Gift baskets are a thoughtful way to celebrate birthdays, holidays, teacher appreciation, and more—but they don’t have to be expensive. With the right picks from variety stores like Dollar General, Family Dollar, and Five Below, you can assemble meaningful, creative gifts that look high-end for under $10–$15.
Here are ten easy gift basket ideas you can create entirely from variety store finds.
- Relaxation Basket
Fill with:
- Scented candles
- Face masks
- Bath salts or bubble bath
- Fuzzy socks
- Herbal tea packets
Perfect for: birthdays, self-care gifts, or thank-yous.
- Coffee Lover’s Kit
Fill with:
- Mug
- Instant coffee or flavored grounds
- Biscotti or cookies
- Stirring spoons
- Small syrup bottle or creamer pods
Check Five Below’s mug section for trendy, budget-friendly designs.
- Teacher Appreciation Basket
Fill with:
- Notepads and pens
- Sticky notes
- Hand sanitizer
- Snacks or tea
- “Thank you” card
Great for Teacher Appreciation Week or end-of-year gifts.
- Movie Night Box
Fill with:
- Microwave popcorn
- Candy or chocolate bars
- Soda or sparkling water
- Reusable snack bowls
- Cozy socks or a mini blanket
Look for popcorn buckets or bins at Dollar General, perfect for presentation.
- Game Night Basket
Fill with:
- Deck of cards or travel game
- Popcorn or chips
- Puzzle book
- Fun drink cups
- Dice or scorecards
Ideal for friends, roommates, or family nights in.
- Mini First Aid Kit
Fill with:
- Bandages
- Hand wipes
- Pain reliever packets
- Antiseptic cream
- Compact case or pouch
Useful for parents, teachers, or anyone on the go.
- Craft & Creativity Set
Fill with:
- Markers or colored pencils
- Sketchpad or coloring book
- Stickers or washi tape
- Glue sticks
- Mini tote or pencil box
These items are widely available at Family Dollar and perfect for kids.
- Kitchen Starter Pack
Fill with:
- Spatula or tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Kitchen towel
- Seasoning packets
- Recipe cards or printable
Great for housewarming or students moving into their first apartment.
- Pet Treat Bag
Fill with:
- Pet toys
- Treats or snacks
- Waste bags or grooming mitt
- Pet-themed bowl or bandana
Most variety stores carry both dog and cat accessories for affordable prices.
- Snack Attack Bundle
Fill with:
- Chips or pretzels
- Candy
- Energy bars
- Reusable water bottle
- Travel-size mints or gum
Perfect for care packages, dorm room drop-offs, or office gifts.
Presentation tips:
- Use reusable containers like plastic bins, baskets, or mason jars
- Wrap with cellophane and tie with ribbon for a polished look
- Add personalized tags or small notes for a thoughtful touch
You don’t need to overspend to give a great gift. With a little creativity and a trip to your local variety store, you can craft a budget-friendly basket that feels personal, fun, and practical.
