While gift-giving tends to be the norm around the holidays, you may be looking to do things differently this year. Many holiday shoppers seek alternative Christmas gifts for some or all of the following reasons:?

• Budget: An estimated 70% of Americans go over their budget when shopping during the holiday season. Giving creative Christmas gifts can help prevent overspending.?

• Environment: Gifting, especially with wrapping and packaging, can create significant waste. On top of that, recipients might get something they don’t even want. Opting for an alternative Christmas gift could mean less or no waste.??????

• Stress: Finding gifts for everyone on your list can be a stressful experience. Opting for something simpler can help reduce the stress around shopping so you can enjoy your holiday season.

Whether you fit into one of the buckets above or just want to think differently about giving this year, we’ve got a full list of alternative Christmas gifts for everyone on your list.?

You don’t have to break the bank to show people you care. The pressure to spend during the season can sometimes lead to fraud or other scams. Instead of looking for a deal that’s too good to be true, try one of these affordable and creative Christmas gifts.?

If making sweet treats is your love language, consider putting together a cookie plate or some other edible gift for friends. Consumables make a great alternative Christmas gift, and when you break down the cost, it’s more affordable than buying a gift basket.?

Make a few varieties of holiday cookies, wrap them, and give them on a thrifted holiday plate to tie things together.???

If you enjoy sifting through your local donation store, thrifting gifts could be a great, affordable option.?

Before you visit the thrift store, put together a “wish list” of items on your shopping list so as not to get overwhelmed. From there, browse the shop, pulling items you think could work.?

Some high-value and thoughtful items you could search for include:?

• Housewares, like quirky plates, mugs, or unique glassware

• Media, including records or books based on the recipient’s taste?

• Framed artwork or a thrifted frame with a picture of the two of you
  

If you have a green thumb, consider sharing the gift. Plants cost a pretty penny at the store, but with enough time, you can create plant cuttings from your supply, propagate, and gift them.?

Bonus points for gifting these cuttings in fun, creative containers. Consider using thrifted tea cups, emptied canisters, or unused pots to complete the project.?

If you want to go the traditional gift-giving route but are on a budget, consider planning ahead and finding the best holiday sales to save cash.

What should you get the person who has everything? Or who is just tough to shop for??

Experiences can be a great alternative Christmas gift. They can allow the recipient to try something new, and that means less shopping for you. Whether it’s a gift card to their favorite store or a spa day, step out of the (gift) box with one of these experience-based gifts.

Is your friend a big fan of a reality TV star or other celebrity? Getting a personalized video from a platform like Cameo could be the perfect gift.?

On Cameo, you can pay a celebrity or impersonator to record a customized message. It’s a fun gift many people wouldn’t buy for themselves but would love to receive.?

If you know a friend is a superfan of a certain celebrity, a personalized message from them could be a great way to spread cheer.

Does your friend or family member need a night away from the kids? Consider creating a date night experience as a gift.?

This could include booking their preferred sitter or giving them a gift card for a service like Urbansitter.com.?

From there, you could pick up a gift card to their favorite restaurant or go the extra mile by booking them a cooking class or other date night experience.?

Does your recipient love live music or theater? Buy them tickets to a show they might like. While it’s not a physical gift, they’ll think of you at the event and whenever they remember the performance.??

Tired of buying the same gifts every year? If you’re seeking an alternative Christmas gift, try the following.?

Sometimes, helping someone else is the best way to show you care. Instead of buying a traditional gift, select a charity that appeals to the recipient. Donate in their name, write a thoughtful note to the recipient, and mention the monetary gift. Some charities will send a card thanking the recipient directly.?

During the busy holiday season, taking time to spend with the people you love can be a meaningful gift in and of itself.?

Consider putting together a sit-down holiday dinner or potluck with friends to celebrate the end of the year. Setting aside that time and hosting friends can go much further than a gift card or bottle of wine.??

Gift-giving isn’t just for the holidays. If you want someone to think of you year-round, try a subscription gift.?

Nowadays, there are subscription services for everything, from coffee and candy to puzzles and potted plants. Find the right fit for your recipient, and set them up with a gift that keeps giving!

Holiday gift-giving doesn’t need to be traditional. Find the right alternative and creative gifts for everyone on your list.?

Are you looking for more insights on spending this season? Check out Trustpilot’s holiday spending hub for more tips and tricks to make the best of the holiday without breaking the bank.?

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