The 2025 $5 Gift Guide
There aren’t a lot of things on Everyday Reading that stay constant for 15 years.
But the $5 gift guide?
That has been a staple year after year and I think they just keep getting better!
This year’s $5 gift guide has more than 75 great ideas on it.
We’ve broken it down into categories – ideas for teens and tweens, men, women, home products, parents and in-laws. I hope you’ll find it helpful as you pick up affordable Christmas gifts that make great stocking stuffers, neighbor gifts, and more!
WOMEN
Chi Heat Protectant – $4.97
This heat protectant is SO good. Spritz a little on your hair before blow drying, curling or flat ironing to protect from the heat – plus it smells amazing! This is a great way to give it a try without risking $30 on something you haven’t tried before!
Leather Heart Bookmarks -$7.99 for 6 ($1.33/ each)
Who would I be if I didn’t have a book related gift somewhere on this list? These leather bookmarks are the perfect simple, yet thoughtful gift for any book lover.
Rifle Paper Co. Notebook – $4.99
I’ll never get over how beautiful Rifle Paper Co. designs are – the florals, the colors, the details! It’s the perfect size to tuck in your bag or keep on your desk, and it instantly makes even a grocery list feel fancy.
Pen & Gear 12-Month Calendar – $5.88
Talk about a big colorful and practical statement. I love that this calendar is undated so you can start using them whenever and the pop of color adds so much brightness to any wall. (You can see a video I made with them here to get a sense of scale!)
Foundation Brush – $7.49
I can’t believe how great this foundation brush is for only $7.49. It’s super soft, the bristles are dense enough to blend everything in quickly, and it has a handle. It gives a smooth, even finish and holds up well with regular use.
Mario Badescu Facial Spray – $6.00
Glowy skin is all the rage right now and I’m not complaining! Spray it on to give your face a mid-day dewy, hydrated look. I would love to receive this in my stocking!
Small Make Up Bag -$3.99 for 2 pack ($2.00/ each)
These little makeup bags are absolutely darling! About the size of an iPhone, they slip easily into a purse to keep things organized and are just the right size for travel makeup or everyday essentials.
Silicone Travel Bottle Covers – $7.97 (16-pack)
I’m adding these to my travel must-haves. Making sure I don’t end up with a suitcase full of lotioned clothes is important to me.
Gel Pens – $7.99
I’m a bit of a pen snob and these pens are affordable and write SO well! I just got a new pack for my birthday and they really are my favorite pens!
Shower Steamers – $24.99 for 15 ($1.67 each)
I can’t believe I haven’t featured these in a $5 gift guide before—they’re one of my personal favorites and a best seller! Each shower steamer comes individually wrapped, making it easy to gift 2–3 without stretching your budget. Plus, who doesn’t love an at-home spa day? Seriously, these are amazing! In my 2023 $5 gift guide, I shared a shower steamer tray that pairs perfectly with this gift.
MEN
7-Piece Manicure Set – $4.98
I love a practical gift you’ll actually use—and even better when it’s travel-friendly! This men’s manicure set has everything needed to keep fingers and toes neatly groomed, and for just $2 more, you can grab the women’s version too.
Beard Comb – $5.99
If you’ve got a bearded guy on your list, this comb is such an easy win. It’s simple, sturdy, and looks so classy! A perfect stocking stuffer or small gift that feels way more luxe than the price tag.
Magnetic Mini Chess – $7.99
Small in size (only 6 inches square) but big on fun, this mini magnetic chess set is the perfect pocket-sized brain challenge for travel or a quick match anywhere.
Travel Utensils – $6.98
A stainless steel travel utensil set that’s surprisingly nice for the price! It includes a fork, spoon, knife, and chopsticks – perfect for keeping in the car, taking on camping trips, or adding to packed lunches. Such a practical and thoughtful gift.
Fix-a-Flat Emergency Flat Tire Spray – $7.38
Hopefully this is a gift he’ll never need to use—but it’s always smart to be prepared! He’ll appreciate having it tucked away in his trunk or garage, ready for those just-in-case moments (and feeling extra handy if he ever does need it).
Merino Wool Socks – $14.89 for 3 ($5.00 each)
Wool socks are my absolute go-to in the winter—they truly work wonders for keeping my toes warm! These are perfect for the guy who loves hiking, backpacking, skiing, or just wants to keep his feet cozy when the temperatures drop.
Desktop Golf Pen Set Game -$4.99
This desktop golf pen set is such a fun little gift for anyone who loves golf – or just needs a break at their desk! The mini putter and putting green let you sneak in a quick shot between emails, and the pens keep things practical too.
Dove Men’s Care Ultra Hydrating Cream– 4 for $5
Talk about a game-changer for dry skin, and this 4-pack mini tubs makes it super easy to keep one at home, one in the gym bag, or at the office. Or if you have a household of boys – it would be the perfect stocking stuffer to split up.
Magnetic Wristband (for tools, nails, screws, etc.)– $4.69
This is SO cool. Perfect for the handy person who doesn’t want to lose the nails, screws, or drill bits they’re using but also needs their hands free!
Dude Wipes – $18.96 for 6 ($3.16 each)
Dude Wipes are perfect for staying fresh on the go – gym, work, or weekend adventures. Practical, handy, and definitely appreciated!
Dad Joke Book – $5.99
This would be good for dad’s young and old. He will definitely enjoy it – not sure about everyone else!
Pickle Grabber – $5.80
There is nothing fun about having wet, pickle fingers after grabbing a yummy snack!
Fire Starter – $4.47
If he doesn’t already have one in his camping kit, this flint fire starter makes the perfect little stocking stuffer. He’ll be ready to spark a campfire anytime, anywhere—because you never know when adventure (or s’mores!) will strike.
TEENS/TWEENS
Mini Photo Album for Instax Photos – $7.99
My daughter has an Instax camera and has so much fun using it, but could really use a place to store all of the photos so they don’t all get lost. This photo album is the perfect solution!
Sneaker Crease Protectors – $8.99 for 8
I’m not that big into sneakers, but for those who are, these crease protectors are a game-changer. They effectively prevent creases in the toe area, keeping sneakers looking fresh. A must-have tool for sneaker enthusiasts, they help prolong both the life and style of your kicks. This would be really easy to divide up into 2 sets of 4 for $4.50 a gift!
Keychain Bracelet – $6.99
This wristlet is perfect for new drivers, college students, or busy moms – keeping essentials like cards and keys close at hand without the need for a full purse. Stylish, practical, and oh-so-easy to carry, it’s a little accessory that makes life simpler.
Sports Eye Black – $3.99
The perfect gift for teammates – or a fun stocking stuffer for any athlete (available in blue, pink, and red!). It adds that extra touch of game-day excitement, making them feel like a pro.
Mini Office Supply Kit – $5.99
My girls would absolutely love this little office supply kit. It’s filled with mini versions of everything – tiny scissors, stapler, tape, and more – and it all fits neatly in a little organized case. Such a fun gift for creative kids or teens.
Kitsch Satin Scrunchies – $6.51 for 3
My girls each sleep on satin pillowcase (another great gift from a past $5 gift guide!), but these satin scrunchies keep their hair out of their face without leaving creases in their hair.
Stanley Keychain Chapstick Holder – $13.99 for 8 ($1.75/ each)
My 13 year old has one of these and gets complimented on it on a weekly basis. It’s not only incredibly cute, but it fits a chapstick nicely inside.
Mini Bob Ross Paint by Number – $6.51
This mini kit includes an easel, paints, a brush, and instructions for 3 paintings. Just like a class from Bob Ross himself! These are fun and would fit perfectly in a stocking.
Cluedle – $5.70
I can’t believe these are still on sale at this price! My girls have been obsessed with puzzle books lately, so I grabbed a few for them – and even stocked up for easy friend gifts. Honestly, I might need to grab more to tuck away for Christmas!
Owala Replacement Lid – $7.99
Besides Owalas being the best water bottle out there (sorry Stanley), they might have the corner on the cutest color combinations as well. If you have a teen who loves switching things up, get them one of these new colorful tops and it will feel like a whole new water bottle at a fraction of the cost!
Silicone Mud Mask Applicator – $5.38 for 2 ($2.69/ each)
Have you ever tried to put on a mud mask and ended up getting more on your hands than on your face? These little silicone applicators are fantastic at getting the mask on your face and keeping your hands perfectly clean! This would be fun to gift with a mud mask or a face mask recipe!
3D House Sticker Scene – $5.99
These things are so much fun. It comes with a bunch of different themes you get to design on your own. Make the cutest coffee shop or grocery store with these adorable stickers! Teens absolutely love these!
Large Capacity Pencil Case – $7.99
Why does having a good, organized pencil case make me so happy? I love all of the colors options, plus they have enough room for more than just pencils. Add in a chapstick, mini lotion or gum with no problem.
Chicken Pens – $9.99 for 8 pack
Analese offered these as prizes at a teen party and they were one of the first things to go. Not only are they funny and cute, but they actually write really smoothly, let out just enough ink and don’t smear!
Big Flower Claw Clips – $7.99 for 6
For the past few years I have suggested some sort of claw clip on the $5 gift guide and this year, these big flower claw clips are the most popular ones!
Mini Finger Pointer – $4.99 for 2
Have you seen the videos floating around where these pointers are the star of the show? They are hilarious, fun and I think teenagers could get a kick out of them.
Temporary Tattoo Markers – $7.99 (10 markers / 56 stencils)
Let them get creative with these temporary tattoo markers! Each set comes with stencils, so they can draw, design, and decorate with confidence. It’s an easy, mess-free way for teens to express themselves – and the tattoos wash right off when they’re ready for a new look.
PARENTS/IN-LAWS
Travel Size Hand Cream -$5.99 for pack of 7
Perfectly sized for a stocking stuffer, travel bag, car, or purse, this set gets rave reviews! It’s especially great for dry skin, has a light, pleasant scent, and even comes in seven different varieties.
Mrs. Meyers Soy Candles, Gingerbread Scent -$32 for 8 ($3.93/ each)
I have always loved gifting Mrs. Meyers hand soap (another great $5 gift option!), but their candles are another favorite. The seasonal scents smell amazing, the packaging is adorable, and they’re so affordable. Plus, buying in bulk makes it easy to check multiple gifts off your list at once!
Kleenex Canisters – $9.29 for 4 ($2.32/ each)
These canisters fit like a glove in cup holders in any car and I specifically love having one of these in my side door cup holder because you truly can never have enough kleenexes.
Gold Catchall Tray – $5.00
How pretty is this little catchall tray? It’s one of those gifts that looks way more expensive than it actually is. Perfect for holding your keys, loose change, or the random odds and ends that always end up on the counter. And it even comes in silver!
Foam Garden Kneeler – $5.00
I don’t know about you, but my knees are not what they used to be. This foam garden kneeler is a total game changer – soft, sturdy, and easy to carry around the yard. It’s one of those gifts that’s both thoughtful and useful.
Quick Dry Hand Towel – $5.00
It’s about time a mainstream retailer comes out with some great prints on some hand towels! These towels are a lot like my favorite Geometry towels! Put it with some dish soap, with a cute bow and you have yourself a great gift! There are a lot of different ones, but they are all on different listings. (Tan Stripes, Blue Stripes, Black Floral, Black Dots, Large Floral, Floral Border)
Collapsible Funnel Set – $6
I have a collapsible strainer set and I cannot believe how much I love it because it takes up so little space. Same concept here. I funnel is so nice to have when you need it, but they are clunky and hard to store. Problem solved!
Milk Chocolate Covered Mini Grahams – $4.19
These have been my go-to snack for traveling this year. Everyone in our family loves them and they are gone within seconds of opening them up. If you want something with caramel on them, these pretzel, caramel, chocolate ones are also so excellent!
Candied Jalapeños – $2.38
I grabbed these for a recipe recently—and I can’t believe I’d never tried them before! They add the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy, instantly taking any dish up a notch. Plus, they make such a fun (and unexpected!) foodie gift.
Olive Oil Sprayer – $6
There’s nothing worse than dealing with greasy hands or a messy countertop after cooking with oil. This handy olive oil sprayer lets you pour or mist just the right amount of oil – keeping things clean, easy, and perfectly portioned.
KIDS
Mini Sketchpad – $10.47 for 3 ($3.49/ each)
These are perfect for road trips, waiting in a office, going to church or for a child who loves to doodle on the go. We’ve used these so many times to play the dot game, tic tac toe, draw and so much more. I love having them on hand!
Dove Slime Body Wash – $4.97
This is my kind of slime! It stays contained in the shower/tub AND cleans their body.
Mini Nerf Ball Set – $5.79
This 3-ball set includes a mini basketball, soccer ball, and football – bringing hours of endless fun! Bonus: they double as stress balls, making them perfect for playtime or a quick squeeze.
Silicone Fidget Toy – $5.99
This is one of those toys kids can play with nonstop – whether it’s in the car, at church, waiting in a restaurant, or sitting through an appointment. I love a gift that keeps little hands busy and minds engaged!
Kid’s Cooking Knives – $5.99
Kids love helping in the kitchen, and these knives let them join in safely – no need to worry about little fingers getting cut. Best of all, they actually work really well!
Whoa Dough – Air Dry Clay – $4.99
My girls are OBSESSED with air dry clay. They spend hours in their room making cute little creations. This is the perfect gift for an artistic kid! They even have a glow-in-the-dark version.
Bike Bell – $4.99
This is a perfect add on gift for any child receiving a bike for Christmas! Or for anyone who loves riding their bike!
Liquid Motion Bubble Sensory – $5
These 100% bring me back to my childhood. There is something so mesmerizing about watching each individual bubble make its way down the path. Great stocking stuffer for kids!
Coloring Roll – $5.00
This coloring roll is such a fun find! Just unroll it across the table (or floor!) and let your kids go to town. It’s perfect for quiet time, playdates, or keeping little hands busy while you make dinner – and it rolls right back up when you’re done. A total win for $5!
Desk Bell – $5.99
I’ve never met a child who doesn’t love ringing one of these. Analese’s kids have one and use it to play restaurant, hotel and all sorts of other imaginary play things.
Piggy Piggy Card Game -$5.79
Tacos and ice cream and pigs, oh my! This is a really fun card game that is great with younger kids and adult alike!
Grab It Claw – $5
Why are these things so fun to mess with? They are an easy toy to have around that gets used a surprising amount! I have used ours multiple times to grab socks that have fallen behind our dryer!
Kawaii Milk Carton Pencil Case + Carrot Gel Pens – $9.95 for 3 ($3.31/ each)
How fun are these?! It’s a pencil bag designed to look like the cutest little milk carton – and it even comes with a carrot gel pen! The best part? You can easily split the set into three gifts for friends.
Disc Launchers – $11.99 for 2
We used to play with these all the time growing up, and they’re bringing back so many memories! Just pull the tab and watch the discs soar high into the sky. It’s a fun, nostalgic toy—and an easy one to split into two gifts!
Hotwheels Tracks – $2.99
For the little car lover, pair this track set with a $1 Hot Wheels car, and you’ve got an awesome, budget-friendly gift!
Waboba Airlyft – $7.99
Have you seen these!? They are` seriously fun for all ages! It flies over 30 meters with ease, thanks to its clever hollow design, and works indoors or out. It’s perfect for the backyard, the park, or even a rainy day inside.
Hair Clip Ins – $5
Skip the dye and go for these easy clip in hair colors to spice up your little girl’s hair!
FOR THE HOME
Dog Water Additive to Reduce Bad Breath – $4.00
Dog breath is truly the worst. If you have a dog owner in your life, this stuff is so cheap and actually works!
Pot Holder Trivets – $8.98 for 3 ($2.99/ each)
One of these or the full pack with a fun plate of treats or your favorite recipe would make a great gift!
Kitchen Appliance Sliders – $5.69
You know when you try to move an appliance along on your kitchen counter and it does that bouncing thing? Well, these get rid of that problem and make a great stocking stuffer for someone who loves their kitchen gadgets and simple fixes.
Mini Artificial Snake Plant – $5.00
If you’ve been around here awhile, you know I love plants! This would be such a good gift to give to a friend with a treat alongside it. It makes for the easiest shelf addition in any space.
Magnetic Instax Photo Frames – $6.49 for 7
Speaking of Instax photos – these frames are just the right size! Great for lockers or to put on the outside of a fridge.
2 Piece Silicone Spatula Set – $5.00
I got one a mini spatula for free in a grocery order one time and we are all obsessed with it – it gets used literally every day at house.
Kitchen Shears – $3.83
If your house is anything like ours, you can never have enough scissors. It’s like they have legs!! Plus these kitchen shears are extra strong and can cut through things like meat and cardboard.
Kong Dog Toy – $6.95
This is a soft, but chewable puppy toy you can fill with all sorts of goodies for your dog! A great toy for every day play or fill it with something yummy when you need them to hold still.
Hard Sided Zipper Pencil Case
I bought a few of these earlier this summer and I cannot believe how useful they’ve been – I have been full on obsessed with them! They’re so convenient for holding sunscreen, snacks, card games, and, of course, school supplies. And I love that nothing inside gets squished. At under $4? Don’t mind if I get ten!
Divided Containers – $5.00 (set of 5 containers)
I’ve absolutely loved this bigger snack box for every outing. But having some smaller ones to send the girls with or to quickly grab when I’ve had a busy day is a great way to stay nourished. These would also be great to fill with candy or nuts for a Christmas gift this year!
If you liked this post about cheap Christmas gifts, you might also like these other posts:
Sadly the 3D sticker set is unavailable.
Thanks for letting us know! We updated it with a new link. Try this one! https://amzlink.to/az0NqRiNa76uf
Great list! The dish towels are already out of stock though… sad! They look so nice!
Just updated that link!
Wow! Thanks for the great ideas. You have shared so many wonderful items, jump started my Christmas shopping! Thanks!
Where is the link to buy the products?
Everything is linked on this blog post!