All the cute and funny picks on our list are less than $30!
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A true holiday party isn't complete without a white elephant gift exchange (you might also know it as dirty Santa). This is particularly true when you're shopping for your co-workers or boss, a bunch of friends or your extended family. The best part about swapping presents this way during the holidays — whether you go the funny or useful route — is that it's a more affordable option: Everyone in the group gets a little something, but there's usually a spending limit.
That's why, when we were coming up with the best white elephant gifts for 2023, we made sure every present was under $30. Most gifts actually cost less than $20, because again, the idea is to make sure no one blows their budget. We also made sure that almost everything on this list was pretty gender-neutral, so anyone who gets your item can enjoy it. And trust us, they will enjoy it. That's because we included ideas that people will actually want, even if they fall under the gag gift category. We picture a lot of swapping going on with the gift you bring (but in a good way).
So get ready to shop! And if you need more advice on how to pull off a white elephant gift exchange, scroll all the way down where we dive deeper into the rules.
This idea is actually totally HR-approved because it's just a blank journal inside, but talk about a great conversation piece for a desk.
Keep them warm and make them laugh with this flannel blanket. It also comes in a tortilla design and comes in a 60, 71 and 80 inch sizes.
It's hard to go wrong with a silly gift at the right price. A fun time for children and adults, this slingshot toy will have them rolling on the floor laughing.
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Make them really work for their gift with this puzzle. Stick a bottle of cheap wine inside, and see if they can figure out how to get to it.
Reflexology is expensive. You know what's not? This top-rated massager that has over 24,000 5-star reviews on Amazon. Anyone who gets this will definitely not be swapping.
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Good Housekeeping readers absolutely love this clever tech gadget. It will make any picture or video on their phone bigger. The brand says it will work with any smartphone.
These little dinos will help keep their cables from getting stomped on or smashed. Plus, they are so cute to look at.
Even if they aren't thrilled by this gift instantly, they will be so happy they got it. With up to four hours of warmth to give, it's the perfect winter present.
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Most of the ideas on here are for adults, but this one will also work great for kids and teens. It comes in a bunch of fun colors, and will also act as an activity for your party.
A hard day at work might make them want to punch things. This gift will relieve their stress instantly to get them past a bad case of the Mondays.
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Dare we say it's the ultimate gag gift? Poop makes everyone laugh, so they'll love completing this puzzle, which reviewers say takes about 10 hours.
Whoever gets this gift will instantly become the center of because everyone will want to take a photo with them. Available in different colors and sizes, it's certain to get the biggest laugh.
If you're really stumped on what to get, you can't go wrong with this bestselling pen that's also a ruler, level, screwdriver and more.
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Car accessories are always a gift idea, and this one tops the list for the most useful kinds. The putty can easily get into every nook and cranny of the vehicle to clean out crumbs and dirt. Plus, it leaves a nice smell.
Anyone will appreciate the magnification of this mirror. It'll help them shave, put on makeup or just examine their pores if they want.
There's no reason adults can't still play with building blocks, and this coffee mug is sure to give them hours of enjoyment. The best part? Children can also enjoy this gift.
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They can keep their shoes on and clean the house with these silly mop slippers. They easily attach to any footwear and can be somewhat effective for cleaning the floor. You'll get five pairs, so get ready to gift!
These bacon strips bandages are funny and practical. "I purchased this as a gag gift for a party I had. When the winner unwrapped it, everyone got a big laugh," one Amazon reviewer gushed.
Cailey Lindberg
Commerce Editor, Gifts & Lifestyle
Cailey Lindberg (she/her) is a writer and editor with over a decade of experience covering products, lifestyle, entertainment and food. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, she was a staff writer at USA Today's shopping network, Reviewed.com.
Alyssa Gautieri
Associate Lifestyle Editor
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.