Gifts No One Wants — And What To Buy Instead for the Same Price

Unwrapping a disappointing gift can be a real letdown — and it can be just as bad for the gift-giver who spent their hard-earned money on something unwanted. Before you spend your money on a gift that no one actually wants, consider buying one of these alternatives.

Check Out: 6 Holidays Purchases That You Should Only Make at Costco

Find Out: How Much Does a Costco Membership Really Save You?

There are some people out there who are very into thematic and fun socks — and if you have one of those people on your list, go ahead and buy them a pair. But if you’re unsure if your gift recipient is a sock enthusiast, stay away from this gift, which many would find boring.

Budget: 20 Ways to Pay Less at Costco

The price of socks can vary, but if you’re looking for a gift for under $20 that is sure to please, consider a mini Bluetooth speaker.

Learn More: The 37 Mistakes We Make When Shopping at Costco, Amazon, Target and Walmart

Maybe you need to buy a last-minute gift so you head to the nearest drug store. While you can certainly find some hidden gems at your local CVS or Walgreens, stay away from the personal care aisle when you’re doing your shopping. No one wants to receive deodorant or toothpaste.

Check Out: 30 Things You Should Never Buy Without a Coupon

Most drug stores have an art supply section, so head to that aisle to find an unexpected, creative gift, like an adult coloring book and colored pencils. Walgreens has coloring books for as little as $1 — even less than what you’d pay for toothpaste.

Check Out: 25 Secret Money Traps at Target, Walmart and Other Big-Box Stores

Your gift recipient likely already has a keychain (if this is something they even use) and no one really needs more than one. Save your cash for something more useful.

Check Out: The Secrets Behind These 10 Popular Costco Products

Luggage tags are in the same vein as keychains, but it’s an item your recipient may not already have. Plus they come in a variety of colors and designs, and you may even be able to customize them, so it seems like a much more personal gift.

Look Back: 10 Popular Products That Costco Doesn’t Sell Anymore

Along with socks, a plain sweater or T-shirt can come across as a boring gift. This doesn’t show that you put a lot of thought into who the recipient is, and the gift may be a duplicate of something they already have in their closet.

Prepare: Shipping, Wrapping & More Extras To Account For in Your Holiday Budget

If you tend to opt for basics because you don’t know what the recipient will like, give them the opportunity to choose their own gift. A gift card to their favorite clothing store will show that you know them well enough to know where they shop, while allowing them to get something that they really want.

Cut Now: 35 Useless Expenses You Need To Slash From Your Budget Now

Digital calendars have largely replaced physical ones, so this gift likely won’t be appreciated or used.

Important: 17 Biggest Budgeting Mistakes You’re Making

If you like the idea of giving paper goods as gifts, consider gifting a chic coffee table book. You can find some on Amazon for under $20 — about the same as you would pay for a calendar.

Don’t Wait: 19 Effective Ways To Tackle Your Budget

Many people no longer own DVD players, so this is a gifting no-no.

See: US Products That Are Illegal To Sell in Other Countries

For the price of a DVD, you can gift a month of your streaming service of choice. This gives your loved one access to a wide variety of movies, so it’s a better use of your money.

More From GOBankingRates

• Social Security 2022: How the COLA Will Increase Benefits for the Average Senior Couple
• 21 Items That Are Always Cheaper at Costco
• 6 Legit Ways to Score Free Money Online
• 15 Mortgage Questions To Ask Your Lender