35+ Best White Elephant Gifts Under $30 Everyone will FIGHT for [2023]!
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Choosing the perfect gift for a White Elephant gift exchange can be tricky, especially when given a tight budget. Finding something thoughtful, practical, and appealing to a large group of people is not easy.
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I still remember being super clueless about the best gift to bring to a white elephant gift exchange party. I wanted an exciting, meaningful, practical, and affordable gift.
If that’s you, keep reading!
To make things a little easier, this gift guide is full of ideas to ensure you get the best under $30 gift for your white elephant exchange.
Ranging from the fun and frivolous to the absolute essentials, there’s sure to be something that works for all kinds of gift exchanges.
Even better, these are the best White Elephant gifts under $30 for friends, family, coworkers, and even your boss to fight for.
Choosing a White Elephant gift has never been so easy. Seriously, the hardest part will be giving any of it away.
Need a gift ASAP? These are the six best White Elephant gifts under $30 that won’t get thrown away:
31 Best White Elephant Gifts Under $30 Everyone Will Fight For
1. W & P Porter Ceramic Mug
Simple travel mugs have become the accessory for the busy worker, and this design from W & P is an attractive way to drink your morning coffee. The silicone outer shell helps keep beverages insulated, reduces scratches, and protects the hand.
It’s also safe to put in both the microwave and the dishwasher. This mug will surely be a hit for a work-based White Elephant.
2. Wander Beauty Gold Under Eye Masks
The holiday season features a lot of late nights, free-flowing champagne, and not enough chances to catch up on your beauty sleep.
These gold under-eye masks from Wander Beauty can restore a bit of life to under eyes that have seen a few too many cocktails and not enough early nights.
The six-pack has enough strips for your giftee to be sorted right through to New Year!
3. In-Ear Headphone with One-Button Remote
These in-ear headphones deliver deep, rich sound to transport anyone to their last concert experience.
The 8mm drivers provide powerful bass that makes you feel the music in their soul.
4. Jason Markk Travel Shoe Cleaning Set
You don’t know you need a travel shoe cleaning set until you need it. From Jason Markk, the kit is practical and suitable for anyone who wears shoes!
The wooden-handled brush and gentle cloth are useful for various travel situations and ensure you always look your best.
5. NEST Ocean Mist & Sea Salt Votive Candle
Everyone will be happy with this NEST New York candle that smells like an ocean breeze on a crisp winter day.
The elegant design will aid relaxation — something we all need a little more as the holidays approach.
There are plenty of other scents to choose from if the ocean spray doesn’t catch your fancy, but this is a real crowd-pleaser scent.
6. Electronic Candle Lighter
Keeping up with the theme of candles, you’ll love this electric lighter with LED battery display. On the surface, it might look like an average gift.
This Electronic Candle Lighter is the perfect white elephant gift for several reasons.
First, it’s highly unique and sure to be a conversation starter. Second, it’s USB rechargeable, so your giftee will never have to worry about replacing batteries.
Third, it’s windproof, so they can use it outdoors without worry. And finally, it’s easy to use – press the button and hold for 3 seconds.
Since I got one of these, I haven’t looked back! I even gifted this to my sister, and she loved it.
7. DASH Mini Waffle Bowl Maker
DASH’s adorable mini waffle bowl maker is perfect for a white elephant gift exchange.
Thoughtful and compact, whoever’s lucky enough to receive it can make themselves sweet treats and tacos whenever they want. It’s desk-sized as well, for the person who likes to snack.
8. UGG women’s Leda Cozy Sock
Technically, these soft and cozy socks are designed for women, but they work pretty well as a unisex gift.
Incredibly comfy, these socks are perfect for curling up in front of the fireplace on a winter’s day.
The one-size sock is stretchy and can fit all kinds of feet. I live in these socks all day!
9. Oakmoss and Amber Reed Diffuser
Presented in an elegant glass jar that mimics the style of an old-fashioned apothecary bottle, this reed diffuser by Lorenzen Candle Co. is a classy way to get a house smelling fabulous.
The amber and oakmoss scent may sound unusual, but the natural scent smells like all your best outdoor memories.
10. Brixton Heist Beanie
Clothing can be tricky for a White Elephant gift exchange, but this beanie hat by Brixton is sure to please.
The cuffed beanie style is simple enough to suit any head, while the muted gray color suits all complexions and outfits. A cozy knit finish keeps the head warm as the days cool down.
11. Deep Sleep Gift Set
Almost everyone needs some extra sleep, especially as the holiday season adds stress and late nights.
The This Works Sleep On It Set is a 3-piece set containing a pillow mist, a calming spray, and a stress-check roller ball.
Together, the scents can help ease anyone into a restful night’s sleep. The neat packaging also means there’s no need for wrapping, so it’s a gift that saves stress for everyone involved.
12. Cereal City Guide: New York
A coffee table book for the most sophisticated coffee tables, this travel guide to New York from Cereal magazine is a gorgeous collection of photos and advice.
It looks good, is interesting to read, and is certain to class up whatever room it’s added to. If New York doesn’t take your fancy, try Paris, London, or Copenhagen.
13. 3-in-1 Can Cooler Set
The 3-in-1 BruMate Trio keeps your drinks cold, even as the holiday party gets warm. Able to hold a 16oz can and a 12oz can and act as a pint glass, the BruMate is a constant companion, whatever tipple you choose.
We like the Mermaid color for the cutest design, but there are some pared-back tones if you want a gift to suit all types.
14. I Should Have Known That! Trivia Game
A trivia game you won’t be able to stop playing, I Should Have Known That! is ridiculously addictive.
Testing all the things you think you know, but without the aid of Google or Wikipedia, reveals just what information is kept in your brain.
Laughter is guaranteed, as are many shouts of “I should have known that!”. You might end up surprising yourself.
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15. Adventure Quencher Travel Tumbler
These tumblers give the Yeti a run for their money. I’m unsure what it is, but these tumblers keep flying off the shelf.
This handy tumbler has a leak-resistant lid and vacuum-insulated double-wall construction to keep your hot and cold drinks hot.
Get this: this travel tumbler was made from BPA-free 18/8 stainless steel and has a reusable straw to keep it environmentally friendly.
Best of all, it’s car cup holder compatible so that you can take it with you on your commute or to your favorite studio workout.
This 40-oz tumbler has plenty of room for your tipple, but it’s still small enough to slip into a bag.
16. Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
Getting the party started wherever you go is easy with this Bluetooth karaoke microphone by Singing Machine. It simply needs to be paired with a Bluetooth device, and then it’s time to crank up the tunes.
Families will love it, but it’s the kind of gift that gets used surprisingly often. Bachelorette parties, birthday parties, New Year’s Eve… there are plenty of occasions that need a party microphone (although the neighbors may disagree).
17. Glass Coffee Mugs
For the coffee connoisseur, these glasses keep your coffee warm while making it seem levitating. That’s one way to keep your daily cup of coffee or tea interesting, am I right?
These mugs are an all-around winner, useful for special occasions and everyday brews. And two are included in the set so you can share a drink with a friend.
18. Handheld Garment Steamer
If you’re looking for a white elephant gift that people will fight for, this is it! This handheld garment steamer is perfect for anyone on the go.
It’s small and lightweight, so that you can take it anywhere. And because of its compact size, this steamer fits easily into any suitcase or carry-on.
You can use it to remove wrinkles from clothes by steaming continuously for 15 minutes without refilling the water tank repeatedly.
When my hotel reservation was canceled (blame it on a delayed flight), I had no choice but to sleep in my car rental. Thankfully, I had packed a clothing steamer because I don’t like ironing clothes.
I freshened up at a nice truck stop and used a garment steamer to straighten my dress. Besides snoozing off during the ceremony, no one would have guessed that sheltered in a car the previous night.
Talk about an inexpensive and practical white elephant gift!
19. Organic Detox Green Tea
Holidays are stressful, and we all need a minute to stop and relax. The Organic Detox Green Tea by Palais des Thes is perfect for those moments when you seek an escape from the world.
Sencha green tea has a fantastic earthy and floral taste, which is given a nutty undertone by adding buckwheat. It is delicious and an unexpected crowd-pleaser.
20. Fashioned Drinking Glasses
Sleek and attractive, these six Old Fashioned Whiskey Glasses add a touch of elegance to any cabinet. Glasses are a practical gift, and the set of four is useful for spirits, juices, and even dressing up a glass of water.
The striking glass design looks expensive, but at less than $30, this is a touch of class that won’t break the bank.
21. Werewolf Card Game
If you’re looking for a party game that will have everyone conspiratorial, greedy, and just a bit naughty, then Werewolf is where it’s at (no pun intended!).
In Werewolf, players take on the role of villagers or werewolves, and it’s up to the villagers to root out the werewolves in their midst before they’re all killed.
With many possible endings and game-play scenarios, Werewolf will surely be a hit white elephant gift.
22. The World’s Strongest Coffee
This coffee is not for the faint of heart – it is the world’s strongest coffee, made with a bold and intense blend of Arabica and Robusta beans.
It is also USDA organic, so you can be sure you are getting a quality product. Plus, who doesn’t love coffee? Whether your recipient is a coffee lover, this gift will be a hit!
23. 1000 Piece Square Jigsaw Puzzle
Everyone loves a jigsaw puzzle, and this fiendishly complex offering from eeBoo is a tricky treat for the whole family.
The fun design explores the world of the alchemist, and the colorful print is engaging for people of all ages. And when you finish the jigsaw, you have a picture lovely enough to frame.
24. Natural Soaking Bath Salts
Sinking into a nice warm bath is an everyday luxury, and the experience can only be improved with the Herbivore Botanicals Bath Salts. Designed to aid calm, the gentle fragrance infuses through the water as you soak.
Natural oils moisturize the skin, as the Himalayan salts encourage the muscles to ease.
25. Le Creuset Mini Round Cocotte
Most cooking fans dream of owning high-quality Le Creuset pots, but they tend to be out of the price range of the White Elephant budget.
After months of saving, I finally got my Le Creuset cooking set. And I kid you not; my wallet gave me major eye-rolls when it was time to check out.
However, this mini cocotte is the perfect size for a single serving and sneaks in just under the $30 budget. Small but perfectly formed, it’s a delightful addition to any kitchen.
This Le Creuset cocotte could easily be among the best white elephant gifts under $30!
26. Pulse Pod Luxurius Massage Lotion
We all need a good massage from time to time, and with the Pulse Spoil Me Unscented Lotions, you can turn even a quick foot rub into a decadent, relaxing massage.
The soft and soothing lotions will soothe your sore points (or those of whoever gets this white elephant gift). They’re also natural and plant-based. The unscented finish makes these oils gentle for all skin types and a versatile gift option.
27. Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Tired of giving the same old boring gifts at your annual white elephant gift exchange?
This year, step up your game and give the gift that everyone will fight over – the Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker!
This awesome coffee maker is perfect for any coffee lover, and it’s so easy to use that even those who don’t normally drink coffee will love it.
Plus, it is sleek black that will look great on any kitchen counter.
28. Matcha Whisk and Milk Frother
The delightful green finish of this W & P milk frother shows its original intention as a matcha whisk, but it’s also an incredibly useful kitchen gadget.
Use it to froth milk for lattes, whip up a decadent hot chocolate, or blend a silky sauce. The thin design fits easily into kitchen cabinets and draws, so it’s an unusual utensil that works in any kitchen.
29. Studio Clip Light
Working from home has taught many of us the value of a well-lit Zoom call, and with the Case-Mate Studio Clip Light you never have to suffer a meeting in bad lighting again.
It fits easily onto laptops, tablets, and phones, providing a glowing light that always catches your best angle. It can also be used to nail the perfect selfie.
Just a few days ago, our light went out just after midnight. Since my torchlight was nowhere to be found, this clip light saved the night!
30. L’Occitane Floral Hand Cream 3-Piece Gift Set
The best gifts are ones that the recipient will use and enjoy. But finding something they’ll love is tough!
This L’Occitane Floral Hand Cream 3-Piece Gift Set is perfect because it’s useful and smells amazing.
Our hands can go through a lot without us realizing it, and dry or cracked skin becomes uncomfortable fast. The ultra-nourishing L’Occitane hand creams can repair even the worst damage, leaving hands baby-soft and comfortable.
It includes three different scents of hand cream, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This set is affordable and won’t break the bank either.
Plus, the handy size is perfect for slipping into bags and pockets. What more could anyone want?
31. Self-Watering Planters
This trendy planter pot is perfect for any plant lover, and it comes with four coconut coir discs that expand to 1 quart of fluffy plant fiber each – talk about value!
The best part? The self-watering feature means that your gift recipient won’t have to water their plants daily – it’s the gift that keeps giving!
32. Crazy Funny Chicken Legs Knee-High Novelty Socks
Get ridiculous and whimsical with these funny chicken knee-high socks. It’s just the perfect definition of what white elephant gifts should be.
These socks will gather giggles; your recipient might even wear them for fun! I actually want one myself.🤣
33. Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray
Another humorous and useful item is the Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray. It’s something all of us will be grateful for, I bet!
With one single spray of this beauty, your bathroom will be left smelling fresh and clean. But admittedly, it’s also quite embarrassing to receive this as a gift (which makes it funny).
34. Extra Large Picnic Blankets
This time, let’s choose something practical. Who wouldn’t want an extra large picnic blanket?!
This blanket can fit 4-6 people, making it a perfect companion for outings with family or friends. Moreover, its padded materials protect you from damp grass or hard ground.
Few people will expect to see this as a white elephant gift, making it exciting!
35. Shot Glass Roulette
Now, this one is something that every adult may want to steal. A shot glass roulette, ladies and gentlemen, is an item that every household should have.
It’s the bringer of fun and entertainment to any party. Every round will get your heart pounding in anticipation and excitement as to who will be the lucky drinker of the night.
You can mix it with truth or dare every round to make things livelier and more fun.
36. Mop Slipper Shoes Cover
Looking for more white elephant gifts under $30? Check out this quirky, amusing household item: the mop slipper shoes cover.
It’s exactly what it says it is. These mop slippers can easily clean any dirt on your floor. You can even use it as a mop head!
You can also use it to cover your entire shoe if you’re too lazy to take it off inside the house or in a hurry.
37. Screen Magnifier for Smartphone
Up the movie game of your lucky recipient by gifting them this quirky screen magnifier for a smartphone!
It can magnify your phone screen 4-5 times with no batteries. This screen magnifier is perfect for those who love to watch movies and content from their phone.
My cousin purchased one, and when I tried it, I almost didn’t return it to him. 🤣
38. 5 Piece Kitchen Gadget Set
Rock white elephant parties with this five-piece kitchen gadget set. Anyone would find any kitchenware useful, but the fun part is you may already have some of the items in the set, leaving you with multiple identical kitchenware, or you’ll acquire new items.
This set features a pizza cutter, egg whisk, vegetable peeler, can opener, and garlic press. It’s made from premium quality stainless steel and comes in different colors!
39. Bicycle Pizza Cutter
Let your recipient giggle while slicing their pizza with this bicycle pizza cutter. It’s a cute item to add to your kitchen, be it a display or something you’d actually use.
It claims to cut even the thickest of pizza crusts! Now, that sounds promising.
40. Touchscreen Mist Cleaner
One of the most common problems we encounter is having sticky screens. Especially if toddlers or kids play with your phones, expect some sticky action to deal with.
That is why, voila! I present you with this touchscreen mist cleaner as your white elephant gift. It is the size of a lipstick, perfect for carrying in your pockets.
I’ve been dealing with sticky screens almost every day since we have a child at home, and I’m this close to buying this for myself.
FAQ About White Elephant Gifts This Season
What are some good white elephant gifts?
I love white elephant gift exchanges! They’re always so much fun, and it’s always a surprise to see what people come up with. Some of my favorite gifts to give (and receive) are useful but maybe quirky. Here are some of my top picks:
- Handheld garment steamer: This is great for anyone who travels frequently or has little space in their closet. It’s small and compact but gets the job done quickly and easily.
- Smokeless candle lighter: This is a must-have for anyone who loves candles. It’s easy to use and doesn’t produce any smoke, so it’s perfect for indoor or outdoor use.
- Mini waffle bowl maker: This is such a fun kitchen gadget! It’s perfect for making single-serve desserts or breakfast bowls. Plus, it’s just so darn cute.
- I should have known that! Trivia game: This is a great game for parties or family gatherings. It’s perfect for groups of all ages and is always a hit.
- The world’s strongest coffee: This is perfect for coffee lovers who like it strong and bold. It’s also great for anyone needing an extra morning energy boost.
- Self-watering planters: These are perfect for people with trouble keeping their plants alive. They’re easy to use, and they make sure your plants always have enough water.
Is white elephant gag gifts?
No, not always. White elephant gag gifts are a great way to lighten the mood at any party. They can be funny, unique, and even practical. However, knowing the party’s rules is important before you bring one. Some gatherings may prefer more tasteful gifts, and you don’t want to be the one who brings the inappropriate gift. If you’re not sure, ask your host or err on the side of caution.
How much do you spend on Yankee Swap?
The amount you spend on Yankee Swap gifts depends on the budget of the group you’re participating in. Most people typically spend between $20 and $30 on their gifts. This allows you to get something reasonable without having to break the bank.
What is the difference between dirty Santa and White Elephant?
In a White Elephant gift exchange, every participant brings one wrapped gift to contribute to a common pool. All gifts are placed in designated areas, and participants select their gifts one at a time in reverse order of age or some other pre-determined format.
Scrolled to the bottom of this post? The best white elephant gifts under $30 will light up the party!
Conclusion
The best white elephant gifts are the ones that make people laugh and feel good. But you can’t just go to any store and pick up a random gift; it must be thoughtful, funny, or meaningful.
That’s why I put together this list of unique ideas for the best white elephant gifts under $30, with something for everyone on your list.
Finding the perfect White Elephant gift on a budget doesn’t have to be difficult. With these choices, you can find something right for your family, friends, work buddies, and even people you’ve never met at the party. I hope these gift ideas will help you find the perfect gift!
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