Your 2021 Holiday Gift Guide

Three friends sitting on snowy bench

We've got you covered with a gift for every personality on your list.

Looking for ways to show your friends you care this holiday season? You’re in luck. Whether you're giving your best friends gifts long-distance or in-person, we’ve rounded up a bunch of unique gifts for your friends. You can find the perfect gift if their idea of a perfect day is spent hiking a trail or if it's browsing the shops before settling down at home with a wine glass for an evening of self-care. Read on for a ton of great holiday gift ideas—at a range of prices—for everyone on your list.

 

For Your Friend Who Loves the Outdoors ...

 

… and needs a place to stow gear.

If you have a friend who’s obsessed with hiking, biking, rock climbing, or anything that gets them outdoors and into nature, the Hatchet Backpack ($60) is an amazing gift choice. Modern and versatile, it’s got two side pockets for water bottles, a carabiner key clip, and a front zippered pocket to stash gear in, whether that's a Bluetooth speaker or an on-the-go change of clothes. It's one of our best sellers for a reason. Consider including the Kitsack as a hands-free, easy access extra place to stash their water bottle to stay hydrated!

… and always resolves to stay hydrated.

Another great option? The S’Well Teakwood Bottle (from $25 for 9 oz.) can keep water and other beverages cold for 24 hours or more, and hot for at least 12 hours. It's more travel-ready than your average tumbler or coffee mug. Plus, it looks like it was made out of real wood—a nod to nature that they'll surely appreciate.

… and wants to protect plants.

One more great idea: the Recycled SuperBreak ($40), which is made from the equivalent of 20 plastic water bottles. Because if your friend loves nature, chances are they care about protecting the environment and being sustainable (even if they're one of those people who can't keep a succulent alive). And a backpack is a great gift for holidays, especially for a friend who’s returning to school for the second semester.

 

For Your Friend Who Always Has to Have the Latest ...

 

… and loves nothing more than a cute bag.

Is your friend always on top of the newest trend? The Fifth Avenue fanny pack ($17-30) makes for a fun stocking stuffer and comes in a ton of cool patterns and colors, including corduroy! It looks great strapped around the waist—and even better flung over one shoulder. Make it the best gift ever by creating your own gift box (or, in this case, bag). Throw in essential oils, lip balm, cool bangles, personal keepsakes, or anything that will make your bestie smile.

… and deserves a little rest and relaxation.

Set your friend up for the ultimate at-home spa day with one of Soko Glam’s Korean skincare sets or beauty boxes. The Clean Beauty Set ($36) includes 3 face masks (designed for hydrating and nurturing skin) along with Cica Essense and Hi Amino All Cleanser, a thoughtful gift for someone who loves self-care.

… and always has the best accessories.

Knit and crochet are in this year; everything from trinkets and accessories to full crocheted dresses. There are a ton of amazing knit beanies at Etsy right now. We especially love this super-cute rainbow slouch beanie ($20). Want to add a personal touch? Make your own keychain or friendship bracelet at home and add it to their gift.

 

For Your Friend Who Loves to DIY ...

 

… and doesn’t mind getting their hands dirty.

If you have a friend who loves a project, you can always get them a tie-dye gift set of their own. This Tulip Tie-Dye Party Kit ($30) comes in 14 colors and enough supplies to tie-dye 36 different t-shirts, sweatpants, tote bags, and more.

… and is all about that hygge life.

Whether your friend knows how to knit or wants to learn, the Avanto Beanie Mini Kit ($40) has everything they need to make a warm hat for winter. The yarn comes in nearly 30 different colors and patterns, including aquamarine and Millennial pink. They'll be knitting everything from hats to throw blankets in no time.

… and gives you serious lunch envy.

And if your friend’s favorite kind of DIY is to whip up a feast, consider the Big Break Lunch Bag ($20). This super cute reusable lunch box looks like a miniature backpack. Inside, it’s insulated to keep food hot or cold. There’s also an exterior pocket perfect for holding utensils, napkins, or condiments.

 

Got to buy something for a gift swap too? Check out our favorite white elephant gifts or shop for gifts under $25.

 

By: Jessen O’Brien