’Tis the season for giving! Look no further for your loved ones who are hard to shop for or if you’re looking for unique gifts to give. As college students, finding affordable gifts can be difficult, but we have compiled a list of unique gifts for $30 and under for you to check out. Happy shopping!
For the Creative
- A colorful paint-by-number kit
- A beginner crochet kit (hook included!)
- A cut-out book for avid collagers
For the Book Lover
- A personalized book embosser for someone with an extensive home library
- Colorful index tabs for book annotations
- A portable reading light for late nights or travel days
For the Outdoorsy
- A guide to the flora and fauna of North America
- An “Off the Grid” travel journal to make the most out of an adventure
- A waist pack for hiking or outdoor experiences
For the Collector
- A cute Smiski figurine blind box
- A fun matching keychain, or a meaningful custom one
- A cuddly Jellycat plush
For the Foodie
- A variety pack of flavorful hot sauces
- An apron for the chef or baker in your life
- Fun condiment or recipe books for people who are adventurous in the kitchen
- Silly and practical pot grips shaped like pasta
For the Fashionista
- Cozy cashmere socks
- Patterned reusable bags for fashionable grocery shopping
- A set of cute claw clips
For the Wellness Lover
- A silk sleep mask for skin hydration and a cozy sleep experience
- A soothing WoodWick candle
- A practical, personalized compact mirror
- Magnetic putty for satisfying stress relief
- Sheet mask sets for a self-care night
For the Gamer
- A 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle
- A unique deck of cards
- A fun board or card game
- Colorful finger chopsticks for snacking while gaming
For the Music Aficionado
- Unique upcycled record coasters
- A mini collection of vintage records
- Earplugs to protect a frequent concertgoer’s ears
For the Cinephile
- A puzzle that captures a famous movie moment
- A pro Letterboxd subscription for your favorite movie reviewer
- This scratch-off poster of 100 essential movies to watch
For the Sports Enthusiast
- A candle reminiscent of a day at the ballpark
- Cool vintage sports cards
- Sports mugs that can turn a meal into a game
Written By Chloe Langerman ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.