40 cheap Christmas gifts 2021: Best inexpensive ideas under $20

Discover the best cheap Christmas gifts for 2021, whether you're shopping for friends, coworkers, or family members. 

It's no secret that cheap presents veer into tchotchke territory—they're expendable, useless, and, well, cheap. Still, there's no need for a tight budget to hinder festive gifting plans as there are plenty of high-quality finds available. 

To help you shop, we've rounded up the best cheap Christmas gifts that are just as impressive as luxury finds, all for under $20. Here, you'll unearth great Christmas gifts for your friends, co-workers, neighbors, and more. 

Best cheap Christmas gifts under $20

Our pick of the best cheap Christmas present ideas proves that affordable, unique Christmas gifts can be both thoughtful and useful.

1. The Ordinary Daily Set

RRP: $19/£15 | Delivery: 3-6 day shipping | Refundable?: 365-day return policy | Region: US and UK

There's no better present than a top-tier skincare routine, as this bundle from The Ordinary provides. The Daily Set spotlights the best The Ordinary products for dehydrated skin, featuring the Squalene Cleanser, Hyaluronic Acid, and Natural Moisturizing Factors. Together, this triad wipes away impurities, delivers intense moisture, and promotes optimal skin health.

• The Ordinary Daily Set at Deciem for $19 / at Deciem for £15

2. Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Travel Set

RRP: $14.50/£12 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Leading beauty authority Dr. Jart bestowed us with a TSA-friendly kit for adventures. This travel set pays homage to hero-ingredient Ceramidin, featuring the brand's best-selling Ceramidin Liquid, Ceramidin Serum, and Ceramidin Cream. This trio strengthens the skin barrier and shields it from water and moisture loss. 'Tis the season for a glowing complexion. 

• Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Travel Set at Selfridges for $14.50 / at Selfridges for £12

3. Lindt Lindor Chocolate Advent Calendar

RRP: $16.50/£14.99 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The Lindor Chocolate Advent Calendar is one of the best food Christmas gifts, and not just for those who regularly crave sweets. Behind 24 doors lies a bevy of milk chocolate delights, all enriched with a smooth melted filling. The Christmas Countdown has never been more delectable.  

• Lindor Chocolate Advent Calendar at Selfridges for $16.50 / at Selfridges for £14.99

4.  Raw Stone Earring Set

RRP: $20/£18 | Delivery: 3-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

From threader earrings to edgy ear jackets, this set highlights three luxe pairs that incorporate asymmetric designs and natural raw stones. These embellishments will elevate any ensemble, even casual frocks. Available in nine colors.

For more variety, visit our guide of the best jewelry advent calendars on the market.

• Raw Stone Earring Set at Free People for $20 / at Free People for £18

5. Stasher Go Bag

RRP: $19.99/£18.99 | Delivery: 3-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Made of reusable platinum silicone, this bag is conveniently compact but spacious enough for key essentials. Attach it to your keys, and you'll have your phone and other tiny must-haves at your fingertips. 

Designed to help people reduce their carbon footprint by encouraging reuse instead of single use, this is a great inexpensive idea if you're looking for sustainable Christmas gifts for the eco-conscious humans in your life. 

• Stasher Go Bag at Free People for $19.99 / at Free People for £18.99

6. Sundown Oversized Aviator Sunglasses

RRP: $20/£18 | Delivery: 3-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

These oversized specs flatter every face shape, coming in multiple prints for versatile pairing. Thoughtful perks include adjustable nose pads and gradient tinted lenses that'll protect your peepers.

• Sundown Oversized Aviator Sunglasses at Free People for $20 / at Free People for £18

7. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

RRP: $13.52/£5.90 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

When Breath Becomes Air is hailed as one of the most poignant bestselling books, offering an in-depth look at hope, triumph, and the unforgiving nature of mortality. Author Paul Kalanithi chronicles his battle with late-stage lung cancer and his legacy, serving as a hero's journey. An unforgettable and compelling read. 

• When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi at Amazon for $13.52 / at Amazon for £5.90

8. Floral Street Discovery Eau de Parfum Set

RRP: $16.50/£14 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Help them find their scent with this discovery kit, which highlights eight of the best flower fragrances on the market. Fill the room in rich notes of roses, peonies, vanilla orchids, and more. We promise, you won't regret it.

For more variety, head over to our pick of this season's best beauty advent calendars. 

• Floral Street Discovery Eau de Parfum Set at Selfridges for $16.50 / at Selfridges for £14

9. S'well Slim Elements Drink Chiller

RRP: $20/£18  | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 60-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Featuring a thin profile, the S'well Elements Drink Chiller boasts a stainless steel exterior that can endure abuse. Thanks to its triple-layered and vacuum-insulated design, this chiller keeps drinks ice-cold for up to six hours, be it cold brew, craft beer, or rosé. Plus, it prevents condensation, meaning no dew or leakage throughout the day.

• S'well Slim Elements Drink Chiller at Revolve for $20 / at Revolve for £18

10. The Laundress Denim Wash

RRP: $20/£14.62 | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 60-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Refresh their best jeans with this top-rated Laundress Denim Wash. Celebrated for its versatility, this concentrated solution performs as a hardwearing detergent, fabric conditioner, and color guard. The result: pristine and well-preserved denim that'll last for years to come.

• The Laundress Denim Wash at Revolve for $20 / at Revolve for £14.62

11. Mintapple Premium Silicone AirPods Case

RRP: $18/£185 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Protect your precious pods with this coral-toned case made of high-grade silicone. By design, this shell is supremely light but durable enough to withstand inevitable drops (and even spills!). Ultimately, it's peace of mind wrapped in a bow.

• Mintapple Premium Silicone AirPods Case at Selfridges for $18 / at Selfridges for £14.99

12. Go Smile Stain Erasers Touch Up 14-pack

RRP: $15/£13 | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 60-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Compact, but mighty, the Go Smile kit keeps teeth polished and bright. Infused with fresh mint, these single-use applicators erase stains and prevent new ones from forming. The ultimate smile sparkle kit for under $20/£20.

• Stain Erasers Touch Up 14-pack at Revolve for $15 / at Revolve for £13

13. OUGES High-Waisted Yoga Pants

RRP: From $14.99/£15.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

With nearly 10,000 positive reviews, these leggings prove that great athleisure can be affordable. Be it for workouts or lounging hours, this pair leverages plush, sweat-wicking, and stretchy fabric with comfort in mind. They also feature side pockets to stash keys, mobile devices, and small items, making them ergonomic to boot. Overall, the best leggings to wear well after the holiday season. Available in sizes S-XXL.

• OUGES High-Waisted Yoga Pants at Amazon from $14.99 / at Amazon from £15.99

14. Rapid Egg Cooker

RRP: $16.99/£185 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

A rapid egg cooker is one of the most underrated kitchen essentials to have in your arsenal, whether you're a diehard eggs-for-breakfast fan or simply value expediency. 

The Dash Rapid Egg Cooker has a fierce command over US shoppers, and it's not difficult to see why. This compact and lightweight cooker can cook six eggs at a time, in your choice of firmness (soft, medium, or hard-boiled). Within minutes, you'll have an eggcellent meal ahead—poached eggs, scrambled eggs, hearty omelets, the list is endless. Gourmet breakfast options aside, it's a great space server, fitting nicely underneath the kitchen sink or cabinets. Available in seven colors.

Across the pond, the Andrew James has the Mida's Touch in small appliances—case in point: the brand's top-rated Egg Boiler & Cooker. The gadget can cook up to seven eggs in a jiff, and includes a measuring cup to ensure you use the right amount of water. It's easy to use and comes with a much-appreciated 2-year warranty.

• Dash Rapid Egg Cooker at Amazon for $16.99 / at Andrew James Egg Boiler & Cooker at Amazon for £16.99

15. Bistro Tile Monogram Dessert Plate

RRP: $16/£16 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Decorate the kitchen with the Bistro Tile plate, a personalized dish that's equally unique and practical. From letters A-Z, this monogrammed plate features decaled stoneware, which can withstand scratches and stains. Editor's note: they are not microwave safe

• Bistro Tile Monogram Dessert Plate at Anthropologie for $16 / at Anthropologie for £16

16. Living Proof Frizz-Free & Smooth Discovery Kit

RRP: $18/£19 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy at Anthropologie, 28-day return policy at Cult Beauty | Region: US and UK

From Living Proof's award-winning anti-frizz collection, this bundle tames unruly strands with four best-sellers. As a diligent duo, the No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner detangle, condition, and soften fly-aways, without feeling overly greasy or dense. Post-shower, opt for the No Frizz Nourishing Style Cream, which lends for easy styling with the best hair straightener or best hairdryer. Finish off your tresses with the brand's No Frizz Humidity Shield: a weightless formula that blocks humidity.

• Living Proof Frizz-Free & Smooth Discovery Kit at Anthropologie for $18 / at Cult Beauty for £19

17. Sweaty Betty Cross Over Reflective Headband

RRP: $14/£10 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable? 45-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Sometimes, the greatest Christmas gifts for her are simple pleasures, like a durable headband that keeps hair out of the face. Meet The Cross Over by Sweaty Betty, a stocking-stuffer that's ideal for all workouts. This headband leverages stretchy, lightweight fabric that doesn't tug on strands and dries quickly. Moreover, it integrates reflective accents, which are visible in the dark for safety. You'll also find a concealed hole that'll hold your ponytail in place, no matter what.

• Cross Over Reflective Headband at Sweaty Betty for $14 / at Sweaty Betty for £10

18. Sex And The City Playing Cards

RRP: $17/£14 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

This fan-made card game immortalizes the iconic series—a small, but sentimental keepsake for the show's loyalists. The deck comes as a standard poker set, with four classic suits that celebrate a different character. For example, Carrie is diamonds, while Charlotte is hearts. Whereas Miranda is clubs, Samantha is spades. No surprises here.

• Abrams & Chronicles Sex and The City Playing Cards at Selfridges for $17 / at Selfridges for £14

19. Neom Complete Bliss Travel Candle

RRP: $19/£16 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

A curator of the best scented candles, Neom created a mini jar for jet setters eager to imbue their ambiance with intoxicating scents. The Bliss candle is a blend of 17 essential oils, permeating rich notes of Moroccan blush rose, lime, and black pepper. Pair this treat with one of the best candle advent calendars on the shelves.

• Neom Complete Bliss Travel Candle at Selfridges for $19 / at Selfridges for £16

20. "Our First Year" Personalized Mini Anniversary Book

RRP: $13.47/£9.50 | Delivery: 1-2 week shipping | Refundable?: No | Region: US and UK

If you're browsing for thoughtful Christmas gifts for couples, you've arrived at the right destination. Inspired by paper art, this mini-book features your words and illustrations as a way to celebrate a couple's first year together.

The customization process is simple. Simply add the married name, giftee, and date of marriage, followed by descriptions of memorable moments and more. All in all, it's more than just a stocking stuffer—it's an heirloom to be cherished.

• "Our First Year" Personalized Mini Anniversary Book at Not On The High Street for $13.47 / at Not On The High Street for £9.50

21. Deluxity & Gladdon Crossbody Bags

RRP: $16.50/£16.99 | Delivery: 2-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Complete their capsule wardrobe with a crossbody bag—a versatile accessory that'll always endure the fickle trend cycle. The Deluxity Crossbody is chic and functional, coming in a mix of bold and neutral colors. Made of faux leather and gold-toned hardware, this bag comes with ample pocket space, along with a convenient zipper close that secures items. It also features an adjustable shoulder strap for comfort and support. Unsurprisingly, it's backed by over 20,000 positive reviews on Amazon alone.

The Gladdon Crossbody is a UK-dupe with similar features, down to the shabby tassel. Available in five colors, this accessory boasts a timeless woven design and plenty of room for personal belongings.

• Deluxity Lightweight Medium Crossbody Bag at Amazon for $16.50 / Gladdon Crossbody Bag at Amazon for £16.99

22. Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Body & Hand Wash

RRP: $19/£16 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

This hybrid wash conditions and cleanses the skin with luxuriant meadowfoam seed, leaving it buttery soft. As you scrub, its gel consistency becomes a rich lather that permeates notes of fresh pears and lush white freesias. Olfactory paradise awaits your arrival.

• Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Body & Hand Wash at Selfridges for $19 / at Selfridges for £16

23. Absolut Vodka Sampler Gift Set

RRP: $19/£15.99 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Jumpstart the holiday festivities with this Absolut Vodka Sampler Set. Ideal for small and large gatherings, this kit features cult-classic flavors, including citron and vanilla. Couple it with one of the hottest gin advent calendars, and they'll certainly be rocking around the Christmas tree.

• Absolut Vodka Sampler Gift Set at Selfridges for $19 / at Selfridges for £15.99

24. Morphe Whoa La La lip and Eye Set

RRP: $18/£15  | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

A petite-sized bundle for glam on the go. Encased in a convenient bag, the kit features Morphe's best-sellers, like the Sweetness & Spice Artistry Palette featuring nude-to-chocolate-brown shimmers and mattes. Perfect for nailing those Christmas makeup looks.

• Morphe Whoa La La lip and Eye Set at Selfridges for $18 / at Selfridges for £15

25. Assorted Tea Gift Set

RRP: $18/£20 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Warm tea transforms mornings from good to great. So, gift them a robust set with award-winning flavors, from sweet Himalayan green tea to saffron masala chai. In the United States, Vahdam takes the helm in creating fresh and fair trade teas they'll reach for each sunrise. Across the pond, Taylors of Harrogate leads in green and black tea varieties—just to name a few, they'll find Organic Peppermint, Rose Lemonade Infusion, and more.

• VAHDAM Assorted Tea Gift Set at Amazon for $19.99 / Taylors of Harrogate Black and Green Tea Assortment Gift Bundle at Amazon for £20

Best Cheap Christmas gifts under $10

26. Wilderdog Dog Poop Bag

RRP: $8/£10 | Delivery: 3-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Simplify poop duty with the Wilderdog holder, a handy accessory for gnarly dungs. Clip it onto the leash with the included carabiner, and you're all set. From there, it's easy to use, featuring a dispenser hole for waste and a second carabiner that prevents the holder from dangling. 

• Wilderdog Dog Poop Bag at Free People for $8 / at Free People for £10

27. Ailun Glass Screen Protector

RRP: $7.97/£7.69 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Ailun Glass Screen Protector is impressively cheap and hardwearing, yet you probably haven't thought to snag it—until now. Compared to traditional protectors, this one features tempered glass to help you keep private information, private from onlookers. It fits easily onto devices and won't leave behind air bubbles in the process.

• Ailun Glass Screen Protector at Amazon for $7.97 / at eBay for £7.69

28. Bioderma Sebium H2O Micellar Water

RRP: $5/£4 | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 60-day return policy | Region: US and UK

This Sebium H2O Micellar Water is the first of its kind as it's formulated specifically for oily and combination skin. Aside from being a vacuum cleaner for the face, this beauty hero leverages a patented sebo-correcting complex, which regulates sebum production and prevents pores from becoming clogged. Overall, it's a great addition to the best skincare routine for acne.

• Bioderma Sebium H2O Micellar Water at Revolve for $5 / at Revolve for £4

29. Amika travel-sized the kure repair shampoo

RRP: $10/£9  | Delivery: 5-10 day shipping | Refundable?: 60-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The equivalent to a glass of ice-cold water on a balmy day, but for hair. Formulated with hydrolyzed keratin and hydrolyzed wheat protein, the Kure Repair Shampoo restores damaged locks with a hydrating boost. It also leverages a range of hair-healthy oils and nutrients, like Vitamin A, amino acids, and Avocado Oil. The result: Silky smooth tresses with plenty of slip. Free of sulfates, parabens, and phthalates.

• amika Travel-Sized The Kure Repair Shampoo at Revolve for $10 / at Revolve for £9

30. OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer

RRP: $9.92/£6.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Avocado slicers are ergonomic, do-it-all tools that simplify prep. They split, pit, and slice rigid avocados with one quick twist, particularly iterations from Good Grips and Click2Home. Plus, they feature soft, comfortable grips and are top-rack dishwasher safe. 

• OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer at Amazon for $9.92 / Click2Home 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer at Amazon for £6.99

31. The Organic Company Cotton Bag

RRP: $8.50/£7 | Delivery: Depends on your region | Refundable? 28-day return policy | Region: US and UK

Made of plush cotton, this reusable bag carries items from groceries, to small fitness gear and laundry. It features a drawstring top, along with an elevated logo patch. Best of all, it's machine washable. 

• The Organic Company Cotton Bag at Selfridges for $8.50 / at Selfridges for £7

32. Lelo Toy Cleaner

RRP: $9.90/£8 | Delivery: 3-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

As an effective spray, the Lelo Cleaner is ideal for the best vibrators and intimate toys. It's great for quick maintenance and touch-ups, especially right after vibrator usage. Suitable for use with silicone, rubber, and latex toys. 

• Lelo Toy Cleaner at Free People for $9.90 / at Free People for £8

33. Calm Kitchen: A Recipe for Mindfulness

RRP: $9.95/£10 | Delivery: 3-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US and UK

The Calm Kitchen serves as a mindful guide for readers to reconnect with nature through food. Beyond cookery and creation, this read demonstrates how certain ingredients benefit physical and mental health. Unarguably, it's one of the best cookbooks worth owning.

• Calm Kitchen: A Recipe for Mindfulness at Free People for $9.95 / at Free People for £10

34. Dr. Scholl's Women's Soothing Socks 2-pack

RRP: $8.44 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 28-day return policy | Region: US

Dr. Scholl's socks are peak luxury for your feet, featuring woolly yarn and anti-skid grippers on the soles for support. They're infused with vitamin E and lavender, a hardworking duo that soothes dry, worn-down feet. 

As a universal favorite, this pack serves as one of the best Christmas gifts for mom and best Christmas gifts for mother-in-law. After all, they could always use some TLC.

• Dr. Scholl's Women's Soothing Socks 2-pack at Amazon for $8.44

35. Runsport Stainless Steel Wine Tumbler

RRP: $6.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US

You can't go wrong with gifting a stainless steel wine tumbler, even when it comes to the picky shoppers on your list. Backed by a compact body, this tumbler features double-wall vacuum tech, which keeps drinks hot for over three hours and cold for up to nine. It's lightweight to hold, convenient for travel, and effective at minimizing condensation. Available in three colors. 

• Runsport Stainless Steel Wine Tumbler at Amazon for $6.99

Best Cheap Christmas gifts under $5

36. Dove Body Love Sensitive Care Hand Cream

RRP: $4.48/£3.99 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 90-day return policy at Walmart (45-day return policy at Dove)| Region: US and UK

Nourish dry, cracked hands with Dove cream, a fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula. This hydrator replenishes ceramides with nutrients and strengthens the skin's moisture barrier—ideal for when temperatures drop. A natural companion to any skincare routine for sensitive skin. 

• Dove Body Love Sensitive Care Hand Cream at Walmart for $4.48 / at Dove for £3.99

37. NYX Slim Lip Pencil

RRP: $4/£3.50 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 45-day return policy at NYX Cosmetics (35-day return policy at Boots) | Region: US and UK

Backed by a sizable number of industry accolades, the NYX Slip Lip Pencil imparts a buttery-soft formula that glides on and stays put, earning a top spot in our guide of the best lip liners. With a sharp tip, it ensures precise application that makes lips look full and plump around the clock. What's more, it's infused with moisturizing coconut oil.

• NYX Slim Pencil at NYX Cosmetics for $4 / at Boots for £3.50

38. Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

RRP: $4.99/£185 | Delivery: 5-8 day shipping | Refundable?: 60-day return policy at Ulta Beauty (30-day return policy at Feel Unique) | Region: US and UK

As one of the best mascaras, the Lash Princess lengthens baby hairs to greater heights, giving the coveted falsies effect. Its curvy brush delivers dramatic volume, and the formula won't clump or flake over time. It's a certified "desert-island" beauty item we can't live without, and the price—talk about a steal.

• Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara at $4.99 / at Feel Unique for £3.29

39. Public Goods Bamboo Straws

RRP: $5 | Delivery: 2-6 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US

Bid farewell to plastic with these biodegradable and compostable bamboo straws. A sustainable alternative, Bamboo is naturally antimicrobial, which helps to ensure the quality of lifespan of these straws. They come in varying widths, ideal for sipping creamy, dense shakes and iced drinks.

• Bamboo Straws at Public Goods for $5

40. Driew Plant Mister 3-pack

RRP: $3.99 | Delivery: 2-5 day shipping | Refundable?: 30-day return policy | Region: US

The Driew Plant Mister is a practical solution against overwatering. Powered by an adjustable nozzle, this spray boosts humidity that's lacking in the outside environment, enriches the soil, and prolongs the lifespan of plants. 

• Driew Plant Mister 3-pack at Amazon for $3.99