Save some money (and stress) on holiday shopping — these Gifts We Love winners are under $50

If there’s anything we love more than shopping at Shop TODAY, it’s affordable products. Just because they’re budget-friendly, however, doesn’t mean they come without thought or sentiment. Which is why we’ve rounded up all the best finds from our Gifts We Love awards that are going to help you save a little money this holiday season. You and your wallet can thank us later!

From personalized photos that will fit in effortlessly on any gallery wall to tinned fish for the foodie in your life, these gifts were all vetted by our editors who truly love and use these products or have received them as gifts before.

Shop brands like Anthropologie, Olaplex, Jellycat and more to check off everyone on your list, from the tween who’s recently become enthralled by everything beauty or the dad who seemingly has it all.

Beauty Gifts We Love under $50

Kitsch Satin Hair Scrunchies

Experts say that silk pillowcases can help to reduce the amount of frizz and friction in your hair, so what about silk scrunchies? The gentle fabric they’re made out of means you can say goodbye to tugging and pulling out strands of hair each time you let your hair down and hello to softer locks.

Essence I Love Extreme Mascara Holiday Gift Set

Whether you’re looking to gift the tween in your life with a starter set to help ease them into the world of makeup or are looking to have mascaras on hand for when you need a replacement, this pack of four promises voluminous, long-lasting lashes.

Peter Thomas Roth Mini Mask Multiverse Kit

Stuff their stocking with skin care this holiday season! This Peter Thomas Roth set includes four face masks, each with a different goal in mind. Each one includes ingredients based on the target solution, including hyaluronic acid for providing a more moisturized feel and cucumber for soothing inflamed skin.

Summer Fridays Mini Neutrals Lip Butter Set

Our editors are obsessed with this lip balm from Summer Fridays — and that’s putting it lightly. Four of them pitched this set for our Gifts We Love awards, which helped earn it the vote of a well-loved stocking stuffer or beauty must-have for your tween, sister, wife or best friend.

“I take my lip balms VERY seriously,” says editorial assistant Madison San Miguel. “For as long as I can remember, I’ve suffered from chronic dry lips. From it peeling to my lips getting chapped, I could hardly find a lip balm that soothed my lips and didn’t require constant reapplication. That’s until I tried Summer Fridays’ Lip Butter Balm. The formula is intensely moisturizing, and lasts me through most of the day — I probably reapply about 2-3 times from morning to night.”

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Cream Bauble

Our editors love Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream for providing moisture without leaving behind a greasy, oily feel. This travel-sized version won’t skimp just because it comes in a smaller size, promising a hydrating, moisturized feel. Plus, it comes in a package that’s perfect for hanging on the tree!

Londontown Kur Illuminating Essentials Mini Set

This miniature set of four nail polishes can provide them with a neutral look for after the holidays, giving their nails a break from the shimmer and shine of it all.

Opal Cool Eye Mask

This multitasking mask works overtime (and overnight!) to provide you with a less puffy, more “awake” look and can also be used to minimize migraine and headache symptoms.

It reaches a chilling temperature of 58°F, which the brand says scientists recommend as the optimal temperature for results.

Sunday Riley Day + Night Bright Bundle

Editors love luxury brand Sunday Riley — and even more so when it’s at an affordable price point. This 2-in-1 kit includes two serums that easily integrate into your morning and night routine, promising to brighten and soothe skin with ingredients like vitamin C and retinol.

Rare Beauty Mini Blush and Luminize Trio

Rare Beauty was a Shop TODAY 2024 Beauty Awards winner, with our editors loving their products because of their clean ingredients, product and shade variety, and the amazing looks they leave us with.

This trio set is currently going viral on TikTok, with users applying the new, exclusive shades on their cheeks, showing off shimmery, bright makeup looks perfect for Christmas dinners or New Year’s Eve celebrations.

True Botanicals Remarkable Radiance Body Duo

While this set isn’t available quite yet, you can opt for a notification once it’s available to take advantage of the scrub and body butter duo that leaves skin feeling smooth as butter.

The brand says it’s suitable for those with sensitive skin, however one should avoid already-impacted or irritated areas for fear of further reaction.

Julep Moonlight 101 Créme-to-Powder Eyeshadow Sticks

A makeup product that also has skin care benefits? Sign us up. Vitamins C and E make up the key ingredients in this product, improving skins texture while hydrating it at the same time.

Plus, it’s easy to layer, meaning you can build upon your look and make it as bold or as minimal as you want. Our editors also love how easy it is to take on the go, allowing for touch-ups throughout the day.

Olaplex In Good Repair Kit

Associate editor Shannon Garlin sees “instant results” when using Olaplex, more specifically the No. 3 Hair Perfector, that she says acts as a “pre-shampoo spa day” for her hair.

This set of four products promises a number of benefits, from reducing frizz to softer locks.

Fashion Gifts We Love under $50

Vovii Matte Bow Claw Clips

This affordable gift combines two recent trends — bows and claw clips. They’re available in four neutral colors, adding a bit of flair to any updo they’re hoping to achieve.

ThxToms LED Flashlight Gloves

If you’re the designated “flashlight child,” subtly hang up your hat by gifting dad with these flashlight gloves that shed him the light he needs while working.

Uniqlo HeatTech Ribbed Beanie

They’ll remain stylish, comfortable and warm with this affordable Uniqlo beanie that incorporates HeatTech technology, designed to trap warmth.

Caitlyn Minimalist Personalized Cluster Baguette Birthstone Ring

If you’re anything like me, it’s the thought that counts when it comes to holiday gifting. Whether it’s something grand or small and dainty such as these rings, personalized gifts mean a whole lot more.

Select up to four different birthstones, whether you want to commemorate family members’ birthdays or simply their own, in a ring made of either 18-karat gold, rose gold or sterling silver.

QnlyCzy Touchscreen-Friendly Leather Gloves

Available in six different colors, these leather gloves are both stylish and functional, something not often seen in winter gear. The brand says they’re crack-resistant, meaning their look won’t lessen over time as you wear them.

Plus, the fingertips allow you to use touchscreens, whether you’re using your phone or tapping settings on your car radio.

Lands’ End Women’s CashTouch Shawl Wrap

Upon first touch, this shawl is oh so soft, providing you with a layering piece that’s sure to keep you comfortable and cozy. You can’t go wrong with this gift in my opinion, as it’s available in a number of colors and can be worn multiple ways, whether its draped over both shoulders or worn near the elbows.

Barsine Vegan Leather Bucket Tote Bag

Run, don’t walk, to score this trending bag at its lowest price in 30 days. Made out of leather, this bag is spacious enough to hold everything you need while out and about — a book for commuting, a water bottle, as well as all the basic essentials.

Warmies Marshmallow Lavender Slippers

For unmatched comfort, place these slippers in the microwave for a feeling so cozy and warm, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without these in the first place!

Plus, they’re infused with a lavender scent that’s sure to calm the senses and provide an even more relaxing night in.

Names for Good Blue Porcelain Floral Bracelet

Customize different aspects of this elegant floral beaded bracelet, from the initials or nickname to the color of accent beads. It’s also available in four different sizes and is made with a “durable” stretch string for an ideal fit, according to the brand.

Plus, TODAY readers can save 25% off sitewide with code TODAY now through Nov. 21.

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

Senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil named this sweater her “go-to under-$50 gift,” also noting that she owns one herself.

It’s available in 14 different colors, proving perfect if they prefer a more neutral shade or a pop of color.

Food and Drink Gifts We Love under $50

Universal Yums Snack Box Subscription

Enjoy snacks from around the world with this subscription box that allows you to select from a number of different packages, from the brands’ Yum box to a Super Yum box, each complete with a variety of snacks and an informational packet.

Bonne Maman Nut Chocolate Duo with Spreader

Think Nutella, but better. These chocolate-inspired spreads from Bonne Maman can serve as a topping on toast, a dipping for fruits or as an addition to a charcuterie board. The sweet and salty flavorings are sure to satisfy any taste buds.

BonBon Gift Box

If you or a friend are anything like me, sweet treat is a common phrase in your vocabulary. Appease post-dinner cravings with this gift box filled to the brim with a mix of your choosing, depending on if they prefer sweet, sour or a mix of the two.

Nuts.com Nut Assortment Tray

To satisfy any snacking cravings or to make road trips, pre-dinner grazing or other gatherings any easier, this assortment of nuts is sure to do the trick. From pistachios to cashews and more, we love that it’s a good gift for anyone on your list, even the ones who love to kick back and watch sports on any given weekend.

Uncommon Goods Custom Message Shortbread Cookies

Show your thanks or offer a congratulations with this different type of personalized gift — aka one that can be devoured rather than just admired. Besides, who can resist buttery, crumbly shortbread cookies?

Fishwife The Smoky Trio with Gift Tin

This trio gifting set is perfect for the friend who already loves tinned fish (or the friend you’re trying to further convince to give it a go!) It comes complete with Smoked Rainbow Trout, Slow Smoked Mackerel and Smoked Atlantic Salmon, all ready to enjoy on crackers or mixed in a salad.

Home Gifts We Love under $50

Featherly Friends Holiday Birds

Target knew what they were doing when releasing this line of Featherly Friends — because it has our editors hooked. With a new collection to celebrate any holiday, the bird figurines serve as affordable décor to spruce up any mantel or Christmas scene.

Anthropologie Gold Monogram Ornament

Have yet to decorate your tree? Or want to gift something small, yet sentimental this season? These ornaments from Anthropologie will do the trick, adding a personalized touch to any tree.

They’re available in all 26 letters, made out of a leafy font, bedazzled with pearls and have a velvet fabric loop.

Dream Master LED Magnetic Pick Up Tool

Gifting for the men in your life doesn’t have to be difficult. If your dad is anything like mine, tools for his garage are always a safe bet.

This tool helps locate nails, bits and other magnetic items that may have gotten lost in the mix of things, and extends to 22 inches, so he doesn’t have to lower down to the ground himself.

Dusor 12-in-1 Hammer Multitool

Know a college student or someone living on their own for the first time? This multipurpose tool has everything they need to do minor projects around their apartment, including a hammer, pliers, nail file, Philips screwdriver and eight other attachments.

Rifle Paper Co. Porcelain Monogram Mug

Rifle Paper Co. is a Shop TODAY editor-favorite brand due to their fun, floral designs and easily customizable gifts. Treat the tea or coffee lover in your life to this mug that’s part of the brand’s Garden Party line.

Plus, TODAY readers can save 30% with code TODAY, now through Nov. 21.

Artifact Uprising Pressed Glass Photo Ornament

Celebrate the newlyweds, newborns, the addition of a furry friend and more occasions with this thoughtful ornament that is similar to a locket, displaying photos on both sides.

TODAY readers can save 20% off sitewide with code TODAY, now through Nov. 21.

Minted Silhouette Custom Print with Text

“I love how uniquely personal this is in a really artistic way,” says senior editor Jess Bender. Simply upload a photo of the individual and select the colors and text you want for a silhouette that is sure to be cherished for years to come.

MLB Sundae Slugger Ceramic Ice Cream Bowl Set

While the MLB season is over, these commemorative dishes are sure to be a home run with the sports fan in your life.

Easy Plant Small Self-Watering Plants

Easy Plant truly lives up to its name, as a brand that provides those who don’t exactly have the greenest of thumbs with an easy-to-care-for plant that will thrive in any environment.

No matter if you have a jam packed schedule or a small living space, the brands’ self-watering pots make it simple to set and forget them, while still adding some greenery to your space.

West & Willow Personalized Throw Pillow

If their furry friend is more like a fur child, gift them with a pillow that is sure to collect remnants of their slobber and fur while sitting on the couch. Plus, it can even be customized to include their pets name.

TODAY readers can save 25% off sitewide with code TODAY, now through Nov. 21.

Toys, Games and Children’s Gifts We Love under $50

Cra-Z Art Slimy Stitch Slime Toy

Know a child who isn’t obsessed with slime? Consider it impossible. This toy combines a familiar character with their obsession for a stimulating and engaging toy that they can mix different elements into, such as the included confetti.

Brass Monkey Poorly Explained Movies

I’ve never seen a more crowd-pleasing game since I whipped this out at the office, over Facetime with my boyfriend and even surrounding the campfire with my family.

Each card includes a poor description of a popular movie, sure to stump even the most knowledgeable cinephile in your life.

Tamagotchi Original Tamagotchi Angel Series

Millennials, Tamagotchi toys are back! Yes, you read that right, they’re back. If you need to soothe yourself from that fact, why not indulge in this toy that’s the same version you know and love — just new and improved. Keep your Angel character alive through games and pretend play, even on-the-go thanks to the keychain attachment.

Jellycat Amuseables Croissant

“If you know me, you know how much I love croissants,” says writer Jannely Espinal. “This little plushy toy is just a reminder of my favorite pastry. It’s a great decor element for those that love food objects and tchotchkes lying around your home. While this is not a functional piece, it brings a smile to my face. It’s art, fabric and non-edible food combined!”

Hex Bots Wall Crawler Gecko

If your little one is into creepy crawlies, surprise them with one that’s allowed inside the house! It comes with a remote control that they can use to prank family members as it crawls up and down the walls.

Hugimals The Hug Ball

This product was designed by occupational therapists to provide a soothing feel backed by research. It weighs three pounds and has a soft-to-the-touch plush fabric that also works to provide a cozy, calm feeling to help young ones (or anyone for that matter!) regulate their emotions.

Goopow Kids Selfie Digital Camera

Budding photographers will be delighted to learn that this durable camera captures both photos and videos, and also has games to play in order to keep them further entertained. It’s available in a number of different colors, and has a rechargeable battery that allows for up to two hours of use.

Loop Lasso Nano

This TikTok-viral toy is for the kid (or kid at heart) who loves silly string, yet wants a longer lasting, illuminating effect.

Editor Julie Ricevuto called this gift a “groundbreaking, interactive toy,” due to the fact that it combines science with engaging effects dreamt up by the mind of a former NASA engineer to provide fun for the entire family.

Jada Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire Heat-Ray Breath Godzilla RC

What child doesn’t want a fire-breathing, remote-controlled figurine? This toy not only elicits a reaction sure to keep them wanting more, it also makes roaring noises and towers well over any other figurine they own, helping them to create a disastrous scene similar to the movies.

Little Tikes Story Dream Machine

This is a No. 1 bestseller on Amazon that we love for adding a little bit more magic to bedtime stories, so that they’ll have nothing but sweet dreams.

This toy brings childhood classics to life, acting as a projector to display them on any blank wall. Plus, it also emits white noise once story time is over to further lull them to sleep.

Surprise and Delight Gifts We Love under $50

“I Want You To Know: My Portrait of You,” from The Happiness Project

Recommended by editor Vivien Moon, this book provides a meaningful gift for those who prefer sentiment over grand gestures. With prompts such as “my favorite sayings of yours are…” and “a tradition we’ve enjoyed together is…,” show them how much they truly mean to you via this journal.

Fahlo Bracelets

Have an animal lover on your list? These affordable bracelets have a cool, interactive feature to them. Each bracelet comes with a kit and instructions on how to track a real-life shark, from an interactive map to the sharks’ history, name and other details.

Papier Rise and Shine Gratitude Journal

Papier is a premier stationary brand with recipe books to planners, gratitude journals such as this and more. This journal hopes to help you reflect on moments of gratitude, with different journal prompts, interactive graphics to color in, affirmations to rip out and stick on the fridge, tape to a mirror, plus so much more.

TODAY readers can save 20% off gratitude journals with code TODAY now through Nov. 21.

ClassPass Gift Card

“This is the number 1 gift on my list this year!” says writer Emma Stessman. “ClassPass is amazing for people who work out all the time or those who are looking to up their routine, since you can try new workouts and activities! It’s big in cities, but I’ve even used it in my hometown in Northern California. You can also use credits for spa treatments and even meals now!”

As a current user of ClassPass, I can attest to how easy it is to use, thanks to their no-frills subscription model, that makes it simple to pause at any time, or add credits when you’re wanting to utilize it more.

Tech Gifts We Love under $50

Tile Mate 2024

I would lose my head if it wasn’t attached to my neck, which is the exact reason why Tile was a key component on my keychain throughout high school and college.

The tracking device utilizes Bluetooth technology and an app on your smartphone to keep track of anything you attach it to — a dog’s collar, a set of keys or your child’s school bag. Plus, this new iteration includes the ability to send SOS alerts for emergencies.

Musicozy Sleep Headphones

Whether you’re soothed by white noise on a plane, or hoping to drown out family members on a road trip, this 2-in-1 headband also has Bluetooth headphones embedded within, allowing you to connect your phone to listen to podcasts, music and more.

Yiisonger Magsafe Magnetic 4-in-1 Charger

Keep an entire ecosystem of devices charged at once, from multiple phones to a tablet thanks to this portable charger. Power up devices in a matter of minutes and never have to wonder when it’s going to die thanks to the visible battery life percentage displayed on the bottom. Plus, it’s magnetic, meaning it’ll click and remain onto compatible devices.

SFour Galaxy Projector

Glow-in-the-dark star stickers step aside, there’s a much cooler, better option available. This gift (that’s also the shape of an astronaut figurine) not only acts as décor, but projects the galaxy on their bedroom ceiling or any blank wall.

It has eight different effects that can be controlled via a remote control, as well as an adjustable design so as to light up different areas of their room.

How we chose

Our Gifts We Love list is truly authentic and representative of our editors. Like with all of our awards, every product we recommend we will have physically interacted with and can stand behind.

And, as Shop TODAY, we are here to serve our audience first-and-foremost, so we always keep price point and affordability in mind.We reviewed the products we pitched the same way we have with our past awards: quality, value and satisfaction. Editors pitched products that they have either been gifted, hope to be gifted or have gifted in the past, keeping all of our products purely holiday to create excitement around the gifting season.

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