It can be difficult to find inexpensive Christmas gifts for him under $100 that are also thoughtful. Here are some of the favorite products, ranging from streaming subscriptions to presents for your furry friends. Every year when Christmas (and the many other holidays) arrive, we're all astonished by how much gifts really cost. Oh, and the number of people for whom you must buy gifts. By the time you reach person number two, you have run out of ideas. Fortunately, you're in the proper location! I have over fifty (cheap) suggestions to help you get through the holiday season.
1. Streaming service membership
Leichtman Research Group reports that 78 percent of U.S. households subscribe to one or more of the three leading on-demand video streaming services: Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu. If you and a friend, family member, or loved one frequently stream shows together, consider purchasing them a three-month subscription to a service they don't already have or their go-to option.
2. Mixtape, a personalized playlist, or a subscription to an online music streaming service
Music can evoke strong emotions or memories, but as we get older and busier, we tend to repeatedly listen to the same few artists.
Create a mixtape for your friend that includes songs that are significant to them and that represent your friendship. To keep things interesting, you can also sprinkle in a few songs by new artists you believe they will enjoy.
Give them a subscription to a new streaming service and have a personalized playlist waiting for them when they first log in!
3. Gaming membership
In March of 2020, the World Health Organization advised that everyone remain indoors and play video games to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Not only did this excite veteran gamers, but it also spawned many new ones. In fact, Nielsen discovered that 55% of U.S. consumers played video games to help them deal with COVID-19 restrictions. Consider giving your loved one a subscription to Playstation Plus, Xbox Game Pass, or Nintendo Switch Online if he or she became a gamer as a result of the pandemic or has always been a fan. You will both be doing your part!
4. Magazine subscription
It's nice to take a break from screens and read a magazine to unwind. These days, annual magazine subscriptions can be purchased on Amazon for ridiculously low prices. Southern Living, Fast Company, and Vanity Fair each cost $5 per year, not per issue.
5. Graphic novels or comic books
Comic books and graphic novels occupy a "goldilocks zone" of engagement, requiring less mental effort than reading but more immersive than watching television.
Watchmen is an excellent graphic novel for novices, as are the sociopolitical "graphic memoirs" Persepolis and Maus, as well as the short stories of Daniel Clowes. Consider purchasing a Marvel Unlimited subscription as a Christmas gift for him $100 who is already a comics fanatic.
6. Gift certificate to a nearby bookstore.
Books are problematic presents; the recipient may not be interested in devoting hours to the book you gave them, so it becomes clutter or a doorstop. The ideal present for a voracious reader is therefore a gift card to a local bookstore. I emphasize "local" because your neighborhood mom-and-pop shop requires your business more than Barnes & Noble. In addition, your favorite reader is likely to discover incredible deals.
7. Playing cards
Board games are a simple and entertaining way to help your family or friends bond. Childhood classics such as Jenga, Trouble, Hungry Hungry Hippos, and Sorry cannot go wrong. Consider strategy games such as Risk or Agricola for competitive thinkers.
Although not technically a "board game," The Ultimate Game For Couples is a fun game to play. Each card contains a personal trivia question, such as "what is my favorite animal," allowing you to test your partner's knowledge or learn something new about them.
8. Significant, framed poster
Most individuals in their twenties have at least one bare wall in their residence. Frequently, this is due to the fact that our college posters did not survive the move, or because a frameless, peeling Transformers poster no longer fits our adult lifestyle.
A bare wall in your friend's home presents you with a golden opportunity to give them a fantastic present. Grab a $10 poster of their favorite band, or even a world map to help them plan their next global adventure, and slide it into an elegant frame.
9. Desktop models or figurines
Is your coworker, friend, or loved one obsessed with a particular automobile, book, or television program? Give them a model for their desk to demonstrate that you understand (or at least tolerate) their preoccupation. Almost every popular culture entity, from The Walking Dead to Ferrari to Harry Potter, has an affordable desktop model.
10. Cooking utensil
If your friend cooks frequently but still uses the cheap tools they purchased in college, they may greatly value a high-quality, durable kitchen tool. Consider a kitchen tool that they don't already have or that they use frequently. Examples include a can opener, a potato peeler, an elegant corkscrew, a garlic press, and even a pastry cutter!
11. Aromatic candles
There are two types of people: those who enjoy scented candles and those who do not yet realize they do. Scented candles make excellent presents for several reasons. Even Yankee Candle, the Mercedes of scented candles, sells large scented candles for less than $30. Second, you can still personalize a scented candle; if your friend adores a particular scent, such as pumpkin or cinnamon, or if they simply enjoy the scents of autumn, there is a candle for practically everything.
12. Wifi extender
Unless you're sitting right next to your router, you're probably not getting anywhere close to 100 percent of your internet speed. Since working from home is on the rise, this is definitely not good news.
Fortunately, you can spread joy (and bandwidth) by purchasing a $25 Wi-Fi extender for someone's home. It's the ideal Christmas gift for him under $100 who keeps losing his Zoom card (involuntarily).
13. Resilient desktop plant
Desktop plants can offer both aesthetic appeal and a small number of mental health benefits. I'm a big fan of aloe vera because it's visually distinctive, useful for healing kitchen burns or sunburns and requires only twice a month of watering.
14. Customized holiday ornament
Obviously, you'll want to give this one earlier in December, but I love Christmas ornaments as gifts because nobody expects them and they can bring joy for decades. Almost anything can be found as a Christmas ornament, from Harry Potter to hummingbirds to personalized pet ornaments.
15. Gardening implements of all sizes
A gardening instrument is an ideal present for a new homeowner. Even if they do not (yet) garden as a hobby, yard work tools are necessary for maintaining a healthy property and increasing its value. For instance, a $10 pair of pruning shears can help your friend maintain the health of her trees and save her $800 on limb removal in the future! A small Christmas gift for him under $100 such as a trowel or soil knife will fit in a gift bag, but a three-foot shovel can also be "wrapped" for a holiday laugh.
16. Special recipe book
Cookbooks have the reputation of being insincere gifts, and many of them end up as paperweights. But, as with all gifts, this only occurs when the giver fails to personalize it adequately.
A beginner cookbook with low-cost, low-effort recipes, such as Budget Bytes, is ideal for non-cooking friends who want to learn to cook. Consider a humorous, edgy cookbook like What The **** Should I Make For Dinner if your friend is already an amateur chef who likes to dazzle guests.
17. Custom-made cutting board
Even non-chefs use cutting boards for slicing pizza and chopping vegetables, so a high-quality one can make a significant difference.
Even better, give them a personalized version. They're available for less than $25 on Amazon and can really add a personal touch.
18. Photograph in an attractive frame
A photo of you and the recipient that evokes a positive memory is one of the most emotionally charged (and affordable) gifts you can give. Since large photo prints at Office Depot cost $1.50, you can use the remainder of your budget to purchase a high-quality frame.
If you plan to give a photo to your mother or significant other, I suggest purchasing a laser-engraved frame from Etsy for approximately $50. Include your names, the date the photo was taken, and an inside joke, if possible. The additional expense will be well worth it when you see the recipient's reaction to your present.
19. Exquisite stationery set, a fancy pen, and stamps
I received a handwritten letter from a student thanking me for speaking at her college and for helping her approximately two years ago. It probably took her four minutes to write and mail, but I still feel good about it years later. Handwritten letters are significantly more influential than emails or direct messages. Therefore, surprising someone with a nice set of stationery can assist them in establishing or reestablishing meaningful relationships with dozens of individuals.
20. Journal or notebook with a personalized introduction
Keeping a journal can enhance mindfulness, concentration, reflection, gratitude, and overall happiness. You can intensify these emotions by leaving a personalized note in the journal of a loved one. The best part is that quality journals cost approximately $15.
21. Handcrafted coupon book
The epitome of personalized (and inexpensive) gifts, you can create a "coupon book" for a loved one and include items such as "one home-cooked meal" and "any movie of your choice." Be inventive!
Both a premade coupon book with tear-out coupons and a stack of fancy coupons with gold lettering can be purchased for less than $10. If you have a limited budget, you may want to consider creating your coupon gift from scratch!
22. Jar containing handwritten message capsules
On each slip, write one reason why you love or appreciate the individual, and give the jar as a Christmas gift. Not only will they appreciate you more, but the act of writing 50 reasons why you love them will also increase your appreciation for them.
23. Hat, scarf, or pair of gloves
Occasionally, the best Christmas gift for him under $100 did not even know they needed it. Give someone on your Christmas list a high-quality winter accessory if they frequently shiver in the cold. A stylish hat, scarf, or pair of gloves can make their winter considerably more bearable!
24. Socks
Socks have reversed their previous reputation as "the worst Christmas present." Today's socks are warm, fuzzy, and adorable; give your loved one a pair of socks that feature their favorite adorable animal.
25. Lovely tote bag
Thankfully, bringing one's own reusable tote bag to the grocery store has become a trend that will endure. Therefore, a stylish, artistic tote bag is the ideal combination of the personal and functional.
26. Travel pillow
Anyone who travels frequently understands the value of products that facilitate comfortable travel. If your loved one enjoys traveling or has an upcoming trip, you may want to consider giving them a high-quality travel pillow.
27. Original keychains and leather key cases
If someone on your Christmas list has a key ring the size of a janitor's, they might appreciate a cartoon character keychain.
Even someone who dislikes keychains, such as myself, will appreciate a beautiful leather strap with their car manufacturer's logo or a leather sleeve for their keyfob.
28. Affordable jewelry
Not every piece of jewelry must be expensive to be valued. There are two types of affordable jewelry: small jewelry and costume jewelry. Small jewelry such as bracelets, rings, and necklaces can be crafted from high-quality materials while remaining under $40. Consider a birthstone bracelet as a unique gift option!
Costume jewelry appears amusing and opulent but is inexpensive. Consider purchasing a large, "chunky" necklace for a friend who likes to dress fancifully on a budget.
29. Leather wallet
Guys are obstinate, and we tend to replace things only when they break in our hands. Therefore, if you are looking for Christmas gifts for him under $100, consider purchasing him a leather wallet. His old one is probably deteriorating and causing him back pain!
30. Leather belt thirty
As a guy, I can say that a brand-new leather belt is almost always appreciated. We have a tendency to hold on to our old ones for too long, and a new one feels and looks great!
A quality leather belt that will last for years can be purchased for as low as $30.
31. Loaf of freshly baked bread
Consider surprising someone on your nice list with a homemade loaf of bread. Invest in a homemade bread maker if you've never baked bread before and surprise everyone on your Christmas list with your new hobby
32. Customized mug
I know what you're thinking; there are far too many mugs in circulation. And that may be true, but if you see someone using the same boring mugs every day, they likely do not yet have a favorite mug! A personalized mug with a photo and inscription can be purchased for less than $20. Thus, your loved one will be reminded of a pleasant memory or inside joke each time they sip their coffee.
33. Coffee pour-over starter kit
Pour-over coffee is favored by coffee connoisseurs because, despite being slow, it is the most essential and pure method for preparing a cup of joe. Consider purchasing a pour-over coffee starter kit for less than $30 for a coffee-loving friend who hasn't yet graduated to fancier homemade methods.
34. Superior bartending supplies
Consider giving your resident bartender high-quality mixing ingredients such as bitters or bourbon cherries if you and your friends are past the days of trash can punch and PBR. This one friend who enjoys making drinks for everyone would likely also appreciate some useful tools, such as a cocktail muddler made of stainless steel for mojitos and fancy ice molds for whiskey.
35. Chocolate box
What is the one present that is never returned to the store? - Chocolate. Even the fanciest box of chocolate from a reputable brand like Ghiradelli will cost less than $30 and provide your friend or loved one with a potent source of stress relief.
36. Personalized six-pack of craft beer
Whether they have just graduated from Natty Light or have consumed more craft beer than a Trappist monk, your beer-drinking friend will always appreciate an interesting six-pack.
The majority of grocery stores and package stores allow you to mix and match a six-pack of craft beer for $10. It's a great way to broaden your friend's horizons and introduce them to some of your personal favorites.
37. Excellent $10 bottle of wine
This is the ideal Christmas gift for him under $100 and has approximately two minutes to purchase. Ask them what type of wine they prefer, then bring them a $10 bottle of that variety. There are five types of wine in the world (white, red, rose, dessert, and sparkling) and approximately a trillion wineries, so there is a high probability that you will purchase something they have never tried!
38. Bottle of expensive olive oil
Even though I have a poor sense of taste, I can tell when a dish has been prepared with high-quality olive oil. Therefore, for any cooks on your list, a nice bottle of olive oil is a wonderful way to affirm their hobby while greatly enhancing their meals' flavor!
39. Set of hot chocolate
Because it is so evocative, a hot chocolate gift set containing a mug, truffles, wafers, and more is the ideal White Elephant/Dirty Santa gift. You immediately imagine huddling with a loved one by a fire while sipping a sweet treat. Even the most luxurious ones cost less than $35.
40. Pancake mix
If hot chocolate by the fire defines the ideal winter evening, then homemade pancakes while wearing pajamas define the ideal winter morning. I believe pancake mix makes an excellent Christmas gift during a pandemic because learning a new recipe to share with others in your bubble is an ideal way to combat boredom and loneliness. Additionally, when you inevitably consume too many, you'll be motivated to hit the gym!
41. Cookies
I mean, do I really need to say anything else? Cookies are the Christmas gift most likely to be consumed immediately. You can never go wrong with a tin of cookies, believe me.
42. transportable hot sauce
Almost certainly, you know someone who adds hot sauce to everything. I'm that person in my bubble; I put it on everything from eggs to ham sandwiches, and I'm extremely disappointed when it's unavailable. Therefore, travel-size bottles of hot sauce are ideal for the spice-obsessed nutcase in your life. It is a rare combination of half-joke and half-practical, and they will love you for it.
43. Epsom salts
The theory behind Epsom salts (which originate in Epsom, England) is that they break down into magnesium and sulfate when dissolved in warm bathwater, which are absorbed by the skin to provide additional relaxation.
44. Bath oils and foam bath
While Epsom salts are more cost-effective and practical, bath oils are simply... luxurious. They are attractive, fragrant, and make bathing luxurious and enjoyable.
45. Winter skincare kit
If someone on your list has recently relocated from the south to the north, they may be unaware of the debilitating effects of the cold, dry winter on their skin. Give them a winter skincare kit containing lip balm, hand lotion, cuticle oil, facial moisturizer, and/or shaving lotion to protect their skin.
46. Birchbox subscription for three months
Using makeup on others can be difficult. Even if you know what colors they prefer, you may not be aware of any brands or chemicals to which they are allergic.
Fortunately, there is Birchbox, a monthly subscription service that sends makeup samples to your loved one. After three months, they will definitely discover their next favorite product!
47. Reliable sleep mask
Occasionally, you discover a product for less than $100 that alters your life. That was a high-quality sleep mask, in my opinion. Two schools of thought exist regarding sleep masks. You can find one filled with exotic ingredients such as lavender and flax seeds, but I prefer a contoured one that blocks 100 percent of light, as I do every night.
48. Men's personal grooming kit
After Movember, your man likely appears a bit more scruffy. This Christmas, why not send a kind and subtle message by giving him a nice personal grooming kit?
49. Dog and feline playthings
Be cautious around inexpensive plastic toys, as they are easily broken and their pieces can be swallowed. Dogs can play tug-of-war with their owners or independently gnaw on rope-based toys without danger.
There appears to be a greater variety of cat toys on the market than dog toys. This means you can give your cat-owning friend a more personalized gift. Apparently, there are tea bags containing catnip, which was perfect for my tea expert/cat mom friend!
50. Illuminated dog collar
As the days become shorter, an increasing number of dog owners will walk their pets at dusk or later. To help keep you and your dog safe on the roads, it wouldn't hurt to give Kanye Westie a light-up collar for added nighttime visibility.
51. Monthly pet toy subscription box
Perhaps your friend recently adopted a dog or cat during the pandemic, and you're unsure of which type of toy they prefer. Buy your friend a short subscription to a pet toy box delivery service so they can find out. KitNipBox for cats and Barkbox for dogs are available.
Purchasing Christmas presents can be expensive and stressful, especially during a pandemic. However, a little forethought and planning can go a long way. To make him smile on Christmas morning, you need only demonstrate your concern. Hopefully, one of the Christmas gifts for him under $100 on this list will assist you in achieving your goal.
