Under $50 Sustainable Gift Ideas: 15 Eco-Friendly Options

Finding sustainable gifts under $50 can be tricky when you want something thoughtful, affordable, and genuinely eco-friendly. The good news? There are plenty of ethical, fair-trade, and low-waste options that don’t stretch your budget.

Whether you’re shopping for an eco-conscious friend or someone new to sustainable choices, this guide rounds up eco-friendly gift ideas under $50 that are kind to people and the planet.

Here's our roundup of sustainable gifts under $50 to help you put a smile on someone's face without hurting the environment or your wallet.

15 Sustainable Gifts Under $50

1. Block Print Square Scarf Bandana - Chaand

Shop | $35

For the fashionista in your circle, this block print bandana scarf from ichcha is a perfect under-$50 sustainable gift idea to spice up their winter outfit. It can be worn around the neck or head for an extra bit of warmth. But that's not what makes this gift item truly remarkable.

Made of 35% silk and 65% organic cotton, this lightweight bandana scarf can be worn even in summer. It feels incredibly soft to the skin and has a beautiful glossy shine on one side and matte on the other. Plus, it's hand-dyed with plant-based dyes through a manual, eco-friendly process known as block printing. From start to finish, this under $50 eco-friendly gift is handmade with love.

2. The Fleece Beanie

Shop | $8

Costing just $8 and made from recycled materials, this comfy beanie is an excellent sustainable gift idea under $50.

Soft and warm, this grey fleece beanie from Miakoda embodies the spirit of winter. Miakoda is an ethical fashion brand committed to providing comfortable and sustainable clothing that looks and feels good. Something to keep your loved one warm during the holidays, and you can bet they'll think of you whenever they have it on.

3. Ichcha Tea Cozy Gift Set

Shop | $35

For the tea lover who enjoys quiet moments, the Tea Cozy Gift Set from ichcha is an eco-friendly gift under 50 dollars that they are going to love. It includes a beautifully block-printed cotton tea cozy and matching coasters, all handmade by artisans using natural dyes.

The breathable cotton keeps your pot warm while staying plastic-free and washable. It’s a small luxury that celebrates craftsmanship and sustainability, priced under $50. It's also a budget-friendly sustainable gift for the holiday. 

4. Stylized Flower Design Handmade Mug

Shop | $40

Looking for handmade sustainable gifts under $50? This cute little ceramic mug sure makes the cut. Made from earthenware clay with bold cobalt flower designs glazed around it, this mug comes with a dose of visual appeal that can completely transform a tablescape.

The imperfection of the handmade designs makes this sustainable gift even more adorable. And each piece is one of a kind, perfect for your artisan-loving friend or family. This is one of the best sustainable handmade gifts for sure.

Note that the items are not mass-produced, so there are only a few left.

5. Revitalizing Detox Exfoliating Face Mask

Shop | $24

For your loved one who’s obsessed with their skin, you could make their day with this 100% organic face mask. Made with ingredients like apricot, shea butter, and peppermint oil, this green skincare can help address blackheads and acne, leaving the skin smoother and oh-so radiant. Just picture your loved one in a warm bathtub with splashes of sheeny green on their face.

Containing 100% natural and non-toxic materials, this clean and cruelty-free face mask is a thoughtful gift under $50 for the person in your life who values beauty and self-care as much as sustainability.

6. Secondline Earrings

Shop | $42

The Secondline earrings make it to our list of under $50 sustainable gifts for their touch of elegance and adorable imperfection. The imperfections are a reminder that they were made by hand, but the elegance of this lovely gift will keep onlookers stunned and asking where the wearer got them. And yes, the wearer's heart will sing your name whenever that question pops up.

The creator idealized and designed each piece on paper before bringing it to life. So you can trust every fragment of these handmade earrings radiates with thoughtfulness and love.

       

7. Dried Sichuan Pepper Gift Set

Shop | $28.90

Ok, now something for the taste buds. This under $50 sustainable gift item will help you become a part of the recipient's every dish. Non-spicy and flavorful, this dried Sichuan pepper adds a splash of goodness to any kind of food and drink, from salads and pasta to cocktails. A practical gift for cooks.

Red and green pepper all in one set, so it doesn’t matter whether the recipient is a fan of either. They'll absolutely love it because who doesn’t like a little extra aroma? Plus, a purchase of this lovely gift is an act of support to the local farmers who put their energy into this natural condiment.

    

8. Mini Spice Set

Shop | $20

For that friend who loves spicy foods, this chilly set is the perfect sustainable gift idea to spice up their day...literally. This chilly set is much hotter than the dried Sichuan set and includes a variety of spicy condiments in a holiday gift box. And the taste, oh so savory!

No artificial flavors or preservatives, 100% organic. A good under $50 gift idea for the [wannabe] chef in your circle.

9. Ichcha Spa and Tea Gift Set

Shop | $32

This calming Spa and Tea Gift Set is one of the best eco-friendly gifts under $50 for the holiday. Perfect for a relaxing evening, the spa and tea gift set features an herbal loose-leaf tea blend, a hand-woven towel, and a naturally dyed pouch, made by Ichcha.

Everything in this eco-friendly gift set is ethically sourced and reusable, so nothing goes to waste. It’s ideal for birthdays, wellness baskets, or thank-you gifts when you want to give something sustainable yet personal.

10. Pure Chocolate Dark Milk w/Coconut

Shop | $10

Who doesn't love a good mouthful of smooth, succulent chocolate? And your typical coconut bar just got a twist with this all-natural flavor from Pure Chocolate. Gluten-free, zero sesame, and zero dairy, this chocolate bar is a cruelty-free and fair-trade gift under $50 to share with everyone around you. Costs only $10, so all the kids and adults can grab a bar.

Pure Chocolate is an artisan chocolate brand, and all products are ethically sourced with a commitment to fair-trade and homegrown products.

11. Bach Peshtemal Towel

Shop | $40

Made of 100% Turkish cotton, this sustainable towel exudes luxury yet costs only $40. What makes it special? Well, Turkish cotton is premium cotton grown exclusively in the Aegean Region. It yields stronger and smoother threads than regular cotton and becomes even more comfortable on the skin with time.

The Bach Peshtemal towel is soft, fast-drying, and perfect for travel, beach, home, and even yoga. If you have a loved one whose towel could do with a change, they'll be filled with a bucket-load of gratitude with this practical gift under $50. It's something they'll get to use every day while relishing its softness on the skin.

                        

12. Vegan Soap Gift Box (Plastic-Free and Eco-Friendly)

Shop | $24

This Vegan Soap Gift Box from Etsy is a thoughtful, eco-friendly gift under $50 for anyone who appreciates cruelty-free self-care. The box comes with three full-size 3.5 oz bars made from plant oils and essential oils, free of palm oil and synthetic fragrance. The packaging is recyclable and plastic-free. This vegan soap is a great sustainable gift idea for Mother's Day.

13. Personalized Birthday Box

Shop | $49.99

Looking for a sentimental gift that's also affordable and eco-friendly? A personalized birthday box is a great choice. This birthday box from Etsy is filled with handcrafted items tailored to the recipient’s birth flower.

Each box is assembled with biodegradable fillers and recyclable materials. It’s a budget sustainable gift idea that shows thoughtfulness and keeps packaging waste low.

14. Glass Water Bottle

Shop | $25

A reusable glass water bottle is one of those simple gifts that everyone appreciates. Choose one with a bamboo or stainless-steel lid and silicone sleeve for added durability. It replaces hundreds of single-use plastic bottles each year while keeping drinks fresh and odor-free.

This personalized glass water bottle from Etsy is an affordable sustainable gift for Mother's Day, weddings, and outdoor entertaining.

15. Bamboo Cutlery Set

Shop | $$

The bamboo cutlery set is a perfect zero-waste gift for the environmentalist. Help them ditch disposable utensils and reduce their carbon footprint further. Most come with a fork, knife, spoon, chopsticks, and straw neatly packed in a cotton pouch.

Bamboo is renewable, lightweight, and compostable—ideal for travel, work lunches, or picnics. It’s a small step toward zero-waste living that costs less than $20 and makes a practical, eco-friendly gift under $50.

Bonus: Experience Gift

Not every meaningful gift comes wrapped. Gifting an experience like a virtual pottery class, a home yoga pass, or a local art workshop, reduces material consumption and creates lasting memories. It’s one of the most sustainable ways to show you care. Add a handwritten note or e-card to make it personal.

How to Choose the Right Sustainable Gift

When picking a sustainable gift under $50, focus on materials, longevity, and purpose. Choose items made from natural fabrics, recycled or reusable materials, and those crafted under fair-trade conditions. A handmade piece like the Ichcha Spa and Tea Gift Set checks all the boxes—it’s practical, ethically made, and beautifully designed. In short, a good sustainable gift should bring joy without adding waste.

Before You Go

Browse our full sustainable gift collection or see more eco-friendly gifts under $40 to find meaningful, planet-friendly presents for every occasion.

FAQs

What are some good sustainable gifts?

Good sustainable gifts include handmade, reusable, or ethically sourced items like the Ichcha tea cozy gift set, glass water bottles, handmade mugs, bamboo cutlery set, and fair-trade chocolates. These are thoughtful choices that combine function and eco-friendly design.

Where to buy eco-friendly gifts under $50?

Find eco-friendly gifts under $50 at online stores like ichcha. We offer a wide range of affordable handmade gifts including self-care gift sets, scarves, and other zero-waste products.

What is a good $50 present?

A great $50 present should balance affordability and practicality. Think: spa gift set, vegan soap box, or glass water bottle. They’re functional, sustainable, and just so lovely.

What is a good gift for an environmentalist?

The Ichcha Spa Gift Set or a bamboo cutlery pouch make great gifts for environmentalists. They’re reusable, low-waste, and made from sustainable materials.