The holiday season can be great, but the rampant consumerism can be overwhelming with a price tag that’s just way too steep. Tuna and ramen-diet kind of steep. But don’t fret! We’re here to help! We’ve compiled some of the best finds under $100 to help you grab the gifts for everyone on your list without making you cry behind closed doors.
Reusable Stainless Steel Straws (4 pack), $17.50 CAD
In case you’re not aware of the problems with plastic straws take a minute to educate yourself, and while the plastic problem doesn’t start nor end simply with straws here’s a gift that shows an eco-effort. These reusable stainless steel straws are both cool and serve a greater good. The 4-pack comes with a handy cleaning brush and a cloth bag, but best of all, you can toss them in the dishwasher to clean. Instead of throwing away more plastic, here’s a zero-waste alternative that’s affordable.
Solar Powered Radio, approx. $56 CAD
Simply crank the radio, yes manually, and you can get enough juice to last 30 minutes just from a minute of winding. If exposed to sunlight for five hours the radio can also last up to 30 minutes. Available in white and green, this little radio is perfect additions to a camping kit and a great conversation starter too.
Jason Markk Limited Edition Gift Set, approx. $60 CAD
Give the gift that will make any sneakerhead happy, especially given the trusted name it’s coming from. This limited-edition set offers up the essential shoe cleaning armour: ready-to-use foam, a brush, a microfiber towel, and a couple quick wipes for easier jobs. An apron has also been added to the package this year to ensure you don’t muck up the rest of your clothes trying to clean those prized possessions of yours.
Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm, $37 CAD
Aesop’s Resurrection Hand Balm is an essential gift perfect for pretty much anyone on your holiday list. Not only is it addictive to apply and re-apply, it continues to be among Aesop’s most popular and regularly purchased products. It’s non-greasy, smells amazing and long lasting; just a small dollop does wonders for cuticles and dry hands.
Supreme Hanes Crew Socks, $20USD
It may not be a bogo t-shirt or an inflatable kayak but everyone on your list need socks, so why not grab these Supreme ones for the hypebeast on your shopping list. The two-pack comes in either white and black cotton blend with Hanes cushion comfort and features a jacquard Supreme logo at the top. Plus, unlike other Supreme items, you don’t have to worry about the drop date or the item selling out – these bad boys are always available online or in-store.
Mojito Glasses & Muddler Set, $20 CAD
This mojito set won’t break the bank and will give those wishing to step up their hosting game something to entertain with (or keep for personal use). The glasses are dishwasher-safe but the wooden muddler is hand wash only. If you’re in need of a simple tried and tested mix, try one of our go-to’s from Canadian chef David Rocco which combines 1/2 lime quartered, 2 tsp sugar, 6-7 large mint leaves, 1 oz. white rum, ice cubes and some Prosecco. Simply add lime, sugar and mint leaves into a glass and bash them all together. Add the rum and ice cubes and top with Prosecco.
Diptyque L’Elide Candle, $85 USD
As part of the 34 collection, this beautiful new Diptyque Elide candle fuses bitter orange, nutmeg, sandalwood and lavender scents. It burns for up to 70 hours and comes in a lovely matte black ceramic, different from their signature size candles usually housed in glass. It also trades traditional branding for a representation of Fauna, “an ancient figure that fascinated Desmond Knox-Leet, in this region of Greece where bitter orange peel essences, aromatic plants and wild lavender meet.” Once the burn time is complete, clean out this gorgeous ceramic and use it for makeup brushes or as a pencil holder on your desk.
Herschel Amenity Kit, $34.99+ CAD
This Hershel Amenity kit is all one needs to maintain sanity while on long flights, train rides or road trips of any sort. The kit comes with ear plugs, an eye mask to keep any noise or light from distracting you while you’re trying to sleep. It also comes with an inflatable neck pillow to keep you supported and comfy while you sleep and a handy pair of reusable slippers you can wear walking around the flight instead of forcing your possibly swelled feet back into your shoes. Plus it all fits nicely into the drawstring bag and comes in a range of sizes for both men and women.
Empress 1908 Gin, $49.95 CAD
If you have a gin lover on your list this year make sure to get them something that not only tastes good but also supports Canadian business. Inspired by the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, B.C, Empress 1908 combines eight distinct botanicals including the Fairmont Empress Tea as well as grapefruit peel, coriander seed, ginger root, and more, with no artificial colours or stabilizers to give it its vibrant colour shade. Micro-distilled in small batch copper-pot stills, it also changes colour to magenta when adding tonic and citrus.
Boundless Solid Oil, approx. $117 CAD
One of our favourite Toronto makeup stylists put us onto this solid oil from chemical-free skincare line 8 Faces. As the winter rolls in we’re all going to need an extra hit of moisture and this oil comes packed with rich antioxidants like Amla Berry that will help revitalize and hydrate. The organic cream is good for sensitive skin and gives a deep nourishing pick-me-up, on the face, hands or body.