Five Favorite Things: Affordable Gift Ideas Under $10

A few weeks ago I hosted a small Favorite Things party. It was a last-minute gathering of five friends, but it turned out to be one of the most enjoyable evenings—short, sweet, and full of discoveries. If you’re not familiar with the concept, a Favorite Things party is a relaxed get-together where each guest brings one or more of their favorite small items to share or swap. It’s a great way to learn what others love and to gather creative gift ideas.

In the spirit of that evening, here are five of my favorite, budget-friendly finds—each one easily under $10. These make lovely little gifts for coworkers, neighbors, teachers, or friends, and they’re simple to personalize and package.

1. 1. Vintage Dishes

   Old dishes have a charm that modern tableware often lacks. They’re unique, nostalgic, and surprisingly versatile. You can source them at thrift stores, garage sales, flea markets, or online secondhand marketplaces. Instead of using them for food, repurpose a pretty saucer or small plate as a soap dish, jewelry tray, or a holder for hairpins and spare keys. When gifting, tuck the dish into tissue paper and finish with twine or a ribbon for a quaint, handmade feel.

2. 2. Bath Salts

   Bath salts feel like an indulgence but are incredibly affordable, especially when bought in bulk. Epsom salts mixed with a favorite scent—amber vanilla, lavender, or citrus—make a relaxing present. Divide a large bag into small glass jars or cellophane bags and add a handwritten label with soaking instructions. These little pampering kits are perfect for creating a spa-like moment at home and are easy to customize for different tastes.

3. 3. High-Quality Bar Soap

   A well-made bar soap is one of those practical luxuries everyone appreciates. Many people notice that artisan or imported soaps last longer and have richer scents than standard supermarket options. I tend to choose soaps by scent and feel—look for natural ingredients and attractive packaging. When gifting, wrap the soap in wax paper, tie with a ribbon, and include a small note with why you like that scent. It’s a thoughtful, everyday item that rarely feels like a routine purchase.

4. 4. Lindt Dark Chocolate

   Chocolate is universally loved and a small bar of Lindt dark chocolate—especially flavored varieties like orange—feels indulgent without breaking the bank. A single bar can be tucked into a gift bag with tissue, or paired with a vintage saucer for a cohesive little present. Choose a higher cocoa percentage for a truly rich flavor, or go for a flavored bar if you want something more distinctive.

5. 5. A Good Magazine

   Even in the age of online inspiration, a well-curated magazine retains a special, tactile charm. Magazines are perfect for cozy moments by the fire or for collecting project ideas, recipes, and beautiful photography. Consider current interest magazines—home and garden, crafts, cooking, or lifestyle—and pair one with a small notepad or a packet of tea. This combination turns a single issue into a mini relaxation kit.

Presentation matters: inexpensive gifts feel elevated when wrapped thoughtfully. Use simple supplies like kraft paper, twine, small jars, or printed labels to create a polished look without extra cost. Personal touches—such as a short handwritten note explaining why you chose the item—make these small gifts memorable.

Now it’s your turn: what are some of your favorite small finds? Whether you pick up something secondhand, homemade, or a little treat from the store, these five ideas are easy, affordable, and sure to be appreciated by anyone on your gifting list.