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37 Funny White Elephant Gifts Under $20: 2024 Picks

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There’ll be smiles all around when these top white elephant gifts under $20 make their debut

When it comes to finding the perfect white elephant gifts under $20, your fun gift search can become a daunting task. The question of whether to get gag gifts, small practical items, gadgets, gizmos, and novelty picks may stop you from participating.

But there’s no need to worry; we’ve got the coolest white elephant gift ideas under $20 here for you. No matter the group or theme, you can find gifts that both entertain and are totally worth fighting for.


37 Best White Elephant Gift Ideas Under $20

Show them how good times are made with white elephant gifts under $20 that stand out.

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Magnetic Dart Board

  • On Target

  • $$$$$
  • Set, Games, Novelty

A great game of darts doesn’t have to be full-sized, which this tabletop set proves. It works like a regular dart board, but uses magnets to ensure the shots stick. The board is a fun stress reliever and a way to pass the time. It works on a desk at the office, at home, or wherever a good game of darts is needed by all.

Personal Experience

When I first brought this dart board into my classroom for indoor recess, the reception was enthusiastic. This dart board is a remarkable distraction, providing a much-needed breather during long work calls and proving to be a hit among my students. The magnetic darts adhere surprisingly well to the board, even from a distance of 4 feet, although they lean back slightly, which may or may not be a nuisance to some. The image of the dartboard on the plastic stand is merely a sticker, which may disappoint those expecting a more realistic design, but the overall fun factor and the affordable price make up for this minor drawback. Despite some initial misgivings about the darts arriving slightly squashed and their flight not being perfect, I found that both my students and I quickly adapted and continue to enjoy this dart board.


Microwave Popcorn Popper

  • Popcorn And A Movie

  • $$$$$
  • Home, Useful, Unique

This microwave popcorn popper is a top gift exchange find, from the retro style to the functionality. It’s made from borosilicate glass which is safe to use in the microwave. The popper has a tray for melting butter easily. Popcorn is easy to prepare for whatever family game activity, movie night, or good time they have in store.

Personal Insight

This microwave popcorn popper has quickly become my favorite kitchen gadget. The borosilicate glass construction not only creates an eye-catching display but also ensures durability and temperature safety. Making popcorn is a breeze, with the hot air circulation eliminating the need for oil or butter and ensuring almost every kernel pops. The popper's dishwasher-safe status is a big win, making clean-up easy and efficient. One of the popper's key features is the ability to control what goes into your popcorn, offering a healthier and cost-effective alternative to prepackaged popcorn. The glass construction, designed to withstand wear-and-tear and made without BPA, is a clear advantage, making this popcorn popper a safe choice for consistent use.


Circular Saw Pizza Wheel

  • Cut It Up

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Home, Novelty

This pizza wheel combines the useful qualities of a kitchen tool with the excitement of a circular saw. It’s an entertaining item to use for cutting pizza and works as a gift for women and men alike. The realistic design will look awesome when they can reach for the saw at their next pizza party.

Community Review

This pizza cutter, shaped like a miniature circular saw, brought ample smiles to our faces due to its unique and sturdy design. However, cutting thick pizzas proved challenging, with the blade often buried in the dough, leaving toppings and cheese unscathed. While it's a standout conversation piece, and easy to clean, its lack of a blade cover and difficulty with storage make it a less practical option compared to standard long-handled pizza cutters.


Ultimate Wine Glass

  • Casual With Class

  • $$$$$
  • Bar, Accessories, Unique

Whoever gets this wine glass can enjoy one of the latest trendy white elephant gift ideas under $20. It attaches to a wine bottle, so it’s acceptable to drink “straight from the bottle,” and tastes great too. It’s the only glass needed to both aerate the wine and enjoy it at the same time.

Individual Opinion

These wine bottle attachments are a delight, easily screwing into the bottle for a snug fit and a fun experience. The glass quality surpassed my expectations, providing a touch of elegance to this novelty item. However, I did find that the product's design made it prone to tipping over if not held securely. This minor issue aside, I was quite surprised at how the attachment made the wine intake easier and somewhat more enjoyable.


Golf Pen Set

  • Say Fore

  • $$$$$
  • Games, Novelty, Set, Unique

You can take your friend or colleague out to play golf while they’re still sitting in their chair at work. This mini golf set is the thing they need for a golf outing. This set is also practical at the same time, since each club is a ballpoint pen. It comes with three clubs, two balls, a green, a flag, and a hole-in-one.

First-Hand Impression

I received this golf-themed pen set as a gift and found it to be a pleasant surprise. The pens are of decent quality and have a good weight to them, although they might be slightly too heavy for some people's comfort when writing quickly. The box that doubles as a putting green is a fun touch, but I feel it could be a bit more polished. Despite missing a red ink insert in one of my pens, I think this gift is still worth the price given its unique concept and the enjoyment it brings to golf enthusiasts like myself.


Shot Glass Roulette Set

  • Take A Spin

  • $$$$$
  • Set, Accessories, Bar, Novelty

This shot glass roulette set is for the person who wants to gamble and enjoy shots with friends. It’s an instant holiday drinking game that everyone will fight for at the white elephant gift exchange. The roulette wheel runs like a regular one; only, in this case, whoever’s number comes up has to take a drink.

Personal Experience

In my experience, this game certainly did its job in getting the party started. There were some minor hiccups, though, as it arrived in less than perfect condition and was missing some of the balls that were supposed to come with it. Despite this, the size was as expected and it functioned well. However, the game's alignment wasn't quite right, indicating a need for better finishing before publishing. On the bright side, the overall quality of the game was satisfactory and it definitely added a fun element to our gathering.


Lightsaber Chopsticks

  • Use The Force

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Funny, Useful, Accessories

A white elephant gift exchange is the perfect time to share the force with your favorite Star Wars fan. These chopsticks use LED lights to illuminate whatever food they’re eating at the time. They’re a fun addition to anyone’s kitchen and are definitely a conversation starter if used in the workplace.

Personal Insight

Got these light-up chopsticks as a novelty item, and they've been a hit with everyone who's seen them. The colors are solid and bright, really resembling mini lightsabers, and they've sparked joy in both kids and adults alike. Despite being a bit thicker than traditional chopsticks, they still function well and are a fun addition to any Star Wars or sushi fan's collection.


Multi-Tool Hammer

  • Get It Done

  • $$$$$
  • Useful, Accessories, Home

When you toss this multi-tool hammer into the white elephant mix, you’re bound to get a few guys super excited. In addition to being a great hammer, it features a total of 12 functions in one. From a screwdriver and knife to a saw and wire cutter, the multi-tool can do so much so easily.

Community Review

This multi-tool has proven itself to be a reliable companion for small, unexpected projects, often saving the day when I least expect it. While it's a tad bulky in my pocket and lacks a belt clip, these minor inconveniences hardly overshadow its usefulness. The assortment of features, including a notably sharp blade, are quite handy, though the scissor attachment lacks the edge it should have. My granddaughter, who received one as a birthday gift, finds it to be of excellent quality and truly awesome. It may seem a bit heavy and stiff at first, but it's a small price to pay for a tool that will serve well in many situations, whether in my car, my bookbag, or on a camping trip.


Creepy Unicorn Mask

  • Get Weird

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Funny, Accessories

There’s no practical reason for you to offer this creepy unicorn mask at your next gift exchange. It’s just too awesome to pass up. The latex mask is full of impressive detail that’s both dark and whimsical. It’ll look great whether the wearer’s in high school, college, or even the vice president at your job.

Individual Opinion

In my experience, this unicorn mask turned out to be an amusing yet challenging accessory. Its design, while visually appealing and undoubtedly funny, is hampered by its inability to provide a clear field of vision, often leading to unintentional encounters with walls. Despite its quirky appeal, the mask's rubbery material can become uncomfortably warm and emits a strong plastic odor, though the latter can be mitigated by airing it out for some time.


3D Skull Ice Mold Tray

  • Cubes That Don’t Quit

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Home, Novelty, Set

These 3D ice cube skulls have the cool factor that people are looking for with $20 white elephant gifts. They’re inexpensive yet produce very detailed skull cubes anyone would be proud to drop into their next cocktail. They don’t melt as quickly as traditional cubes, so they can enjoy the drink’s full flavor for longer.

First-Hand Impression

Best ice cube molds I've ever used - the skull and sphere designs are a hit in my household. From my kid's red Kool-Aid cubes to my own spooky gin and tonics adorned with blue butterfly pea powder skulls, these molds effortlessly add a fun twist to our beverages. The high-quality material feels durable, they're easy to clean, and while the skull does sometimes leak, it's a minor hitch in an otherwise fantastic product.

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Mullet Novelty Socks

  • Retro Wear

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Novelty, Funny

Novelty socks are everywhere, but few are as hilarious as these mullet novelty socks. The crew socks can be worn anywhere, as long as whoever wears them is comfortable with a mullet. The curly hair cascades artfully down their calf and will turn heads no matter who decides to wear them.

Personal Experience

Best purchase for a humorous gift, these socks certainly sparked laughter and amusement at various parties and events I attended. I can attest to their good quality, the mullet hair is sturdily sewn onto the back, surviving even the most energetic of sock contests. Indeed, whether you're planning for a white elephant event or simply seeking a fun gag, these socks are sure to be the hit of any gathering.


LED Flashlight Gloves

  • Keep A Light On

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Set, Useful, Unique

The unique function of these LED flashlight gloves may make life a lot easier for the person who gets them. They wrap around the hands and wrist and come equipped with lights on both the index fingers and thumbs. The light is directional and goes whenever the hands are aimed to where the person needs a little luminescence.

Personal Insight

Definitely worth mentioning, these flashlight gloves have sparked a lot of joy for the handy people in my life. Their brightness illuminates any workspace effectively, and they've proven especially useful for my modeling projects, though the battery life could use some improvement. On the downside, they're not a perfect fit for everyone, with some finding them too small and the adjustable strap sometimes coming undone. While the idea of focused light from the gloves is innovative, a broader range of light would be a helpful addition. Despite these minor issues, the gloves are a practical addition to any tool kit, car safety kit, or even as a fun accessory for a dance party, given their super bright lights.


Fruit Infuser Water Bottle

  • Fruit Everyday

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Unique, Useful

You can’t go wrong with this fruit infuser bottle when you need something last-minute for a white elephant gift exchange. It’s the ideal way to work some fruit into a hydration routine. The central chamber can be filled up with fruit, which slowly infuses the water that’s consumed throughout a busy day.

Community Review

I'm pleased with this water bottle's functionality, its lightweight design makes it easy to handle and the infuser core adds a fun twist to enhancing my water with different fruits. However, the construction quality could be improved as the infuser core tends to fall to the bottom of the bottle during use and the plastic material feels somewhat cheap, showing signs of cracking and being prone to damage from drops.


Burrito Blanket

  • Get Wrapped

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Unique, Home, Funny

This burrito blanket is bound to be very popular with your next white elephant party. It’s soft, comfy, and designed to look like a real burrito. It may unexpectedly become the gift people fight over during the gift exchange. The flannel material doesn’t disappoint and jettisons this unisex home accessory into the realm of awesome.

Individual Opinion

I'm pleased with this Burrito Blanket's performance, as it's remarkably soft, lightweight, yet cozy. It's been a staple in my nightly routine and travel accompaniment due to its cute tortilla design and comforting feel. Interestingly, it's not just me who finds this blanket enjoyable; my friend, who received it as a gift, has been using it daily and my grandson can't seem to get enough of it. Despite its thinness, the blanket has greatly enhanced my sleeping experience, making me wish I had discovered it sooner.


80s/90s Hum The Song Game

  • Hum One Line

  • $$$$$
  • Games, Unique, Set

This hum the song game takes a unique approach when it comes to party games. It forces the players to hum popular pop songs from the 1980s and 1990s. Whoever does it best wins. The game is a festive, entertaining twist on nostalgic games that bring us back to a time we all remember.


Tic Tac Toe Coffee Table Game

  • And The Winner Is…

  • $$$$$
  • Games, Home, Set

The old-fashioned fun of a tic tac toe game is alive and well with this coffee table version. The miniature set’s wooden design looks great as a display piece. It’s even more fun to play with friends and loved ones. The game has a cheap price tag but promises hours of good times by all.

Personal Experience

This miniature decor piece adds a subtle charm to my living room setup. It's a 4x4 size, compact yet eye-catching, and blends right in on the coffee table. My children and grandchildren find it delightful, making it a multifaceted item that serves both as a decor piece and a source of entertainment. However, its small size might not make it the best option for travel, as the tiny pieces can easily shift or get lost. While I initially underestimated its size, I've grown to appreciate its petite stature. It's a testament to the saying, "Good things come in small packages".


Cat Butt Tail Magnets

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  • Not Just For Caturdays

  • $$$$$
  • Home, Accessories, Novelty, Funny

There’s something charming about these cute cat butt tail magnets. They live on a refrigerator door but turn a boring trip to the fridge into something humorous. The set has six magnets of varying cat breeds, from orange and black/white to Siamese butts. The gift receiver is likely to notice that bill on the refrigerator with these guys to bring it to their attention.


Mini Waffle Maker

  • The Cutest Waffles

  • $$$$$
  • Home, Unique, Holiday

The idea of tiny waffles from this snowman-themed waffle maker may attract many a person to this white elephant gift. Not only is it gender-neutral, but it may be the cutest item on our gift list. It’s easy to clean after each use and can make batches of delicious waffles to celebrate the Christmas season.

Community Review

From the moment I got this mini waffle maker, I've been a fan. Its compact size is perfect for my small kitchen, freeing up valuable cabinet space. I've found it easy to use and clean, and it consistently churns out perfect, toasty waffles that can be frozen for later. Plus, it's so adorable and versatile, I've found myself making everything from classic waffles to heart-shaped treats and even cinnamon roll waffles!


Wine Chiller Stick

  • Always Cool

  • $$$$$
  • Bar, Accessories, Useful

This wine chiller stick may look simple, but its ability to keep a bottle of wine chilled is no joke. The stainless steel stick is frozen and placed into the wine bottle, so each new glass is as cold as the first one. It’s a helpful accessory for any home bar collection and makes holiday entertaining better for all.

Individual Opinion

As an avid wine enthusiast, I was thrilled with the efficiency and quality of this wine chiller. It displayed a remarkable ability to keep my wine chilled for a solid hour or two, and the built-in aerator, which also worked as a pourer, added an element of convenience to the overall experience. Be mindful though, you need to pour out a bit of wine first to avoid any spillage due to the size of the chiller rod, but once you get the hang of it, this wine chiller is a fantastic addition to any wine lover's collection.


Bob Ross Bobblehead

  • Art Man

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Funny, Novelty

Who wouldn’t want their own Bob Ross bobblehead to keep on their desk at work or at home? This miniature version looks exactly like the famous TV personality down to his famous hairstyle. It plays several soothing sayings to inspire great creativity or simply help those who have him get through the day.

First-Hand Impression

In my experience, this Bob Ross figurine exudes charm and quirkiness that brings joy to both the young and old. It's impressively detailed, adding a lovely touch to its overall appeal, and even comes with a small collection of paintings that enhances its value. This figurine has elicited numerous compliments, making it a delightful gift for any Bob Ross enthusiast. Despite its small size, this product embodies the spirit of the beloved artist, making it a fantastic addition to any collection or even as a unique cake topper.

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Owl Soup Bowl

  • A Hoot

  • $$$$$
  • Home, Accessories, Useful, Unique

Eating soup or ramen may become something special once you give this owl soup bowl at the gift exchange. It manages to be both quirky and functional at the same time. The ceramic bowl is handmade with care, from the funny look on his face to the helpful slot for chopsticks. Lunchtime can transform into a good time for those using the bowl and those watching.


Beer Mitten Glove

  • A Cold One Kept Warm

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Useful, Novelty, Funny

This beer mitten glove rides the line between goofy white elephant gifts under $20 and miracle products. It’s the ultimate beer koozie for the big game when it’s cold outside. The knit glove wraps around any beer can or bottle to keep the hands warm while enjoying their beverage. Chances are, folks may fight over this one before the gift exchange comes to a close.

Personal Insight

My experience with these beer mitten gloves has been quite remarkable. They're not only soft and brightly colored but also versatile enough to fit any can size, making them the life of parties and outdoor events. Just a heads up, they might come with a strange odor, but a quick wash does the trick and doesn't affect the product's new look.


Japanese Good Luck Charms

  • Best Of Luck

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Unique, Set

Few other people will think to give this magical bag of Japanese good luck charms out at white elephant time. The colorful bag holds traditional Omamori crystals meant to protect and promote safety and health to its owner. It’s a fun gift to have around when they may need extra help at work, at home, or while traveling.

Community Review

As someone who appreciates quality, the craftsmanship of this omamori was impressive. I found it to be a delightful, compact charm, although I was initially taken aback by its size. It's true that it's smaller than expected, but its detail and charm make up for this. Also, I must emphasize - do not open the omamori! You'd be releasing all its good luck, turning it into a mere decoration. While I initially questioned the price, the sense of security it has provided me at work and the joy it brought to my loved ones has made it worth the investment.


Himalayan Salt Tea Light Set

  • Healing Light

  • $$$$$
  • Home, Set, Unique

The power of Himalayan sea salt is harnessed in this set of tea lights to brighten a room. Their small size still carries the healing properties found in Himalayan salt. They look like no other you’ve seen, so they’re bound to turn a few heads when offered up as a gift. From reducing stress to improved air quality, they have everything needed for a worthwhile piece of decor.

Individual Opinion

Bought these Himalayan salt candle holders and was taken aback by their substantial weight, realizing they were too hefty for the wall sconces I intended them for. The tea light holes, though deep, were drilled inconsistently across the two pieces, affecting the positioning of the candles. In terms of aesthetics, they are unique and intriguing, made from real Himalayan salt which results in slightly different colors between the two. However, their lack of uniformity in size and the presence of an unsealed hole in one, limit their functionality and make them more suitable for decorative purposes.


Emergency Underpants In A Can

  • When You Gotta Go

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Funny, Unique

One of the best gag gifts there can be found in this can of goofy emergency underpants. The three-pack of cotton undies comes in a one-size-fits-all universal style. They may garner laughs at the white elephant gift exchange, but could truly come in handy because you never know.

First-Hand Impression

Love how this gag gift brought so much laughter to our gatherings. The humor was an instant hit, whether it was at a family Christmas or an office white elephant party. This product's design is not only hilarious, but also surprisingly practical, especially for those of us over 50 who might suddenly find ourselves in a need for a back-up pair. The material is thin, yet it's soft cotton and feels like real underwear. While it's primarily intended as a joke, the blend of humor and unexpected usefulness had me buying more.


Porta-Potty Shot Glasses

  • Bathroom Humor

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Funny, Bar

It takes a special someone to appreciate the sense of humor in these porta-potty shot glasses. The set has two glasses that look like the porta potty you find at a big concert or campsite. They each hold two ounces of liquor, which should be consumed quickly, so the drinker can get it over with!

Personal Experience

From the moment these shot glasses were unveiled, they were an instant hit. Despite their somewhat fragile nature, they've proven themselves fantastic for both whiskey tastings and showcasing my collection. They've sparked countless lively conversations at my gatherings and, surprisingly, even became a coveted item during a game night - everyone wanted one!


Captain’s Log Notebook

  • The Final Frontier

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Useful, Unique, Funny

You don’t have to bore everyone with a normal mini notebook when you can make them the captain of the Starship Enterprise. This fun little book is ideal for jotting down anything they need to. It’s got 48 pages, along with interesting Star Trek-related things on the back cover. The book is pocket-sized for the “Captain” who wants to keep a log of his or her adventures.

Personal Insight

Got this Star Trek-themed gift as a spontaneous surprise for my wife and the joy it sparked in her was priceless. It's a nifty little thing, a bit on the small side, but the quality is top-notch. Perfect for daily logs, it's been a fun, quirky addition to our routine. It might be a simple gift, but for Star Trek fans like us, it certainly adds a dash of excitement to the everyday.


Space Potato Masher

  • Into The Mash

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Useful, Novelty, Unique

There are potato mashers that do their job, and then there’s this awesome space potato masher. How is it different? It works like any other potato masher; only it looks like a red spaceship is shooting off into the stars. The design shows off every detail, right down to the white handle that looks like the ship’s trail.

Community Review

I've been using this masher for a while now, and it has made my kitchen chores so much more enjoyable. Despite its rather large size, which can make it a bit tricky to store, this masher's delightful design and sturdy construction more than make up for it. I was initially concerned it might be flimsy, but I'm thrilled to report that it's perfect for mashing everything from potatoes to guacamole. While it's on the firm side, this is a definite plus when tackling harder foods.


Drink-Chilling Tumbler

  • Wine Tasting Anywhere

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Bar, Unique, Useful

This drink-chilling tumbler may be a favorite among 20-dollar white elephant gifts for the ladies. Its cute pink design is made more worthwhile by the silicone material that’s filled with freezing gel. It keeps wine cold everywhere, from an office party to a summer barbecue. The tumbler is comfortable to hold even when they can’t find a spot to set it down.

Individual Opinion

My experience with these wine glasses has been a mix of delight and disappointment. The design is adorable, reminiscent of dollar store cups from my childhood, but with much better quality. They are perfect for keeping my wine chilled while lounging by the pool, but unfortunately, the frozen gel inside tends to thaw quickly, making them only suitable for one small drink. Also, I learned the hard way that they can be quite fragile when frozen, as one tumbled out of my freezer and cracked, forcing me to toss it out.


Mini-Golf Toilet Game

  • When You Have To Go (Golfing)

  • $$$$$
  • Games, Novelty, Funny, Set

The only time some people have the opportunity to golf is when they’re in the bathroom. This mini-golf game takes that into account and provides a fun way to practice their swing while seated. The set comes with a putter, balls, a hole-in-one with a flag, and the putting green. It also has a sign for the doorknob that reads “Do not disturb. Golf game in progress.”

First-Hand Impression

This gag gift definitely brought joy and laughter to many occasions, from 70th birthdays to Father's Day. The material might not be top-notch, but the amusement it brings to both recipients and onlookers alike is unquantifiable. Its success lies not in its longevity, but in the momentary hilarity and connection it fosters among family and friends. Whether it's for a golf-obsessed teen or a husband during Christmas, this product never fails to elicit a good chuckle.

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Handheld Milk Frother

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  • Instant Cappuccino

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Unique, Useful

Few small items are as attractive to some as this handheld milk frother gadget. The electric coffee accessory turns plain milk into frothy foam for a cappuccino or latte in moments. It’s also great for cocktails, whipped cream, and salad dressings. The frother is a wonderful item to have in a desk drawer, but they’ll have to keep an eye on it.

Personal Experience

This PowerLix frother has been an excellent addition to my kitchen, offering a robust motor that efficiently blends my daily drinks, providing a frothy finish to my protein coffee and even combining oil and vinegar for salad dressings. Its ease of use, one-handed operation, and aesthetically pleasing stand all contribute to its high utility, however, be aware that it might not be as powerful as expected and ensure to register for the warranty within the stipulated timeframe to avoid disappointment.


LED Holiday Beanie Hat

  • Ugly Sweater Head

  • $$$$$
  • Holiday, Accessories, Novelty, Funny

Whoever this LED holiday beanie hat goes to has an instant Christmas party on their hands (or their head.) The knit cap lights up with colorful holiday lights to get everyone in a festive mood. It’s got “Fa La La” written on it, literally, so there’s no getting away from this merry-making holiday item.

Personal Insight

Got this lighted knitted hat and was initially pleased with its bright colors and festive look. However, when I tried to switch on the built-in lights, they didn't work. Even after replacing the batteries and inspecting the wiring, I found no success in getting the lights to function. The hat was also rather tight on my head, despite being an average-sized adult male, though it fit my 7-year-old son well. In terms of comfort and aesthetics, this hat hits the mark, but the operational issues and fit problems are significant drawbacks.


Baguette Pillow Set

  • Take A Gluten Nap

  • $$$$$
  • Set, Novelty, Funny, Unique

This two-piece pillow set may look like two fluffy baguettes, but they’re as comfy as any other pillow. The small loaves of bread have all the details of freshly baked French bread to fool everyone. They can help ease tensions on an office chair, a couch at home, or in the driver’s seat on a long trip.

Community Review

I've had an interesting experience with these bread pillows. Initially, they appeared under-stuffed and didn't really capture the 'bready' look, but after a quick tumble in the dryer and some additional stuffing from a fiberfill box, they puffed up and became quite realistic. Despite the extra effort needed, these quirky items have brought joy to both my children and my patients, serving as comforting arm tuck pillows, lumbar supports, and even playful accessories for costumes.


Unzipped Glass Zipper Bag

  • Optical Illusion

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Unique, Useful

This unzipped zipper bag may look like it’s the real thing, but it’s actually made of glass. The borosilicate glass is hand-crafted to appear as a traditional ziplock, but promises to hold its shape. The candy bag on someone’s desk at work is about to get a whole lot more popular.


Insulated Lunch Bag

  • Executive Lunch Break

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Useful, Unique

Someone you know may want to get their hands on this stylish insulated lunch bag. It’s got loads of space to keep a lunch with several courses to it or a bunch of beverages for a road trip. The insulating material is dependable enough to keep food and drink as warm or cold as they started out.

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this lunchbox has been largely positive - it's roomy, durable, and easy to clean. However, its longer dimensions make it a bit awkward to fit in the work fridge or a drawer, so I find it more suitable for car trips where I need to pack snacks and drinks.


LED Moon Light

  • Straight To The Moon

  • $$$$$
  • Home, Unique, Accessories

Those you know might show both splendor and awe once this LED moonlight gets offered at the gift exchange. The detailed design of the moon’s surface comes to life once it’s lit up using the remote control. The moon lamp can be displayed in any number of fun colors, depending on the mood of whoever claims it.

Personal Experience

This multicolored light is a captivating addition to any setting, serving as a unique conversation piece during patio gatherings or a serene accent in the bathroom. The ability to select from a wide range of colors adds a personalized touch, although the battery lifespan is somewhat disappointing, requiring frequent recharging. The remote control enhances the light's functionality, despite its limited range and specific angle requirement. This light also brings an enchanting element to a bedroom, offering various brightness levels and color options, with the soft white and yellow/orange settings being particularly calming. However, it's worth noting that the 3D printed moon's craters and shadows are not as distinct as one might expect, looking more like a white styrofoam ball in daylight. Despite its slightly high price, this product is generally met with positive reception when given as a gift.


Retro Vinyl Record Coasters Set

  • Name That Tune

  • $$$$$
  • Set, Home, Accessories

White elephant gift exchanges are all about the quirky fun these retro record coasters bring. The set has six different miniature vinyl records, each with its own unique label. With names like “Rest on me” and “Tea Time,” they’re bound to entertain all who use them. Rock n’ roll can continue to be alive and well on their coffee table.

Personal Insight

If you're a fan of vintage charm, these record coasters are a delightful addition to any space. Drawing from personal experience, I found that these coasters, with their authentic feel and look, sparked nostalgia and joy. They are not only sturdy and easy to clean, but also serve as an interesting conversation starter during gatherings. However, my package arrived with a lesser quantity than promised, which was slightly disappointing. Despite this minor setback, these coasters effortlessly blend functionality and aesthetics, making them an excellent gift for record collectors or anyone fond of a retro theme. They easily complement different decor themes, from a man cave to a room adorned with records, adding a unique touch to the overall ambiance.



$20 White Elephant Gifts FAQs

What Does It Mean to Bring a White Elephant Gift?

A white elephant gift is a small gift brought to a white elephant gift exchange. It’s randomly assigned to someone and can later be stolen as the gifts are opened by everyone involved. It’s usually an inexpensive gift that’s fun and lighthearted, or a novelty or gag gift. White elephant gifts are kept within a specific price range, like under $30, $20, or $10.

Do You Wrap White Elephant Gifts?

You traditionally wrap white elephant gifts, because the fun in a white elephant gift exchange comes as each person unwraps their assigned gift. Once others see what’s up for grabs, they can decide if they want to steal that gift or choose a new one.

Do You Put Your Name on a White Elephant Gift?

You don’t include your name on a white elephant gift, since it’s more fun to be assigned a gift without knowing who gave it to you. It’s more challenging to buy a white elephant gift when you don’t know who you’re buying it for. The person who opens the gift you bought may not end up being the one who keeps it.

How Do You Make White Elephant More Fun?

White elephant gift exchanges can be even more fun when you include a theme. It may be an ugly sweater party or a specific set of costumes people need to wear that spices things up. The gifts can be kept under a themed umbrella, like novelty or gag gifts under $10 or foodie gifts they’ll love fighting over.

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About the Author

Maryana Vestic

Maryana Vestic is a Brooklyn-based writer, editor, and food photographer with a background in entertainment Business Affairs. She studied film at NYU, Irish Theatre Studies at Trinity College Dublin, and has an MFA in Creative Writing Nonfiction from The New School. She loves cooking, baking, hiking, and horror films, as well as running a local baking business in Brooklyn with her boyfriend.