Gifts that will not drain pockets this holiday season

By Roxette Primero

We’ve all made some incredible friends here at USC, creating memories and bonds that make our college experience truly unforgettable. As the holiday season rolls around, you might be feeling the urge to show your appreciation for those friendships with a thoughtful gift. But let’s be so for real…most of us aren’t quite in the financial position to splurge on the gifts our friends truly deserve. That’s why I’m here to share some budget-friendly ideas that have worked for me, letting you show just how much you care without breaking the bank!

Handwritten letters and a collage of pictures

I don’t know about you, but I love a good heartfelt letter, especially one with pictures! There’s something so personal and thoughtful about a handmade letter that just can’t be matched by a store-bought gift. The example above may be a birthday card, but imagine the holiday version: add a touch of festive cheer with Christmas-themed paper, maybe a sprinkle of holiday stickers, and tuck in some seasonal candy. Voila! You’ve got a memorable, holiday-themed letter that’s as thoughtful as it is adorable, perfect for letting your friends know just how much they mean to you this season.

Basket of thrifted items

Imagine gifting someone a basket of carefully curated, thrifted treasures that perfectly match their unique style and personality. It’s sustainable, thoughtful, and one-of-a-kind. A gift like this shows you didn’t just grab something off the shelf, it shows you spent time finding pieces that reflect who they are, the kind of gift that says, “I see you.” From clothes to jewelry, bags, or quirky trinkets, thrifted gifts offer so many options for personalization, and if you find the right thrift spots, you can put together a whole basket for a fraction of what you’d spend on new items. Friends and loved ones would love this gift and you’re not just giving them things, you’re giving them a little collection of memories and meaning.

Friends Dinner

While it may not be a traditional physical gift, giving the gift of your time and appreciation can be one of the most meaningful presents you can offer. Host a cozy, intimate friendship dinner, grab a few easy-to-make dinner kits from Trader Joe’s, a bottle of fancy juice or festive drinks, and set the stage for a night of good food and great conversation. Add a sprinkle of holiday cheer with Christmas-themed snacks, a few cute decorations, and maybe some classic holiday tunes or a cozy Christmas movie playing in the background. This thoughtful, budget-friendly gesture is a perfect way to show your friends just how much they mean to you, creating memories that are just as special as any wrapped gift.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, it’s not about how much you spend on gifts, but the thought and effort you put into showing your friends and roommates how much you appreciate them. Whether it’s through a heartfelt letter, a personalized thrifted basket, or a cozy holiday dinner, the memories you create together will last far longer than any material gift. So, this season, let’s embrace the spirit of giving by sharing our time, thoughtfulness, and creativity. It’s the best kind of gift you can give.