5 Holiday Gift Ideas that won’t Break the Bank

The holiday season is just around the corner, and that often means gift–giving. While it’s an amazing feeling to give and receive gifts, buying expensive holiday gifts for family and friends can keep you from reaching your financial goals. Here are some thoughtful gift ideas that won’t break the bank: 

1. Books 

In a world dominated by screens, books can be a great escape for that avid bookworm in your life, or maybe even yourself. Our team recommends these great reads for staying on track with your financial goals: 

• The Psychology of Money 

• Think and Grow Rich 

• Get Good with Money 

1. Something Cozy 

The holiday season in the Pacific Northwest often entails a lot of rain and fog. Gift your family and friends something cozy so they can snuggle up and stay warm. Our favorite cozy gifts are: 

• Warm and cozy blankets 

• A beautiful scarf 

• Fuzzy socks 

1. Eco-Friendly 

Here at Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat we are all about being eco-friendly – from building sustainable and energy efficient homes, to selling gently used furniture and appliances in our Habitat Stores. Choosing eco-friendly items like reusable snack bags or durable grocery totes and shopping secondhand are great ways to save money and help out the planet. Here are some eco-friendly gift ideas:  

• Reusable silicone snack bags 

• Grocery totes 

• Secondhand kitchen gadgets (pots, pans, mugs, etc.) 

1. Handmade Gifts 

Handmade gifts are considerate, unique, and budget-friendly, allowing you to be creative and thoughtful without spending a lot of money. Creative handmade gift ideas include: 

• Your framed art – Find a secondhand frame and frame one of your favorite artistic pieces 

• A plant in a hand-painted pot 

• A crafts gift basket – Create a gift basket with arts and crafts supplies hand-picked by you 

1. Experiences 

Experiences make great gifts, because they lead to memories that last a lifetime. Kids might not always remember the new toy you gave them, but they will remember the time you took them somewhere special. Here are some experiences you could gift to create lasting memories: 

• A trip to an art museum 

• Ice skating 

• A cooking class 

The Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity team wishes you a joyful holiday season surrounded by family, friends, and special memories. The most meaningful moments often come from simply being together and sharing joy. As you celebrate, consider thoughtful ways to approach gift-giving and set yourself up for a financially healthy 2026. May your holidays be warm, cozy, and full of happiness!