The holiday season is a time for giving, but the constant pressure to buy can leave you feeling stressed and broke. And yet, because no one wants to feel grinchy during the holidays, the answer isn't necessarily to eliminate recipients, but rather to choose alternative gifts that won't collect dust.
These 10 fresh gift ideas aim to spark joy, strengthen relationships and embrace environmentally friendly practices—and as a bonus, they might even save you money! So remove that half-price sweater or scented candle from your cart and consider these more resourceful ways to thank and honor your family and friends, without adding to their “stuff" or your debt.
1. Quality Time
Many people value experiences more than things, so think about what your recipient loves to do, and create an exciting memory for them. You might decide to gift tickets to a one-time concert or sporting event, or choose a monthly pass that allows them to enjoy the changing exhibits at the local art museum or zoo. Wine tastings, spa packages, visits to an escape room—no matter what they like to do, you can find an appropriate activity.
2. Consumables
While yet another mug or picture frame might sit around until they haul it to the nearest thrift store, they'll love something that won't keep taking up space—because they've used it up. Let your recipient pamper themselves with luxurious spa items, get crafty with art supplies or indulge in gourmet snacks or upscale oils.
3. Gift That Keeps on Giving
“Of the Month" clubs have gone way beyond fruit; now there's a subscription box to suit every person's taste, whether they're into coffee, books, snacks, beauty products or even socks. These gifts also help spread out your spending. Set aside money to cover the monthly cost in a high yield savings account, then link the purchase to a cash back credit card card to earn rewards for yourself.
4. Travel
If you're feeling particularly generous, you could pay for a flight somewhere special or cover their hotel, especially when you have miles or loyalty points to burn. If they've already planned a visit to a specific destination, buy a gift card to a local restaurant or develop a thoughtful itinerary with unique must-do sights and experiences.
5. Philanthropy
Making a donation in the recipient's name is a meaningful way to honor them and do good at the same time. If you don't know their favorite charity, think of causes they care about, whether it's kids, animal welfare, health conditions, education or the environment. Feel free to get a little creative! For example, if they're a sports aficionado, their team is likely affiliated with a related foundation you can donate to—and maybe even score some merch to give them in return.
6. Classes
Would your friend like to hone their sushi-making technique, practice their stand-up comedy routine or finally master a tricky computer skill? A certificate for classes allows them to spend time doing something that aligns with their interests or career goals—maybe even with you right beside them.
7. Memories
Today, it's easier than ever to design custom photo books, calendars, blankets, mugs or other personalized gifts. Or you can boost the emotional appeal of your gift by finding a treasure that will immerse them in happy sentiments of their past, such as a poster from their first rock concert or a beloved toy. You can track down vintage or sentimental items using a general site like eBay or a specialty one such as The Toys Time Forgot or AllPosters. Gifts from the heart, such as a handwritten letter expressing your feelings or a curated playlist of long-forgotten songs, can deepen your connection and cost nothing but time.
8. Wellness
Pay for yoga classes, a gym membership or sessions with a personal trainer for someone interested in physical fitness. To boost their mental well-being, consider a meditation app, meditation classes or a massage to help them relax and de-stress.
9. Volunteer Service
Prepare a voucher for practical services like lawn mowing, pet sitting, house cleaning, errands or childcare. If you're a skilled artist, sketch a picture of their pet or their childhood home. If you're known for your flair in the kitchen, cater a dinner party for them or offer to drop off a monthly meal or decadent dessert. Share your green thumb by filling their pots with seasonal flowers.
10. Insider Access
Whether the recipient admires a celebrity from the world of sports, business, music or entertainment, there are creative ways to bring their fandom to life. You can go big by purchasing an exclusive meet-and-greet experience in connection with a concert or sporting event, but there are other (far more affordable) ways to forge a connection. Visit Cameo to order a personalized video greeting from their idol, or search the web for other fans selling memorabilia. Try requesting a signed autograph from their website—their PR team just might comply.
Start Your Thoughtful Gift List Today
It's easy to ditch the same old routine of wasteful spending by putting some thought into creative solutions that make your holiday giving full of heart. Your recipients are bound to appreciate a gift that won't wear out its welcome when the New Year rolls around.
And you can get a jump start on saving by looking into a high yield savings account or money market account that will help your money grow just by sitting there. Consider it a thoughtful gift you give yourself.
Cathie Ericson is an Oregon-based freelance writer who covers personal finance, real estate and education, among other topics. Her work has appeared in a wide range of publications and websites, including U.S. News & World Report, MSN, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, MarketWatch, Fast Company, Realtor.com and more.