth. Wish I found this sooner,” one happy reviewer simply put it. Each one in this five-pack has a sturdy metal body, and they come in four colors to blend into the garden.

27A scratch-off world (& U.S.) map for the traveler in your life

Frequent travelers will love these scratch-off world maps to help them keep track of all the places they’ve visited. With more than 13,000 Amazon reviews and a glowing rating, it has a foiled coating that reveals a colorful poster of one’s travels. “I loved that fact that this product comes with a plastic scratch off tool which is extremely useful and a set of stickers that can be used to denote what exactly you loved about a particular place,” a reviewer shared.

28A sleep mask with Bluetooth capabilities & a cult following

Step into the future with this Bluetooth sleep mask. With a standard, eye-covering design, it has more than 25,000 Amazon reviews, thanks to the wireless headset speakers inside that allows you to enjoy free music while you drift into your REM. “This mask keeps all the light out,” one fan shared, before adding just how comfortable it is.

29Faux shearling slippers with memory foam for maximum comfort

These cozy faux shearling slippers are designed to keep your feet warm throughout the cold weather months. Made with cushioned, memory foam for comfort, they feel like walking on a cloud. Choose from the nine different colors and inclusive size options on offer.

  • Available colors: 9
  • Available sizes: 5.5 — 11.5/12

30This cute infuser makes tea time much more enjoyable

Perfect for tea enthusiasts, this cute infuser is fun and functional. To use it, just screw off the top and add your favorite loose leaf blend inside before placing it in a glass of water. It comes in a bunch of different designs, including tulips, dinosaurs, and a cat.

31Metallic marker pens for all of your crafts & DIY projects

These metallic marker pens are a great way to level up your stationary, crafting, or note-taking game without spending a bunch of money. Each pack comes with 12 different colors, all of which have a shimmery finish. They can be used on everything from wine glasses, scrapbooking crafts, rock painting and so much more.

32Food-shaped bandages that are practical yet fun

These pickle-shaped bandages are a fantastic stocking stuffer and will make everyday scrapes and accidents something to smile about. Each bandage in this 24-pack is flexible and latex-free, and they have strong adhesive to stay put. If pickles aren’t their go-to snack, these come in other fun foodie designs like bacon, beer, and gummy bears.

33A 10-pack of colorful pens with erasable ink

These gel ink pens are great for everyday notetaking, journaling, and beyond, and each pen in this 10-pack is a different color, which makes them particularly good for keeping thoughts in order. Unlike other gel ink pens, these are erasable, and reviewers noted that they erase cleanly. These pens come with 10 refills of ink, as well, so this is a long-lasting stationary set.

34Ornate crystal wind chimes that are handmade

These crystal wind chimes are defined by the iridescent, sun-catching adornments that glisten when they catch the light. Made by hand, the tiered, chandelier silhouette can be hung both indoor and outdoor. The soft sound is just icing on the cake.

35This plant propagation station that’s made from glass & all-natural wood

Preserve the clippings from your favorite plants with this simple but sturdy propagation station. Each set comes with four glass tubes and a pine wood base that adds to the rustic, all-natural appeal. It’s an aesthetically-pleasing but functional way to keep your sprouts on display.

36A color-changing projector light that is so aesthetic

This projector light is in a clever cube shape; it not only looks aesthetic but it allows for the wavy light to emit on five sides all at once. It’s a soothing addition to any space, but it’s especially great for bedrooms. This light comes with a remote and can be changed between 16 colors and various brightness levels for a custom experience.

37A universal socket that really does it all

This universal socket has more than 10,000 Amazon reviews and a glowing, 4.5-star overall rating. Attach it to your drill, and you’ll find you suddenly have the capabilities of adjusting so many screws. One shopper was worried about the strength and durability of the tool, “with all the little moving parts, it would seem easy to break,” they shared. “Not so. It’s very strong!”

38A portable electric kettle that’s so sleek

Great for camping, traveling, or the office, this electric kettle is actually portable. It has an insulated stainless steel liner and an anti-scald shell to keep the hot contents inside hot and inside. It can hold 13.5 ounces and has four preset temperatures, which is perfect for a morning cup of coffee or tea.

39A pocket mirror with LED lights for quick touch-ups

Put this chic pocket mirror in your bag for reapplying your lip combo throughout the night. It’s trimmed with LED lights that illuminate when you open it and make it easy to see what you’re working with, even in the dark. Chose from one of the 10 different colors on offer.

40This tool bag that rolls up for maximum convenience

Now you can take your tools with you wherever you go, thanks to this khaki canvas-coated roll-up bag. “There are multiple pockets allowing you to arrange the tools as per usage,” a shopper shared. “The best part is the bag rolls up to a manageable size that is easy to carry.” With multiple handles, this can easily be hung anywhere in your garage and rolled up when you’re done using it.

41A bee-shaped toothpick dispenser made from black walnut wood

This bee-shaped dispenser is a great way to store your toothpicks while adding a little charm to your kitchen counter. It’s made from wood and can hold up to 150 pieces at a time. Place the cover on top when not in use. One reviewer writes, “Super cute toothpick holder. It's been a great quirky conversation starter.”

42Double hoop earrings that are hypoallergenic

Get the look of a stack without fully committing with these double hoop earrings. They’re made from a 14-karat gold-plated metal material in an easy-to-style design that you can wear everyday. They may look like you have multiple earrings in, but you only need one piercing to wear these. Choose from one of the many tones and styles on offer to create your ideal ear stack.

43A birdhouse with suctions cups that stick to smooth surfaces

Create the ultimate safe haven with this birdhouse feeder. Modern and HGTV-approved, it has suction cups on the back that works well on a number of smooth surfaces, including glass. The fact that it’s transparent, allowing you to see inside, is just the cherry on top.

44A warm white night-light that projects up & down

This night-light emits a warm white hue, which adds a cozy, practical light to any space. Uniquely, it projects the light up and down, which adds a luxe feel to your halls. It can be dimmed to three different levels and has a dusk-to-dawn sensor to preserve energy.

45A hand mold kit that makes a great gift for loved ones

This hand mold kit is a great way to commemorate a moment in time with your loved ones. It comes with nontoxic plaster, gloves, and other items you need to create the perfect the DIY casting at home. “This product blew me away with how much detail it captured,” one review said. “Every little line in the skin was shown.”

46A jewelry case box that’s designed with travel in mind

This roll-up jewelry case box is a great way to keep all your precious pieces safe and organized when you travel. It has a triple, tiered design with a soft velvet lining for added protection. What’s even better is that it folds into a compact shape that will fit comfortably in your suitcase.

47This bear claw back scratcher that’s worth the hype

Hit all the hard to reach spots with this bear claw back scratcher. It has a telescopic handle rod that extends more than 25 inches to reach all the way down to your lower back. The scratcher itself is made to resemble an animal paw, which is a fun design detail that makes for a conversation starter.

48A pretty celestial ring that doubles as a discreet fidget

This ring isn’t just a stylish piece of sparkly, moon-and-star themed jewelry, though it is definitely that. It also has a rotating element that makes it a great fidget toy. It’s a discreet way for anyone in your life to recenter, focus, or self-soothe.

  • Available sizes: 5 – 11
  • Available styles: 14

49Silicone cable ties with magnetic closures

These silicone cable ties make it super easy to streamline your cords and cables, and feature mangetic tabs that stick together to hold your cable ties closed. This set of eight comes in different colors, so you can color-code your tech accessories easily.

50A motion-sensor toilet bowl light that changes colors

This motion-sensor toilet light is a fun way to decorate your bathroom without fully committing to a particular style. It has 16 LED colors that you can choose between, or you can flip between them all with just a press of a button. “This motion sensor toilet light is exactly what I wanted. The colors are beautiful and vibrant. They light up immediately when I enter the bathroom, and are a big improvement over the harsh overhead light. Now I can use the restroom in the wee hours of the night without fully waking up. I highly recommend this seller,” one reviewer raved.

51An incense holder that keeps the ashes contained

This clear glass incense holder does such a good job of keeping the ashes from your incense sticks contained. Place your favorite incense inside the holder on the top, and it will burn down, dropping ash into the glass holder so you can easily clean it up afterward. The wood base detaches so it can be washed quickly after you’re done burning.

52This bat-shaped keychain holder for all of your keys

Your keys will all sit safely inside the wings of this bat, and it’s easy to unfasten when you need to access them. With a large keyring at the top that you can leave tucked in or tucked out, this 100% leather keychain is as cute as it is practical. It comes in three colors.

53A pocket for your essentials that sticks right to your laptop

This pouch sticks to the back of your laptop and features two pockets for holding a mouse, your earbuds, or your hard drive. The elastic band along the pockets holds your items securely, and the adhesive is sturdy but won’t damage your laptop.

54A planter that you build piece by piece

This planter also doubles as a fun activity. Comprised 80 curved puzzle pieces, this planter doesn’t take long to build, and can hold a tiny succulent, cactus, or other small plant. Spend the evening building your planter, and then you’ll have a conversation piece that doubles as a useful planter.

55An adorable ceramic planter with multiple pots

This two-tiered ceramic planter is so cute and super functional, as well. Perfect for succulents and other nursery bulbs, it’s made to look like it’s holding a smaller plant in its arms. Use it indoor or outdoors, it’s suitable for both.

56Stainless steel grip tongs that double as a spatula

This two-in-one stainless steel tool can really do it all. Spatula design aside, it also can be used as a pair of tongs. This versatility will be especially handy for grilling hotdogs and hamburgers at the same time. “We love this product for grilled fish!” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “It’s design makes it easy do flip food that is small or thinly cut or that is delicate. In fact, we like it so much we ordered another as a gift. The weight is nice and not flimsy.”

57A genius electric lighter that is completely rechargeable

Instead of fiddling around for one that’s disposable, consider opting for this electric lighter instead. Not only is it odor free, it’s fully rechargeable, which means you can just plug it in when you need a little extra juice. It’s especially great for candles, grills, and gas appliances.

58 This word game perfect for a night in friends

“If you enjoy word games, this one is a must,” said one review. “The rounds are short, so you can play several in one sitting, which keeps it fun and engaging without dragging on.” This tile game can be played with as few as two players, and is perfect for anyone who loves word-based games like Scrabble, but wants to try something a little different.

59A clip-on reading lamp that you can attach to anything

This clip-on reading lamp is the perfect gift for book lovers. It has three different brightness levels and can be mounted on shelves, bed frames, and more. The sleek, modern look and the USB-rechargeable design is just an added bonus.

60This see-through puzzle that’s the ultimate challenge

If you’re looking for a cool white elephant gift, this see-through puzzle is a really fun choice. Thanks to the transparent design, it’s nearly impossible to complete, which is part of the fun. Choose from the 100-, 200-, or 500-piece options.

61A sunglasses organizer with 8 different compartments

This sunglasses organizer is a great way to store your favorite pairs, while protecting them in the process. Each holder comes with eight compartments, keeping all of your glasses on full display for easy access. The soft lining ensures there’s no scratching on the lenses.

62A mustache-shaped wall hook that’s whimsical & fun

With two screws that can attach it to most walls and surfaces, this cast iron hook is such a fun, useful item for your closet or entryway. The two sides of the mustache can each hold an item, and the entire hook can hold up to 30 pounds. Give him a name — this hook will be the thing in your home that everyone asks about.

63Twinkling curtain lights with a fairytale feel

Instantly elevate your room with these twinkling curtain lights. Made in a cascading, waterfall design they have 18 strings of LED bulbs that extend to 10 feet. You can also use them outside as a backdrop for parties and weddings.

64A breathing tool that’s also a cute buddha

This meditation tool is super cute, but it also helps guide you through breathing exercises during your meditation. Turn it on and it will change between three colors when it is time to inhale, hold, and exhale. You can choose from a few different breathing exercises — and it even doubles as a night-light.

65Inflatable bags to protect your wine bottles in transit

These wine bottle bags are such a smart invention. This pack of 10 will have you ready whenever you need to bring a bottle of wine anywhere. Slip your bottle into the bag (after inflating it using the pump), and you can pack your wine bottle in a suitcase, throw it in a bag with other items you’re transporting, or put it in the back of your trunk without worrying about it breaking or spilling.

66Magnetic bookmarks that double as a pen holder

These magnetic bookmarks will securely hold your page in your book, and also feature a loop that can hold your pen or pencil. This set of three comes in three colors, so you can leave them scattered amongst all the books you’re reading, or give them out to friends and family.

67A USB-C charging block that looks like a little robot

This tiny robot is actually a USB-C charging block. With a 30-watt charging capability, this block does a fantastic job of charging your device quickly, and looks so cute set out when you’re using it, or even in your bag in between charges. It comes in three colors.

68A laser measuring tool that’ll make your measuring tape redundant

If you’re looking for something to add to your loved one’s toolbox, this laser measuring tool is just the thing. It easily switches between numerical units, features a digital OLED display, and has real-time data sync for accuracy. Plus, it’s small enough to store in your pocket in between projects.

69This magnetic wristband for carrying around screws & other metal parts

Not only is this magnetic wristband and easy way to keep track of those smaller assembly parts, it also makes a great gift. Designed to fit comfortably on your arm, this will especially come in handy when you need to go hands-free. To clean it, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth.

70Strawberry squishies that are so satisfying to squeeze

These strawberry squishies make for the perfect stress balls, and look super cute on your desk or your bedside table when you’re not using them. These come in a set in three different colors — pale pink, classic strawberry red, and a shimmery translucent pink.

71This mesh pocket insert to give your cooler more storage space

Perfect for the host or hostess in your life, this mesh pocket insert for your cooler offers additional space for snacks and other outdoor dining essentials. Just attach it to the inside lid for dry storage. It’s especially great for coolers you’re taking with you on the go, since the items inside will stay secure and won’t slide around.

72Plant support clips for propping up growing branches

These plant support clips are an easy way to promote the health of your plant’s stems. Simply attach them to the respective branches to keep them propped up out of harm’s way. Each set comes with a pack of 72 pieces, so you’ll have plenty to outfit your entire plant collection.

73Towel clips for clothesline drying

Heavy-duty and easy to use, these towel clips make hang drying everything from linens to clothing a breeze. They’re made from a heavy-duty plastic material to ensure they last for years to come. They each have eight in each pack, all of which have the pin clip and hanger design. You’ll find so many uses for these clips.

74Magnetic curtain tiebacks that can be used multiple ways

Use these magnetic curtain tiebacks to hold your window treatments back, letting in natural sunlight in the process. Not only are they fully functional, they’re aesthetically pleasing with a number of neutral colors. The best part is the twisted rope material won’t pill over time.

75Soda can covers to preserve your drink after opening

These soda can covers are a great way to keep your carbonated drinks fresher longer. They’re made from a flexible silicone material that comfortably fits around the top of most standard cans and they’re easy to clean. Each pack comes in a set of six, all in different colors.

76Air freshener clips for your car that look like sloths

These tiny sloths clip to your car’s air vents and will distribute a light, fresh fragrance that keeps your car smelling good. This is a set of four, so you can easily clip two to the front vents on your car and two to the vents in the backseat, as well.

77A hat that has a hole for your ponytail

This hat solves the eternal dilemma of how to wear a ponytail and a baseball cap at once. It features a whole at the back that fits your ponytail, and has a mesh design so your head won’t overheat. The lightly distressed style makes for a chic detail.

78A soap dish that drains & looks like a duck

How cute is this duck-shaped soap dish? With tiny draining holes in the bottom that let water out through the duck’s beak, this holder will keep your soap from getting gunky and keep it dry between uses. And since it’s shaped like a duck, every guest who uses your bathroom will have something to say about it.

79A miniature bowling alley for tiny amounts of fun

This miniature bowling alley is so much fun, and features an elevated ramp so you can push the tiny ball off and watch as it hits the pins in front. Leave this on your desk for a second of entertainment between meetings, or bust it out at a dinner party for the game lovers in your group.

80Double-lined pens that are shockingly useful

These pens are so cool in design, and feature a double pen tip that creates parallel lines in two different colors. With six individual pens in this set, each in a different color pairing, you’ll have so much fun writing with these. They’re great for the bullet journaler in your life.

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