Valentine’s Day is never about how much you spend; rather, it’s about finding a thoughtful gift to make your recipient feel special. Whether you’ve been together for five years or five months, there are plenty of low-cost ideas to make them feel like a million bucks (even if all you have is a 50-dollar bill). To help you stay on budget, I’ve rounded up 33 suggestions under $50 for all kinds of valentines, from long-term partners to kindred spirits to platonic pals. Below, you’ll find a range of charming gifts, including the classics, like candy and candles, along with some unexpected presents, like kitchen gadgets, plus a few of my current favorite beauty products. I’ve also included some life-changing items famous people have recommended to us, such as Isabelle Huppert’s smooth bergamot tea and the ballet flats Amy Sedaris always travels with.
Valentine’s Day is less than a week away, but all of these gifts should still arrive by February 14. That said, I wouldn’t wait to order — delivery dates can change rapidly.
Update on February 11, 2025: Updated prices and checked stock for all products.
For the one who brings a blanket to the movie theater
A lightweight, packable blanket is just what your valentine needs, whether they’re gearing up for three and a half hours of The Brutalist or just want something to cover their eyes with during Nosferatu.
For the wife who forgets to set the timer on the oven
A modernist timer for perfectly baked sourdough (or cookies).
For the girlfriend who couldn’t put down Emma Cline’s The Guest
I’m reading Sally Rooney’s buzzy fourth book, and so far, Intermezzo is my favorite novel of hers.
For the galentine who’s serious about self-care
This exfoliating scrub gently removes dirt and sloughs off dead cells while softening and hydrating the skin. It also doubles as a scalp scrub.
For the best friend who wants to extend Dry January into February
This alcohol-free tequila is perfect for those who crave margaritas but want an alternative to actual liquor. Simply mix it with lime juice, agave, and ice.
For the valentine who’s working on mindfulness
They don’t have to be AFOL (a.k.a. an adult fan of LEGOs) for one of these building sets to be a winner. They’ll be able to create a bonsai tree with interchangeable green leaves or cherry blossoms, which are relaxing both to build and observe.
For the adventurous partner
If your S.O. has been feeling burned out or overwhelmed, Maude’s massage candle makes for a nice gift. Once melted and after the wick is blown out, the wax can be poured on skin and used as a moisturizer.
For the husband who’s bored of Rao’s sauce …
Sauz claims to be a “new generation” of tomato sauce, which makes sense considering the brand was created by two Gen-Z founders. This one has hot honey, so I’m already sold.
… and for the boyfriend who’s never not cooking with garlic
His garlic cloves will be fresh and at the ready thanks to this glazed Le Creuset crock.
For the significant other who’s an aspiring ballerina
Amy Sedaris says she always has a pair of Bloch ballet flats to wear when she goes to people’s houses and has to take her shoes off. “I also travel with them and wear them in hotels,” she adds.
For the couple who pitches a tent on the weekends
This packable hammock is easy to install and can comfortably fit two people.
For your favorite paw-rent
My dog loves the rope toys from pet brand Vetreska, but I’m especially taken by this fruit-inspired dispenser with accompanying strawberry-scented poop bags. The pink-and-red print is extra festive.
For the boyfriend who eats olives straight from the jar
If your valentine is an olive lover, these grab-and-go bags make it easy for them to take their preferred snack anywhere. They’re also a favorite of TV personality Paige DeSorbo, who says they’re “just seasoned more” than others she has tried.
For the one who loves to host
These coasters are made from diatomaceous earth, which means they’re quick drying and won’t develop a water ring.
For the sister who loves red licorice
Lil Nas X says Twizzlers is his favorite candy because they’re “not too sweet or overly sugary.” Your valentine very likely agrees.
For the friend who wore UGGs in the 2010s
Keep their feet toasty with these off-brand UGG boots. When our junior writer, Bella Druckman, hunted for the perfect pair of fuggs, she found that the faux-suede exterior looked just as rich as the other more expensive boots she tested.
For the one who resolved to relax
If their New Year’s resolutions included taking more time to simply chill, they’ll appreciate this powder, which can be mixed into water or smoothies. Thanks to a blend of magnesium, adaptogens, and electrolytes, it helps promote relaxation.
For the beauty-obsessed friend with expensive taste
Augustinus Bader’s Rich Cream might be a splurge, but the brand’s nourishing lip balm is under $50. It’s a small treat any beauty enthusiast will appreciate.
For the person whose trinket tray is overflowing
This sleek-looking jewelry box has a glass lid, allowing them to see all their tiniest pieces, like rings and stud earrings.
For the situationship who drinks London Fog lattes
“I love tea with bergamot,” says Isabelle Huppert, who told us she can’t live without this blend from French tea company Mariage Frères. “It makes the tea very tasty, with lots of flavor, which is really nice.”
For the fiancé who got a beer-making kit for Christmas
An insulated beer stein for him that matches your favorite Stanley tumbler.
For the husband who’s a homebody
If your significant other works from home — or just likes spending most of their time there — they’ll appreciate these stretchy and breathable cotton sweatpants, which are spiffier than your average loungewear pants.
For the crafty wife
This set is ideal for knitters who want to try interchangeable needles for the first time.
For the partner who’s training for the New York City Marathon
My travel-size foam roller is one of my favorite post-run essentials. The compact Ripple Roller is also an eco-conscious gift idea, as its ridged outer layer is made from bloom algae.
For the person who streams “Pink Pony Club” on repeat
These cowboy boots are the unofficial Chappell Roan fan uniform.
For the plant-curious counterpart
This easy-to-care-for red anthurium will last longer than cut flowers.
For the mom who talks about lymphatic drainage
If she’s been subscribed to the Goop newsletter since day one, she’ll appreciate a fresh dry brush to help her increase circulation and exfoliate.
For the spouse who complains about your snoring …
These earplugs act like a cap to the ear canal, which means they’re gentle on your ears and do a solid job of blocking out loud noise.
… and the one who wears their AirPods to bed
My partner owns this Bluetooth sleep mask, which allows him to listen to podcasts or music as he falls asleep.
For the platonic pal who’s getting back into cooking
This lightweight and reliable kitchen scale should suit most home cooks. The compact design allows it to slide into a kitchen drawer, but the base is large enough to fit most bowls.
For the dairy-free girlfriend
Hot cocoa always hits the spot on brisk winter nights, and you can’t go wrong with this plant-based option made with a rich coconut-milk base.
For the friend who’s a fledgling oenophile
Here’s a sophisticated decanter that includes an acacia-wood coaster and a micro-perforated strainer to remove impurities from their favorite red blend.
For the grandmother who wants a new signature scent
I own this fragrance and adore that it’s marketed as smelling like somebody you love.
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.