The Holidays on a Budget: Great Gift Ideas for $20 and Under

by Rebecca Gagne '08

With soaring gas prices this holiday season, you may find yourself to be a little low on cash. Gifts don't always need to cost money. Using these gift ideas you can get someone an appropriate gift for a small cost.

For starters, gift certificates are always a great idea. A $20 gift certificate to an ethnic restaurant can give someone a delicious meal and some time out of the house. Other gifts you can purchase for under $20 include a warm Old Navy Fleece sweatshirt or a hat, gloves and scarves to match. Earrings and accessories from Claire's are also a good idea for the girls on your list. Movie rental or movie theater tickets are always a hit and they never expire. Dunkin' Donuts gift cards are a good idea for when someone needs a hot drink on the run. Fleece blankets can be purchased from the Christmas Tree Shop or IKIA for about $3.99 each. They are inexpensive gifts and can be brought to an embroidery establishment to be personalized for a few dollars more.

Completely out of money? Remember, you don't need to purchase anything to give a gift. You can offer to do some extra chores around the house or offer to baby sit so your parents can go for dinner. Another great idea is to get creative! For those who have access to a computer and printer, print out a picture and put it in a plain frame and then decorate it for that special someone on your list. Or learn to knit and make them a scarf in their favorite color.

Keep in mind that the most memorable gifts come from the heart and don't cost any money. Write someone a poem, a letter, or create a greeting card from scratch to share your thoughts.

Good luck, happy shopping and a Merry Christmas to all!