While celebrating the holidays among friends or in an office setting, you’ve likely partaken in a White Elephant, also known as a Yankee gift swap or Dirty Santa. It’s an innovative gift exchange game in which, after determining a price limit, participants will bring anonymously wrapped gifts and draw numbers to determine the unwrapping order. The first person will open a gift, and the next people can either “steal” gifts from previous players or they can open something new. The first player can also steal their gift back or pick a new one.
So, if you’re preparing to partake in a White Elephant of your own and are still in the process of shopping for a present, we’ve created a gift guide with popular options under $50. From a camping hammock to luxuriously festive candles, there’s truly something for everyone.
Top White Elephant Gifts to Bring to This Year’s Exchange
Kodak’s EKTAR H35 Half Frame Film Camera, $50: The Kodak Ektar H35 is a cute and easy-to-use camera. And with 36 exposures, it can also yield around 72 half-frame photos… yes please.
Paddywax Pink Peppermint Candle, $30: There’s nothing more luxurious than a Paddywax candle. And that peppermint scent is both refreshing and festive for the most joyful time of the year.
CLIO Kill Lash Superproof Mascara Holiday Gift Set, $32: Shoppers are obsessed with this lash set because it’s both volumizing and long-lasting. And since it’s both waterproof and smudge-free, you can rest assured it’ll stand up to any sappy Christmas movie marathons this holiday season.
Stanley Stay-Hot Camp Mug, $30: As part of the brand’s holiday collection, Stanley’s Stay-Hot Camp Mug brings shimmering joy. It’s insulated to keep your hot drinks hot and your cold drinks cold. And it’s the perfect durable addition to any outdoor adventures you have in the works this holiday season.
goodr Nine Dollar Pour Over Polarized Round Sunglasses, $25: Stylish yet insanely durable, goodr’s Nine Dollar Pour Over Polarized Round Sunglasses are a must-have. Shoppers love how good they look while staying on your face no matter what. TBH, if I snagged these in a White Elephant, nobody would be stealing them from me!
Jellycat Amuseables Pretzel Stuffed Toy, $31: There’s a reason why Jellycat plushies are popular among adults and kids alike. They’re super soft, and they come in a wide range of cute designs. And this pretzel might be my fave.
Retro Glass Candle Holder, $32: We love a candle holder that makes a statement and gets the job done! This one comes in six color options, and it’s both vintage yet chic.
The Ordinary Serum Favorites Set, $25: The Ordinary’s serum set comes with eye and face serums that’ll keep your skin hydrated and bright through the winter season. Everything is made with top-notch ingredients, and it’s all fragrance-free.
YETI Rambler 6-Ounce Stackable Mug Set, $35: Whether you’re filling them with hot cocoa or something a little more fun, this two-pack of Yeti coffee mugs is perfect for your next camping trip. And they come in so many fun colors.
EverFoams Womens Fuzzy Open-Toe Slippers, $30: Give the gift of soft luxury with EverFoams’ Fuzzy Open-Toe Slippers. They’re chic and super soft, making for the perfect indoor shoe.
LEGO Botanicals Tiny Plants, $40: There’s a reason why Lego’s Botanicals Tiny Plants have gone viral. Not only are they adorable, but they make for a super fun DIY project for the whole family.
Burt’s Bees Classics Set, $23: With cuticle cream, hand salve, lip balm, Res-Q ointment, hand repair and foot cream, this is your one-stop shop for soft skin. Get ready to feel soothed and refreshed in a matter of minutes.
SeaRoomy Burritos Tortilla Blanket, $14: There’s nothing cozier than wrapping yourself like a burrito. Order some guacamole and you have the ultimate night in.
Gorilla Grip Durable Portable Camping Hammock, $19: This easy-to-install hammock can hold up to 400 pounds with heavy-duty straps. It’s ultra comfortable, so set aside some time on your next adventure for an epic forest nap.
Pickleball Paddles Set of 2, $28: Pickleball is a universally-loved, easily accessible sport that facilitates movement and socialization! And since this pack comes with two paddles and four balls, you’ll always have gear for doubles!
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle, $30: With 24 ounces of water, you’ll never feel dehydrated! Owala’s FreeSip keeps your water cold, too, so say goodbye to tepid sips.
