10 Affordable Gifts Under $50: Staff Picks That Are Worth Buying Again

Finding the perfect gift doesn't have to break the bank.

During the holiday season, gifts under $50 are perfect for family, friends, or a secret Santa exchange because they strike a balance between thoughtfulness and practicality.

CNBC Make It staff members have curated 10 unique, fun and practical gifts for everyone on your shopping list, which offer a small touch of luxury or provide everyday usefulness and come with glowing recommendations from those who've tried them.

1. Cordless Waterpik

Price: $37.97

In 2022, I received my first three cavities diagnosis. My hygienist, sensing my self-loathing, advised me to purchase a Waterpik.

Although I was initially skeptical about flossing, my people-pleasing tendencies made me try it, and it changed my life for the better.

I use mouthwash for 20 seconds every morning in the shower, and my hygienist has praised me for it.

— Megan Sauer, Success Reporter

2. 'The Comfy' wearable blanket

Price: Starting at $37.99

I highly recommend getting "The Comfy" wearable blanket for a cozy and toasty winter! I had been eyeing it on my Amazon wishlist for a while until a chilly weekend finally prompted me to make the purchase.

I'm thrilled that I purchased this soft pouch because it allows me to keep my arms and hands free while I read on my couch, and it can also hold my phone and TV remote.

—  Cheyenne DeVon, Money Reporter

3. Eucalyptus shower bundle

Price: $48.50

To experience a spa-like atmosphere without breaking the bank, I suggest purchasing a eucalyptus shower bundle. While it's generally a good recommendation, it's especially beneficial during stressful times.

Eucalyptus is typically bundled by florists either alone or with rose or lavender. After receiving the bundle, I hang it over my showerhead, keeping it away from the water stream. This results in a spa-like experience every time I take a shower.

This gift, priced between $48.50 and $55.50, offers a sensory experience without the expense of a spa visit.

— Judy Lagrou, Editorial Intern

4. Microfiber wash mitt

Price: $6.63 (on sale from $8.99)

In March, my girlfriend shared an Instagram video featuring a man demonstrating a $8 hack for drying a wet dog more efficiently.

I have a dog. We sometimes walk in the rain. I pressed play. I bought a microfiber car wash mitt for $8.

The alternative version of the sentence is: The towel is just as effective as a regular towel, and the process is much simpler. It doesn't wet out easily and dries quickly. Additionally, it comes in fun colors, and mine is lime green. I would definitely buy it again.

— Cameron Albert-Deitch, Success Editor

5. Baby Baggu tote bags

Price: $12

Recently, I purchased two of Baggu's baby size reusable totes and they have been game-changers. These foldable bags are lightweight, easy to store, and can hold a decent amount of weight.

These bags are ideal for carrying my lunch to work, and their compact size makes it effortless to add them to my purse or backpack. Additionally, they come in a variety of vibrant patterns and designs, which brightens up my day.

— Emmie Martin, Money Editor

6. Fit-over sunglasses

Price: $13.29

I lost my prescription sunglasses earlier this year, which was a blow to my sense of self and could have cost me several hundred dollars to replace.

In order to avoid the irritating reality, I searched online for creative alternatives and discovered a pair of sunglasses designed to be worn over glasses. I hoped they would look less doofy than the clip-ons worn by the principal in "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," so I ordered them.

The glasses are perfect, they fit well, are lightweight, and stay in place. They work fine even without contacts. If I were to get a second pair, I would choose opaque lenses so that my actual glasses are not visible. Although this may make me look a little silly, I hope it's not as ridiculous as the villain in an 80s comedy.

— Ester Bloom, Deputy Managing Editor

7. Packing cubes

Price: $21.59

Although I was swayed by TikTok to purchase Bagsmart's compressible packing cubes, after utilizing them for a weeklong excursion that involved numerous formal engagements, I must admit, they truly meet the expectations.

These suitcase cubes have an additional zipper that removes all air when closed, providing more space in your luggage. They simplified my packing process for a lengthy journey and allowed me to pack more efficiently in a carry-on.

— Emmie Martin, Money Editor

8. Label maker

Price: Starting at $29.99

Organizing brings me immense joy, and nothing makes a project look more polished than a printed label. I've been using my Brother P-Touch label maker for about 15 years and highly recommend it.

The tool is simple to use, prints quickly, and offers a high level of customization. I have utilized it to label various items, including my recipe binder tabs and knitting needles of different sizes. Additionally, I no longer have to decipher any handwritten labels that have become illegible over time.

— Emmie Martin, Money Editor

9. Airalo digital SIM card

Price: $11

During my previous international travels, I primarily utilized hotel and public Wi-Fi to stay connected on my phone, relying on offline Google Maps for navigation. However, for our recent two-week honeymoon trip to the Netherlands and Italy, I opted to enhance my travel connectivity experience.

I purchased a 3GB eSim from Airalo for $13, which allowed me to use it across Europe and navigate in real time, scroll Instagram while waiting in long museum lines, and translate when needed, anywhere we had cell service.

— Hanna Howard, Senior Work Editor

10. Portable phone charger

Price: $24.99

My portable phone charger is definitely worth the investment because it has rescued me from being stranded with a dead phone on multiple occasions.

I charge my portable phone charger at night to ensure it's fully charged for the next day and can provide a quick boost whenever I need it. It's roughly the size of my phone, so it may not fit in smaller bags, but it easily fits in most purses. I appreciate the clear battery level display and the automatic shut-off feature that prevents overcharging.

— Cheyenne DeVon, Money Reporter

CNBC Make It determines the content covered and recommended in the "Worth the Money" section without any third-party endorsement or review of opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations.

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