White Elephant Gifts Under $50 That’ll Be a Hit

Treating acne doesn’t have to be a dull affair. These rhinestone-adorned pimple patches basically double as an accessory. Not just for show, the floral hydrocolloid bandages protect pimples from prying fingers and expedite healing. Practical, yet cute. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

These pink, vegan gel eye masks are designed to soothe and diminish the look of under-eye bags that have undoubtedly cropped up from those late-night gift-wrapping sessions. The 24-pack will provide a refreshing pause amid the holiday chaos. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

Who among us can resist an old-fashioned gummy worm? These are better because they’re sour and have a crunchy coating on the outside. They’re even more delicious than the original, but are made with less sugar and come in compostable packaging. ($29/8 bags, Rotten)

For lower budget white elephants, consider a small but mighty tube of lip gloss. This buttery liquid gloss from NYX comes in a ton of colors (even blue) and offers shine without any stickiness. Plus, it smells and tastes like sugar cookies. A cult-fave for a reason. ($6, Ulta)

In the pocket-sized tin of this cocktail kit lies the key to instant festivities. It comes with everything they need (lime juice, sugar, stirring spoons, bitters, etc.) to make three gin and tonics — just add booze, ice, and a glass. Ideal for zhushing up an in-flight drink or impressing friends at a picnic. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon) 

This guide by Anthony Bourdain is a passport to the world's most interesting corners. Readers can get advice on the best spots to visit, dine, and stay — and also where to avoid. Accompanying the travel tips, they can find charming illustrations and additional essays from those who knew Bourdain best. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

The perfect gift for type-A travelers. This hardcover journal comes with a travel wishlist, packing guide, list of travel games, and enough room to plan and document six trips. Their next vacation is sure to go off without a hitch. ($38, Papier)

If you know someone who’s still into coloring books, they’ll probably get a kick out of this one. It mixes the relaxation of no-pressure arts and crafts along with the catharsis of swearing like a sailor. The book comes with 30 pages of curse words they can color to their heart’s content. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

This shirt is a solid choice for any dads coming to the party. While not everyone can relate to this punny shirt, that might actually add to its value as a funny gift. Irony: the main ingredient in all the best white elephant gifts. ($19.74+, MAGapparel via Etsy)

It can be hard to pick an edible gift when you don’t know who the recipient will be, but luckily, this spreadable granola is free of eight common allergens. Everyone can enjoy a spoonful of this snack, which comes in a variety of flavors, including cinnamon roll and birthday cake. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

Sometimes, after a long, terrible day, a little sarcasm is just what the doctor ordered. This card deck comes with 100 cheeky affirmations and offers a refreshing spin on traditional inspiration cards. Pulling one of these humorous cards will help cut the tension during a day that can only be called “exceptionally stupid.” ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

This trophy is a fun callback to the days when everybody got a participation trophy. Anyone who has ever bought themselves a bouquet or nice treat can feel empowered by their independence with this tongue-in-cheek gift. Alexa, play “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus. ($32, Jenni Earle)

Going number two in a house full of people can sometimes be an embarrassing experience — if you’re not prepared. Guests can throw a couple of these heart-shaped tablets into the toilet before they go, and the essential oils will fizz and disperse any unwanted smells. The best part? Glitter. ($15, Uncommon Goods)

In a world with endless streaming options, these wooden dice offer a cure for indecision. Simply select a streaming platform, roll the dice, and let fate decide the genre and type of entertainment for the evening. It's a fun, effortless way to discover new shows and movies, and it might prevent a couple of exhausted arguments. ($18, Uncommon Goods)

When the ordinary stress balls just won't do, one of these whimsical choices will be a welcome option. Available in a range of fun shapes like a rainbow or a pink cowboy boot, these squishy foam balls are not only therapeutic but also a cheerful addition to any desk or workspace. ($9.95, Ban.do)

Encourage the habit of journaling without the time commitment with this thoughtful five minute journal. It offers a quick yet rewarding way to pause and reflect each day through daily prompts. And because it's undated, it’s okay to skip a day here or there. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

Toast lovers will get a kick out of seeing their favorite food in candle form. Each one is hand-poured and hand-painted, so no two slices are alike. They might wonder if it’s purely decorative, but it’s also safe to light. ($20, Piecework)

If your giftee has a sweet tooth, treat them to an orange blossom honey made from single estate orange groves in California. There are notes of lemon blossom and jasmine, giving it a sophisticated floral punch. ($20, Brightland)

For those who hate impermanence (or waste), here’s a classic New York takeout cup that won't disintegrate. Lovers of bodega and diner coffee will enjoy getting to reenact the experience of scalding black coffee at home. This ceramic cup also acts as a fun place to store knick knacks or pens if coffee isn't their thing. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)