Easter Basket Ideas You Won’t Hate

easter basket ideas

Easter Basket Ideas You Won’t Hate:

I love giving my kids gifts—it brings me so much joy to see their excitement! But you know what I don’t love? Filling our house with more random stuff that gets tossed aside not long after.

Do you feel the same?

That’s why I have started asking myself:

“What are my kids going to need later that I can buy now?”

It’s my way of still treating them (and scratching that deal-hunting itch!) without filling our home with unnecessary extras.

Easter is right on the horizon, so Easter baskets are currently on my mind.

When I think of the question above, I know the weather is changing and we will be spending a lot more time outside. So instantly, bathing suits and pajamas come to mind. It’s pretty much guaranteed that they have outgrown their things from last year.

So think through your current family situation. Will you be going to the pool or beach? What about a family vacation? What do they like to do outside? What are their favourite snacks? What about something to do inside on rainy days?

To help get your creative/practical thinking rolling, here are some of my favourite Easter Basket ideas.

(Note: The links in this post may be affiliate links. Read the disclosure policy here.)

WATER & SUN GEAR

My kids always need new bathing suits. Currently my favourite places to get their bathing suits are Old Navy and Gap because of how they fit, but also because they have great sales often. (You know I love a deal.) I really like these one piece rash guard suits because of the built-in UPF sun protection.

Swim goggles are also really useful. My oldest will be getting a new pair of these this year.

Pool toys and bath toys are also a solid choice if your kids will enjoy them. My youngest has been asking for some diving toys, so she’ll be getting this set.

Here are a few other items to give you ideas:

OUTDOOR TOYS

There’s nothing better than sending the kids outside to enjoy some fresh air! It’s even better when they have something fun to ignite their imaginations.

There’s always the classics that need to be replaced such as chalk or bubbles or water guns. But here are some other ideas that are sure to be a hit:

CRAFTY GIFTS

If you’ve got kids that love to be crafty then you can’t go wrong with some new craft items!

I like to pick up some new craft supplies or kits from Dollarama or Dollar Tree. But here are some other ideas:

PRACTICAL GIFTS

Let’s just call this category the “things your kids need anyways” but we can disguise them as thoughtful and fun gifts. Okay?

CANDY & SNACKS

No Easter basket is complete without a chocolate bunny or some sort of treat! There are Easter themed candies all over the stores. Grab one or two things you know your kids would like and call it a day.

You could also think outside the box a bit and grab their favourite snacks. Could be things you don’t buy very often that they’ll be excited to receive. Or just things you know they’ll enjoy no matter what. Pringles. Mini bags of chips. Cereal. Ritz crackers and cheese dip. Bear Paws. Goldfish crackers. Apple sauce pouches. Fruit snacks. Bunny Grahams. The ideas are endless.

I hope these ideas help you build Easter baskets for your kids that are practical and enjoyable for everyone! Remember though, Easter baskets aren’t mandatory!

easter basket ideas

The 2024 Simply Frugal Gift Guides are Here!

Simply Frugal Gift Guides

Simply Frugal Gift Guides

It’s gift-giving season, which means you’re either really excited about shopping for gifts, or in the beginning stages of holiday dread. 🙂

Gift-giving can be very overwhelming. Especially for the person who has everything! When I need a gift, the perfect gift in my mind, is something practical and memorable yet a bit extravagant (something they wouldn’t purchase themselves). Of course, my gift-giving has to be done within a budget, as I’m sure most of yours does too.

Finding a budget friendly and unique gift can be challenging, especially as more and more people may be added to your Christmas list. This year, I want to give you several gift guides that feature fabulous gift ideas that you can shop from!

I’m pretty darn excited about this year’s gift guides because I think you’ll find a lot of great gift ideas for everyone on your list. Plus, since you’re getting this from Simply Frugal, the gift guides feature frugal gift ideas that are separated into categories by price!

frugal gift guides

Here are this year’s Simply Frugal Gift Guides:

These frugal gift guides will help solve all of your gift-giving dilemmas by making it really easy to find that perfect gift for everyone on your list. All you have to do is click, order, and wrap!

You might also find interesting:

Frugal Stocking Stuffers

frugal stocking stuffers

Amazing Frugal Stocking Stuffer Ideas

Stocking stuffers can be so much fun!  However, it’s quite easy to get carried away buying all sorts of fun little things to add to the stockings! Am I right?

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of frugal stocking stuffers to make shopping easier. I think you’re going to love the list!

Frugal Stocking Stuffers:

frugal stocking stuffers
  1. e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick
  2. Colour ‘n Glitz Glue Sticks
  3. Kids Wallet
  4. Scratch & Sketch Art Tiles
  5. Toothpaste (get a multipack and separate them)
  6. Toothbrush
  7. Mad Libs: Taylor Swift Edition
  8. Gift Card (any denomination that will work with your budget!)
  9. Candy/Chocolate
  10. Measuring Spoons
  11. Homemade cookies
  12. Gum
  13. Clear Lip Gloss Set
  14. AirPods Case
  15. Solid Cologne for Men (separate these!)
  16. Washable Paint Sticks
  17. Frank’s RedHot Original Seasoning
  18. Travel sized toiletries
  19. Lip Balm
  20. Rainbow Pencils
  21. Danish Dough Whisk
  22. USB Flash drive
  23. Tide To Go Instant Stain Remover Pen
  24. Travel Pill Organizer
  25. Deck of cards (two pack you can separate)
  26. Hot Wheels
  27. UNO card game
  28. Exfoliating Lip Brush
  29. Christmas is the only time of the year when I have fun with a Scratch Ticket or two!
  30. Cleaner Kit for Airpods
  31. Funny Cat Socks
  32. Training Chopsticks
  33. Mystical Fire Color Changing Packets
  34. Crayons, Pencils, Pencil Crayons, Felt pens
  35. Tape (what is with kids and their love of tape? haha)
  36. Digital Tire Pressure Gauge
  37. Adult Coloring Book
  38. Notebooks
  39. DoohicKey Multi-Tool
  40. Nail polish
  41. Silicone Spatula
  42. Makeup (This eye shadow pallet is neat!)
  43. Socks (5 pairs, perfect for separating)
  44. Hair accessories
  45. Starbucks VIA
  46. Nescafe
  47. Tea Infuser
  48. Little games/toys (Kaleidoscope, Barrel of Monkeys, Slinky)
  49. Tetra Tower Balance Game
  50. Nee Doh Noodlies
  51. Homemade slime
  52. Bath crayons
  53. Monopoly Deal Card Game
  54. Homemade Sock Puppet
  55. Electric Outlet Mustache Stickers (funny!)
  56. Mandarin oranges
  57. Craft supplies
  58. Sticker Set 
  59. Mechanical Pencils
  60. Playing Card Holder
  61. Water Proof Phone Pouch
  62. Dust Plugs for iPhones
  63. Cute Sticky Notes
  64. Mini Jewelry Travel Case
  65. Hair Elastics for Girls
  66. Hair Bows
  67. Claw Hair Clips
  68. Cute Tiny Claw Clips
  69. Pimple Patches
  70. Rechargeable Book Light
  71. Tweezers
  72. Chocolate coins
  73. Maple Candy
  74. Reese’s Half Pound Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup
  75. Today’s Plan notepad
  76. Back Scratchers
  77. DIY Flower Magnets
  78. Unicorn Scratch & Sparkle Activity Book
  79. Dino Sticker Activity Book
  80. Christmas Fun Mad Libs
  81. Emergency Seat Belt Cutter
  82. Kids Pear Detangler Spray
  83. Facial Face Masks
  84. Triangle Makeup Puffs
  85. Blending Beauty Sponge
  86. Slipper Socks
  87. iPhone Charger Cables
  88. Play-Doh
  89. Working Hands Hand Cream
  90. Smartphone Stand Holder
  91. HotHands Hand Warmers
  92. 9-in-1 Pen Tool
  93. Paper Airplane Squadron Kit
  94. Toilet Night Light
  95. Measuring Tape
  96. Reusable Rubber Twist Ties
  97. Stapler
  98. Burt’s Bees Mint Cocoa Lip Balm
  99. Wikki Stix
  100. Croc Charms
  101. Cheese Slicer
  102. Spa Headband Set
  103. Mascara
  104. Body Sprays (separate this set for three different gifts)
  105. Vehicle Air Fresheners
  106. Skin Smoother for Men
  107. Disposable Razors
  108. Straw Covers for Stanley Cup
  109. Stencil Bookmark for Bullet Journals
  110. Hot Chocolate
  111. Tea
  112. Magnetic Wristband for Holding Screws

Have you got any other ideas for frugal stocking stuffers?  What do you normally add to stockings?

More Frugal Gift Ideas:

Frugal Gift Ideas for Teachers, Neighbors and Friends

frugal gift ideas for teachers

(Note: The links in this post may be affiliate links. Read the disclosure policy here.)

Frugal Gift Ideas for Teachers, Neighbors and Friends

Do you give gifts to your kids’ teachers, your neighbors or friends? It can be a really fun way to let them know you appreciate them!

This gift guide was so much fun to put together. There are so many neat things out there and I know I rounded up some great budget-friendly ideas for you.

Without further ado, here are my Frugal Gift Ideas for Teachers, Neighbors and Friends!

frugal gift ideas for teachers, neighbors and friends
  1. Maldon Sea Salt – This flaked salt is soo good! Perfect for finishing desserts or savory recipes.
  2. Mini Silicone Spatulas – Sounds silly, but these are so great for getting the very last bit in containers!
  3. Peppermint bark – A long time favorite gift. SO delicious! Here’s a homemade version too.
  4. Initial necklace – So pretty and dainty!
  5. Suncatcher Crystals – Add beautiful rainbows to your recipients home with these suncatcher crystals! This comes as a four pack, so you could even separate them so you have multiple gifts.
  6. Small Wood Paddle Board – Perfect gift idea for the person who loves to create those fancy charcuterie platters.
  7. Winter Headband – Ok, how cute are these? Everyone needs something to keep their ears warm!
  8. Bubble bath – Don’t we all know at least one person that likes taking baths to relax?
  9. Brilliant Bites book – Perfect gift for someone who loves entertaining.
  10. Blessings Jar – Sometimes we all need a reminder to focus on the positive and this gift is such an easy, special way to help us do just that.
  11. Throw – I would be very happy if someone gave me a soft, cozy throw.
  12. Weekly Desk pad – So cute to set out on a desk!
  13. Leather Wristlet Clutch bag – Perfect for when your recipient just wants to take a phone, ID and a few small things with them!
  14. Scented Candle Set – I don’t think you could go wrong with a candle! Perfect frugal gift idea for a teacher, friend or neighbor! This is a set so you could even separate each candle to give away.
  15. Lindt Candy Cane White Chocolate Truffles – These are so good and something I gift my friends every year.
  16. Bread Basket – This bread basket is perfect for the entertainer.
  17. Shower Steamers – No bath needed for this!
  18. Angie’s White Chocolate and Peppermint Popcorn – Grab a two bags. One to gift and one for yourself. Thank me later.
  19. Faux leather tote – Forget about giving this to someone on my list, I think I may want one for myself!
  20. Purse organizer – Know someone who has a purse for every outfit? Make switching over a breeze for them with this organizer!
  21. Warm Fuzzy Socks – Yes, please and a good novel too. 🙂
  22. Beeswax Food Wraps – These replace the need for traditional plastic wraps and containers for food storage. A must have for every kitchen!
  23. No Pong Deodorant – So this might only be appropriate for a really good friend, but I love this stuff!
  24. Moon Lamp – I just think this moon lamp is pretty neat! It would look great tucked in a cozy corner.
  25. Homemade Vanilla – I have a recipe here that I think you’ll love!
  26. Hand Lotion Gift Set – With all the hand washing in the winter months, hand lotion would probably be appreciated!
  27. Magnolia Table Volume 3 Cookbook – Sure to be a hit with a foodie.
  28. TableTopics – Questions to start great conversations.
  29. Recipe Notebook – A perfect place to collect all the favorite recipes!
  30. Homemade Sore Muscle Soak – Thoughtful homemade gifts are always appreciated!
  31. Caramel Apple Butter – Absolutely delicious, consumable gifts are the best and this caramel apple butter is sure to be a hit!
  32. Funny Teacher Candle – This one is perfect for the teacher you know has a sense of humor.
  33. Candle Warmer Lamp – One of these would be a lovely gift for a friend!

There you have it! I hope you are inspired to pick up the best gifts this year with these frugal gift ideas for teachers, neighbors and friends!

Other Frugal Gift Ideas:

Frugal Gift Ideas for Tweens and Teens

frugal gift ideas for tweens and teens

The links below may be affiliate links, meaning I earn a small compensation at no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure policy here

Frugal Gift Ideas for Tweens and Teens

Shopping for a tween or teen can have its challenges. After all, they’re not usually into toys anymore, and toys are so easy to buy!

Gift cards are great, but they’re also pretty boring to give. Why not show your tween or teen how amazing you are at gift giving with the help of these frugal gift ideas! You are sure to find some thought provoking ideas that don’t all center around technology.

Take a look at these Frugal Gift Ideas for Tweens and Teens:

Gifts under $5

e.l.f. Lip Balm – This is a popular alternative to the Laneige brand that is quite a bit more.

Dehydrated Marshmallows for Hot Chocolate – What a delicious stocking stuffer!

Lip Smackers – A fun new lip balm is, well, fun!

Mud Masks – These types of masks are a huge hit with my 12 year old.

Eyeshadow – A new eyeshadow is always a good idea.

Gum – I really like PUR Gum because it uses xylitol to sweeten it. My dentist said that xylitol can help in preventing cavities! Lots of different flavors too.

Sketchbook – For the one who loves to doodle or wants to refine their skills.

Crystal Snowflake Necklace – Cute and you won’t believe the price!

eos Shaving Cream – Perfect stocking stuffer for a teen.

Bookmark – So cute, and perfect for the teen who loves to read.

Gifts under $10

Trendy No Bend Hair Clips – I think I might want some of these cute clips for myself!

Mad Libs – I think this would be a fun stocking stuffer for the tweens! Christmas edition to feel more festive.

Uno – When I was a teen, we had so much fun playing Uno as a big group of friends.

Scalp Massager – A great way to deep clean the scalp and keep hair healthy.

Heatless Hair Curler – Easy peasy curls!

Initial Beaded Necklace – Cute, colourful and personalized!

Hair Ties – This is a pack of 50. You can never have enough hair ties! Especially highly rated non-pull ones.

Waterproof Sticker Pack – Just the thing to liven up laptops, water bottles and more!

Do Not Disturb Gaming Socks – These funny socks are ideal for the gamer in your household.

Under Armour Sweat Band – Perfect for gym class or the athlete.

Bamboo Toothbrushes – Ideal practical gift for the teen that is more eco-conscious.

Hand Cream – Leave dry hands behind when cold weather hits.

Hand Warmers – Cold hands are the worst!

Gifts under $25

100 Movies Scratch Off Poster – This looks like such a fun thing to do with their friends!

Fidget Pen – A writing tool and fidget toy in one. It can be rotated and transformed into so many different shapes.

Breakout Buster – Help your teen get their breakouts under control with this highly rated product!

Burt’s Bees Detoxifying Clay Mask – The perfect accompaniment for your teens’ next movie with friends.

Flashlight Gloves – Perfect for the gadget lover, runner, cyclist or really anything when you need to be hands-free!

Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Wipes – These individually wrapped cleansing wipes are perfect for stashing in a backpack.

Small Compact Mirror with Light – For the teen that has to check if everything is still in place.

Codenames – Lots of laughs are sure to be had on their next game night with friends or family.

The Screaming Goat – The perfect gift for lots of silly laughter in your home.

Cropped Pullover – This looks cozy and not too cropped!

SOJOS Retro Oval Sunglasses – Your teen girl will be amazed that you could pick something so stylish!

2 Piece Makeup Bag Set – These bags with the fun chenille embroidery letters all all the rage right now.

Joggers – Some good ol’ joggers will work for any teen.

Octobuddy Silicone Suction Phone Case Adhesive Mount – Perfect for taking selfies or group photos anywhere.

Letter Board – See what kind of creative and witty things they can come up with,

Wet Brush – Every girl or guy with long hair needs a really good brush.

Personalized Notepad – Anything personalized to so fun to receive! Especially if the recipient has a more unusual name.

Fairy Lights – Most teens like to spend a lot of time in their rooms, so making it feel extra cozy with some fun lights would be appreciated. These Govee LED Strip Lights are another alternative.

Plush PJ Joggers – Cozy and festive!

Screen Cleaning Pad – This is a set of four that you could separate if you want.

Gold Hoop Earrings – These look shiny and expensive but aren’t!

Murder Mystery Puzzle Book – Now this is a unique gift idea for the person who loves to play detective!

Glitter pens – Perfect for the teen who loves to journal or doodle.

Journal – A beautiful journal to go along with new pens.

Bluetooth Toque – For the teen that wants to be warm and listen to music wirelessly!

Gifts under $50

Platform Mini Boots – If you don’t have a pair of knock-off Tasman Ugg’s, are you even on TikTok?

Puma Duffle Bag – A duffel bag is a must have for any road trip or athlete.

Ukulele – We gave our oldest daughter a Ukulele and it has been used so much! She’s always making up songs. A great gift that will grow with the recipient.

Life Skills 101 for Teens – They may roll their eyes at this book, but I think they’ll soon be learning some valuable lessons.

Drawstring Sports Bag – Perfect gift for the sports enthusiast.

Cute Smile Face Slippers – Cute, cozy slippers are a must for any teen girl.

Shape Shifting Box Fidget – Tweens and teens still like a good fidget toy!

Portable Charger – This might be your teens favourite gift!

Puffer Phone Case – What teen wouldn’t love this? It must be so fun to squish!

Markers – These would be perfect for the beginner illustrator or drawer.

Buddha Board – This is a unique gift idea! Perfect way to be creative but for mistakes to be okay because it has no permanence.

Quilted Puffer Bag – a Lululemon alternative for the win.

Simple Modern Tumbler – Like a Stanley, but at a lower price range. Simple Modern is a great brand!

Puffer Vest – Sometimes a jacket isn’t the answer for a teen, but a warm vest is. Here’s one for the guys, or the gals that like a roomier fit.

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag – The must-have belt bag.

Blanket Hoodie – What teen doesn’t like to be cozy? Perfect gift right here!

Bluetooth Speaker – Tweens and Teens love their music. This bluetooth speaker will keep the tunes rolling wherever they go.

Oversized Sweater – Oversized is in!

Oversized Cargo Sweatpants – Yep, oversize cargo pants are sure to be a hit.

Gifts over $50

Disney Villainous: Perfectly Wretched Strategy Board Game – With over 1,000 5 star reviews, I think this is a great game for Disney fans.

Half Zip Hoodie – A great alternative to the scuba hoodie from Lululemon.

Aerie Off-Duty Flannel Trouser PJ – Cozy, soft and in style. Check.

High Waist Mom Jeans – The teens want what the teens want.

Spikeball – Teens will love playing this with their friends where ever their adventures take them.

Laser Tag Set – Get those kids up and moving!

Nike Hoodie – It’s oversize, definitely cozy and has a bunch of cute colors! Here’s an Under Armour one for the teen boys.

Noise Cancelling Headphones – Let them hear their favorite tracks really well.

Mini Photo Printer – For the teen that wants to instantly print photos with their besties.

Insulated Booties – I see the girls at my daughters’ dance studio wearing booties similar to these. They must be warm and cozy.

There you have it! I sure hope you were able to find some good frugal gift ideas for the tweens and teens that you have on your list!

Other Frugal Gift Guides:

Frugal Gift Ideas for Families

gift ideas for families

(Note: The links in this post may be affiliate links. Read the disclosure policy here.)

Frugal Gift Ideas for Families

Every year, I like to purchase one gift that will be fun for the whole family. Usually it’s a board game of some sort. We like to try it out right away on Christmas day for some extra quality family time!

However, there are sooo many different things out there that would make fantastic gifts for families.  

This gift guide has fun, frugal gift ideas for families that any family would love. Happy gifting!

1.Whirley-Pop Stovetop Popcorn Popper – $42.99

Make some delicious theatre style popcorn in three minutes with the classic Whirley-Pop Stovetop Popcorn Popper. Create some fun memories on movie nights!

2. EcoEarth Microwave Popcorn Maker – $18.99

A highly rated more budget friendly alternative popcorn maker than the one above. Add some popcorn kernels and seasonings, and you’ve got a great family gift!

3. Mini Portable Projector – $129.99

This is neat! Take family movie night to another level with a portable projector! Be sure to clip the $40.00 off coupon. 

4. Inflatable Snow Tube – $53.99

This could be such a fun family gift idea! Have fun as a family ripping down the toboggan hill with this inflatable, lightweight tube. Currently on sale!

5. Monogram Mugs – $14.99

I love the idea of matching monogram mugs for each member of the family! You could even stick some hot chocolate or a gift card inside each mug. Here is a less expensive option from Indigo.ca.

6. Merry Moonlight Skaters 500 Piece Puzzle – $22.50

This is a beautiful puzzle! Since it’s 500 pieces, it may be the perfect thing for a family with younger children.

7. Our Christmas Story – $55.99

If you are a family who really appreciates traditions and preserving memories, this is a gorgeous keepsake book to help you. This will be a family treasure for years and generations to come.

8. Tabletop Fire Pit – $40

Have you heard of Solo smokeless firepits? Well, Those are great but not cheap! I have found a Tabletop Fire Pit with great ratings that is a fraction of the cost. Use this at home for cozy evenings, make some smores or bring it camping!

9. Snowman Kit – $19.99

Everything you need to build the perfect snowman! Fun for everyone.

10. Flip Waffle Maker – $59.99

Help your family start a weekend tradition or continue a favourite tradition. This rotating waffle maker is just fun and makes delicious waffles.

11. Christmas Tree Farm 1000 Piece Puzzle – $28.99

Another great puzzle, but this one has 1000 pieces so perfect for a family with older children or one that enjoys doing a puzzle during the entire duration of the holidays.

12. Kids Against Maturity Family Game – $29.99

Kids Against Maturity combines the tried and tested fill-in-the- blank game-play, a perfect enjoyable hilarious way to bring your family together. You will be sure to be laughing so much when you play this favourite!

13. Wordle the Party Game – $34.99

Inspired by the popular digital version, Wordle: The Party Game features the same gameplay fans love, but players compete in real life to solve the Wordle

14. Charcuterie Board – price varies by size

How about a beautiful handmade charcuterie board for fun, snacky, family dinners? This one is made in Canada!

15. Kubb Yard Game – $69.99

My parents discovered this game while they were camping this summer. My dad, loves wood working, so he promptly crafted this game in his shop. Fortunately, you can actually purchase this game too! We had so much fun playing it this year and enjoyed the friendly competition.

16. Matching Family Pajamas – various prices

How FUN is it to all have matching pajamas for the holidays? In this post, I have a huge assortment of matching family Christmas pajamas from Canadian retailers.

17. The Adventure Challenge Family Edition – $37.99

For the adventurous family that wants a different way to do/decide family activities! There are 50 Scratch-Off Adventures and Family Night Games for Kids & Adults inside this unique gift!

Other Frugal Gift Guides: