by Todd Pheifer

Created on: September 06, 2008   Last Updated: November 12, 2008

Good gifts in small packages

Affordable gifts can sometimes be more difficult to buy than larger gifts. Ten dollars does not necessarily seem like a lot of money in today's modern age, so gift ideas may seem limited. On the one hand, you want to get something that has some meaning or usefulness to the person. On the other hand, ten dollars doesn't necessarily get very much. Therefore, a ten dollar gift may have to emphasize practically or entertainment versus meaning and sentimentality. Here are a few specific ideas for Christmas gifts that are under ten dollars.

Caffeine rush

One good Christmas gift idea that is under ten dollars is the gift card to a coffee shop such as Starbucks or other chain. Granted, you may need to spend exactly ten dollars, but it is usually an appreciated gift. A ten dollar gift card may only pay for two to three specialty drinks. However, enough people get their morning Starbucks in today's Western society that they will be happy to get any sort of coffee gift card.

Juice is in

A similar gift under ten dollars is the gift card to a high-end juice establishment chain such as Robek's or Jamba Juice. Similar parameters apply to this type of gift card because these drinks are fairly expensive. However, "getting a Jamba juice" has become part of some people's culture in many communities. Therefore, a gift card is always helpful.

Gas...every little bit helps

Many people are concerned about the cost of gas in today's society. Ten dollars will not get very far when it comes to filling the tank (two to three gallons?), but gasoline is expensive enough that most people will be appreciative of a gift card. When something is expensive and on people's minds, every little bit helps.

Let people make their own choices

This may seem like a theme, but gift cards are becoming very popular these days. Therefore, more generic gift cards can also be appreciated, particularly from stores like Target or online sites like Amazon. Also, digital music is becoming a much more prevalent trend. This makes an iTunes gift card a very relevant gift for Christmas, particularly for younger people. Whatever someone gets, it is important to get something that people will appreciate. Sometimes when cost is a restriction, people just grab something. The problem with this is that too many people are in possession of many of these random gifts. If in doubt, put the control in the hands of the receiver, and allow them to select their own gift.

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