19 Affordable Gift Ideas That Show Friends You’re Thinking of Them
Friendship is priceless, but when it comes to gifts, you don’t need to spend a fortune to show your friends how much you care.
Thoughtful gifts can come in many forms, and some of the best ways to express your appreciation are affordable and meaningful.
From DIY creations to personalized touches, these 19 thrifty gift ideas will help you celebrate your friends without breaking the bank.
Let’s explore some simple and heartfelt ways to make your friends feel special without overspending.
1. DIY Friendship Bracelet
A handmade friendship bracelet is a classic, heartfelt gift that never goes out of style.
You can easily make a colorful, personalized bracelet using inexpensive craft supplies like embroidery thread or beads.
Not only does this gift carry a nostalgic touch, but it also serves as a constant reminder of your friendship.
2. Customized Coffee Mug
Personalize a plain mug with a special message, inside joke, or your friend’s favorite quote.
You can create a design using DIY sharpie art or order an affordable custom mug online.
Every time your friend enjoys their morning coffee or tea, they’ll think of you and your thoughtful gift.
3. Photo Collage
Gather some of your favorite memories with your friend and create a photo collage.
You can print photos and arrange them in a frame or use a digital collage maker for a modern twist.
This is an inexpensive, yet meaningful way to capture your friendship in a gift they’ll treasure.
4. Scented Candle
A beautifully scented candle is a simple yet thoughtful gift that can help your friend relax and unwind.
Choose a fragrance that suits their personality, whether it’s calming lavender or energizing citrus.
Scented candles are affordable and add a touch of luxury to any space.
5. Personalized Keychain
A customized keychain is a practical and personal gift that your friend will use every day.
Look for affordable options that allow you to add their initials, a charm that represents them, or a small engraving with a meaningful word.
This small gift is a simple way to remind your friend of your bond.
6. Succulent Plant
Succulents are low-maintenance plants that make perfect gifts, adding a bit of greenery to any room.
They’re inexpensive, easy to care for, and symbolize growth—just like your friendship.
Find a cute pot or DIY a planter for an extra personalized touch.
7. Handwritten Letter
Sometimes, a heartfelt letter is all it takes to make someone feel appreciated.
Write down all the reasons why your friend is special, reflect on shared memories, and express your gratitude for their friendship.
This is a priceless, sentimental gift that carries more meaning than any store-bought item.
8. DIY Hot Chocolate Kit
Create a cozy, DIY hot chocolate kit by filling a mason jar with hot cocoa mix, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips.
You can add a cute tag with instructions and wrap it up with a ribbon for an extra touch of charm.
This sweet, homemade gift is perfect for friends who love a warm, comforting drink.
9. Personalized Playlist
Curate a personalized playlist filled with songs that remind you of your friendship, shared memories, and your friend’s favorite tunes.
This digital gift is free but carries a lot of meaning, as it shows the time and thought you put into selecting the music.
You can share the playlist digitally or create a fun CD for a nostalgic feel.
10. Bath Bombs
Help your friend indulge in some self-care with a couple of luxurious bath bombs.
You can find affordable bath bombs in different scents or even try making your own with DIY kits.
This is a simple yet thoughtful gift that encourages relaxation and rejuvenation.
11. A Book You Love
Share the joy of a book that has meant something to you or that you think your friend will enjoy.
Whether it’s a novel, self-help book, or something related to their hobbies, a carefully chosen book is a gift that keeps on giving.
Write a short note inside the cover for an added personal touch.
12. DIY Picture Frame
Decorate a simple picture frame and add a photo of the two of you to create a personalized gift.
You can use paint, glitter, stickers, or other inexpensive craft supplies to make it unique.
This creative, budget-friendly gift is sure to bring a smile to your friend’s face.
13. Customized Notebook
A customized notebook can be both practical and personal, making it a great thrifty gift option.
Add their name, an inspiring quote, or a meaningful design to the cover.
Whether they use it for journaling, doodling, or note-taking, this gift will remind them of your thoughtfulness.
14. Mini Care Package
Create a mini care package filled with small, thoughtful items like their favorite snacks, lip balm, a face mask, or tea bags.
You can put together a small box or basket with a few affordable yet meaningful goodies.
This gift shows your friend that you’re thinking of them and that you care about their well-being.
15. DIY Friendship Coupons
Create personalized friendship coupons that your friend can redeem for fun activities or favors.
Include things like “movie night,” “coffee on me,” or “an afternoon together” as options.
This interactive gift adds a personal touch and creates opportunities for future memories together.
16. A Homemade Dessert
Bake a batch of cookies, brownies, or cupcakes and package them in a decorative box or tin.
Homemade treats are always a thoughtful and delicious way to show your appreciation for someone.
Your friend will love the effort and care that went into making something just for them.
17. Personalized Phone Case
Customize an affordable phone case with your friend’s name, a favorite quote, or a design that reflects their personality.
You can find budget-friendly custom cases online, or create a DIY design using paint or stickers.
This practical yet personal gift will remind your friend of you every time they use their phone.
18. Friendship Memory Jar
Create a friendship memory jar by writing down special moments, inside jokes, and reasons why you appreciate your friend on small pieces of paper.
Fill a jar with these notes, and decorate the outside with a ribbon or label.
This is a meaningful and sentimental gift that your friend can revisit whenever they need a pick-me-up.
19. DIY Wall Art
If you’re feeling creative, try making a piece of DIY wall art for your friend.
You can paint, draw, or create a print with a meaningful quote, design, or abstract pattern.
This one-of-a-kind gift adds a personal touch to their space and is a beautiful reminder of your friendship.
