The best Christmas gifts under $50

No need for emergency supermarket novelties. These gift ideas from the city's best small businesses are all home runs.

Aesop incense, $45

We're looking for easy gifting this year, so bring a calming energy with your presents (and presence) in 2024. This incense set from Melbourne brand Aesop has sandalwood and spice notes, a crowd-pleasing scent and gentle smoke. Each kit includes a pumice incense holder—perfect for the first-time incense novice.

Christmas baubles, $25

A treasured ornament is something they can use year after year. The teardrop Christmas baubles from Koorie Heritage Trust will add a burst of colour to a traditional tree. Get this adorable stocking stuffer from the pop-up shop in the Crossbar Building at Fed Square. The lovely ceramic decorations are painted with beautiful Aboriginal artwork. Each one is unique.

Ken Done lunch bag, $29.95

Stop their lunch leaking on their laptop with an insulated lunch bag from Stranger Than Paradise gifts. If loud prints are their thing, they’ll love this eye-popping Ken Done design from Kip&Co. The Australiana design is inspired by the Great Barrier Reef, with cute tropical fish. The bag is made from recycled PET plastic coated canvas, and is insulated to keep snacks cool.

Raya cookie box, $50

Hidden at the Paris end of Little Collins, you'll find Raya, a South-Asian bakery known for colourful kuehs and tasty sandwiches. It also has a cult-like following for New York-style chunky cookies. So gift a box this silly season. Each one contains a variety of the best-selling flavours. With each cookie individually wrapped, you're guaranteed maximum freshness. You even have the option to add a personalised handwritten note.

Christmas ornaments, from $12.95

Adorn their tree in the glitziest ornaments this side of the North Pole. It’s Christmas year-round at Ambiance, in Queen Victoria Market. The store stocks blingy decorations and rare ornaments sourced from around the world. Wrap up a bundle of baubles. Go for some Australiana with cute animals. Or spoil a loved one with a precious keepsake.

Resin butter knife, $50

For hand-crafted homewares to brighten their space, head to Dinosaur Designs. The iconic Australian flagship store in The Strand stocks the full range of much-loved resin pieces. This year, might we suggest upgrading to the humble butter knife? This one's design resembles riverbed stones for effortless (and chic) butter spreading all year round.

Reusable skincare eye patches, $39

If you're buying for a beauty buff, green their beauty routine with these reusable angel eye patches. The sustainable beauty brand Foile specialises in refillable and reusable products to reduce waste in the bathroom. Just dab on an eye serum, then apply the patches under the eyes. Available at Incu, the jellies lock in hydration, awaken and de-puff the skin.

Black Duck by Bruce Pascoe, $34.99

Nothing beats a good book as a gift. For the swarths of people who purchased Dark Emu in 2014, Bruce Pascoe's next book, Black Duck, is a must-buy (or gift). Pascoe's second novel documents a year on his land at Yumbarra. Moving and personal, it is an excellent addition to the bookshelf for those who already own his first book. Find it at Readings.

Assorted macaron box, $39.50

For a sweet petit pleasure, slip this elegant box of assorted macarons into someone’s stocking. La Belle Miette’s chic gold-embossed matchbox holds twelve beautifully decorated treats. The varied selection includes strawberry, creme brulee, chocolate and more. 

Pillow Spray, $35

Set the scene for a restful sleep with this pillow perfume from Essensorie. Inspired by the lavender farms of Tasmania, this floral-forward scent has notes of grapefruit and cedarwood. Designed to be used sparingly (just one spritz), this bottle should last a long time. For some much-needed peace and quiet, this one is a must-buy.

Hario V60 pour over cone, $45

Add the chicest of touches to your loved one's morning brew. This ceramic V60 pour-over cone is durable, helps maintain coffee temperature, and is quick and easy to clean. It's made in Japan and makes coffee for one to three people, meaning you might reap the benefits of the gift yourself! Pick one up at Market Lane Coffee.

Shop to win

Buying your gifts in the city this Christmas? Scan the QR codes at Melbourne’s iconic shopping spots to win one of four $3000 prize packs. Find out more and enter to win.