For many people times are tough and money is tight right now and having to buy a gift for that special person in your life when you’re short on cash can send you into a spin as you just don’t have the extra money to spare.

You are not alone and finding the perfect gift when you’re broke can be disheartening. But giving a gift is still that opportunity for you to give a thoughtful gift you found or made just for them. You just need to think outside the box and figure out some cheap gift ideas.

So, what types of gifts could you get? It’s important for you to work out what you can afford and put it towards the gift. Be honest with yourself, don’t overspend as you will regret it. Who are you buying for and the occasion is also important but don’t fall into the comparison trap or think that you that you have to buy something of real value as it’s an important milestone.

Do think outside the box. You can give it a more personal touch when you’re broke, get creative and ask question like:

1. What does this person like?
2. How would I spoil this person?
3. How do they like to spend their time?
4. What would they secretly want?

By answering these questions you can discover a number of ideas for this person and sometimes the best gift doesn’t cost any money or very little. Think about the idea of spending quality time with this person, could you them on a picnic?

Here I’ve listed 10 cheap present ideas to get you started:

1. A photo album of memories. This can be physical or digital and is a simple, cost-effective way to portray your friendship and experiences together.
2. Handmade gifts. If you’re good starts and crafts, making a handmade gift is not only thoughtful but it can also be very inexpensive. Baking their favorite foods, making a frame for a picture or photo or knitting a hat or scarf.
3. Movie night. If they’re into films, why not organize a movie night with their favorite film and some popcorn. you could invite them to your house or go to the local cinema depending on your budget.
4. Board games or puzzles. These gifts are making a come back and you can find relatively cheap ones in good condition at charity shops or on items like eBay and Amazons.
5. A personalized gift. Nothing says love as much as a personalized gift. Plus you can get some personalized gifts pretty cheap. Think notebooks, coffee mugs, water bottles, make-up bags, coasters and much, much more. Both Amazon and Etsy have a great selection and I also love www.notonthehighstreet.com
6. Framed inspirational quote. this an easy and cheap option. You just need to buy a frame and perhaps some card to put the quote on. If you’re creative you could paint or stencil you own. But if you’re like me and like the quicker and easier option , create the inspirational quote using your computer and print it out on a piece of paper and pop it in a frame.
7. Books. Books are great gifts and many are under £10.00. You can choose from fact, fiction, cooking, travel and a lot more. Wha’s the persons real passion? Are they taking a trip soon? You’ll be able to find the perfect book just by giving it a little thought.
8. Plants or flowers. There are many adorable house plants that are incredibly easy to take care of so this is a gift that can really stand the test of time. Flowers are beautiful and a small bunch don’t have to cost the earth or you may be a keen gardener and can handpick your own bouquet.
9. Gift your service. Maybe not one that you thought you would see here but if you’re. Tight on a budget you can gift your own services, such as babysitting, hand work around the home, cooking a meal, photography or pet sitting or dog walking.
10. Hampers. This has to be my favorite gifts to give and one of the most thoughtful. you can make them as big or as small as you like and you can put anything in it so just think about what that special person you’re buying for absolutely loves. It might be sweets, chocolate, wine, beer, coffee or tea. You can even theme them. Think pamper hamper, budding chef hamper, book worm hamper, travel hamper, the possibilities are endless!

How about a re-gift? Re-gifting is 100% acceptable but only if these conditions are met:

• Don’t give it back to the person that gave it to you
• It is still in new or like new condition
• Take off the gift tag/note for when you were given the gift

Sometimes gifts just don’t fit your personality or need and something you were given may be more suited for someone else. When you’re broke it can be a win-win and there is less clutter in your home as a result! Don’t be afraid to re-grift items if it helps you out.

The point of giving a gift is to show someone you care. Giving a thoughtful personal gift is likely to have much more impact than how much it costs.

I hope these ideas help and if you have specific comments or questions please reach out to us.