Men are so hard to shop for! Am I right? It can be tricky to come up with thoughtful and unique gift ideas for the dads, brothers and husbands on our lists. They either have everything already or don't want anything. (At least in my case!)
I think what I have curated in this gift guide for men, is a great variety of different ideas. I'm positive you will find something for that hard to shop for person. So sit down, cozy up with this gift guide and get the inspiration flowing with these frugal gift ideas for men!
A Dad Joke a Day - 365 Dad jokes? I know what I'm getting for my dad this year. đ
Notebooks - For the man that likes to always take notes.
Leather Belt - This one is a ratchet belt with fab reviews!
Hot Sauce Gift Set - for the hot sauce lover, four different flavours to try!
Wood BBQ Scraper â In case you havenât heard, wood BBQ scrapers are THE thing for BBQâs right now. They wonât leave metal bristles in your food!
Hammock - When we were camping this summer, we were pretty much the only ones without a hammock. So I'm thinking this would be a win for sure!
Baseball hat - These flexfit hats have great reviews!
Basic Hoodie - A basic hoodie is a staple for most men's wardrobes. You can't beat the price for these ones!
Cable Organizer Case â Pack away all the chargers, cables, and devices in one convenient place. Perfect for travel.
Toiletry Bag - A nice toiletry bag is something every man needs.
Winter Toque - A new toque might just be the thing he loves most!
Lifestraw Portable Water Filter - The outdoorsy type will love getting this so they can have safe drinking water where ever their adventures lead them!
Viking Revolution Ultimate Beard Kit - Give him something to take care of that beard! I think this would be something a young adult would enjoy if he has a beard.
Nordik Vegan Leather Valet Tray - Does he like to have a place for everything? This is a great masculine looking catch-all tray.
Manmade Boxer Brief - Featured on Dragons' Den, these highly rated boxer briefs might just be the favorite gift.
Convertible Travel Garment Bag - If he travels a lot, for work, he may really enjoy having this bag! Helps keep clothes wrinkle free and holds all the essentials for a business trip.
Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer - This smart meat thermometer guarantees a perfect steak every time! Perfect for the foodie that loves tech too!
SAXX Underwear - Apparently these are the best! (They do go on sale occasionally.)
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven - This one is definitely on the pricier end, but could be the gift that keeps on giving if he loves to experiment with pizza making!
There you have it! I sure hope you were able to get some good frugal gift ideas for the men on your list!
Since the focus here at Simply Frugal is, of course, frugality, I'm going to break down the gift guides into various price points. Sound good?
All right. Let's get started with Frugal Gift Ideas for women! I happen to think shopping for women can be one of the easiest shopping tasks every year. However, sometimes it's really nice to have some unique and different ideas to think about!
So go ahead and take a look or pass this on to your significant other for some hints. I'm sure you will find thoughtful but frugal gift ideas for women at every price point.
Simple Modern Insulated Travel Mug â We love Simple Modern in this house! These travel mugs have great ratings, look great and keeps beverages hot or cold!
Thermal Laminator - Perfect for the person who loves to use printables or wants to make frequently used papers more durable.
Heated Blanket - The ultimate cozy gift that she will love all winter long!
Gifts over $50
Kindle - I think I've owned my Kindle for at least 10 years now. It's still going strong and I still love it! Highly recommend! They do go on sale too.
Giving gift baskets is such a fun way to add variety and a personal touch to your gift giving. Whether it be for Christmas, birthdays or even teacher gifts!
If you love couponing, chances are you already have plenty of items tucked away that you picked up for free or at a great price, making gift baskets even more budget-friendly. But even if you donât coupon, creating themed gift baskets is an easy and affordable way to give thoughtful gifts without overspending. The best part? You can customize them to perfectly match the person receiving them, making the gift feel extra special. If youâre looking for creative ideas that wonât break the bank, here are 7 inexpensive gift basket ideas to inspire you!
(Note: The links in this post may be affiliate links. Read the disclosure policy here.)
Movie Night Gift Basket
Give the gift of a movie night! This basket simply requires microwave popcorn, some dollar store candy, a $5 movie from the cheap bin at Walmart and some cozy socks. If you're making this one for a teen or pre-teen, you could add a gift card for a movie ticket to the local theater.
Manicure Gift Basket
Some simple nail polish, a patterned file (can often be bought at Bath & Body Works or the dollar store for cheap!), a small bottle of hand lotion and some nice nail decals. This one is perfect for teens and tweens. You can also throw in a gift card to a beauty supply shop if desired.
Bakerâs Delight Gift Basket
Do you know someone who loves to bake? Buy them some fun cupcake liners, cake mix, a new oven mitt and a spatulaand you have a great gift. You could even skip the basket and just place everything in the mitt and tie off with a ribbon.
Hot Cocoa Gift Basket
Hot cocoa can be made with just a few simple ingredients and packaged nicely in a mason jar. Add in a bag of marshmallows and some dollar store mugs for a finishing touch. This basket costs less than $10 to make.
Sporty Gift Basket
If you have a sports fan on your gift list, try this one! Place some snacks like sunflower seeds, jerky or popcorn in a basket. Add a small trinket of their favorite sport team such as a key chain, bottle opener or lanyard and finish it off with a set of tickets to watch a minor league team in your area.
Pasta Heaven Gift Basket
Got a pasta lover in your life? Place some fancy pasta (this can often be bought at a discount at outlet stores or a store like Winners), pasta sauce (homemade or bought), shelf stable Parmesan cheese, and a pasta server into the basket for a great fast dinner.
Bookworm Gift Basket
Everyone knows someone who loves to read. This gift basket will delight them! Get a $5 Amazon Gift card or a gift card to their favorite local bookstore (to buy a book or an e-book), a cheap fleece throw blanket, a coffee mug, some tea and a low cost clip-on reading light.
I hope these inexpensive gift basket ideas gave you plenty of inspiration for creating thoughtful and budget-friendly gifts! Do you have any fun themed gift basket ideas of your own? Share them in the comments, Iâd love to hear them!
Heading to a holiday dinner, festive get-together or a friendâs home? A little hostess gift is a thoughtful way to say, âThanks for having me!â
But you donât need to spend a lot or arrive with an elaborate gift basket. Something useful, delicious or chosen with your host in mind can be just as lovely.
These inexpensive hostess gift ideas are easy to put together and include everything from cozy little treats to practical kitchen favourites. Add a ribbon and a handwritten note, and youâre ready to go!
(Note: The links in this post may be affiliate links. Read the disclosure policy here.)
1. A potted plant.
A small potted plant makes a lovely gift without needing much wrapping. Dress up the pot with kraft paper or tuck it into an inexpensive decorative planter.
Choose something thatâs easy to care for, or go with a small artificial plant if your host prefers greenery that requires absolutely no attention. No judgment here!
2. Some scented hand soap.
Hand soap is one of those everyday essentials that can feel like a treat when itâs a little nicer than the usual bottle.
Choose a scent you know your host enjoys, like this Mrs. Meyerâs peppermint hand soap, or opt for a fragrance-free version. Tie a ribbon around the bottle and youâve got a useful little gift.
3. Scented candles.
For someone who enjoys candles, a softly scented candle makes a cozy gift they can enjoy after the guests have gone home.
You can also buy a set of candles and divide it into several gifts. Just compare the cost per candle to make sure the set is actually a good deal!
4. Decorative towels.
A useful gift can still be pretty! Choose a kitchen towel or a hand towel in a neutral colour, a cheerful pattern or a festive design that suits your host.
Fold it neatly and tie it with ribbon. You could also tuck in a wooden spoon or choose a dishcloth set with a mango wood board if it fits your budget.
5. A book they'll enjoy.
If your host loves to read, a thoughtfully chosen book makes a lovely thank you gift. Think a novel in their favourite genre, a cookbook or a book about a hobby they enjoy.
Look for discounted options at places like Book Outlet, and include a little note explaining why you picked it for them.
6. Tea or coffee.
A bag of their favourite coffee or a box of tea is a simple gift they can enjoy long after the gathering.
You donât need to add a mug unless you know theyâd appreciate one. The tea or coffee is a perfectly lovely gift on its own!
7. Cozy socks.
After cooking, cleaning and hosting, slipping into a pair of cozy socks sounds pretty good to me!
Choose a soft pair of socks in a colour or pattern your host would enjoy. Add a tag that says, âFor putting your feet up after everyone goes home.â
8. A Small Coffee Shop gift card.
A small gift card to their favourite coffee shop is an easy way to treat your host to a little break.
Tuck it inside a handwritten card with a note like, âYour next coffee is on me. Thanks for having us!â Thereâs no need to spend extra on a holder or mug.
9. A notebook and pen
This is a gift I would be very happy to receive! A nice notebook and a pen are useful for grocery lists, reminders and all those thoughts that pop up at inconvenient times.
Choose one notebook and a pen, or divide a notebook set and a pack of pens into several small gifts. Tie them together for an easy finishing touch.
10. Hand lotion
A small tube of hand cream makes a thoughtful little gift, especially during the colder months.
A hand cream gift set can be divided among several recipients if the tubes are individually sealed. Choose fragrance-free if youâre unsure what scents your host likes.
11. Cute Apron
If your host enjoys cooking or baking, a new apron could be a fun and useful gift.
Look for a washable style with pockets and a pattern that suits them. A set of aprons may also be an affordable way to put together gifts for a few people.
12. Chocolate
A little box of chocolates or a favourite chocolate bar can make a lovely hostess gift. It doesnât have to be fancy. Choosing something you know they love makes it personal.
Keep any allergies or dietary preferences in mind, and add a note saying itâs a treat for them to enjoy later.
13. A Jar of Jam, Honey or Maple Syrup
A small jar of jam, honey or maple syrup is a delicious gift that doesnât add more clutter to the house.
Choose a flavour your host would enjoy and tie a ribbon around the jar. A tag that says, âA little something for tomorrowâs breakfastâ makes it feel extra thoughtful.
14. A Treat for the Next Morning
If your host has spent the evening feeding everyone else, bring something they can enjoy the next day.
A few muffins, cinnamon buns or a small loaf of banana bread make a thoughtful gift. Package them so theyâre easy to set aside, and let your host know thereâs no need to serve them that evening.
15. A Favourite Spice Blend
For someone who enjoys cooking, a seasoning blend can be a useful little gift. Think cinnamon sugar for a baker, a barbecue rub for a grilling enthusiast or a seasoning you know they already love.
Include a quick suggestion for how to use it, especially if itâs one of your own favourites.
16. Homemade Cookies
A small batch of homemade cookies is a budget-friendly way to say thank you.
Package them in a simple bag or box with a ribbon, and include an ingredient list if needed. These are a gift for your host, so make it clear they can save them for later rather than adding them to the party menu.
Keep It Thoughtful, and Within Your Budget
The best hostess gift doesnât have to be the fanciest one. A favourite treat, a useful little item or something chosen just for them is a lovely way to show your appreciation.
Keep the wrapping simple, add a personal note and spend an amount that feels comfortable for you. Being invited over shouldnât mean stretching your budget!
Whatâs your favourite inexpensive hostess gift to give or receive? Let me know in the comments!
With Halloween quickly approaching, you might be wondering how to save some money on this yearâs costumes.
Saving money on Halloween costumes can be easy, you just need to know a few simple tricks! Take a look at these 7 ways to save money on Halloween costumes and get the fun looks you love for less.
1. Visit a local thrift store.
Thrift stores are perfect for finding cheap dress up items when crafting your own costumes. Find scarves, hats, gloves, fabric, dress up jewelry and other items perfect for creating the look you want. And since it is a thrift store, you never know what you might find. Be sure to stop in especially on 50% off days, and stop in often as inventory is always changing.
2. Comb your own closets.
Take a look in your own closet for items you might be able to use. This includes many of the items listed above such as hats, scarves, dresses, old wedding and prom items, make up, and other accessories. You might be surprised at what you already have on hand that is usable. If you are looking for an accessory that you donât have, ask family and friends to look in their closets before you go out and buy new. They just might have what you are looking for!
3. Swap with friends.
Ask your friends what costumes from years past they might have on hand. This is a great way to get a new to you costume for your child. You can even swap old costumes your children donât wear anymore with friends for their old costumes. That way, you can get rid of items while getting some new to you items.
4. Shop Late
Halloween stores need to sell all of their merchandise before Halloween. Once Halloween is over these shops close their doors for the year. Try shopping one or two days before Halloween and you will probably see lots of costumes that have been discounted by 50% or more! This could mean some huge savings but the downside is the inventory is usually limited.
5. Shop Amazon
Amazonhas a great costume shop during Halloween. I highly suggest checking out their selection of costumes as they usually have really good prices on Halloween costumes.
6. Visit your local dollar store.
Your local dollar store will have all sorts of accessories that can lend a hand to homemade costumes. Look for princess crowns, magic wands, police badges, face paint, costume reflectors, glow sticks, candy bags, and other items perfect for making your costume a hit! For just a buck, the price on these accessories is right!
7. Make Your Own
Making your own Halloween costume is possible and can be done without touching a sewing machine. Look around your house and see what you already own and what you can turn into a costume. Have an old cheerleading outfit, football uniform, golf clubs or just a scary mask sitting around. Get creative and let your imagination run wild. Get your children used to making their own costumes and not dressing up in the same costume everyone else is wearing. You can also spend some time searching Pinterest for creative and fun costumes to make at home.
There you go! 7 ways to save money on Halloween costumes! See how easy it can be to create the perfect Halloween costume for less? With a little creativity, you're sure to come up with the perfect costumes for everyone.
What are your most favourite affordable Halloween costumes?
(Note: The links in this post may be affiliate links. Read the disclosure policy here.)
It's time to start thinking about Easter baskets and all the goodies you can fill them up with. Nothing is quite as exciting as watching children open their Easter baskets, but, what if you are on a limited budget this year? The good news is you can still fill those Easter baskets with tons of fun without going overboard on your budget.
Look at these 30 fun and frugal Easter basket ideas so you can fill those Easter baskets without breaking the bank! You will find lots of ideas perfect for making your Easter baskets sweet and special.
The ideas here are all things that I will or would love to gift my kids. Over the years as a mom, I have become increasingly annoyed by all the itty bitty "disposable" toys. So with that in mind, I have rounded up what I believe, to be thoughtful "long term" ideas. I hope you enjoy and find perfect frugal Easter basket ideas!
1. Lip balm or lip gloss.
Lip balm is perfect for both boys and girls. Little ones will love their own lip gloss.
2. Sunglasses or sun hats
Now that spring is here, hats or sunglasses will no doubt get some use.
3. Candy, chocolate, gum
You canât have an Easter basket without some candy and treats, right? I was recently told by my dentist that gum with xylitol is great for fighting cavities.
4. Fruit snacks, nuts, dried fruit
For a healthier option, try fruit snacks, nuts, or even dried fruit for a snack.
5. Playing cards or trading cards
Kids love trading cards and playing cards! This Monopoly Deal card game has been a hot seller!
6. Toothbrush, kidâs toothpaste
A new battery operated toothbrush is more fun than a regular toothbrush. You can always feel good with gifting that! Pair it with kid friendly toothpaste.
7. Water Wow!
These Melissa & Doug Water Wow books are so much fun for younger kids. Great for road trips and a good quiet activity.
8. Hair ties, headbands, hair accessories
Girls will love having a fresh selection of hair accessories. Choose from a wide variety at your local dollar store.
9. Kidâs gardening supplies like seeds, small pots and gloves
With springâs arrival this will allow kids to get out and get active in the yard and garden. This seed variety pack looks great!
10. Paint with Diamonds
I am all for a creative activity that will keep kids involved for a long time! These Paint by Diamond kits are sure to be a hit! I also really like these Diamond Painting stickers. They're a smaller project to complete.
11. Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putty
These Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putties are a little pricey, but oh so mesmerizing. Your local toy store might be a good place to look for these as well!
12. Kid themed drinking cups
Find kid themed plates, cups, and dishes. Kids enjoy having their own dishes to snack on! These construction themed utensils are so cool!
13. Push Bubble fidget Toy
So fidget toys are a hit with any kid. This one in particular, I think, would be great for counting activities for younger kids.
14. Nail polish, nail files, nail art
This idea is perfect for the little fashionista. These nail stickers are cute!
15. Umbrella
My kids love having their very own fun umbrella for rainy spring days.
16. Pens
I find gel pens, or any type of pen is a hit with my kids! Especially fun coloured ones.
17. Kid Fanny Pack
Fanny packs of our youth are coming back in style! Pick up a kid friendly one for all your spring adventures!
18. Puzzles
Puzzles are perfect for keeping kids busy on a rainy spring day. This LEGO Minifigures puzzle looks fun!
19. Childrenâs books
Find some fun childrenâs books perfect for cuddling up with each night. This is a cute one!
20. Coloring books and activity books
Keep kids busy with an assortment of coloring and activity books and crayons. These Paint by Sticker booksare so much fun.
21. Crayons, markers, colored pencils
Let the little artist out of your child with an assortment of crayons and other coloring supplies. Or a different alternative is these Invisible ink pens!
22. Stickers, sticker pads, sticker books
Kids never get tired of stickers. Give them a fun spring selection to get creative with.
A fun classic game of Pick Up Sticksis always a good idea and will last a long time!
25. Playdough, cookie cutters, dough roller
Encourage fine motor skills with an assortment of dough and accessories.
26. Craft kits, mini painting kits, craft supplies
For the budding artist, craft supplies are always fun. I always find little craft kits at the dollar store.
27. Writing Tablet
LCD writing tablets have been a favorite in our house for several years now! Ours actually live in the car and get pulled out and played with every time we go somewhere!
28. Sidewalk chalk
Sidewalk chalk is perfect for staying busy on a spring day!
29. Beach toys, beach buckets, sand castle tools
Summer is just around the corner and kids will no doubt love having beach toys on hand.
A new water bottle will be going in my kids baskets this year. They are in dire need of new ones!
32. Squishmallows
I'm not sure I've ever met a kid that does not love a Squishmallow. They are just so...squishy and soft! I'd link to Amazon, but I find they are cheaper at other stores. I'm sure any stuffed animal would be a hit!
33. Pajamas
Pajamas are always a good idea! I find with the season changes and the growth spurts, my kids are always in need of new pajamas to wear.
34. Swim Suit
Same reason as above, I find that spring is a good time for a bigger swim suit.
As you can see, these Easter Basket options are fun and affordable. Head to your local dollar store or Amazonto see these treats and so many more. These are all frugal Easter basket ideas perfect for filling up your baskets this year!
