Last Updated on December 10, 2024

Looking for unique and affordable gift ideas? Thrifty gifts are the perfect way to create thoughtful presents while saving money and helping the planet. 

By visiting your local secondhand shop, you can find affordable treasures perfect for creating unique gifts. Whether you’re making gift baskets or upcycling items, thrift gift ideas reduce waste and make thoughtful presents. Thrifty gifts let you get creative and personalize each one, all while staying eco-friendly. Plus, thrifty ideas keep you on budget without compromising on quality.

thrifted gift ideas

Thrift stores are full of possibilities when it comes to finding gifts. For example, an item with a retail price of $100 or more might be marked down to just $20 or less — you never know what you’ll find!

Truth is, eco friendly gifts don’t have to be expensive. A recent trip to my local secondhand shop inspired me to create several fun and unique gift baskets.

Also, be sure to check out my sustainable gift guide and stocking stuffer guide for more thrift gift ideas.

my top 6 thrift gift ideas

1. movie night bucket 

Start by picking up a cute popcorn bucket from your local thrift store. I found a cute ceramic one with popcorn art that I couldn’t resist!

Include:  

• Homemade popcorn seasoning (I used nutritional yeast, kosher salt, garlic powder, and a pinch of mustard powder) 
• Popcorn kernels (which you can get package free at the bulk food store + store in a glass jar) 
• A ticket for a movie of their choice 
• Thrifted popcorn bucket 

Tip: Use upcycled tissue paper, salvaged packaging, or shredded paper to prop up your gifts so they sit neatly at the top of the bucket. This thrifty gift is sure to make movie night extra special! 

2. plant milk basket 

I spotted an adorable ceramic milk jug at the thrift store and just knew it would be perfect for a plant milk basket. 

Include: 

• Joi almond milk base or oat milk powder 
• Homemade vanilla extract 
• Thriftable wicker basket with a handle 
• Thrifted ceramic or glass milk jug 

3. mulled wine basket 

This mulled wine basket is the perfect gift for someone who enjoys a glass of wine with dinner every night, and it makes a great hostess gift too. 

Include: 

• An inexpensive red table wine 
• Cinnamon sticks (you can typically find these in a glass jar) 
• An orange decorated with whole cloves 
• A thriftable wicker basket with a handle 

4. simmer pot basket 

Simmer pots are a simple yet effective way to make a home smell amazing. This holiday themed simmer pot is a creative alternative to gifting a candle.

Include: 

• Oranges 
• Cinnamon sticks 
• Cranberries 
• Sprigs from your Christmas tree 
• Mason jar from a thrift store 

Tip: Store the simmer pot ingredients in the glass jar and tie an upcycled ribbon around it. You can also attach a gift tag made from upcycled Christmas cards using twine. 

5. candle basket 

Place unique candles in a basket or tie an upcycled bow around them for a simple thrifted gift! Thrift stores often carry unique candle holders, including vintage options, to make your thrifted gift ideas even more special.

Include: 

• Thriftable candle holders 
• Tapers from a local artists and candle maker 
• A thriftable wicker basket with a handle 

6. favorite drink basket 

I spotted some unique glasses at a thrift store, and it sparked the idea to create a favorite drink basket. What I love about thrift gift ideas is how easy they are to customize for the person you’re gifting them to!

Include: 

• For tea: Thrifted tea cups + compostable tea bags or loose leaf tea bought in bulk 
• For wine: Thrifted wine glasses + red or white wine of their choice 
• For hot cocoa: Thrifted mugs + DIY hot cocoa mix 
• A thriftable wicker basket with a handle 

What do you think of these thrifted gift ideas? Which basket was your favorite? Be sure to check back here as I plan to update this post with more thrifty ideas soon!  

thrifty gifts faqs

how do I find quality gifts at thrift stores?

Start by browsing sections like kitchenware, home decor, and accessories. Look for well made, unique, or vintage items in good condition. Visiting thrift stores regularly increases your chances of finding great treasures.  

are thrifted gifts appropriate for all occasions?

Absolutely! Thrifty gifts work for holidays, birthdays, housewarmings, and even hostess gifts. They’re especially appreciated by those who value sustainable and personalized presents.  

how can I make thrifty gifts feel more personal?

Choose items that match the person’s interests, such as vintage glasses for a wine lover or a unique popcorn bucket for a movie fan. Adding DIY touches, like homemade treats or handwritten notes, makes the gift even more special.

are secondhand gifts really eco friendly?

Yes! By giving thrifty gifts, you’re repurposing items that might otherwise go to waste. This reduces demand for new production and minimizes packaging waste, making it an eco friendly choice.