White elephant gift exchanges are a fun and low-key way to add some cheer to a party and swap gifts with coworkers, friends, or loved ones.
If shopping for gifts usually stresses you out, you’re in luck. The whole point of a white elephant gift exchange is that it’s low budget and low stakes.
Here are some basic ground rules for a white elephant gift exchange. Feel free to add your own twist to make it your own.
- Budget. Some organizers like to set a budget, but in general, $30 and under is a good price point. You probably wouldn’t go any higher than $50.
- Anonymous. Part of the fun is creating a sense of mystery around the gift exchange and not knowing who the gift giver or recipient will be. So wrap your gift but don’t include a gift tag. If you want, you can wait until the very end to reveal your identity.
- Gift type. White elephant gifts can be funny and playful, but it’s also totally fine to bring a gift that’s tasteful or practical. In fact, if it’s a practical gift then you’ll know that the recipient will get a lot of use out of it.
- Swap. Participants can pick an unwrapped gift or choose one that’s already been opened. You’ll definitely know how good your gift is by the number of people fighting over it!
Want to be the life of the party and bring the gift everyone wants? Here are some ideas for white elephant gifts that everyone will fight over at your next holiday party!
White elephant gifts under $30
Below are practical and stylish white elephant gifts that won’t break the bank.
1.) 15-Minute hourglass
This is perfect for a white elephant party, whether it be at work, with family, or with friends. A literal elegant solution for focus and productivity, this sleek and sophisticated hourglass is the perfect way to inspire someone to elevate their desk and do their best work ever.
2.) Fun Fruity Candles
You won't believe it's not real fruit! These delightful beeswax candles are one-of-a-kind. Playful and novel, yet totally practical, someone is bound to vie after these juicy candles. Handcrafted in Los Angeles, each berry-shaped candle is shaped from real California fruit. Packaged in a charming berry basket, it’s a sweet, whimsical surprise that’s as fun to give as it is to receive.
3.) Ink+Volt Dashboard Spiral Deskpad
This minimalist deskpad comes with 52 sheets to help with managing projects, tasks, goals, and clients. Perfect for project managers, freelancers, or entrepreneurs, this would be a coveted item at any gift exchange.
4.) Magical Origami Cloth 
This microfiber cloth can be used to clean screens, lenses, glasses, and more; and somehow, with a touch of magic, it folds itself into an origami bird when bounced back and forth between your hands. Incredibly novel and awe-inducing!
5.) Kunitsa Co. Reading Journal
For bookworms and aspiring bookworms alike, this cozy journal comes in three lovely colors and has everything you need to keep track of your books read for an entire year. Keep track of your to-be-read list, review books as you finish them, and record your notes and thoughts as you make your way through your reading journey. This sweet journal is perfect for a purse or a nightstand.
6.) Quality Coffee
This is an affordable gift that would be popular at any office gift exchange. Not only would your coworker appreciate having this tasty treat for themselves, but a coffee gift also gives them an excuse to take a break from work and savor a cup of joe.
7.) OG Manga Spiral Notebook - Ukiyo-e x Kunisawa
If you want to make a splash at the party (without going overboard), this notebook is perfect! This collaboration from two iconic Japanese brands delivers a high quality notebook with a highly unique, slightly spooky design on the front. Pick from 4 conversation-starting cover designs and get ready to make someone's day!
8.) Stress-Relieving Bath Soaks
Who doesn't need a little stress relief? These mineral-infused bath soaks are especially enjoyable during the cold winter season. Everyone will be fighting over this one!
9.) Fun Snack Assortment
For those who love sweet, salty, and everything snack-y. This mystery snack box includes a variety of Japanese snacks that are colorful, eye-catching, and no doubt ultra tasty.
White elephant gifts $50 and under
If the budget for your white elephant gift exchange is $50 and under, here are some thoughtful gifts that anyone would love to receive.
10.) Packing Cubes
These compression cubes make packing for their next trip a total breeze. These space-savers come in all sorts of sizes, colors, and patterns. They'll look forward to packing for their next vacation!
11.) Gratitude Journal
This award-winning journal would make a gratitude routine feel that much more special. It has a beautiful cover, 60 entries to reflect on and express your gratitude, gratitude challenges, and inspirational quotes throughout. This is a gift that will leave your recipient feeling happier, calmer, and more grateful.
12.) Afforadable High-Quality Chef Knife 
With any White Elephant exchange, there's bound to be a foodie among the group. This Japanese carbon-steel 8" chef's knife is an incredible gift. At just under $50, it's a total steal.