8 Gifts Under $50 that Look Expensive

Published November 28, 2019 12:00AM

There’s that saying: “The best gifts come in small packages.” I like to amend it slightly and say the best ones often come with small price tags. You don’t need to spend a fortune to buy thoughtful, useful, and fun presents that will impress your friends and family this holiday season.

Leatherman Free T2 ($40)

There are pocketknives that just have a blade, then there’s the T2. For its size, it’s packed with tools, including three different screwdrivers and a bottle opener. The word “Free” refers to the fact that every tool can be opened, used, then closed with just one hand—a feature that’s wildly useful when you need your other hand to stabilize whatever you’re fixing. Built in Portland and made from stainless steel, the T2 will take a beating.

Field Notes National Parks Three Pack ($13)

We should all put our phones down occasionally and use pen and paper instead. Try jotting down to-do lists in a notebook and spend time doodling instead of scrolling through Instagram. You’ll quickly see how nice it is to not stare at a screen. Field Notes are a personal favorite because they fit in my back pocket, come with synthetic, waterproof, and tearproof paper, and have beautiful cover graphics.

Arcade Norrland Woven Belt ($40)

Thanks to built-in stretch, the Norrland is the most comfortable belt I’ve ever worn. It moves with me and keeps my pants exactly where I want them, whether I’m sitting at a desk, riding a bike, or playing with my kids. Because it’s woven, I can wear the buckle wherever I want, ensuring a perfect fit.

Whiskey Peaks Mt. Rainier Glasses, Set of 2 ($30)

Each of these tumblers has a raised topographic impression of Mt. Rainier in the bottom. Blown from lead-free glass, they’re lightweight but durable. If you prefer a different mountain, you can also choose from Denali, Mt. Washington, and Mt. Everest.

Topo Designs Dopp Kit, Leather Bottom ($49)

If you're still carrying your toiletries in a gallon bag, upgrade to this dopp kit instead. It’s made from ballistic nylon and leather so the kit won’t break in your bag and leak shaving cream all over your clothes. Thanks to the triangular design, the kit sits upright and provides easy access to whatever’s inside.

Truff Black Truffle Infused Hot Sauce, Set of Two ($36)

The hot sauce lover on your list will enjoy these Truff bottles. The sauce has a unique flavor profile thanks to the inclusion of black truffles. Delicious on anything from eggs, to pizza, to tacos, they come in two heat profiles: mildly hot with a Scoville rating of 2,500-3,000, and a full step stronger with a Scoville rating of 5,000-7,000.

Flint and Tinder Long Sleeve Pocket Tee ($48)

Thicker than a regular long-sleeve, but not quite as thick as a sweatshirt, this tee is a great urban layering piece. I wear it alone on warmer days, but will wear it under a flannel when winter really hits. Made from 100-percent cotton, the tee is cozy on my skin—and I’m not afraid that it will wear out after a few washes.

Osprey Daylite Waist Pack ($30)

At two liters, the Daylite is just big enough to carry your essentials—wallet, phone, keys, and a water bottle—during a short hike or a weekend outing. It sits comfortably on my lower back when weighed down, but I also wear the Daylite over one shoulder, sort of like a tiny messenger bag.