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Gift giving is one of the best parts of the holiday season—but one thing that makes it even more fun? A classic White Elephant gift exchange, of course. Perfect for playing with friends and family members, this lighthearted game involves stealing and swapping gifts, which often range from funny and silly picks to cute, thoughtful stocking stuffers. In other words: The best White Elephant gift ideas are ones that everyone will want to steal.
In case you need a little brushing up on the specific rules, here’s how a White Elephant exchange typically goes: Everyone brings a wrapped gift within the established spending limit. People choose a gift according to an agreed-upon order (drawing numbers from a hat or going youngest to oldest), and then on your turn, you either steal something that’s already been opened or brave the mystery of the remaining wrapped presents. If your gift gets stolen, you can steal another unwrapped gift or go back to the untouched presents. As you can imagine, this game definitely brings out the competitive side in just about everyone—and hilarious, chaotic antics often ensue.
So, how do you find that perfect White Elephant gift? Luckily, there are plenty of thoughtful gift ideas out there at every price point, including gifts under $25 and gifts under $50. Take inspiration from the best beauty gifts for makeup lovers, wellness gifts for those who need a little pampering, and fun family gifts that everyone can enjoy together. When in doubt, you can never go wrong with a funny gag gift, which is sure to earn some big laughs from the whole crew.
Ahead, find the best White Elephant gift ideas that everyone will love—and get ready to battle it out for the best gift (which will be yours, obviously!).
This pretty moon lamp emits the softest glow and will make a great addition to anyone’s bedroom. You can even adjust the brightness and color of the light!
Okay, before you scroll past this, hear us out: We have personally received a toilet night light at a White Elephant party before it was abruptly stolen (and then stolen again) making it the clear winner of the night. It definitely beats turning on the bathroom light at 3 a.m.
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5
A Fun Read
Penguin Books The Totally Awesome Book of Useless Information by Noel Botham
5
A Fun Read
Penguin Books The Totally Awesome Book of Useless Information by Noel Botham
Now 40% Off
Who couldn’t use some extra useless information? This book is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to fill awkward silences at co*cktail parties or family get-togethers with trivia. It’s full of facts, like that there are oysters that can climb trees. Who knew? Well, whoever is clever enough to score this book at the gift exchange.
Morning coffee and tea drinkers (a.k.a. everyone) will jump at this cup holder. The silicone holder keeps hot or cold drinks nearby, and since it goes right over the armrest, the struggle between you and the side table can finally end.
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best water bottle
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
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best water bottle
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Just about everyone could use an upgrade of their water bottle—especially if it’s this popular, top-rated pick that reviewers (and our very own Prevention editors) can’t stop raving about. Designed with a convenient built-in straw for easy sipping, it’s also double-wall insulated to keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours.
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no green thumb required
Craft Crush Mini Terrariums Craft Kit
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no green thumb required
Craft Crush Mini Terrariums Craft Kit
The terrarium trend will never go away, and thankfully these little faux plants are in that camp. These succulents are actually made of felt but look like the real thing. Plant Mom? Like it’s that hard?
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A Silly Kitchen Essential
Ototo Pirate Cutting Board and Knife Set
9
A Silly Kitchen Essential
Ototo Pirate Cutting Board and Knife Set
In true White Elephant gift fashion, this pirate cutting board and knife set is sure to get a few laughs. But as funny and cute as the gift may be, it’s also incredibly practical. Just pull the “peg leg” knife from the board to slice and dice whatever needs cutting.
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While we love a good customizable gift, these one-of-a-kind coasters are pretty sweet too. Because they’re made from agate gemstones, each coaster is completely unique. Bonus: They still look unified even if you mix and match the colors. Anyone who likes colorful decor would be happy to snag this gift.
Is there anything better than a simple pair of gloves that make navigating your cell phone on freezing cold days a little easier? We think not. This style comes in a variety of colors and also features non-slip silicone on the hand pads.
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a pint-sized game
GSE Games & Sports Expert Mini Tabletop Cornhole Toss Game Set
13
a pint-sized game
GSE Games & Sports Expert Mini Tabletop Cornhole Toss Game Set
Just like the all-time classic lawn game, this mini cornhole set comes with everything you’ll need: two mini boards and 8 mini bean bags for two to four players. It’s also a whole lot easier to clean up and store than the normal-size version.
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For Golden Girls Devotees
Silver Buffalo “Golden Girls” Sophia Face Mini Ceramic Planter
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For Golden Girls Devotees
Silver Buffalo “Golden Girls” Sophia Face Mini Ceramic Planter
Now 17% Off
Warning: This garden club-approved gift comes with the sudden urge to erupt into the Golden Girls theme song whenever you see it. Perfect for those with green thumbs and TV fans alike, this mini succulent planter features the face of Sophia and makes a great conversation piece. Thank you for being a friend indeed.
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Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and this mini waffle maker will make cooking early morning meals quick and easy. The best part? You can choose from different exterior designs and even shapes for an adorably unique breakfast spread.
Give the gift of a perfectly chilled co*cktail with an insulated tumbler that prevents a top-tier party foul (aka watered-down mojitos or martinis). Perfect for outdoor nightcaps, this durable stainless-steel pick won’t shatter like traditional glassware can, and you won’t spot an ounce of condensation, even in the warmest conditions.
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elevate bath time
Royal Craft Wood Luxury Bathtub Tray Caddy
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elevate bath time
Royal Craft Wood Luxury Bathtub Tray Caddy
Soaking in the bath is extra relaxing with this bathtub caddy. Made of natural bamboo and adjustable to fit over just about any tub, it offers plenty of space to place candles, a glass of wine, and even a tablet.
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This headlamp is a White Elephant gift that will be put to good use by those who love the outdoors. The rechargeable design features bright LED lights, is virtually weather-proof, and has different settings for use under various lighting conditions.
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practical and cute food storage
Food Huggers Avocado Hugger
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practical and cute food storage
Food Huggers Avocado Hugger
Let’s face it: Almost everyone loves avocados. Brown halves on the other hand? Not so much. That’s where these avocado-shaped silicone covers come in. Use one to seal a cut half of avocado, stopping air from getting in and causing browning.
Shauna Beni
Shauna Beni is the Associate Commerce Editor at Prevention. An NYC native and beauty product lover, Shauna has written for Beauty Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, and ABC News. She enjoys testing out new beauty products, watching makeup tutorials on Youtube, and binge-watching her favorite shows on Netflix. When she’s not writing, you can find her taking Zumba classes at Crunch, trying out natural curly hairstyles, and giving her friends advice on what makeup and haircare products they should buy. Follow her on Instagram @Beni127.
Elizabeth Kiefer
Elizabeth Kiefer is a features editor at Cosmopolitan, where she focuses on enterprise stories, narrative reporting, and cultural coverage for the magazine's print and digital platforms.