All Hallmark holidays have a natural way of coming off a bit pushy, but nothing compares to the overwhelming in-your-facery that Valentine’s Day brings to the calendar. Take a stroll inside any CVS between January 1st and February 14th. It feels like being swallowed whole by Cupid himself. Aisles are lined with useless pink and red knickknacks that will surely be thrown away in a month.
The problem? Often, most of us feel obligated to participate in a bit of lovey-dovey gift-giving, even if the plan is to spend only a few bucks. But the best you can do on a budget will never be between the aluminum-free deodorant and the head lice cream inside America’s largest drugstore. The solution? Getting the shopping done from the comfort of your own couch.
Significant others, casual hookups, office crushes, the Chase bank teller with the pretty brown eyes, whomever. If they’re piquing your fancy, they deserve a little something. Below, catch some of the best Valentine’s Day gifts under $25 we’re crushing on this year.
Where We Met Map
This is probably the most sentimental gift that money can buy on a budget. Bonus points if you frame it.
Chocolate Moonshine Belgian Chocolate Fudge
Boxes of chocolates are for Forrest Gump. This year, gift chocolate’s sexier older sibling: fudge.
Le Creuset Stoneware Mini Round Cocotte
Le Creuset can get pretty pricey, but did y’all know that the brand sells a super tiny cocotte for tiny little meals? Mini quiche, anyone?
Funny Love Card
What better way to say “I love you” than with an erotically comical Valentine’s Day card? Not sure if it gets any easier than that.
Calvin Klein Plaid Blanket Scarf
It’s chilly out there and it won’t get warmer any time soon. Plus, this is one of the wildest deals Calvin Klein has ever dropped.
YETI 10 oz Wine Tumbler
Nothing says romance more than toasting with a glass of red. Insulated wine tumblers from Yeti are just $25 and will keep beverages cold (or hot) for hours on end.
Fahlo The Journey Bracelet
Though it looks great on a wrist, Fahlo’s “The Journey” bracelet is more than a piece of jewelry. Each bracelet comes with a real sea turtle to track. Perfect for any animal-loving Valentine.
Dr. Squatch Pine Tar Soap
Tell your partner you don’t love their body wash with this romantic $8 gesture. Consider it a gift for both of you.
The Spice House Lake Shore Drive Shallot & Herb Seasoning
All foodies need The Spice House in their spice cabinets. The brand has spice concoctions that are truly out of this world on chicken, eggs, steaks, and the like. Perfect for the significant other who only knows how to use salt and pepper.
Eastpak Springer Black Fanny Pack
Got a lover whose pockets are constantly full? Lucky for them, fanny pack season is (somewhat) approaching. Anticipate spring with a new one from Eastpak.
Wallows – Tell me That It’s Over Limited LP
Vinyl records are the smartest gifts to give any music lovers. Urban Outfitters has a ton of records under $25, including old-school picks and newer options like this Wallows LP. Just be sure to peep your giftee’s collection first to make sure you don’t buy a duplicate.
First Lie Wins
Book lovers are like vinyl record lovers. Just gift ‘em something they haven’t read and you’ll surely bring a smile to their face.
COSRX Snail Mucin – 96% Power Repairing Essence
Anyone who knows anything about skincare is raving about this product. If your favorite skincare enthusiast hasn’t given COSRX’s Snail Mucin a whirl, make it time.
Dossier Fruity Orange Fragrance
Dossier creates practically spot-on fragrance dupes at much more affordable price points. This one’s perfect for anybody who loves a fruit-centric scent.
Alpha Grillers Instant Read Meat Thermometer
Because nobody wants to be eating undercooked meat. This is a pretty reasonable price compared to any American hospital bill.
Uniqlo AIRism Cotton Crewneck Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Long-sleeve tees are necessary for the chilly temps your giftee’s going to endure this February. Time to get a move on it.
SAXX Quest Quick Dry Mesh Boxer Briefs
SAXX makes some of the best underwear the world has to offer, full stop. Pick up one of their must-wears at an affordable price this Valentine’s Day.
Hamilton Beach Fresh Grind Electric Coffee Grinder
Fresh-ground coffee every morning? Yes, please. And, at just under $20? Try your best not to gift this to everyone you love this V-Day.
Pyrex 2-Piece Glass Measuring Cup Set
Sure, there might be more romantic gifts to get, but this one will surely win some brownie points with your giftee’s grandma.
Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie
Keep it festive. Carhartt’s famous Knit Cuffed Beanie has Valentine-centric colors like pink, peach, and red.
Burt’s Bees Everyday Essentials Set
Sure, this essentials set is geared toward Christmas, but better late than never. Pick up Soap Bark and Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream, Hand Salve, Milk & Honey Body Lotion, Coconut Foot Cream, and Beeswax Lip Balm for just $10.
Bark Throwman Candle Dog Toy
Maybe your Valentine walks on four legs. If that’s the case, look no further than this affordable (and tough) tug-of-war toy from Bark.
Bamboo Wood Incense Holder
Gift your Valentine the gift of a better-smelling home with this ultra-affordable incense holder.
