It’s that time of year again, when teacher gifts, Kris Kringle and Christmas stockings all seem to land on the shopping list at once. A thoughtful gift doesn’t need a big budget. Something useful, chosen with the person in mind, is a great way to say thank you or make their day.
We’ve pulled together our favourite gifts under $40, from little lunchbox helpers to baking favourites. Every individual product below is under $40, with optional pairing ideas if you’d like to add a personal touch.
4 gift ideas Stocking fillers & Kris Kringle gifts
3 gift ideas For the little ones
4 gift ideas For the baker
3 gift ideas
Teacher gifts under $40
A little something to say thanks for the lessons, encouragement and reminders to bring a hat. These practical picks can earn their place in a lunch bag, staffroom or kitchen at home.
Stainless Steel Ice Brick
$26
Anyone who’s worked in a shared space knows the fridge fills up fast. This reusable ice brick helps keep lunch cool in an insulated lunch bag, no fridge Tetris required. Pop it in the freezer overnight, ready for the morning rush.
Glass Oil Spray Bottle
$16
Practical, pretty and right at home on the kitchen bench. This glass bottle makes it easy to add a light spray of oil when cooking.
Adult Cutlery Set in Tin
$25
For lunches at school and meals on the go, this set keeps their cutlery together in its own tin. They can tuck it into a lunch bag or keep it in a desk drawer, ready when the staffroom spoons go missing.
Coffee Spoon
$13
For the teacher who enjoys a coffee, this sturdy little spoon makes a nice upgrade to their morning routine. Especially if the last one disappeared back in Term 2.
Stocking fillers & Kris Kringle gifts under $40
Small enough to tuck into a stocking, useful enough to keep reaching for long after the decorations come down.
Stainless Steel Long Handle Stirrer
$11
Every family has someone who takes charge of the drinks at Christmas lunch. This one’s for them, whether it’s a jug of something fruity, a creamy iced coffee or a round of cordial for the kids.
Small Dough Cutter
$15
If pizza night is a big deal in their house, this one will get plenty of use. It’s handy for dividing dough, portioning scones and scraping floury benches when the baking’s done.
Ice Cream Scoop
$26
Summer in Australia calls for a scoop or two of something cold. Give the ice cream enthusiast in your life a dedicated scoop, ready for cones, bowls and the occasional sundae.
Gifts for little kids under $40
Practical presents can be fun, too. These picks bring a little colour and personality to everyday meals.
Stainless Steel Cups
from $9
A stainless steel cup is a handy gift for water, milk and smoothies. Add a colourful silicone band (from $8) for a little extra grip and a cup that’s easier to spot at the table.
Divided Kids Plate
$21
For the child who likes their peas to keep their distance from the pasta, the divided sections give everything its own space. Afterwards, it can go straight into the dishwasher.
Kids Cutlery Set
$33
Sized for smaller hands, this set is a practical pick for children finding their independence at the dinner table. It’s ready for those determined “I can do it myself” moments.
Car Plate with Suction
$33
A fun choice for the little car enthusiast. The suction base helps keep the plate in place on suitable smooth surfaces, while the car shape gives them something to smile about at mealtimes.
Gifts for the baker under $40
We all know someone who turns up with a tin of something homemade. Here are a few ways to return the favour.
Mini Oven Tray
$33
A handy size for a small batch of biscuits, a handful of roast veggies or reheating last night’s leftovers. It’s the sort of tray that can find a job well beyond baking day.
Pie Pan
$35
For the baker whose idea of a good afternoon involves pastry. From apple pie to a quiche made with Boxing Day leftovers, this pan gives them plenty of reasons to roll up their sleeves.
20cm Cake Tin
$36
Birthday cakes, afternoon tea or a sponge just because. This stainless steel tin is one they’ll reach for over and over, with no coating to scratch or flake.
A little thought goes a long way
A useful gift and a personal touch can be all it takes. A favourite snack, a handwritten recipe or a card from the kids makes it feel chosen just for them.
And whether it becomes part of their daily lunch routine or their next baking afternoon, there’s something lovely about giving a gift that gets used.
Looking for more gift ideas? Explore our Low Tox Gift Guide →
