Cheap gift ideas for under $20

Holiday Shopping 2009

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By Emily Carden

"That will be $20," you hear as you buy presents for the special ones on your list. A too perfect world for this holiday season, right? Guess again. While there may be some nice things to buy for a lot of money, there are those gifts that cost considerably less and display just as much thought this Christmas season.

If you are like most during this gift-giving time of year, money is tight, and saving every penny counts. There are several items waiting to be acknowledged for their reasonable price tag and consideration.

For the avid reader, there's always the newly acclaimed "bestseller" on the shelves. At around $12 a book, who can resist? And to think you contributed to the reader's time of leisure. Also, consider buying an assortment of three or four magazines and wrapping them in holiday spirit for the magazine enthusiast.

For the individual that has a green thumb consider a plant at your local greenhouse or even Wal-Mart. Most places such as these offer discount prices for house plants, especially during the winter months.

What about the music lovers? If they have an iPod, why not get them a gift card? Sound to "impersonal"? I doubt they will think that when they are jamming away to their new, favorite tune. Better yet, why not make them their own set of favorite music from your collection? For a few bucks a CD, you can't beat that.

And don't forget the ones who love coffee. Consider getting a coffee cup and a bag of their favorite coffee to wrap up. As they sip on the warm treat during the holidays, a warm remembrance of you will fill their mind.

There are always the candles for the inner-romantic and even those that just love fragrances. Consider placing a nice quote attached to each candle or inspiration for the year. This can easily be done for $15.

How about a picture of the family or friends for those whom you are close with this Christmas? An inexpensive frame and custom picture can decorate their home with fond memories for around $15.

For the special man in your life, why not visit your local TJ Maxx or Marshall's for name brand ties at a price that your wallet will appreciate.

Treat someone on your list to dinner, and spend some extra time reminiscing of good times? For $20, you can give them a nice dinner and quality time. On the topic of food, don't let the ones who enjoy cooking vanish from your list. Cookbooks are a great way to please. Search for an original one, perhaps one of Cajun cuisine. And we all know those who love candy. For the sweet-tooths, stock up on their favorite types of candy. Wrap it up nicely, and you're ready to go.

Consider your local bookstore for school related gift ideas. Christmas ornaments crafted with the school's logo make wonderful keepsakes and are well under $20. Don't forget to check out the hats and T-shirts for sale.

Gift cards seem to get a bad rap. However, consider movie gift certificates for $20. What movie lover would complain about watching the most recent flick?

Writers are often hard individuals to buy for. But don't let this get in the way of thinking of a thoughtful, inexpensive gift. Simply buy a variety of writing utensils and paper supplies. They will be thankful when they're jotting down new inspiration. And for the planners of the bunch, consider an address book or annual date book. Oh the joys of contributing to organization while staying on budget!

Board games and a deck of cards can always provide fun entertainment for a group of friends. Check out local stores. You will be surprised to see how many you can get for under $20. And last but not least, the sports' fan deserves a thoughtful gift. A new football, basketball or other sports' related gift tops the list off of those under $20.

No matter what method of gift-giving you tackle this holiday season, remember to not make a wonderful time a stressful experience due to budgeting problems from expensive gifts. Thoughtfulness and care always top the list when it comes to giving, not the price tag.

Originally Published: Issue 824 - November 18, 2009

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