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37 Classic White Elephant Gifts Under $30: 2024 Picks

Updated
Play to win with the best white elephant gifts under $30 everyone will love.

White elephant gift exchanges are the latest upgrade to a traditional Secret Santa. It’s sometimes frustrating to find white elephant gifts under $30 that are both fun and appropriate. You want the gift to fit in and be funny or steal-worthy enough to make the game fun.

Check out our great guide to the best white elephant gift ideas under $30. From novelty picks to fun practical items everyone will fight for, we’ve got white elephant gift exchanges covered.


37 Best White Elephant Gift Ideas Under $30

Get crafty with these unique white elephant gifts for under $30 to keep the party going strong.

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Funny Feet Slippers

  • Slip Ons

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Novelty, Fun

There’s no way to describe the reaction you’ll get when you give these funny feet slippers as a white elephant gift. The goofy flesh-tone feet slippers perfectly recreate oversized feet. They’re safe to use as part of a costume or when pranking everybody in sight. Eye-catching may be the word, but their hilarious sense of humor can win big.

Personal Experience

I grabbed these as a humorous gift, and they certainly achieved that purpose! Despite their amusing design, they're rather flimsy and petite, not quite up to par if you're planning on any serious usage. An interesting feature is the stiff rubber construction, making them more suitable for light indoor strolls, like meandering around the garage, rather than outdoor wear. They're a riot, particularly for someone with a quirky sense of humor, but they do feel a bit overpriced considering the quality and size. While these aren't going to replace your everyday footwear, they're definitely worth a laugh!


Burrito Throw Blanket

  • Burrito To Go

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Fun, Practical

There’s no reason a white elephant gift can’t also be useful, like this burrito throw blanket. It looks just like a giant burrito wrap, which is ideal for keeping warm with a smile. The flannel material works for a nap on the couch, at college, or wherever they can cozy up with a burrito. It’s one of those memorable white elephant gifts under $30.

Personal Insight

Love how this tortilla blanket has brought so much joy to my family. From my daughter feeling like she is a giant burrito to my grandsons using it for gaming and bedtime, it's been a hit with everyone. The blanket is incredibly soft, providing warmth and a realistic tortilla look on both sides that we all find hilarious. Not only is it a great gag gift for parties, but it also serves a functional purpose. It exceeded my expectations in terms of quality and I'm impressed by how much use we're getting out of it.


White Elephant Ceramic Mug

  • Literally Speaking

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Practical, Unique

White elephant gift exchanges are the perfect time to go literal with this adorable white elephant ceramic mug. The ceramic mug may become your colleagues’ favorite desk accessory when they want morning coffee or afternoon tea. The serene elephant design has brass details that include a unicorn horn, which makes this white elephant something special.

Community Review

When I first laid eyes on this dinosaur mug, I was immediately captivated by its unique charm. The orange, freckled mohawk catches your eye and the attention to detail is truly impressive. It's a ceramic mug, so it doesn't keep my drink as warm as an insulated mug might, but it's sturdy and just the right size for my morning coffee. The dinosaur's head does jut out a little, touching my cheek when I take a sip, but I find it more amusing than bothersome. I must admit, it's a bit tricky to hold when filled with a hot beverage due to its lightweight ceramic material, but I've found a comfortable grip by looping my thumb through the neck and balancing it on my fingers. This dinosaur mug is more than just a novelty item, it's a delightful addition to my daily routine that often brings a smile to my face.


Wine Freeze Cup Set

  • Double The Chill

  • $$$$$
  • Set, Practical, Accessories

Everyone will fight for these cool wine freeze cups at your white elephant gift exchange. The set of insulated cups uses cooling gel to keep wine or other beverages perfectly chilled. The silicone band won’t freeze their hands, but may inspire them to bring these cups wherever they go. The unique design will stand out during any celebration.

Individual Opinion

I have found these freezer drinking cups to be extremely versatile. Not only do they serve as a stylish wine glass for adults, but my children also love using them for their super cold milk drinks. These cups have proven to be quite resilient, having retained their quality even after years of use. The additional sip top, which fits perfectly, is a bonus for those who prefer not to use a straw. Whether it's for keeping my wine chilled or making sure my kids' milk stays refreshingly cold, these cups have been a delightful addition to our household.


Dinosaur Taco Stand

  • Taco T-Rex

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Fun, Novelty

You’ll be on top of the white elephant gifts leaderboard when you bring this quirky dinosaur taco stand to the party. It can bring out the inner kid in your favorite friend or colleague with its cute appearance. The dinosaur-shaped serving stand works for tacos, sandwiches, or anything they crave.

First-Hand Impression

These dinosaur-themed holders have brought a dash of fun to my everyday kitchen tasks. Not only do they provide a quirky home for my sponges, but they also serve as an exciting dish for chips and dip. My children, who are ardent "Jurassic Park" fans, have fully embraced these holders, sparking laughs and lively conversations. Even my grandson, a fervent taco lover, insists on using his tacosaurs at every meal. The quality is excellent, making these holders not just amusing, but practical and durable too.


Mini Desk Vacuum Cleaner

  • Clean Up Crew

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Fun, DIY, Practical

You can find awesome last-minute white elephant gift ideas under $30, like this mini desk vacuum cleaner. It’s a nifty little item that can make life easier at the office or on a desk at home. It’s handheld and easy to use, whether picking up crumbs or cleaning up a long-term gaming session.

Personal Experience

As a quirky addition to my desk, this mini vacuum has proven surprisingly useful for quick cleanups. While smaller than expected from the picture, its compact size makes it easy to navigate around my desktop, sucking up crumbs and dust in hard-to-reach areas. The suction power is commendable, but the task of emptying it out requires a bit of effort. This little device, originally bought as a gag gift, may not live up to everyone's expectations in terms of quality, and some might consider it more suitable as a cheap novelty item. Nevertheless, for those seeking a simple solution to a messy desk, this mini vacuum might come in handy.


Beer Mitten Glove

  • A Warm Buzz

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

This beer mitten glove has all the holiday spirit of a white elephant exchange. The knit glove is soft, comfortable, and can nestle a cold beer bottle. It’s a usable novelty gift that may be the first and best thing they reach for, along with a bottle of cold beer. Their hands stay warm and their beer stays cold.

Personal Insight

In my experience, these beer mitten gloves were a major hit at parties and tailgates. Personally, I loved the soft material and the bright colors that perfectly matched my college team's. However, I was a bit miffed that I had to wash it due to an odd smell it had initially. I also found it misleading that it's just one glove, not a pair as the name might suggest. Despite that, it's a good size, fitting all cans, bottles, and tumblers. I ended up buying several, not just for myself, but also as quirky, fun gifts for friends and family.


Golden Girls Chia Pet

  • Grow A Little

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Fun, DIY, Set

The fun act of growing Chia Pets is combined with a love for the classic TV series The Golden Girls in this DIY set. The figure comes with everything needed to grow a Chia Pet head of whoever the favorite Golden Girl of the moment is. It makes an entertaining activity and a fabulous desk accessory once complete.

Community Review

I recently experimented with this Chia Pet, and found it to be a fun and unique activity. Despite some seeds sliding off, they mostly adhered well to the surface, although the roundness of the head made application a bit tricky. The detail on the Chia Pet was impressive, but it had a slight leakage issue which required a deeper tray to avoid overflow. My enjoyment was slightly marred by the peculiar appearance of over-clumped seeds, which gave an unfortunate resemblance to a scalp condition. However, with a bit of care, this Chia Pet, modeled after the "Golden Girls", delivers a charming result. It's messy but enjoyable, and the anticipation of watching the growth was a highlight of the experience.


Lightsaber Chopsticks

  • Use The Force

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Practical, Accessories, Fun

Someone’s eyes will light up when you give them these lightsaber chopsticks at your gift exchange. The set has four pairs of colorful LED chopsticks that are just as useful as they are cute. They can use them for the whole family at their next meal and transform dinner into a sci-fi-ready event.

Individual Opinion

These chopsticks are a big hit in my household, not only for their unique Star Wars theme but also for their robust quality and dishwasher-safe convenience. Despite being a bit thicker and heavier than usual, they're fun to use and even served as a playful addition to my daughter's 10th birthday sushi dinner.


Shot Glass Roulette Game

  • Lady Luck

  • $$$$$
  • Games, Fun, Set, Unique

Get the party started with this shot glass roulette game for one lucky white elephant gift receiver. Its festive look is just as impressive as the way it works. The 16-piece game acts as a real roulette wheel, and players have to take a drink anytime one of their numbers comes up. The end result is just as much fun as a trip to the casino with friends.

First-Hand Impression

This party game was a delightful centerpiece at my daughter's birthday celebration, and it seemed to be adored by all. Although the initial shot glass was broken, the replacement proved its worth at various events, from office White Elephant exchanges to New Year's Eve parties. However, while the concept is intriguing and the game itself is enjoyable, the durability of the shot glasses leaves something to be desired, as one shattered during its first use.

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Glitter Heart Toilet Bombs

  • Potty Mouth

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Funny, Set, Practical

These funny glitter heart toilet bombs make going to the bathroom an elegant affair. The jar of 60 tablets is for use before you go and will leave the restroom in a better place. The scented tablets use essential oils to get the job done, so this is one novelty gift that actually works.


French Fry Holder For Car

  • Drive-Through

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Accessories, Fun

You’ll likely get multiple hilarious reactions about this french fry holder during a gift exchange. It’s made for a car and neatly fits into most cup holders. The container is ideal for keeping fast-food-style french fries secure on the drive. They may become addicted to stopping for snacks on their next road trip.

Personal Insight

My experience with this fry holder has been largely positive. It snugly fits into a cup holder and flawlessly holds a large McDonald's fry, a feature I greatly appreciate during long drives. The quality of this item is commendable, although it could be improved by adding a sauce holder. One downside is that it occupies a cup holder, which can be inconvenient if there's a passenger. This product is particularly beneficial for frequent drive-thru customers, but it did not impress me as much as I had anticipated. Nonetheless, it proved to be a useful gift for my truck-owning husband and my son.


Mini Waffle Maker

  • Baby Waffles

  • $$$$$
  • Treats, DIY, Unique

Waffles don’t have to be big to be delicious, which is the mantra for this mini-waffle maker. It just as easily whips up fresh, delicious waffles in minutes. The machine is small enough to secretly make waffles at an office desk if need be. Wherever they decide to use it, the lucky recipient can be inspired to create tasty waffles in no time.

Community Review

I absolutely adore this mini waffle maker, it's compact and highly efficient in my small kitchen. Making waffles is now quicker, easier, and I can even freeze them for later, not to mention the cleaning process is a breeze due to its smaller surface area.


Multi-Tool Hammer

  • Time To Survive

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Practical, DIY

Not all white elephant gifts are funny, but this multi-tool hammer is one that’s helpful beyond comparison. It’s sturdy enough to last and has twelve tools in one great-looking survival tool. They’ll use the screwdrivers, pliers, and hammer or take advantage of the bottle opener, nail file, or safety lock. From outdoor activities to DIY around the house, it’s all they need to get the job done.

Individual Opinion

I'm quite pleased with this multi-tool, which is a perfect companion for small projects and unexpected emergencies. The sharpness of the blade and the variety of useful items included have proven invaluable on numerous occasions. Despite its slightly bulky design and the lack of a belt clip, which can create some inconvenience when walking, this multi-tool fits comfortably in my side-leg pocket. However, I found the scissor attachment lacking in sharpness, and the holster doesn't fit well with my workflow. This multi-tool, despite its minor flaws, has been appreciated by my granddaughter and has proven to be a good purchase for its price point.


S’mores Maker

  • Family Fun

  • $$$$$
  • DIY, Treats, Accessories, Fun

This s’mores maker can bring a smile to anyone’s face and is one of the most fun 30-dollar white elephant gifts. It’s a one-stop shop of s’mores luxury, with compartments for graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. The device uses a flameless heater to heat up the s’mores and comes with two roasting forks to get the fun going.

First-Hand Impression

Best smores-making gadget I've ever owned, this product allows my kids to enjoy the fun of cooking their own without needing a traditional fire. While it does require some patience as it only cooks one marshmallow at a time, and keeping marshmallows from touching the burner can be a bit tricky, the delicious results are worth it. This product, compact and easy to travel with, is perfect for camping during fire season or simply for an indoor family s'mores night, albeit the included skewers are a tad short for my liking.


LED Christmas Hat

  • Celebrate The Season

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Accessories, Holidays

Make your next white elephant exchange extra merry with this LED Christmas hat. The fuzzy hat is ideal for winter and lights up in many colors and modes. It transforms a family gathering or holiday office party into something more festive, funny, and entertaining for all. The hat could be that one item they love taking out of the Christmas stuff box, year after year.

Personal Experience

I've had quite a fun experience with this lighted hat. The lights are indeed a fun twist, though I wish they were spread all over the hat, not just at the front. On the flip side, this hat is super warm and well-made, adding a cozy charm to the overall experience. But, I did encounter a minor issue: not all lights worked, which was a bit disappointing. Despite the light issue, this hat was a delightful addition to my holiday attire, offering a playful alternative to traditional ugly sweaters. Even with its asymmetrical light pattern, it brought cheer to the holidays and definitely amused my guests.


Toilet Night Light

  • A Clear Path

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Accessories, Practical

The ultimate gag gifts under $30 must include this practical and funny toilet night light. It’s easily placed along a toilet rim and illuminates the toilet anytime someone enters the room. They can use their favorite color, and rest assured they’ll avoid trips and falls on their way to the bathroom. It’s a surprisingly thoughtful gift that makes nighttime toilet trips safer and more fun.

Personal Insight

Definitely, this light has been a quirky yet surprisingly practical addition to our home. Initially perceived as a humorous novelty, this product quickly became a night-time essential, eliminating the need for harsh overhead lighting during late-night bathroom visits. Whether improving accuracy or adding a dash of pizzazz to our bathroom, this light has proven its worth. Despite a brief hiccup with the first model, I was astounded at how much I missed it, prompting a swift replacement order.


Funny Animal Paw Socks

  • Creatures Great And Small

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

Keep lighthearted gifts going strong with these funny animal paw socks. They’re super affordable for a gift exchange and come in various animal paw options. The cotton socks are comfortable and pull up to mid-calf length, so the animal impersonation is believable. You may even notice they’re wearing them to work, which is the ultimate compliment.

Community Review

When I gifted these dog paw socks to my wife, she was thrilled and couldn't wait to flaunt them. Despite initial doubts from others about their authenticity, wearing them quickly cleared the air. The socks' thick material and comfort level were surprising, even making an appearance in our Christmas and Easter celebrations. Despite the dog paw image stretching a bit when worn, these socks, with their humor and uniqueness, have become a beloved possession in our household.


LED Moon Lamp

  • Moon Child

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Unique, Practical

Electronic gifts don’t have to be pricey when they’re this unique LED moon lamp. It sits on a wooden base and illuminates like the moon in the night sky using LED light. The remote control allows a variation of colors and lighting patterns to be used. The moon lamp is a delightful addition to any room they want to make more celestial.

Individual Opinion

Love how this light has become an essential part of my evening routine. It's intriguing and adds a fun element to my patio gatherings, becoming a conversation starter with its radiant glow. The plethora of colors to choose from, alongside the remote control, allows me to set the mood just right. While it works best when plugged in, it also serves as a soothing nightlight in my bathroom. The soft white setting gives off a faint lavender hue, creating a calming ambiance. However, during the day, it just appears as a white ball, with its 3D printed moon details not as noticeable.


Solar Charger

  • Charge Up

  • $$$$$
  • Practical, Accessories, DIY

It may not scream novelty, but this solar charger is the kind of white elephant gift that people fight over to have to themselves. It’s the most useful item to have and uses solar power to charge up to three devices at the same time. Camping, road trips, and even a long day at the office are secure with this charger around.

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this power bank has been a mixed bag. On one hand, it's light, cheap, and quite handy for backpacking trips where power outlets are scarce. You can even strap it onto your backpack and let it recharge in the sun as you hike. However, the solar charging process is painfully slow, taking around five hours in full sun to fully recharge. While it's a step up from my previous charger in terms of brightness and charging capacity, and allows for both micro USB and USB C input, its inconsistent performance makes it a somewhat unreliable power source.

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Bamboo Cheese Board Set

  • Made To Entertain

  • $$$$$
  • Set, Practical, Holidays, Unique

You don’t have to break the bank to offer this bamboo cheese board set for your white elephant gift. It’s built to present the best display of cheese, charcuterie, and snacks available. The board opens to reveal a drawer full of additional cheese tools when needed. It makes any party or gathering a more gourmet experience.

Personal Experience

This product truly impressed me with its sturdy and elegant design. The side drawer opens smoothly, providing a neat and organized space for serving utensils, a feature that was absent from a previous board I owned. It's weighty build ensures it won't slide around during use, and its high-quality craftsmanship makes it a standout among similar items. I liked this product so much that I bought a second one, and it's always a hit at parties. It also makes a great gift, as I've found when I gave one at a white elephant party and another at a wedding. The built-in knife drawer, in particular, seems to be a favorite feature among recipients.


Dark Humor Misfortune Cookies

  • Dark And Delicious

  • $$$$$
  • Unique, Fun, Set, Treats

Get dark with these misfortune cookies the next time you need a gift that stands out. The eight tasty cookies are as black as coal, and each contains something sarcastic in the way of a fortune. With fortunes like “You have an inferiority complex, and it’s entirely justified,” whoever receives these cookies will be laughing out loud.


Whiskey Wedge Glass

  • The Art Of The Drink

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Practical, Unique

This whiskey wedge glass isn’t your typical barware. The idea is to create a special drinking experience for those who use the glass. The glass comes with a silicone ice mold shaped like a wedge. Once frozen, it’s inserted into the glass to make for a longer chill and an awesome look. Every sip can feel like a creative act.

Community Review

I've enjoyed using this ice sculpture kit, especially with how quickly the ice freezes and the simplicity of its use. It's notably mess-free and the ice wedge melts slower than typical cubes, which enhances the experience of my chilled beverages. One downside is that the mold is not designed for bulk ice cube production, limiting you to one or two pours per cube. Despite being slightly pricey, these sculptures add a unique touch to my drinkware and have been well-received by friends to whom I've gifted them.


3D Baguette Pillow

  • Soft As Bread

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Accessories, Fun

Get ready for wide eyes and big smiles when you deliver this 3D baguette pillow to one special gift recipient. The bread-shaped pillow is cotton-lined and can provide plenty of soft comfort. No matter how delicious it looks, they’re likely to depend upon it as one luxurious way to relax. It looks cool on any couch, bed, or chair, but doesn’t taste very good at all.

Individual Opinion

I recently got this bread-shaped pillow and it's been an amusing and comfortable addition to my home. Its unusual design adds a fun twist to my decor and never fails to put a grin on my face. I was pleasantly surprised with how supportive this pillow is, offering soft and fluffy comfort that enhances my sleep quality. However, I did notice it was not as stuffed as I would have liked, leading to some flat areas. Luckily, I had extra stuffing at hand from previous projects, which resolved the issue. Even with this minor drawback, the pillow's quirky appeal and overall coziness make it a standout piece.


Breakfast Sandwich Maker

  • Sandwich Happy

  • $$$$$
  • Treats, DIY, Practical, Accessories

There may be a lot of underhanded gift swapping when you give this breakfast sandwich maker as a gift exchange present. It could be one of the most sought-after $30 white elephant gifts that last. The gadget helps prepare a savory breakfast sandwich by adding the ingredients in layers. Once the eggs are added, it all comes together in glorious breakfast style.

First-Hand Impression

I have to admit, this sandwich maker has become my go-to gadget for a quick, satisfying breakfast. It creates decent sandwiches, but I feel like it doesn't quite deliver the crispy, buttery texture you'd get from a pan-fried egg. I've also noticed that it's not suitable for cooking raw meats, so you'll need to stick to pre-cooked items. However, with a bit of experimenting, I've been able to solve some issues and have been enjoying my breakfast sandwiches each morning.


Poo-Pourri Toilet Spray Set

  • Pre-Game

  • $$$$$
  • Set, Novelty, Accessories, Practical

Surprise someone you know with this poo-pourri toilet spray set with five sprays made for use before you go. The scents are inviting, from tropical Hibiscus to vanilla mint. They get it done and leave the bathroom smelling better than it did before.

Personal Experience

When I first started using this product, I was pleasantly surprised by its effectiveness in neutralizing unavoidable odors, especially in my line of work in the healthcare industry. However, while I adore the variety of scents and the convenience of the travel size, I did experience some leakage from the tops, and I wish there was a bit more product in each container.


Fruit Infuser Water Bottle

  • Fruity Flavors

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Practical, Unique

This fruit-infuser water bottle is a wonderful way for anyone to make their daily water intake more interesting. It’s got a large inner basket for filling with fruits to make a unique beverage from water or seltzer. The infuser bottle is the ideal unisex gift exchange choice for anyone bored with plain old water.

Personal Insight

In my experience, this water bottle had some initial flaws, such as the infuser core being off-center and the material feeling like cheap plastic. I also noticed that without careful handling, the infuser can fall to the bottom of the bottle which was somewhat frustrating. Despite these issues, the ability to infuse water with different fruits is a fun feature that livens up my hydration routine.


Hot Ones Game

  • The Hottest Game Around

  • $$$$$
  • Games, Fun, DIY, Set

The holidays can stay warm or get hot with this entertaining Hot Ones game set. Called “Truth or Dab,” it’s like Truth or Dare, with hot sauce included. The various cards keep the game interesting, while the hot sauce keeps it unlike any other card game you can think of. The game inspires fun storytelling and close companionship, plus the fear of hot sauce for all.

Community Review

If you're looking for a fiery, fun-filled challenge, this game will certainly deliver. The hot sauce is extremely potent, to the point where a drop half the size of a pea set my tongue ablaze for over 10 minutes. Despite the hilarity of watching my 18-year-old daughter trying to maintain her cool, be warned that the sauce quantity is disappointingly small, forcing us to replenish it after only two or three rounds. While the game's truth cards primarily stir up interesting conversations amongst adults, they may not be suitable for all players, especially younger ones due to their mature content.


Elephant Phone Stand

  • (Not) White Elephant

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Practical, Unique

Bring the elephant into the actual world through your next white elephant exchange with this cute phone stand. It’s the ideal place to keep desk accessories like pens, pencils, and paper clips. The carved elephant has wonderful detail and cradles a cell phone on its trunk with ease. The office decor serves as a sweet reminder of a fun time had by all exchanging gifts.

Individual Opinion

I find this piece of office decor not only visually appealing but also exceptionally functional, perfectly holding my spudgers and openers. It's well-crafted, sturdy, and has a charming design that has received numerous compliments from friends and family alike.


Golf Drinking Game

  • On The Green

  • $$$$$
  • Games, Novelty, Fun, Set

They don’t have to be an avid golfer to enjoy playing (and drinking) this fun golf game. The tabletop set looks just like a mini golf course. It comes with all the necessary golfing accessories in miniature style, even a sand trap. And the six shot glasses are there to make the game even more interesting.

First-Hand Impression

Bought this game for my little brother and was pleasantly surprised by the larger-than-expected size and the high quality of the included shot glasses. I've found the game to be especially enjoyable for sociable individuals who love a good drinking game, yet retrieving the balls could be smoother, a magnet could come in handy. Despite some packaging issues, the overall quality and fun factor of this golf-inspired game make it a solid purchase, particularly for golfing enthusiasts who appreciate a good laugh with friends.

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Electric Wine Opener Kit

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  • Wine In Time

  • $$$$$
  • Set, Practical, Accessories

This impressive electric wine opener kit is one of those much sought-after white elephant gifts. It’s super-charged to open up to 30 bottles of wine without being plugged in. The kit also comes with a foil cutter to keep things simple and neat when opening their next bottle. The opener helps make hanging out with friends and enjoying wine a much easier affair.

Personal Experience

From the first blush of excitement, this electric wine opener has proven itself delightful with its clever foil cutter and easy cork removal. Despite some concerns about it not holding a charge, my experience has been different; it's been a reliable companion through countless wine nights, even during a challenging recovery period following my shoulder surgery. While the world leans more towards screw tops, for those of us still savoring cork-sealed wines, this opener is an elegant and user-friendly solution.


3D Skull Ice Mold Tray

  • Chill Out, Scary Style

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

The cool look of these 3D skull ice molds makes for a unique gift to a lucky someone. The silicone tray creates four large skull ice cubes that will outlast any normal cubes. The fun set can improve any cocktail or cold beverage with its hardcore style and long-lasting chill. It’s the kind of accessory people realize how much they need once they have them!

Personal Insight

My experience with these ice cube molds has been largely positive, with the product offering ease of use and versatility in the shapes of skulls and spheres, though the latter sometimes tend to leak. From making red Kool-Aid cubes for my child to freezing cold brew coffee for my iced drink, these molds have added a fun element to our beverages, even if the size could be a bit larger and the ice clarity clearer.


Wine Bottle Puzzle

  • Fun And Games

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Games, Fun, DIY

This inventive wine bottle puzzle makes giving a bottle of wine as a gift a much different event. The super-fun time they’ll have trying to figure out this party game will make that wine taste even better. The object is to figure out the wooden puzzle, so it unlocks the wine. It makes for a great time and a cool keepsake, even after the wine is gone.

Community Review

I, like many others, found this puzzle gift to be a delightful novelty item that can add a fun twist to the usual present-opening experience. Despite the challenge of figuring out the puzzle, which was surprisingly easier than expected for both my daughter and her grandfather, it was an engaging activity that brought us all together. However, there were minor setbacks with the quality as a few pieces of wood fell off which required a quick fix. Lastly, while the instructions were difficult to comprehend and I struggled to find any additional online support, the overall experience made it worth the effort.


Tabletop Bowling Set

  • Strike Large

  • $$$$$
  • Set, Games, Fun, Unique

Take your favorite friend or colleague bowling in miniature with this tiny tabletop bowling set. They’ll never be bored once they have this little bowling alley on their desk. It’s made with great detail and has ten pins, a ramp, and a ball to bowl with. The set is a classic game that makes any long day that much better.

Individual Opinion

In my experience, this toy offers a unique blend of fun and frustration. The joy I got from playing with it was offset by the inconvenience of constantly resetting the pins. The design could be improved with a more sturdy build or a mechanism to quickly reset the pins. Even with these minor flaws, it remains a fun diversion, especially when waiting for appointments or during family gatherings.


Microwave Popcorn Popper

  • Popcorn Explosion

  • $$$$$
  • Practical, Accessories, Treats

This microwave popcorn popper is a fun and festive way to prepare popcorn at home. It can be used to both pop and serve the popcorn, while melting the butter on the lid. The retro look fits any kitchen and is the perfect start to a movie night at home. It’s something that will be used multiple times and appreciated in the long run.

First-Hand Impression

I must say, this popcorn popper has quickly become a staple in my snack-making routine. The borosilicate glass construction not only adds an element of durability, but also a bit of a spectacle as I can watch the kernels pop, which has been a fun twist to my usual snack prep. The best part is that it doesn't require oil or butter for popping, reducing the chance of scorching, and it's dishwasher safe which simplifies cleanup immensely.


Spider Prank Box

  • Prankster Made

  • $$$$$
  • Novelty, Accessories, Fun

This spider prank box is the ultimate novelty gift because it has no purpose but to entertain. The wooden box is ready for your favorite jokester to use on everyone they come in contact with. It makes a fun desk accessory to break the ice and encourage laughter all around. The box opens, and the spider comes out for a harmless, classic scare.

Personal Experience

From my personal experience, this prank box is a delightfully mischievous item. Its sturdy, well-crafted wood construction ensures durability even when it induces startled reactions, and the surprising spider inside never fails to elicit a good laugh. However, the box's prank mechanism occupies most of its interior space, limiting its functionality as a storage container. Nevertheless, this prank box proves to be an entertaining novelty, perfect for those looking to add a dash of harmless fun to their day.


Santa’s Stocking Flask

  • Make Merry

  • $$$$$
  • Accessories, Novelty, Practical, Holidays

Get the holidays going in the right direction with this hilarious Santa stocking flask. It works just like any flask; only it’s shaped like a traditional Christmas stocking. The stocking has a dispenser for neatly poured drinks anywhere, anytime. It’s a quirky way to get a holiday party started or keep it going.

Personal Insight

I found this product to be surprisingly large, easily accommodating eight cans of White Claw without being filled to capacity, and even capable of holding up to three bottles of wine. It was a hit at our "anything but a cup" themed party, and I appreciated its high-quality construction, leak-proof design, and the ease of cleaning after use.



$30 White Elephant Gifts FAQs

Do White Elephant Gifts Have to Be New?

For a white elephant gift exchange, each subsequent person has a choice: they may choose a new, as-yet-unwrapped present or can steal an unwrapped gift from someone who’s already chosen. Either way, the gifts brought to a white elephant exchange should be new and adhere to the price range (usually under $30, $20, or $10).

What Is a Traditional White Elephant Gift?

White elephant gifts are typically inexpensive. They are usually gender-neutral and often a novelty gift that makes people laugh. The gifts can also be useful, especially for people who work in an office together. They can include small accessories like candles, spa products, or kitchen tools. White elephant gifts should stay lighthearted and accessible to all.

Is White Elephant the Same as Secret Santa?

A Secret Santa gift exchange is more straightforward since it’s a random exchange of gifts. White elephant gift exchanges take it a step further. As each person draws a gift by number, they can choose to keep it or steal a previously chosen gift. It becomes a more underhanded but fun game for a group to play for the holidays.

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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.