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In life, it’s the little things that matter most. Like giving a gift, saying thank you, offering a helping hand, and just being there for all of life’s challenges and milestones. These are the things that matter at the end of the day, more than any grand gesture. If you need some small gift ideas for a friend, this article will help.
Our Top Small Gift Picks for a Friend
Small Gifts for a Friend
- Personalized Leather Journal ($34.49)
- Personalized Scented Soy Candle ($22.95)
- Beautiful Bouquet of Flowers ($30 and up)
Practical Gifts for a Friend
- ElegantPark Personalized Tote Bag ($24.99)
- Personalized Phone Case ($15.50)
- Men's 100% Cotton Sweater ($32.60)
Small Self-Care and Beauty Gifts for a Friend
- Women's Luxury Memory Foam Slippers ($20.31)
- BLANC Therapy Relaxing Face Mask ($8.99)
- Eating Purely Organic GF Cookbook ($23.25)
Birthday Gifts for a Friend
Small Gifts for a Friend Who Lives Far Away
- Cottage Core Stationary Journaling Set ($14.25)
- ecoBrew Double Wall Glass Tumbler ($19.99)
- Fabric Frame Cover Photo Album ($20.77)
Jump ahead to these sections:
- Affordable Small Gifts for a Friend
- DIY Small Gifts for a Friend
- Practical Small Gifts for a Friend
- Small Self-Care Gifts for a Friend
- Small Birthday Gifts for a Friend
- Small Gifts for a Friend That’s Far Away
Friends are the ones we choose to surround ourselves with. They might not be related to us by blood, but these bonds are tighter than ever. If you want to say thank you for being a friend, you might want to offer your friend a small gift to show your appreciation.
You don’t have to spend a fortune (or anything at all) to show your friends you care. These are just a small reminder that you’re thinking of them. Whether your friend is going through a tough time or you’d really like to make their day, try these small gift ideas on for size.
Affordable Small Gifts for a Friend
If you’re hoping to gift someone inexpensive, there are a lot of options to choose from. It truly is the thought that counts, not the number on the price tag.
1. Journal
You can never have enough journals. Whether your friend uses this for their inner thoughts, daily musings, or even at work, they’re sure to put this small gift to good use.
Better yet, dedicate a few pages in the journal to them. You might write a letter, a thank you note, or a best friend bucket list to do together.
2. Mug or glass
You can never have too many mugs or glasses around. These small gifts are as practical as they are fun, so there’s a lot of room for customization. Consider your friend’s favorite beverage and make your decision from there.
3. Photo frame
In this digital age, we don’t always take the time to print and frame the photos that mean something to us. Printing your favorite photo of your friend group, framing it, and gifting it means a lot. This is a memento they can look at again and again.
4. Candle
A candle is a symbol of warmth and comfort. This is a great anytime gift, but it’s also the perfect gift for a grieving friend.
There are so many handmade, customizable options to choose from depending on your friend’s favorite scent. The best part is these tokens of kindness are very affordable.
5. Flowers
Don’t underestimate the power of flowers. Whether you give a bouquet of local blooms or something smaller, this is a small gesture of kindness he or she won’t forget soon.
6. Customized key chain
Small but meaningful, a customized key chain can serve as a reminder of how special your friend is to you.
7. Matching T-shirts
If you're the type to wear friendship bracelets, then consider getting you and your bestie matching shirts to declare your friendship to the world.
8. Customized throw blanket
Give your friend a customized throw blanket with pictures of you together so they can stay warm and wrapped up in memories of your time together.
DIY Small Gifts for a Friend
If you don’t have the budget for a gift or you’d prefer to make something yourself, there are a lot of DIY options as well. Because you made these yourself, they carry a lot of meaning as a gift.
9. Thank you card
The art of letter writing and cardmaking has fallen out of practice, but it’s time to revive it. Taking a few moments to make and write a thank you letter to a best friend is a gift that’s truly from the heart.
10. Photo collage
Another great option is to put together a photo collage. All you need is a few cherished photos, some crafting paper, and glue or tape. This is something they’ll want to hold onto for years to come.
11. Baked goods
Who doesn’t love snacking on something sweet? Homemade baked goods like cake, cookies, and brownies are very inexpensive, and they make the perfect gift for any occasion.
12. Homemade meal
Similar to baking something, whip up your friend’s favorite meal. You can cook it in a reusable container to drop off at their home or invite them over for a friendly feast. Food brings people together, even those you already feel close to.
13. Self-care goodies
If your friend is in need of some self-care, help them put themselves first. Things like bath salts, bath bombs, lip scrubs, and body care are easy to make with things you might already have at your house. With a bit of TLC, they’ll be feeling refreshed and ready for anything.
14. Movie night gift basket
Make a movie night gift basket by wrapping up some popcorn, their favorite candy, a can or two of their favorite soda, and a gift card for a streaming service.
15. Write a poem/song
Feeling creative? Write a poem or song that describes how awesome they are then read or sing it to them.
16. Homemade preserves
Everyone loves raspberry jam made in grandma's kitchen. Use what you have and whip up a few jars of preserves to give your friend along with a fresh loaf of homemade bread.
Practical Small Gifts for a Friend
We’ve all received gifts that weren’t easy to put to use. While they might have been thoughtful, there’s no fun having to put things in storage. Instead, give these practical small gifts that they’re sure to use all the time.
17. Tote bag
There’s no such thing as too many tote bags! You can easily make one yourself or purchase an inexpensive one that suits your friend’s needs. These are perfect for quick runs to the store, work, school, or just throwing in your car.
18. Gift card
A gift card is the perfect practical gift for when you’re not sure what to get. By getting them some cash they can use at their favorite store or restaurant, they’re sure to make the most of this kindness.
19. Coffee or tea
If your friend is always caffeinated, you know they’ll love some extra coffee or tea. Pick up a local brew near you to make their morning cup a bit more special.
20. Phone case
If you know the type of phone your friend has, gift them a case to keep it protected. While they likely already have some form of case or cover on their phone, these wear out quickly. A new one might be just what they’re looking for! Look for customizable options to make it even more special.
21. Sweater
There’s something inherently warm and comforting about a sweater. This is something your friend can use indoors and outdoors, and they’ll think of you every time they put it on.
22. Lamp, speaker, phone charger combo
Help your friend declutter and jazz up their interior space at the same time with a bedside lamp/speaker/phone charger all in one.
23. Decorative coaster set
Help your friend keep those annoying condensation rings off their counters, tables, and furniture with a set of beautiful coasters that will fit right in with their home.
24. Candle warmer lamp
A decorative candle warmer lamp presents the best of both worlds: getting to smell the candle and a safe environment.
Small Self-Care and Beauty Gifts for a Friend
Self-care doesn’t always come easy. If you’re trying to help a grieving friend or simply remind him or her to take time for themselves, try these small self-care gift ideas.
25. Slippers
Slippersare the ultimate comfort gift. They’re inexpensive, and perfect for those chillier nights at home. They’ll want to cozy up in no time.
26. Lip balm
Lip balmis something that’s never easy to find when you need it most. This is a gift that’s perfect for any guys or gals who are always reaching for a lip treatment, especially in cooler climates.
27. Beer or wine
While you shouldn’t always look for beer or wine when it’s time to unwind, there’s something inherently stress relieving about sharing a glass with friends. Bring their favorite beer or wine, along with a fun game or conversation topics.
28. Face mask
A face mask is a way to take a few minutes for yourself a few times a week. Gifting a selection of face masks to serve a variety of purposes makes a simple, thoughtful gift.
29. Cookbook
If your friend enjoys spending time in the kitchen, the best form of self-care might be cooking. A new cookbook is just what they need to find some food inspiration.
30. Lotions
Who doesn't love a good lotion? Give them a travel-sized lotion gift pack so they can try out multiple cents.
31. Bath bombs
There's nothing like a nice long soak after a hard day of work or once when kids are down. Give your friend a bath bomb gift pack and it's like a gift that keeps on giving.
32. Pampering kit
Give your friend the gift of a mini spa day with a 15-minute pampering kit. Just be sure to get one that is ideal for their skin type and you're good to go!
Small Birthday Gifts for a Friend
Finding the right birthday gifts for friends isn’t always easy, especially if your friend already seems to have it all. Here are the perfect birthday gifts that aren’t too over-the-top.
33. Subscription service
A TV, movie, or music subscription service is a small token of kindness that goes a long way. You can find some inexpensive subscription packages to offer a few months free for your friend.
34. Pajamas
Nothing feels better than putting on a nice pair of pajamas at the end of a long day. Gifting a cozy set to your friend is the perfect way to help them unwind.
35. Blanket
You can never go wrong with a blanket. A comfy, neutral throw is perfect for snuggling up and staying in.
36. Oil diffuser
Hook them on aromatherapy with a simple oil diffuser. Gift some relaxing oil blends to freshen up their space and soothe their mind and body.
37. Potted plant
Plants are becoming a common way to bring the outdoors in. Whether your friend has a proven green thumb or they’re just getting started as a plant owner, gift them some easy indoor plants for some greenery.
38. Morse code bracelet
Give your friend a wearable reminder of how awesome they are with a Morse code bracelet that says they are strong and fearless.
39. Terrarium kit
If your friend doesn't have a green thumb, a terrarium kit may be the perfect gift. They can easily grow succulents, air plants, or hydroponic plants without having to do much of anything at all.
40. Ring/Trinket dish
Everyone has rings, keys, and other trinkets that end up floating around on their dresser top. Give them a ring/trinket dish so they have a place to put it all.
Small Gifts for a Friend That’s Far Away
If you and your friend are separated by distance, don’t let that keep you apart. There are a lot of gifts that help you feel closer than ever before.
41. Stationery
Gift some gorgeous, luxurious stationery so they can easily write letters to send your way. Bonus points if you include stamps!
42. Travel mug
If they’re on the go, a travel mug keeps their favorite beverage warm no matter what. This is perfect for when they jump on a plane or road trip your way.
43. Planner
Make sure they never miss a phone or video date by sending them the perfect planner. These are highly customizable, whether they’re keeping up with homework, work, or personal assignments.
44. Bestselling book
Another idea is to send one of the top bestsellers on the charts. You can read this pick together, swapping opinions and thoughts along the way.
45. Photo album
Gift a photo album to share all of your moments together. Your friend can fill this book with new memories for when you catch up in person.
46. Travel log book
If they're far away because they're galavanting all over the world, seeing new sights and experiencing new things, give them a travel log book to record all their adventures.
47. Refillable fountain pen
Who doesn't enjoy pulling out a favorite pen to journal with? Gift a refillable fountain pen with cartridges to record all of their journeys.
48. Kindle Unlimited subscription
If your friend travels, give them the gift of taking their favorite books everywhere they go with a Kindle Unlimited subscription.
Show Them You Care
These small appreciation gifts for friends prove that the thought really is what matters most. You don’t need to gift anything over-the-top to show just how much you care. These simple gifts above are thoughtful, practical, and guaranteed to be put to use.
Gift-giving is one of the many things that bring people together. Offering a small token of kindness when someone needs it most goes a long way. It doesn’t take much to make someone’s day.
