48 unique gift ideas for all your friends, from a custom cocktail book to the prettiest chocolates
Buying gifts for friends is a thoughtful way to show them you care. Here are 48 gift ideas for a friend, whether they're a new bud or a longtime BFF.
When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
Friends play such an important role in our lives, so it's always nice to show your appreciation with a gift, big or small. Whether it's your friend's birthday or you just want to say thank you, you want to find the perfect present that not only makes them smile but encapsulates who they are.
We rounded up 48 unique and one-of-a-kind gifts that any of your friends would love to receive and — drumroll — they're all under $100.
How to Make a Name-tini, available at Wonderbly
This personalized book is a great way to pay homage to a friend who is really particular about their signature cocktail. The book can be personalized in six different ways, including a unique toast for your friend.
Custom Pet Embroidered Sweatshirt, available at Uncommon Goods
For the proud pet parent, this sweatshirt is custom embroidered with their pet(s) faces. You can also add pet names, too, if you like.
Pancake Candle, available at Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters' cheeky food candles truly look and smell good enough to eat. Treat your friend to one that resembles their favorite food, like this stack of pancakes, a stack of waffles, or strawberry shortcake.
Vosges Dark Chocolate Truffle Collection, available as Vosges
A box stuffed full of chocolate needs no introduction, but this one is full of truffles that are almost too pretty to eat in truly unique flavors like Kübler absinthe, Chinese star anise, and fennel. Vosges tops our list of the best chocolates you can buy.
Fresh floral arrangements, available at UrbanStems
When in doubt, flowers make a universally great gift, no matter the occasion or how well you know them. The best flower delivery service we tested is UrbanStems, which offers a ton of beautiful bouquets at reasonable prices.
Best Friend Jewelry, available at Bryan Anthonys
Nothing says friendship like matching jewelry, so treat both you and your best friend to a set of Bryan Anthony's friendship jewelry.
Friendship Messages, available at Uncommon Goods
Tell your best friend 12 reasons why you love them so much with a beautiful handmade gift. This box of messages allows the gift giver to choose a dozen meaningful, heart-shaped reasons for their friendship that all fit in a beautiful birch container.
Cursive Letter Charm, available at Mejuri
Spoil your friends with a personalized letter charm that makes a gorgeous addition to a chain necklace or bracelet. Made with 14k solid gold, it's built to last a lifetime.
CASOFU Tortilla Blanket, available at Amazon
This tortilla blanket is sure to elicit a few laughs while also serving as a super cozy nap companion. It also comes in other varieties like a waffle and pepperoni pizza for all your food-loving friends.
Greetabl Gift Box, available at Greetabl,
Greetabl is one of the Insider Reviews team's favorite modes of checking in on those we love. The customizable box includes a fun print, a spot for a personal message, and a selection of a small gift like Sugarfina treats or quirky pins.
Fujifilm Quicksnap Camera 2 Pack, available at Target
Create lasting memories with this pair of disposable cameras that'll definitely make you and your bestie a little nostalgic in the best way.
Birthdate Candles, available at Amazon and Birthdate Co.
Avid astrologist friends will love this birthdate candle. Birthdate Co. manufactures 366 candles, each with a specific scent and meaning based on the recipient's birthday. If you want to go the extra mile, you can pair this with an astrology book.
Harry Potter Alumni Cap, available at BoxLunch
For friends who are still waiting on their Hogwarts letters, this house-specific ballcap will get them by. Whether they were sorted into Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin, this hat is functional and fashionable with a custom pigment dye treatment. Off to platform 9¾! You can find more "Harry Potter"-themed gift ideas here.
NFL x Baublebar Gold Pisa Bracelet, available at Baublebar
Even if you don't share in your friend's enthusiasm for sports, this sports team bracelet shows you get them. Match the bracelet with their favorite team to help them upgrade their next game-day outfit.
Brass & Wood Display Box, available at Artifact Uprising
Artifact Uprising's brass and hardwood Display Box is a bit more aesthetically pleasing than the traditional picture frame. They can showcase their favorite picture by sliding it into the front of the box, and the box itself can hold up to 50 five-inch by five-inch Square Prints inside.
If you're just looking for prints, you can find those starting at $2.40 here.
Restaurant Meal Kits, available at Goldbelly
Goldbelly makes it possible to satisfy their most specific and nostalgic cravings no matter where they live in the US — whether it's a cheesecake from Junior's or a deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati. Browse the iconic gifts section for inspiration.
Mini Essentials Set, available at Brightland
If your friend loves to cook, bring a touch of luxury to their kitchen with the Brightland Mini Essentials Set. They'll think of you every time they reach for these little olive oil and vinegar bottles, which happen to be some of our favorites.
The Voting Game, available at Amazon
The Voting Game is where secrets come out and friendships are put to the test…figuratively, of course. This adult party game poses life's real questions, like "Who would survive the longest in a zombie apocalypse?", and then it's off to the polls! Laughter is guaranteed but be warned: Being a good sport is definitely required.
Long Distance Friendship Lamp, available at Uncommon Goods
If your close friend lives far away, let them know you're always thinking of them with this friendship light. When you tap your light, your friend's twin version will instantly activate so they know you haven't forgotten them.
"The Office BFFs" by Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey, available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart
Is your best friend an obsessive fan of "The Office"? If so, look no further than "The Office BFFs: Tales of The Office from Two Best Friends Who Were There," the book written by "The Office" costars and real-life best friends Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey.
"Friendship Maintenance: 30 Postcards to Say How Much You Freaking Care," available at Amazon and Walmart
"Friendship Maintenance" adds a more personal touch to the frequent check-ins you're probably already having with one another. The witty postcards weave in themes of friendship in a hilariously relatable way.
Puffy Earbuds Case, available at Baggu
If you have a friend who loses their AirPods or earbuds all too often, this unique case attaches straight to their keyring. Plus, it's quilted, padded, and machine washable. The pouch fastens with Velcro and comes in fun colors and patterns like leopard print and stripes.
Coffee Reading Mug, available at Society6
Perfect for the avid coffee drinker or casual fan of the occult, this ceramic mug made by the independent artists of Society6 is a fun — and useful — gift. They've also got pretty much every mug pattern you could want.
Homesick Location Scented Candle, available at Amazon, Homesick, and Uncommon Goods
If you have a friend from your hometown you haven't seen in a while, you can make it up to them with one of these state-scented candles. Ranging from Alaska to Hawaii, these ethically made candles capture the essence of fond memories and will bring joy to their home.
Farmacy Honey Potion Renewing Antioxidant Hydration Mask, available at Farmacy
This intensely hydrating mask from beauty brand Farmacy is infused with antioxidants to leave the skin looking glowy and plump. It also physically warms up while on the face, so the self-care feels a bit more tangible.
Women's and Men's Ankle Sock (4-Pack), available at Bombas
Bombas' ankle socks have extra blister tabs to prevent chafing, a honeycomb arch-support system to cradle the foot's arch, and a seamless toe that gets rid of the annoying bump that runs across the toes of most socks.
Winc is a personalized wine club — and we think the best one you can belong to. Members take a wine palate profile quiz and then choose from the personalized wine suggestions. Each bottle has extensive tasting notes and serving recommendations online, and the website makes it easy to discover similar bottles.
Embroidered Journal, available at Rifle Paper Co.
For the best friend who expresses themselves best through pen and paper, this unique, embroidered journal is the perfect place to store their thoughts.
Three Month Subscription, available at Book of the Month
This subscription gift was handcrafted for bookworms. Book of the Month has been around since 1926, and it's credited with the discovery of titles like "Gone with the Wind" and "Catcher in the Rye." A team of experts and celebrity guest judges curate must-read books — usually new releases, hot topics, and debut authors — and send them to the subscriber's doorstep.
If they're more into audiobooks or e-reading, check out a gift subscription to Scribd (full review here).
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, available at Laneige and Amazon
Laneige's hyper-popular overnight lip mask smooths and moisturizes with vitamin C and antioxidants.
Gift Card, available at ClassPass
Start heading to more boutique fitness classes with your friend by making them easier and cheaper to attend. ClassPass lets you drop in at different specialized studios for $15 or less per class.
Plants and accessories, available at The Sill
A plant from The Sill will be delivered to their doorstep in a small ceramic pot with a drainage hole and its own saucer. It will be potted in the company's potting mix.
Celestial Silk 100% Silk Pillowcase, available at Amazon
This is one of the internet's hidden gems. It's nearly $40 on Amazon, but it gives you more silk per square inch than options twice the price at Sephora. It's made out of 100% Mulberry silk — one of the highest quality silks you can buy — and comes in more than 25 colors and three sizes: standard, queen, and king. It's the one I personally own, and it makes a big difference for frizzy hair.
Murder Mystery Jigsaw Puzzle, available at Uncommon Goods
This murder mystery jigsaw puzzle is the ideal gift for friends who enjoy a challenge as the mystery unfolds with the placement of each piece. Not to mention, puzzles are a great activity to do together.
Standard Passport Cover, available at Leatherology
For the world traveler, adventure companion, or person who has a lot of places left to see before they're satisfied, this leather passport cover is one of the best quality for the price you're bound to find. You can also personalize your gift further with a monogram (starting at an extra $10). Every time they use it, they'll think of you.
The Essential Cashmere Sweater, available at Naadam
This cashmere sweater is one of the best I've worn, and it took me by surprise. You can get it in either crew-neck or V-neck styles, unisex sizing, and 20 colors. The cashmere is one of the softest I've felt.
"Booze & Vinyl: A Spirited Guide to Great Music and Mixed Drinks" by André Darlington, available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble
Have a friend who loves music and a nice cocktail? This pairs both for a perfect combination every time. The guide includes music from 70 albums, ranging from the '50s to the '00s, with an accompanying A-side and B-side cocktail for each — all organized by mood.
Custom iPhone Case, available at Bauble Bar
For something a bit more customized, consider treating your friend to a custom iPhone Case. Adorn the case with their name for a one-of-a-kind gift they'll use daily.
Check out local Airbnb Experiences
Through Airbnb Experiences, you can book an experience like a pasta-making class, brewery tour, or local tour that the two of you can enjoy together. Plus, you can buy this gift as last-minute as you like.
Gift Subscription, available at Facetory
Facetory is an affordable monthly subscription to various K-beauty sheet masks. You can opt to pay for one, three, six, nine, or 12 months at a time.
Asakuki 500 mL Premium Essential Oil Diffuser, Amazon
Add atmosphere to their space with our favorite essential oil diffuser, the Asakuki. This diffuser has a 16-hour run time, seven LED light options, and a mist setting. All the features can be controlled with the remote, so they don't even have to get up to change the mood.
Grecian Bust Pot, available at Anthropologie
This beautiful and functional Grecian bust pot is the perfect gift for your plant-loving bestie. Plus, it's a budget-friendly find.
Tiled Margot Monogram Mug, available at Anthropologie
Get them something they'll use every morning, like this beautiful, tiled monogram mug.
Nécessaire The Body Wash, available at Nordstrom
Nécessaire is a line of body care products that use vitamins and plant-based oils. It was founded by Randi Christiansen, a former Estée Lauder vice president, and Nick Axelrod, a co-founder of Into the Gloss, the editorial site that preceded Glossier.
Leather Charger Roll Up, available at Mark & Graham
Mark & Graham's Leather Charger Roll Up is made from soft, supple leather and has three separate pockets to stash cables and chargers on the go. Get it monogrammed for an extra $12.50.
Instant Pot Mini Air Fryer, available at Amazon and Walmart
If your friend is late to the air fryer trend, get them up to speed with this affordable Instant Pot model. They'll understand the hype in no time.
Kitchen Trio, available at Homecourt
For friends who like to keep things clean, help them step up their cleaning game with this Kitchen Trio from Homecourt, actress Courteney Cox's home brand. This set includes a surface cleaner, hand wash, and dish soap and comes in four decadent fragrances.
At Home Movie Critic's Chart, available at Amazon
Film buffs and casual moviegoers alike will love the At Home Movie Critic's Chart. This interactive poster features IMDB's top 100 movies and is the perfect addition to a movie night with friends.