103 Hilarious White Elephant Gift Ideas to Steal the Show

Did you know that according to the White Elephant 2023 Gift Exchange Trends Report, 56,627 players participated in 3,748 gift exchanges using the White Elephant Online platform?

White elephant gift exchanges are clearly a popular holiday party activity among office workers, and I totally get why! There’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching Karen from accounting fight Dave from sales for that coveted weird gift you brought.

Whether you’re joining an office party, family gathering, or friend group celebration, I’m here to help you find that perfect conversation-starting gift that’ll have everyone laughing (or groaning) and fighting to steal it.

From brilliantly practical to hilariously useless, let’s dive into the best white elephant gift ideas that’ll make you the talk of the party!

Understanding White Elephant Gift Exchange Rules

You know what’s funny? I used to think white elephant gift exchanges were just a fancy name for Secret Santa. Nope! I’ve learned there’s actually quite a story behind this holiday tradition.

Brief history of white elephant gift exchanges & their origins

The term “white elephant” has its roots in Southeast Asian history (particularly Thailand), where white elephants were considered both sacred and a burden (imagine trying to care for an elephant you couldn’t put to work!).

The gift exchange got its name because these presents are often similarly impractical or humorous. Though trust me, they’re way more fun than caring for an actual elephant!

Common price ranges & guidelines ($15-25 typical for offices, $25-50 for friend groups)

When it comes to price ranges, here’s my experience:

• Office parties typically stick to the $15-25 range (perfect for keeping things fun without breaking anyone’s budget).
• Friend groups often bump it up to $25-50 (especially if you’re close-knit and know everyone’s comfortable with that).

Always remember to check the price limit beforehand!

Basic rules: stealing limits, unwrapping order, & gift-opening etiquette

Let’s break down the basic rules (because believe me, there’s nothing worse than being the person who doesn’t know what’s going on):

1. Everyone brings a wrapped gift and draws numbers to determine the order of play
2. The first person opens any gift they choose
3. Each subsequent person can either:
   • Open a new gift
   • Steal an already-opened gift (this is where the fun begins!)

Here’s where things get interesting with stealing rules: Most groups limit steals to 3 times per gift. A gift can only be stolen once per turn, which prevents excessive back-and-forth stealing that could prolong the game unnecessarily.

After all gifts have been opened, the first player often gets a final chance to swap their gift with any other opened gift, adding another layer of strategy to the end of the game!

4 Tips for being a memorable participant without breaking the bank

Want to be a memorable participant without spending a fortune? Here are some tried-and-true strategies:

1. Hit up Five Below or similar stores for surprisingly good finds
2. Look for useful AND funny items (my mini waffle maker was fought over like crazy!)
3. Consider local inside jokes or office-specific humor
4. Package things creatively (I once put a $10 gift card in a series of increasingly larger boxes. It was a party hit!)

4 Etiquette Tips for White Elephant Gift Exchanges

Here are some quick etiquette tips I’ve picked up over the years:

1. Always wrap your gift nicely (even if what’s inside is silly)
2. Don’t reveal what you brought until the end
3. Try to react positively to whatever you receive (even if it’s that singing bass fish that nobody really wants)
4. Don’t bring anything inappropriate or potentially offensive (it’ll totally kill the party vibe). Stick to fun, light-hearted items that won’t make anyone uncomfortable!

20 Crowd-Pleasing White Elephant Gift Ideas Under $20

Here’s my tried-and-true list of budget-friendly gifts that always get people excited. Trust me, you don’t need to spend a fortune to be the MVP of your white elephant party!

4 Practical yet funny office supplies (like emergency nap kit or desktop punching bag)

First up, let’s talk about office supplies that don’t suck. My top picks that have been proven winners:

1. Emergency Nap Kit ($15 at Five Below): Includes a sleeping mask, ear plugs, and “Do Not Disturb” door sign
2. Desk Decision Maker ($10-15): Those spinning wheels that help you choose where to get lunch
3. Giant Sticky Notes ($12-15): Because sometimes regular sticky notes just aren’t dramatic enough
4. “Meeting Survival Kit” ($15-20): Fill a box with chocolate, stress ball, and a tiny desk fan

4 Quirky kitchen gadgets that people actually might use

Now, onto kitchen gadgets that people actually fight over. I’ve learned that the sweet spot is items that are both funny AND useful.

Here are some consistently popular options:

1. Microwave pasta boat ($15-18)
2. Breakfast sandwich maker ($19.99 at Walmart)
3. Taco holder set ($12-15)
4. Mini waffle maker ($10-12)

4 Trending TikTok finds that won’t break the bank

Here are some amazing budget-friendly options that went viral on TikTok:

1. That famous green storage bag sealer ($8-12)
2. Color-changing shower heads ($15-18)
3. Cloud soap dispenser ($12-15)
4. LED photo string clips ($15-20)

4 Popular food gifts that always get stolen

Let’s talk food gifts because anything edible usually gets stolen multiple times! The trick is finding something unique that you can’t grab at the local grocery store.

Some winners I’ve seen:

1. Hot sauce gift sets ($15-18)
2. Exotic candy boxes ($12-15)
3. Fancy popcorn seasoning kits ($15)
4. International snack boxes ($18-20)

4 Gift cards with a twist (creative packaging ideas)

Here’s my specialty: turning boring gift cards into exciting presents!

Some creative packaging ideas that won’t break your $20 budget:

1. Put a fast-food gift card in a box with silly challenges that must be completed to “earn” the food
2. Hide a movie gift card inside a popcorn container filled with tissue paper “popcorn”
3. Package a Target gift card inside a mini “shopping spree survival kit”
4. Wrap an Amazon gift card in multiple boxes, each with a riddle to solve

When going the gift card route, even a $10 card can be a hit if the packaging is entertaining enough. I’ve found that people remember the fun of unwrapping way more than the actual dollar amount!

3 Tips for Giving White Elephant Gifts Under $20

1. Avoid super trendy items that might be out of style by next month. Stick to items with staying power, even if they’re not the hottest trend!
2. Don’t sleep on the dollar store for creative packaging materials. It’s all about making the unwrapping experience memorable!
3. The best white elephant gifts under $20 are the ones that make people smile, whether they’re practical, funny, or a little bit of both.

20 Hilarious White Elephant Gift Ideas That’ll Get Everyone Laughing

Over the years, I’ve gotten pretty good at finding that sweet spot between ridiculous and surprisingly useful. Let me share some guaranteed laugh-getters that won’t just collect dust in someone’s closet!

5 Weird but wonderful bathroom accessories

First up, let’s talk bathroom accessories that’ll make everyone giggle:

1. Motion-activated toilet bowl light ($12-15)
2. “Toilet Timer” hourglass for bathroom procrastinators ($15)
3. Shower curtains with Nicolas Cage’s face ($18-20)
4. “Fancy Guest” soap dispenser that looks like a wine bottle ($16)
5. Toilet paper roll holder with a phone shelf (because let’s be real, we all do it)

5 Ridiculous “as seen on TV” products that actually work

Those “As Seen on TV” products are comedy gold, but here’s the thing. Some of them actually work!

Some hilarious-but-useful options:

1. Angry Mama Microwave Cleaner ($12)
2. Perfect Bacon Bowl maker ($15)
3. The “Snap On Smile” temporary teeth covers ($10)
4. That weird sock slider thing that actually helps put socks on ($14)
5. Slipper mop shoes that clean while you walk ($18)

3 Funny books & novelty items

There’s a whole world of wonderfully weird reads out there. My personal favorite was “How to Talk to Your Cat About Gun Safety.”

Some other gems I’ve discovered:

1. “Why Your Five-Year-Old Could Not Have Done That: Modern Art Explained” ($18)
2. “How to Survive a Garden Gnome Attack” ($14)
3. “Everything I Need to Know I Learned From My Dog’s Instagram” ($16)

4 Celebrity-themed merchandise that’s so bad it’s good

I once found a Danny DeVito sequin pillow case that changes images when you swipe the sequins. It became such a hit that it now makes an appearance at every party, with people constantly flipping the sequins back and forth!

Some other celebrity-themed winners:

1. Jeff Goldblum shower curtain ($20)
2. Nicolas Cage sequin pillowcase ($15)
3. Guy Fieri prayer candle ($12)
4. Keanu Reeves coloring book ($14)

3 Outrageous fashion accessories & wearables

When it comes to wearables, I’ve learned that the more outrageous, the better.

Some crowd-pleasing options:

1. Mullet headband with built-in sunglasses ($15)
2. Flip flops that make fish-flopping sounds when you walk ($16)
3. Fanny pack that looks like a hairy belly ($15)

3 Tips for Giving White Elephant Gag Gifts

1. Always check that your gag gift won’t actually offend anyone. Read the room, folks!
2. The best gag gifts often come with a backstory. For example, if you’re giving a Danny DeVito pillow, include a tiny card explaining why he’s the greatest actor of our time.
3. While you’re shopping for these gems, don’t forget about the presentation. I like to wrap gag gifts in totally serious paper with fancy ribbons and bows. The contrast between the elegant wrapping and the ridiculous gift inside just adds to the comedy! Better yet, put a toilet night light in a box marked “Fine Crystal.”

Remember, the goal is to make people laugh while still giving them something they might actually use or display. That’s when you know you’ve nailed it!

23 Surprisingly Useful White Elephant Gift Ideas

After years of gift exchanges, I’ve noticed a pattern: the gifts that get the most attention are often those unexpected practical items that make you go, “Wait, why don’t I already own this?” Here are some tried-and-true winners that’ll have everyone plotting their steal strategy!

5 Multi-functional gadgets that solve everyday problems

Let’s talk about those multi-functional gadgets that solve problems you didn’t even know you had:

1. 5-in-1 avocado tool (slicer, pit remover, masher) ($15)
2. Magnetic wristband for holding screws and nails ($12)
3. Phone stand with integrated cable organizer and amplifier ($18)
4. Multi-tool pen with screwdriver, level, and ruler ($16)
5. Collapsible water bottle with built-in pill organizer ($15)

5 Unique car accessories everyone secretly wants

Now, about those car accessories everyone secretly covets. The best part? Most of these are under $20:

1. Between-seat gap filler (no more lost phones!) ($15)
2. Car diffuser that clips to air vent ($18)
3. Mini vacuum with USB charging ($19)
4. Backseat organizer with tablet holder ($16)
5. Headrest trash can ($18)

3 Clever home organization solutions with a twist

Here are some organizational gems:

1. Rotating makeup organizer (works great for office supplies too) ($19)
2. Expandable drawer dividers with funny labels ($15)
3. Foldable storage cubes with snarky messages ($14)

5 Tech accessories with unexpected features

Tech accessories are always a hit, especially when they have unexpected features:

1. LED light strip with motion sensors ($19)
2. Mouse pad with wireless charging ($18)
3. “Smart” water bottle that tracks hydration ($20)
4. Desktop vacuum cleaner shaped like a tiny robot ($15)
5. Bluetooth speaker disguised as a vintage radio ($19)

5 Self-care items with humorous packaging

The key with self-care items is finding things that work great but come in packaging that makes people laugh. See if you can find these or similar variations:

• “Rage Cream” stress relief lotion ($16)
• “Meeting Survival Kit” face mist and eye cream ($18)
• “I Can’t Adult Today” bath bombs ($15)
• “Netflix & Chill” scented candle ($14)
• “Bad Decisions” repair hair mask ($17)

2 Tips for Giving Useful White Elephant Gifts

1. When giving practical items, presentation is everything. I like to include a funny “user manual” with ridiculous alternative uses. For example: the car trash can. Add a note suggesting it could also be used as a “mobile snack station” or “emergency hat storage.”
2. Always test electronic items before wrapping them. And include the gift receipts!

21 Themed White Elephant Gift Ideas

Here are some crowd-pleasing themed gift ideas I’ve collected over years. Trust me, I’ve seen what works (and what totally bombs) when it comes to referencing popular culture in gift form.

4 Movie & TV show inspired gifts

First, let’s talk movie and TV show gifts that actually land. The key is picking something from shows that have stood the test of time:

1. “Pivot!” doormat from Friends ($18)
2. Dunder Mifflin paper ream wrapper for regular printer paper ($12)
3. Game of Thrones “Winter is Coming” ice cube molds ($15)
4. Schitt’s Creek Rose Apothecary branded items ($16-20)

3 Pop culture references that’ll resonate

Pop culture references can be tricky. Timing is everything! Here are some pop culture gifts that tend to resonate:

1. Bernie Sanders mittens-style oven mitts ($18)
2. “This meeting could have been an email” desk plate ($15)
3. Baby Yoda car air freshener ($12)

5 Social media trend-inspired presents

Stick to trends that have some staying power. Here are some current favorites:

1. TikTok-famous sunset projection lamp ($20)
2. Viral cleaning paste everyone raves about ($15)
3. That famous green kitchen scraper ($12)
4. Cloud soap dispenser from ($16)
5. Stanley cup dupe with a funny label ($18)

4 Nostalgic gifts from different decades

Nostalgic gifts are usually a safe bet, especially if you know your group’s general age range:

1. 90s candy variety pack ($15)
2. Retro Nintendo controller coffee coaster set ($16)
3. Magic 8 Ball decision maker ($12)
4. Lisa Frank-styled office supplies ($15-20)

4 Local inside jokes & regional favorites

Now, here’s where it gets really fun. Local inside jokes and regional favorites!

1. Regional dialect bingo cards
2. Famous local restaurant’s secret sauce
3. City-specific inside joke t-shirts
4. “You know you’re from [city] when…” book

3 Tips for Giving Themed White Elephant Gifts

1. Always include a little explanation card for anyone who might not get the reference (e.g. include a note)
2. Avoid anything too niche unless you’re absolutely sure of your audience. Stick to references that have crossed over into mainstream culture!
3. The best-themed gifts often combine nostalgia with usefulness. People love stuff they can actually use while still getting the joke!

20 Last-Minute White Elephant Gift Ideas

Some of my most successful white elephant gifts have been last-minute grabs. The key is making your rushed shopping look totally intentional!

4 Amazon Prime eligible options with quick shipping

First, let’s talk about Amazon Prime heroes that can save your bacon. I keep a running list of proven winners that usually arrive within 48 hours:

1. LED shower head with color-changing lights ($18)
2. Desktop vacuum cleaner shaped like a tiny animal ($16)
3. Phone stand with integrated amplifier ($14)
4. USB-powered hand warmers ($19)

Pro tip: Sort your Amazon searches by “Prime eligible” and “arrives before [your event date]” to avoid that dreaded “arriving too late” panic.

5 DIY gift ideas that look intentional, not rushed

Now, let’s talk DIY gifts that actually look intentional:

1. Coffee lover’s survival kit (mug + fancy creamer + cookies)
2. Home spa day package (face masks + scrub + candle)
3. Hot chocolate bomb gift set (cocoa + marshmallows + mug)
4. Breakfast essentials basket (pancake mix + syrup + fun spatula)
5. “Positive vibes” box (inspiration cards + chocolate + tea)

3 Creative ways to package basic gift cards

Here’s where things get fun: creative gift card presentation! Trust me, nobody will know you grabbed that gift card on your way to the party if you package it right.

Here are some of my most successful last-minute tricks:

1. Hide a Starbucks card in a bag of coffee beans
2. Put a Netflix gift card in a popcorn container with candy
3. Wrap an Amazon card in multiple boxes with funny notes

5 Local store finds that always work

Local store finds have saved me more times than I can count. These are my go-to shops for reliable last-minute gifts:

1. Target’s dollar spot (seriously, check there first)
2. Five Below for trending items
3. Walgreens/CVS gift section (better than you’d expect!)
4. Local grocery store gift shop
5. Gas station gift card display (when truly desperate)

3 Printable gifts & instant digital options

For those truly last-second emergencies, let’s talk digital and printable options that don’t scream “I forgot until just now”:

1. Digital photo album with funny memes
2. Printable coupon book with silly favors
3. Digital art print with a funny quote

3 Tips for Last-Minute White Elephant Gifts

1. Keep an emergency gift stash! I now maintain a small collection of universal white elephant gifts in my closet. Every time I see a good deal on something gift-worthy, I grab it. This has saved me from countless last-minute shopping panics.
2. Avoid anything that requires batteries or specific sizes. There’s nothing worse than grabbing something quick only to realize it needs AA batteries that aren’t included or discovering it only fits certain phone models!
3. Keep a stash of gift bags, tissue paper, and blank cards ready to go. You’d be amazed how a basic gift card can look thoughtful with some creative packaging and a heartfelt note!

Which of These White Elephant Gift Ideas Will You Go For?

Thanks for reading my article on the best white elephant gift ideas! I hope you at least found some inspiration.

Remember, the perfect white elephant gift walks that fine line between “Why would anyone want this?” and “Actually, I kind of need that!”

Whether you go for the laugh-out-loud gag gift or the surprisingly practical option, the key is to choose something that’ll get people talking (and stealing!)

Don’t forget to grab an extra gift for yourself, because trust me, once you see these ideas in action, you’ll wish you had one too.

Feel free to check out more of my ideas:

• 22 Elf Arrival Ideas for 2024: Creative First Day Magic!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a proper white elephant gift?

A proper white elephant gift is typically a wrapped item that is humorous, quirky, or unique, often with a price limit of around $20. The aim is to entertain participants during the gift exchange, making it something that could be funny, campy, or even slightly impractical to bring joy and laughter to the event.

What are good cheap white elephant gifts?

Good cheap white elephant gifts often include quirky and fun items that appeal to a wide audience. Some popular options are:

• A mini vacuum for quick clean-ups
• A scented candle with a humorous design
• A funny mug that can spark conversation during the gift exchange

Why is it called a white elephant?

The term “white elephant” originates from the ancient practice in Siam (now Thailand), where a king would gift a rare and sacred white elephant to someone he disliked. While the gift seemed prestigious, it was actually a burden due to the high cost of care and maintenance, symbolizing an extravagant gift that brings more trouble than value.