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40 Best Small Gifts for Friends: 2024 Cool Ideas

Updated
Put down the generic gift card and show your friend how thoughtful you are with one of these unique gifts!

From a special occasion to no occasion at all, picking up small gifts for friends can be a wonderful way to show your loved one you’re thinking of them!

However, finding a gift that is both thoughtful and cheap might pose more of a challenge. At least, until you dive into this lovely listicle chock full of cute, cool, and affordable items!

Whether you’re searching for a little thank you gift, an inexpensive birthday surprise, or a cute pick-me-up for your best friend, we’ve got you covered with these 40 thoughtful options.


40 Best Small Gift Ideas for Friends

Treat your best friend to one of the best little gifts from this curated collection!

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Shit I Can't Remember: Organizer, Log Book & Notebook for Passwords and Shit

  • Help Them Get Their *Stuff* Together

  • $$$$$
  • Stationery & Goods

We all have that one friend who would forget their head if it wasn’t attached to their neck. The one who chants “phone, keys, wallet” as they leave the house but then forgets their purse with all those items in it. This notebook goes out to the forgetful friends that you love and adore, even if you go days without speaking to them because they misplaced their phone.

This logbook can help them write down all their important logins and passwords (or anything else they can’t seem to remember). Now, all we can do is hope they don’t forget where they put this notebook!

User Experience

I've found this notebook to be the perfect tool for those of us who are a bit forgetful. It's incredibly handy for jotting down essential things like logins and passwords, proving to be a real asset in my daily routine. Despite the risk of misplacing the notebook itself, the convenience and organization this product brings definitely outweighs the cons.

Recycled Drink Coasters, Set of 4

  • Rings On Fingers, Not Tables

  • $$$$$
  • Homegoods & Decor

Tell your environmentally-minded friend that you instantly thought of them when you saw these recycled coasters, and they’ll instantly be touched by your thoughtfulness! These coasters are crafted from sustainably sourced materials, including recycled flip flops.

Not only are they green-minded, these coasters are still slip resistant, sturdy, and very absorbent. They’re available in a variety of color combinations, so you’ll be able to find a set that matches the recipient’s taste.

Personal Perspective

Best purchase I've made in a while, these recycled coasters caught my eye with their eco-friendly construction from sustainably sourced materials, including recycled flip flops. I was impressed by their slip-resistant, sturdy, and highly absorbent qualities, which proved to be practical in daily use. The variety of color combinations available allowed me to choose a set that perfectly matched my decor. If you're environmentally conscious and value thoughtful design, these coasters are a unique and functional addition to any home.

Boho Pillow Cover with Tassels

  • Boho And Bougie

  • $$$$$
  • Homegoods & Decor

This highly textured black and white pillowcase gives us major designer vibes but at a knockoff price point. But if black and white don’t fit your friend’s decor, there are plenty of other equally stylish options to choose from, including a rainbow design we just can’t stop thinking about. This pillowcase could be a perfect, easy gift for your friend that wants to refresh their space but needs a bit of encouragement to start. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the inspiration behind your best friend’s new interior decorating career?

Community Feedback

After purchasing this highly textured black and white pillowcase, I was pleasantly surprised by its high-end design and wallet-friendly price. Despite my initial concern that the colors may not suit my decor, I found that it added a refreshingly modern twist to my space, potentially sparking an unforeseen passion for interior decorating.

Wine Glass/Beer/Cans/Bottle/Drink Holder for Shower

  • Relax And Un-Wine

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Homegoods & Decor

Yes, this is the perfect gift for almost anyone. We agree, these should be built into every bathroom. However, until that becomes common practice, you’ll just have to get one of these shower cup holders for all your friends.

This one, in particular, works with wine glasses, beer bottles, cans, or any other similarly sized cup. This fun bathroom accessory could be the perfect gift for someone who loves to relax in a soothing bath or shower, and maybe an adult beverage or two.

First-Hand Impression

Got this shower cup holder as a gift recently and I must say it's a novel addition to my bathroom routine. It securely holds my wine glass, beer bottle, or any similarly sized cup, allowing me to unwind with my favorite beverage during a bath or shower. Instead of wishing for such features to come built-in with every bathroom, this product offers a creative solution. It's a fun and practical bathroom accessory that has definitely added a touch of relaxation to my daily life.

Cute Lamp Dumpling Light

  • Talk A-Bao-t Cute

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Homegoods & Decor

We can’t get over how adorable (and affordable) this little dumpling light is. If you have a friend that loves all things kawaii or just appreciates a soft glowing lamp for nighttime reading, this little light could be an awesome small gift. Whether you think it looks like a dumpling or a raindrop, we think it’s super cute either way, and your friend will love this small token of your friendship.

User Experience

I'm quite charmed by this little light, it's a delightful addition to any room. It's small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, making it both portable and convenient. The easy touch turn on is incredibly user-friendly and it's great that it also has an automatic shut off after an hour. The variety in lighting options, from a warm glow to color-changing, offers a unique and engaging experience every time you use it; however, be aware it can be a bit sensitive and change settings if jostled too much.

Star Wars Millenium Falcon Metal Bottle Opener

  • Rebel Forces Unite For Beer

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Kitchen & Dining

We shouldn’t have to elaborate because if you have a friend that would love this bottle opener, you’ve probably already thought of them. This one is for the Star Wars nerd among your pals, and if you don’t have one in your friend group, we volunteer ourselves as tribute. This is a great thank you gift or small gift for friends that wish they were as cool as Han Solo.

Personal Perspective

I picked up this keychain as a quirky little gift for my Star Wars-loving brother and it was a total hit. The keychain is lightweight yet sturdy, with an iconic design that instantly appealed to him. However, it falls a bit short as a bottle opener, struggling to pop open a bottle on the first try.

Moon Shape Jewelry Dish Organizer

  • Love You To The Moon

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Homegoods & Decor

This little trinket dish is so darn cute, but it’s exactly the type of item we constantly talk ourselves out of buying. If you have a friend that spends hours scrolling Pinterest and wandering around Homegoods but can’t quite pull the trigger, they’ll probably love this set of jewelry dishes. And even if your friend leaves Target with a cart full of home decor every weekend, they’ll still love these dainty and stylish moon-shaped jewelry dishes.

Community Feedback

I'm genuinely smitten by this little moon-shaped trinket dish, which oozes charm and style. As someone who spends ample time admiring decor but always hesitates before purchasing, this set of jewelry dishes was a delightful surprise. It has a certain daintiness that makes it not just functional, but also an elegant addition to any room decor. Whether you're a frequent weekend shopper or a cautious browser, these moon-themed dishes are sure to captivate your heart with their cuteness and versatility.

Three Tier Hanging Fruit Basket for Kitchen

  • Adorable Storage Solutions

  • $$$$$
  • Homegoods & Decor

Small gifts don’t have to just be cute novelty items, they can still be fully functional. We love the versatility of this hanging basket. Macrame is coming back in a major way and becoming a mainstream decor accent, not just cor boho hippies dreaming of the 1970s.

Your best friend can use this stylish storage solution in the kitchen for produce, in their entryway for sorting mail and essentials, or in their room for beauty and grooming tools. We’ll be at home this weekend tangled in string trying to make a sub-par DIY version.

First-Hand Impression

I'm absolutely smitten with this hanging macrame basket, which is a charming blend of style and utility. With its resurgence in popularity, it's not just a throwback to the 70s but a trendy storage solution that can be used in various rooms for different purposes. Whether it's organizing produce in the kitchen, sorting mail in the entryway, or storing beauty tools in the bedroom, this basket does it all in a fashionable way, saving me from a weekend of DIY attempts.

Creepy Party Animal Unicorn Mask

  • For Party Animals Only

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty

This party mask might be a bit goofier than the other items on this list so far, but we bet you know a party animal that would rock this at your next get-together. Or a great small gift idea for friends with massive costume boxes who love any excuse to dress up. This whimsical gift choice will at least get a laugh out of your friend because whoever expects to open up a funny unicorn mask?

User Experience

I initially purchased this unicorn mask as a quirky gift for my eight-year-old daughter, but the size proved to be better suited to an adult. This mask, despite its somewhat rubbery texture, is well-crafted, sporting a striking resemblance to the product description's image. However, the fun does come with a few caveats: visibility is quite limited, and the mask's material can cause some heat build-up, especially during summer use. Moreover, there was a noticeable plastic smell upon opening, which luckily faded after some airing out, but it's something to bear in mind.

Pizza Blanket Double Sided 71 inches

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  • Break Me Off A Pizza That

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Homegoods & Decor, Comfort

We just can’t get over how giftable this fun blanket is. This cute pizza blanket is the perfect choice for your foodie friend, your guy pal with silly taste in decor, or your bestie to thank her for the endless pizza and movie nights you two have shared. It is also available in a tortilla design, which could be a great pick for your favorite Taco Tuesday buddy. The blanket is super soft as well as being extremely cute, which could make it a great birthday or thank you gift for a friend.

Personal Perspective

As a self-proclaimed pizza enthusiast, this pizza blanket not only caught my eye but also tickled my funny bone. The first time I wrapped myself in it, I was taken aback by its super soft texture which added to the overall coziness. Its unique and amusing design was a hit at our movie nights, often sparking laughter and conversation. My friends, especially the food lovers, were captivated by its quirky appeal. In a nutshell, this pizza blanket is a delightful blend of comfort, novelty, and fun.
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Magic 8 Ball: Retro

  • Ask Your Deepest Questions

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Entertainment & Activities

Do you have a pal that texts you at all hours looking for advice? Does your work bestie love all things whimsical and nostalgic? This Magic 8 Ball could be a fun gift for a philosophical friend who likes to ponder the world’s deepest questions and mysteries.

Of course, they’re still welcome to message you at midnight to discuss what color they should dye their hair next, but the Magic 8 Ball can provide another useful opinion to break a tie.

Community Feedback

I've been using this Magic 8 Ball for a while now, and it's been a delightful source of entertainment, especially when I'm in contemplative moods or even when I'm just goofing around. Whether it's aiding in decision-making about my next hair color or just providing a whimsical distraction, this Magic 8 Ball has definitely added a fun, philosophical element to my day-to-day life.

Anthony's Premium Cheddar Cheese Powder

  • Cheese Me, Please

  • $$$$$
  • Food & Drinks

The cheese fiend in your life might just cry from joy if you give them this cheddar cheese powder. This is a great gift for friends that never outgrew their love of boxed macaroni and cheese, are following a certain diet but can’t kick their cheesy cravings, or who just love experimenting with fun snacks! This powder tastes like an upscale version of the childhood favorite and could add a fun kick to popcorn, dips, or other foods.

First-Hand Impression

When I first tried this cheddar powder, I was pleasantly surprised by its authentic taste and versatility. It brought back the nostalgic flavors of childhood while I was whipping up mac and cheese, and it also made my popcorns and veggies incredibly delicious. I've experimented with other brands but none of them could match the quality of this one - it's a tad bit pricey, but totally worth it considering the taste and the quantity you get.

Personalized Photo Pet Face Socks

  • The Paw-fect Gift

  • $$$$$
  • Clothing, Accessories

Every millennial pet owner with a fur baby would flip out if you got them a personalized pair of socks with their pet on them. How do we know? Because we’ve received a pair of these and definitely teared up a bit.

These socks are for your friend who is completely inseparable from their four-legged half. They’ll appreciate how thoughtful you were, while you’ll probably appreciate how affordable this custom gift is.

User Experience

After receiving these socks as a gift for various family members, I can affirm their charm lies in their personalized design and the quality of the print. However, while the fabric is soft and stretchy, the sizes seemed inconsistent - fitting perfectly for some, but appearing too tight for others with larger feet. Although the socks have an oddly structured heel area, their unique customization and overall aesthetic appeal make them a delightful present.

Mini Lower Body Pot

  • For Their Succulent Ass-ortment of Plants

  • $$$$$
  • Homegoods & Decor

Is this a plant pot or a sleek and modern piece of art? This plant pot has Mother Nature vibes and ultra-femininity all rolled into one, and would look incredible mixed into a plant collection or on a curated windowsill.

Plant lovers, art lovers, and people with a certain cool aesthetic would all equally appreciate this planter, which is also available in a variety of colors as well as some other body parts. How cute would it be to pair the butt planter with the bust planter? We’re swooning at the decorating possibilities.

Personal Perspective

I'm absolutely smitten with this plant pot for its chic, modern look that's also a bit playful. Its design, echoing natural and feminine forms, blends seamlessly with my other plants, making my windowsill look like a curated art exhibit. This pot, which comes in various colors and designs representing different body parts, adds a unique touch to my plant collection. Imagine the fun of pairing this butt planter with its bust counterpart - the decorating possibilities are simply enchanting!

Funny French Vanilla Cereal Bowl with Metal Spoon Scented Candle

  • We’re Super Cereal About Candles

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Homegoods & Decor

You can never go wrong with a classic candle as a small gift for friends. However, if you’re looking for a more unique version of the standard, we can’t get over how cute these cereal candles are. They come complete with a metal spoon and little wax cereal pieces that the recipient can pour for themselves. Now the important question is- do you pour your milk before your cereal or your cereal first?

Community Feedback

My initial impression of this cereal candle was that it was an incredibly realistic and cleverly designed piece. The attention to detail, from the spoon to the separate wax melts resembling cereal, brought a playful touch that sparked joy and laughter. However, as much as I wished to love everything about it, the scent was overpoweringly artificial and not to my liking. Despite this, it remained a visually appealing item that added a unique charm to any setting.

18 Pack Hand Cream

  • Give Them A Hand

  • $$$$$
  • Grooming & Self-care

From winter weather to washing dishes, a wide variety of factors can leave our hands feeling dry, rough, and cracked. This pack contains 18 unique scents and fragrances, crafted with essential oils and deeply moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, natural aloe vera, and vitamin E. This pack is perfect for your on-the-go friend because they can stash one of these conveniently sized bottles in all of their bags!

First-Hand Impression

I stumbled upon these lotions by accident, but they've quickly become a staple in my daily routine due to their compact size, perfect for pocket storage. These creams have light, pleasing scents and offer excellent moisture for my hands, which often become dry from handling boxes and frequent washing. Despite some claims, I've found that these lotions are nicely scented, the honey variant being a personal favorite. While I appreciate the quality and value, I do wish the manufacturing origin was not from China.

Carhartt Men's Knit Cuffed Beanie

  • Cozy And Stylish

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Comfort

This Carhartt beanie is both trendy and classic, making it an awesome small gift idea for friends of all styles and aesthetics. These Carhartt beanies probably popped up all over your cold-weather Instagram, Tiktok, or Pinterest feed. They’re available in a ton of different colors, from traditional neutrals to soft pastels, so you could even help your friend branch out from their standard black beanie rut.

User Experience

As an ardent fan of Carhartt, I appreciate the superior quality of this beanie. While initially snug, I found it gradually stretched to accommodate my larger head size, ensuring a comfortable fit. This beanie, with its lighter green hue, was not as I expected but it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The material is incredibly soft and lightweight, yet it effectively keeps my head warm during colder months. I was delighted to see it also fits well on my son, who enjoys the vibrant yellow color. However, I did notice that if not worn properly, it can sit higher and cause a noticeable bulge on top, so it's best to adjust it until it sits properly.

Beard Care Kit For Men

  • For Your Bearded Bros

  • $$$$$
  • Grooming & Self-care

Who would have thought that you could find such a well-stocked beard care kit at such a bargain price? Honestly, if we’ve learned anything from dating a string of bearded hipsters, it’s that men with beards love anything (gifts or complements) related to their beard.

This care kit is one of the best gifts for men who take pride in their beard (spoiler alert, they pretty much all do). This kit contains beard growth oil, beard balm for moisturizing and shaping, stainless steel scissors, a brush for grooming and evenly distributing product, and more. It almost makes us wish we had a beard, but not quite.

Personal Perspective

This beard care kit is a treasure trove of essential grooming items, including beard growth oil, shaping balm, stainless steel scissors, and a handy brush. From personal experience, I can attest that these products not only foster the growth of a lush beard but also ensure its proper maintenance, making this kit an excellent gift for those who cherish their beards.

Heart with Tears Shaped Rimless Sunglasses

  • We Heart These

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Accessories

These funky sunglasses are a cool, small gift for your friend with eclectic taste. These unique shades will look awesome at the next music festival, party, or influencer-worthy Instagram post. These shades are nothing short of eye-catching, which makes them a great small gift for your friend who loves to stand out in a crowd and doesn’t shy away from a statement piece. The sunglasses are available in multiple hues and come with a cool case.

Community Feedback

When I first laid eyes on these sunglasses, I was charmed by their cute design and vividly red lenses. They quickly became the star of the show at a concert I attended, with people even requesting to take photos with me. However, they're not as durable as I had hoped - one pair broke during my first trip due to a missing screw. Despite this, their unique style makes these shades an eye-catching accessory, even if they may not last very long.

Mike's Hot Honey 10 oz Easy Pour Bottle

  • Some Like It Hot

  • $$$$$
  • Food & Drinks

Some like it hot, some like it sweet, and some people want a dash of both in every bite! You might be wondering- what food would actually be good with hot honey on top? Boy, do we have news for you. From pizza to wings to chicken and waffles, we want to put this spicy honey on just about everything. This is a great small gift for your foodie friend that loves combining unique flavors.

First-Hand Impression

I'm someone who loves trying new food pairings, and this hot honey hit the sweet spot. It's a delightful mix of sweet and spicy that I've been drizzling on everything from salmon to chicken, even cream cheese and crackers. My husband and I even experimented with it on grilled pork chops, turning a regular dinner into something extraordinary. It's not just a condiment, it's a culinary adventure that will keep your taste buds on their toes.
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Women's Cross Band Slippers Soft Plush

  • Slip Into Something More Plush

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Comfort

Something about these slippers gives us major Cher from Clueless vibes. Give these slippers to your friend who was born to be a pampered stay-at-home wife or daughter (even if life had different plans in store for them).

At the very least, they can don these slippers after they get home from work, pour a glass of wine, light some candles, and pretend they don’t have to work 8+ hours a day to afford their lifestyle. They’re available in a ton of colors, so you could even get pairs for all your gal pals and have a fun spa day at home.

User Experience

Definitely, these slippers exude a feeling of chic comfort reminiscent of an indulgent at-home spa day. After a long day at work, slipping into these plush foot comforts, pouring a glass of wine, and relaxing seems to be the ultimate unwinding ritual. The array of available colors adds a fun element, making it possible to coordinate with your friends for a cozy get-together. However, these slippers are more than just about aesthetic, their plushness adds a pampering touch, making you feel every bit the stay-at-home royalty, even if it's just for a few hours after work.

Extra Soft Faux Fur Throw Blanket

  • Give Them A Reason To Stay In Bed

  • $$$$$
  • Comfort, Homegoods & Decor

In case those fuzzy slippers weren’t quite luxurious enough, this lux faux fur blanket could take your gift up a notch. This could be a particularly great gift for a friend who hates the cold, enjoys interior decorating, or who has been ill and could use something soft and cuddly for comfort.

The throw blanket size would be the perfect accent piece in their glamorous home while still being one of the softest and coziest blankets on the planet. This blanket is available in multiple colors, all of which are equally luxurious!

Personal Perspective

In my experience, this lux faux fur blanket adds a touch of glamour to any living space while providing unparalleled comfort. This blanket, available in a variety of colors, is not only an excellent accent piece for those who love interior decorating but also a soft and cozy companion for anyone who despises the cold.

bite away® - Insect Sting and Bite Relief

  • Save The Day And Their Skin

  • $$$$$
  • Grooming & Self-care

While scientists have learned some interesting facts about mosquitos – such as only females suck blood, they can sense the heat and humidity around our bodies, and they might prefer beer drinkers- none of that information is particularly helpful when you’re already covered in bites from head to toe. But do you know what could actually help? This unique Bite Away tool, which delivers targeted heat to take the sting and irritation out of any pesky bites.

Community Feedback

I'm genuinely impressed by this Bite Away tool's effectiveness at relieving the sting and irritation of mosquito bites. As someone who seems to be a magnet for these pesky insects, using this device has significantly minimized my discomfort. This Bite Away tool applies targeted heat to the bites, which I've found to be a practical solution to an otherwise annoying problem.

Three-Pack Velvet Hair Tie Scrunchies With Hidden Zipper Pocket

  • Stash The Essentials

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Novelty

We love multifunctional accessories, like these sneaky scrunchies with a hidden zipper compartment. Especially since it seems like all women’s fashion designers have a not-so-secret vendetta against giving us functional pockets on clothing, us girls have to get a bit creative with our accessories.

These scrunchies are perfect for stashing house keys on a run, a bit of pocket money just in case, or anything else the user wants to keep handy and hidden. We’ll let you use your imagination for the rest.

First-Hand Impression

These scrunchies are a clever and fashionable solution to the ongoing pocket problem I've faced with women's clothing. With a hidden zipper compartment, they're perfect for storing essentials like house keys or pocket money during a run - a truly creative and functional accessory.

Womens Warm Blanket Scarf

  • Wrap Them Up In Love

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Comfort

Blanket scarves are as trendy as they are versatile. If your friend lives in a cold climate or is an avid traveler, they’ll love how warm and useful this scarf is. Plus, with over 20 gorgeous designs and an incredibly affordable (less than $10) price tag, you might just want to stock up on a few of these scarves for all your pals! Did you take a peek at all those unique plaid prints? This scarf is a pumpkin patch, big hat, autumnal vibes, and an Instagram post ready!

User Experience

Excellent is the word to describe these blanket scarves. As someone who appreciates warmth and versatility, I found this scarf to be both cozy and stylish. The abundance of unique plaid designs is appealing, and it fills me with autumnal vibes just by looking at it. It's not only perfect for chilly climates but also a great companion for travel. For such an affordable price, these scarves offer a high-quality, trendy accessory that truly wraps you up in love.

Cap Gun Bottle Opener

  • Pew Pew Shots Fired

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Entertainment & Activities

Do you have a friend that is thirty going on thirteen? This beer cap gun is the best gift for those goofballs in your friend group who can make any event playful. If you have some money left over in your budget, you might want to pair this fun bottle opener with a mini basketball hoop or target, so your friend has something else to aim their bottle cap shots at!

Personal Perspective

This bottle cap shooter has been a great addition to our family gatherings, doubling as a bottle opener and a source of entertainment. The durable plastic construction has held up well, even amidst our spirited bottle cap battles. Despite its small size, it's surprisingly powerful - just remember to aim below the waistline! Our cats have also shown an unexpected interest in the flying caps, adding even more amusement. The two-pack I received had one shooter that didn't perform as advertised, but it hasn't hampered our enjoyment. Whether you're thinking of gifting this to a boyfriend, brother, or dad, trust me, they'll love it!

La Tourangelle- White Truffle Oil

  • A Dash Of Gourmet For Everyday

  • $$$$$
  • Food & Drinks

Your favorite foodie will love that you thought of them as soon as you saw the phrase truffle oil, and you’ll love that this infused oil is a fraction of the price of fresh Italian Alba Truffles. Is your mind racing at all the possibilities of ways to use this oil? Same, so we may as well pick up a bottle for ourselves to test it and give authentic suggestions to our friends, right?

We’re definitely drizzling some of this white truffle oil onto our homemade pesto pizza tonight! We can’t wait to hear suggestions from you and the friend you give this bottle to about other awesome ways to incorporate this finishing oil into some gourmet cuisine.

Community Feedback

I was instantly intrigued by this white truffle oil, adding a dash of gourmet to my everyday meals without breaking the bank. Whether drizzling it on my homemade pesto pizza or experimenting with other culinary creations, this oil elevates my dishes to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Sideways Initial Necklace 18K Gold Plated

  • Say My Name, Say My Name

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories

Trendy jewelry? Check. A touch of customization by using the first letter of your friend’s name? Double check. A super affordable but still cute gift? Triple check. If that’s what it means to be a triple threat, then everyone should watch out for this elegant and stylish necklace. Not to mention, unlike many other affordable jewelry options, this one is tarnish-resistant, so hopefully, your gift won’t turn your friend’s neck green!

First-Hand Impression

Bought this necklace as an Easter gift and despite a bit of a delay, it finally arrived. This necklace is beautifully packaged in a small, chic, black velvet drawstring bag - a rather elegant touch. My daughter has been wearing it almost constantly for a year, enduring daily showers, sports, and even swimming, proving its durability. It's a pleasing size and makes a charming accessory, enhancing her everyday outfits. She's received several compliments on it, reinforcing its aesthetic appeal. For its price point, this necklace has certainly demonstrated its value.

Denman Hair Brush for Curly Hair

  • For Your Favorite Curly Girl Or Guy

  • $$$$$
  • Grooming & Accessories

If we know anything, it’s that curly hair can be a bit tricky to manage. This brush, however, is specifically designed to help detangle, shape, and separate curls, to make your friend’s luscious locks look even more vibrant! This fan-favorite brush could make your friend’s morning routine significantly easier, which would also give you two more time to chat on the phone or grab a coffee and breakfast burrito. So, this brush is partially a gift for your friend and partially a devious plan to get your friend to hang out with you more.

User Experience

From my personal experience, this brush has been a remarkable tool for managing my curly hair, effortlessly detangling, shaping, and separating my curls, making them more vibrant. It's not just a beauty accessory, but also a time-saver in my morning routine, leaving me with extra moments for a leisurely coffee or a catch-up call with a friend.

Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup

  • For Ultra Convenience

  • $$$$$
  • Kitchen & Dining

Does anyone else remember when collapsable Tupperware containers first came out? The convenience of smooshing down your empty lunch box to a third of it’s original size seems like a brief glimpse into a future where we can now have collapsable coffee cups as well! We love this gift for friends who are trying to become a bit more eco-conscious and limit their one-use or disposable plastics! Your friend can keep the compressed version in their bag or car and then extend it to full size when they need a caffeinated pick-me-up.

Personal Perspective

I'm genuinely thrilled by these collapsible coffee cups! The convenience of being able to compress the cup to a fraction of its original size after my morning joe is just incredible; it's like having a glimpse of an eco-friendlier future. It's a perfect gift for friends who, like me, are striving to reduce their single-use plastic consumption.
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Retro TV Style Stand Holder

  • Take A Stand

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Homegoods & Decor

Raise your hand if you ever drop your phone on your face while you’re lying in bed watching things. Now, raise your hand if you haven’t personally done that, but you can think of a friend who would absolutely do that. If your hands are raised, we suggest you just go ahead and click add to cart on this retro tv stand phone holder. This vintage-inspired phone stand could be a cool way to stream Netflix on their phone, and maybe save their face from some startling accidents.

Community Feedback

This retro TV stand phone holder has been a fun and practical addition to my home decor. It's no secret that I've had my fair share of clumsy moments, including that all-too-familiar phone drop on the face while lying in bed. With this stand, I've been able to comfortably stream my favorite shows on Netflix without the fear of any unexpected accidents. The vintage design also adds a unique touch to my living space, making it more than just a phone holder. It's a nifty piece that combines both novelty and functionality to improve my daily routine.

Women's Ruched Butt Lifting High Waist Leggings

  • TikTok Made Us

  • $$$$$
  • Clothing

Yes, of course, we put these Tiktok famous leggings on the list. These leggings went viral for the eye-catching effect they seem to have on the wearers behind. We’ve seen them all over our social media feed, and we know a few of our posteriorly gifted friends are definitely curious about how their best assets would look in these magical pants.

These leggings are significantly more affordable than a Brazilian Butt Lift operation, so we can’t wait to see all your curvy booty pals rocking these internet-famous leggings! What can we say? We like big butts and we cannot lie.

First-Hand Impression

For anyone looking to jazz up their workout gear, these TikTok famous leggings are worth a shot. My first experience with these leggings was quite remarkable due to their unique eye-catching effect, particularly in the posterior region. Compared to other pricy alternatives like surgical enhancements, these leggings offer an affordable way to flaunt your curves. After trying them out, I can confirm that these leggings live up to the hype surrounding them on social media.

'Fries on the Fly' Universal Car French Fry Holder for Cup Holder

  • For Super Fry Guys

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Accessories

On the go eating is an elite art form for people who are always in their car (we’re looking at you, long commuters and late-night gig workers). There’s no shame in the fast-food game, however, there is a small amount of shame in spilling half your fries on the floor of your car before you even get the chance to eat them.

This French fry holder fits into most standard-sized cup holders but makes it easier to access fast food, phones, wallets, or whatever else the driver might want on hand during their trips. More French fries for all!

User Experience

This French fry holder has revolutionized my on-the-go dining routine, making it a breeze to grab a quick bite while commuting. It fits snugly into my car's standard-sized cup holder, providing easy access to my fast food, phone, wallet, and other essentials during my trips. I've found it particularly useful in preventing my fries from spilling all over my car floor, a common occurrence before I had this game-changer. This holder not only saves me from the embarrassment of messy spills but also ensures more fries make it to my mouth, a win-win in my book!

Light Up Lightsaber Chopsticks

  • May The Forks Be Without You

  • $$$$$
  • Kitchen & Dining, Novelty

We have no shame in the fact that we put multiple Star Wars themed items on this list. In fact, you should be impressed we had enough restraint to only put a few items. We tried to save ourselves for the truly iconic gifts, like these light up lightsaber chopsticks (is that a bit of a tongue twister or is it just us?).

Now the only question is how many pairs and which colors do you get for your Star Wars loving pal? We suggest you go big and get the four-pack so they can have epic battles over sushi, but we’ll leave the final decision making up to you!

Personal Perspective

My experience with these Star Wars-themed, light-up lightsaber chopsticks has been genuinely fun and entertaining. Making sushi nights more thrilling, these chopsticks not only light up the dining table but also spark epic battles, offering an unexpected twist to my usual dinner routine.

Microfiber Hair Towel Wrap for Women, 2 Pack

  • Cut Drying Time, Not Your Hair

  • $$$$$
  • Grooming & Self-care

Whether your pal has long hair or short hair, curly hair or straight, odds are they will still appreciate anything that helps them cut down on drying time. These microfiber towels claim to absorb 75% of the water from the user’s hair in just ten minutes, which sounds like an absolute dream to us.

It is available as a set of two, and while we’re partial to the neutral gray color, there are ten color combinations to choose from! Pro-tip, if your friend dyes their hair funky colors, try to get them a towel to match it, so they don’t end up with noticeable stains all over their crisp white towels.

Community Feedback

These microfiber towels have been a real asset in my grooming routine, drastically reducing my hair drying time by absorbing 75% of the water within just ten minutes. Available in a set of two, they come in ten different color combinations – I personally favor the neutral gray, but the variety means you can even match your hair dye to prevent staining! With this product, whether your hair is long or short, curly or straight, you're bound to appreciate the time-saving efficiency it offers.

Automatic Mixer- 3-Speed Pan Stirrer

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  • Homemade And Hands Free!

  • $$$$$
  • Kitchen & Dining

Say hello to your new sous chef- this automatic pan stirrer. Oh sorry, how silly of us, you’re shopping for small gifts for your friends, and you’re definitely not looking for a small treat for yourself that will also help you cut down on kitchen prep time. In that case, your friend (wink, wink) will love the convenience of this automatic mixer, especially when it comes to holiday or dinner party preparations.


Bedside Shelf Accessories Organizer- Wall Mount Self Stick On

  • Organize Every Corner

  • $$$$$
  • Homegoods & Decor

Organization is the name of the game, especially for your friend who may or may not treat their bed as their desk, kitchen, reading nook, makeup counter, and more. This bedside organizer is ideal for renters or college students with limited space and even more limited patience for clutter, because it has useful shelves and built-in adhesives that won’t damage the walls.

This bedside caddy is perfect for stashing a phone, headphones, glasses, or any other small supplies your bestie wants on hand when they’re hanging out in bed (aka, the greatest place on earth).

User Experience

This bedside organizer has been a boon in my limited space, keeping my phone, headphones, and glasses within reach while I lounge in bed. Its built-in adhesives and handy shelves are perfect, ensuring no damage to the walls and a clutter-free environment, making it an essential for me.

Quick-Pull Drawstring Magic Cosmetic Pouch

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  • For The Beauty Queen

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Grooming & Self-care

Keeping a large makeup collection organized could be nearly impossible, especially if you’re traveling or taking your beauty supplies with you on the go. This drawstring makeup bag lets the user easily lay out all of their tools and supplies in front of them, then quickly stash it all away when it’s time to pack up and go. This could be a great gift for performers, travelers, make-up artists, or your friend who wants to head right from work to happy hour.

Personal Perspective

I'm absolutely thrilled with this drawstring makeup bag - it's just perfect for anyone on the go. The design ingeniously allows me to spread out all my beauty tools and supplies, then pack them away swiftly when I'm done. Being a person who's always hopping from work to social events, this makeup bag has truly streamlined my routine. So, if you're someone like me who values both organization and speed, this product might just be your next favorite thing.

Wallet Ninja Multitool Card

  • Ready For Anything

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty

This wallet ninja multitool card could be an awesome gift for the MacGyver of your friend group! We have one of these stashed in our travel first aid kit so that we’re always ready in case of an emergency. But do you want to know the best feature on this 18 in one use multitool card? It actually has the different tools labeled.

So when your friend is out camping and needs to fix their wobbly sunglasses, they’ll know exactly where the glasses-sized screwdriver is and won’t be dumpling around with the bottle opener section (and vice versa). This might not seem like a reason in itself to buy one, but we owned a different version with the same tools but without labels and we can promise this one is way more user-friendly.

Community Feedback

I've found this wallet ninja multitool card to be an indispensable part of my travel kit. It's incredibly handy with 18 different tools, and the best part is that each one is clearly labeled so you're not left guessing which tool is which. I've used it to tighten up my sunglasses while camping and it was a breeze to locate the right sized screwdriver. Compared to a previous version I had without labels, this one is far more user-friendly and efficient.

Dash Mini Waffle Maker

  • Make Breakfast In A Dash

  • $$$$$
  • Kitchen & Dining

We know that this says waffle maker, but we want to let you in on a little secret- you can make way more than waffles in a waffle maker! Still can’t think of anything adventurous to try? We know an incredible woman (we call her mom) who makes falafel in a waffle maker (here forth referred to as fawaffles), which creates the perfect crevices for hummus and tzatziki. We’re keen to make some hash browns in this mini waffle maker and use them as the bread in a breakfast sandwich. Plus, with so many cute designs and unique waffle plates, your foodie friend will have a blast using this convenient little kitchen gadget!

First-Hand Impression

Excellent versatility is what this waffle maker offers. I've experimented with it and found out you can make more than just waffles. I've made 'fawaffles' using falafel, creating perfect pockets for hummus and tzatziki. I've also prepared mini hash browns, which served as a delicious bread substitute in my breakfast sandwiches, so you can definitely get creative with this kitchen gadget.

Small Gifts FAQs

Is It Normal to Buy Small Gifts for Your Close Friends in a Non-Romantic Way?

Buying a small gift for your close friend is a wonderful way to show you care and are thinking of them! If you ever made a friendship bracelet for your pal back in elementary school, you’ll understand that giving a small gift can be totally platonic!

If you’re worried about a gift coming off in a way you don’t intend, you can always opt for silly or funny items with less emotional significance behind them.

Is It Customary to Always Take a Small Gift When Invited to Dinner at a Friend’s Home?

If your friend invited you to go out to a new restaurant together where you’ll be splitting the bill, it generally isn’t expected for you to bring a gift. However, if your friend is hosting some sort of dinner party and paying for everything, a small hostess gift could be a thoughtful token of your appreciation.

Of course, you can always ask your friend if they want you to bring anything, such as an appetizer, side dish, or dessert. Alternatively, you could pick up something small for your friend, such as a bottle of wine, flowers, or a box of chocolates. That way, the host can choose to share and incorporate these items into the party or save them as a treat for themselves.

Is it a Bad Idea to Get a Small Gift for New Friends?

Giving a small gift is an easy and simple way to show them you appreciate them and your new friendship. However, if it is a relatively new friend, you might struggle to think of something they’ll like.

We suggest taking a moment to think about some of the activities you guys do together. If you always get a coffee and chat after yoga class, then you might consider giving them a cute travel mug, athletic headbands to keep their hair out of their face during down dog, or even a gift card to the coffee shop they frequent. These small, seemingly simple tokens could go a long way in strengthening your friendship bond.

What Is the Best Small Gift to Give a Friend?

There are plenty of awesome small gift ideas for friends that they’ll love and won’t break the bank. The best gift for your friend will definitely depend on what they’re interested in.

Adventurous,outdoorsy people might have different taste than your foodie friends that spend every weekend restaurant hopping. Take a moment to reflect on your friend’s particular interests.

If you’re still struggling to think of something, you can’t go wrong with certain items, such as self care supplies, mugs, flowers, picture frames, cute decor pieces, baked goods, or gift cards.

How We Choose Small Gifts For Friends

At Gift Rabbit, we understand the importance of finding the perfect small gifts for friends. We meticulously check and compare products, using a stringent set of criteria based on our extensive research and experience in the gifting industry. We ask our readers, survey the market, and consult with experts to review and score each gift idea. Our goal is to evaluate products from your perspective, offering a wide variety of unique ideas suited to different demographics. We showcase our expertise by grouping gifts by price, style, and customer feedback. Whether you’re seeking something fun, sentimental, personalized, or practical, we’ve got you covered. Trust us to guide you in finding the perfect small gift to bring a big smile to your friend’s face.

Headshot of Carly Schwarz

About the Author

Carly Schwarz

Carly Schwarz is a part-time conservation biologist, part-time creator of funky crafts, and full-time goofball writer for Gift Rabbit. She earned a degree in Environmental Biology from Tulane University in New Orleans and has worked on conservation projects worldwide since. Before she entered the world of online writing, Carly was the Research Coordinator of an elephant sanctuary in northern Thailand.