Cheap Christmas Gifts for an Economic Recession

Don't Let the Economic Grinch Steal Christmas!

Noelle Graf
So...the economy is down the tubes and experts predict it's going to get even worse before it gets better. We all need to be a little more budget conscious, but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy the holidays. Giving cheap Christmas gifts doesn't have to mean coal in everyone's stockings. You can keep the economic Grinch from stealing your Christmas with these cheap Christmas gift ideas:

Some of my favorite cheap Christmas gifts are practical but hilarious tin banks ($10) available at Femail Creations. Whether you're "Savin' Up For Some Therapy" or "Savin' Up To Quit My Job", these retro-inspired banks will bring a chuckle-and a little spare change-your way.

Restoration Hardware has some fun and unique gifts that won't break the bank. A repro of the original Duncan Yo-Yo ($10) is sure to bring back memories of simpler times. A set of 1950s-style Pocket Handwarmers ($15) and a pair of Luxury Plush Foot Warmers ($20) can keep loved ones warm on cold winter nights--without driving up the heating bill.

Know someone who's dodging the bill collectors? Pick up the Spy's Instant Disguise set of seven stick-on mustaches ($5) and "The 50 Best Excuses and Lies" ($10), also from Restoration Hardware--just for fun, of course!

You probably know someone who needs a little escape from reality but doesn't have the millionaire's budget it seems to take to go out for dinner and a movie-and pay for a babysitter. Two movie tickets and some store-bought candy will set you back about $20, but throw in an offer to babysit and your cheap Christmas gift becomes priceless for the parents who never thought they'd leave the house alone again!

For homebodies, "Great Lines from Great Movies" ($10) makes a great cheap Christmas gift. Add a gift card so they can rent classic films at Blockbuster or download them from Netflix, pop some popcorn, and dim the lights (who can afford to pay the electric bill anyway?!). Not exactly original, but still a fun cheap Christmas gift.

Little luxuries often fall by the wayside when someone is being budget conscious. A $10-$20 gift card to a favorite bookstore or a magazine subscription makes a great cheap Christmas gift. If you know someone who is really struggling, a grocery store gift card or grocery gift basket can make all the difference. Tuck in some coupons so your gift goes even further.

During these trying economic times we can all use a little luck. According to Feng Shui masters, bamboo is a symbol of happiness, health, and wealth. Your down-on-their-luck friend may appreciate Red Envelope's Lucky Bamboo ($39). Who knows--maybe good fortune will follow. After all, it never hurts to hope!

  • Know someone dodging the bill collectors? Get the Spy's Instant Disguise set of stick-on mustaches!
  • Little luxuries often fall by the wayside when someone is being budget conscious.
  • A grocery store gift card can make a big difference for someone who is struggling financially.
Throw in an offer to babysit and your cheap Christmas gift becomes priceless for the parents who never thought they'd leave the house alone again!

1 Comments

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  • Heather K. Adams12/20/2008

    More terrific ideas. I like the homebody movie night gift idea. Wrap up a package of microwave popcorn with the gift card and book and your gift receiver is all set!

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