Welcome to the massive post of gift basket ideas. Sometimes, when we’re searching for a gift for someone, especially a someone that is difficult to buy for, we get overwhelmed and shut down.
I know, I’ve done it so many times.
But most times, a quick Google search leading to a post like this one kicked my brain into gear. I hope this does the same for you. The categories I have below are just loose so feel free to take the baskets out of context, to substitute, and even to do something completely different. These are just ideas to help you form your own ideas.
This list will keep growing.
Gift Baskets for Men
Many people have trouble buying gifts for the men in their lives. As far as gift baskets go, they are some of the easiest people to buy for as long as you know even a little bit about them.
Grilling
Grilling fork, spatula, tongs, his favorite grilling spices & rubs, sauces, rolls, grilling recipe book. Use a tray lined with napkins as the “basket.”
Handyman
Make little packages of nails, nuts, bolts, screws. He always needs more of those. Make your own trail mix and use nuts, raisins, etc with a little label called “nuts and bolts.” Include any small tools he’s missing, for example pocket knife or certain sized screwdriver. Maybe include protective ear muffs, wipes for his hands. Sandpaper would also be a good option as it wears out easily. Place in basket or an actual toolbox.
Superbowl
Include chips, salsa, M&Ms, cheeses, crackers, hat and/or shirt of his favorite team, beer, coozy. You can place all these things in a large football-themed party bowl. You can also apply this theme to other sports, such as the Stanley Cup or the World Series.
Travel Grooming Set
Comb, razors, shaving cream, aftershave, travel-sized deodorant, shampoo, soap. Place all of this in a basket or in a shaving toiletry bag.
Fishing
Lures, floats, extra line, gummy worms, travel mug, coffee, hooks, pliers, pocket knife. All in a tackle box or a bucket.
Golf
Golf balls, tees, coffee, travel mug, pencils, a book of golf facts, golf course calendar, membership to a local golf club all in a metal golf ball basket.
Women
Organic Make-up
Women put make-up on their faces every. Why not go natural? Try natural/organic lipstick, eyeliner, eyeshadow, blush, foundation, make-up removers. A face cloth would be a good addition too. Look for products at Sephora and Saffron Rouge. Place in a make-up bag.
Spa Gift Basket
Bath beads or bubbles, pumice stone, lotion, body oil, facial mask, loofah or mesh sponge, hand towels & face cloth (matching). Try to include a matching set of scents or scents that compliment one another. Place ina shower caddy or basket.
Lovers
For Valentine’s Day
Make “coupons” for various acts like a back scratch, foot rub, certain sexual acts, etc. that your lover can play at any time. A useful one includes a “you’re right” to use in a fight (I’ve found this one useful anyway). Include pink marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate for Valentine’s Day s’mores (surprisingly romantic). A piece of jewelry would be nice for a woman, a watch for a man. Write a long, heartfelt card/note and include it as well. Put in a paper bag to disguise what’s within for a surprise. (Simple, inexpensive, heartfelt gift.)
Babies
Remember, when you’re giving a gift to a baby, you’re really giving the gift to the parents. Including something for them will get you major appreciation points.
Boy or Girl
Rattle, stuffed animal, bottles, a little cardboard book (never too young to start with books), little onesies rolled and tied with ribbon, booties, little hat for winter, packages of formula. Place this and more nestled in a blanket in a basket or a diaper bag.
Gift Baskets for Kids
Outdoor Games
Bubbles, chalk, 4-square ball, racquets, balls, wiffle ball bat, frisbee, horse shoe set, towel. You can put all of this in a wagon or something similar.
Indoor Games
Pack of cards, cribbage board, Uno, jacks, basketball hoop and ball for door, fabric dart board set, boggle, yahtzee, bananagrams.
Educational
Depending on age this varies a lot. Books, coloring books, puzzles, math flash cards, pocket dictionary, planner.
College students
College students love to get mail, especially around finals time. Include things to help them burn off steam such as a dart board and their favorite candies/baked goods. Inspirational quotes, a planner, extra pens/pencils, sticky notes, and highlighters may help with the studying.
Gift Baskets for Graduates
Journal, gift baskets, humorous books, cookbooks, graduate teddy bear for girls, gift cards, money.
Grandparents
Candy from their eras, framed pictures of grandchildren, popular movies from when they were kids. If you are a college student include items from your school–grandparents love to brag.
General Gift Baskets
Chocolate & Wine
Make a high-class gift basket with gourmet chocolates and his or her favorite wines. Include wine glasses, cheese, crackers, and fruit.
Outdoor gear
Flashlight, water bottle, head lamp, bug spray/wipes, trail mix as a snack, compass, hat, GPS, pocket knife, binoculars. Place in a small hiking backpack.
Car wash
Sponges, soap, wax, polish, rubber gloves–all in a bucket.
Picnic Gift Basket for Two
Loaf of bread, cheese, fruits, wine, napkins, plates, forks, knives, blanket, glasses all in a picnic basket or attractive cooler.
Putting together a gift basket can be a lot of work, and if you feel overwhelmed, check out the rest of the site for reviews of existing baskets.