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23 Best Just Because Gifts to Surprise Your Loved Ones

You can't go wrong with these no-fail picks.

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While there are anniversaries to shop for, birthdays to remember and Father's Day around the corner, some gifts don't call for a special occasion. There's nothing sweeter than giving a loved one a little something just because. That being said, finding this type of present can pose a challenge, since there's no shortage of options online right now. Thankfully, our gift experts are here to save the day with this list of the best just because gifts out there.

No matter if you're shopping for him or browsing for her, there's a good just because present on this list that's sure to please. We've thought of everything from a delicious gift basket to more unique picks like a retro arcade box and a highly-rated adult coloring book to give them hours of fun. But before you scroll, consider the type of gift that would truly mean the most to them. You can cue the happy tears by going the sentimental route or settle on a useful present they can use every day.

And if you're shopping for inexpensive gift ideas don't stress. Most of these gifts are under $50 and some are even under $5, so you can pick something they'll love without breaking the bank.

1
Self-Care Pick

The Five Minute Journal

The Five Minute Journal
$29 at Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$29 at Revolve

With this simple journal, they can change their life in just five minutes a day. It has a linen hard cover with pages for six months of self-discovery and mindfulness.

2
Nostalgic Gift

Retro Arcade Machine

Retro Arcade Machine
Now 12% Off

This fun arcade machine has been popular with Good Housekeeping readers and there's no signs of this slowing down. It has a whooping 300 retro games — perfect for when they're in the mood to zone out.

3
Over 10,000 5-Star Ratings on Amazon

Caramel and Crunch Gift Basket

Caramel and Crunch Gift Basket

Filled with crunchy and caramel-flavored snacks, they'll be licking their lips when they open this gift. "I bought this for my husband, the man who has everything and was pleasantly surprised at the quality, freshness, and assortment. Everything in this basket was delicious! The basket itself can be used afterward since it is sturdy and beautiful. I will definitely order it again. Wonderful gift idea!" one Amazon reviewer wrote.

RELATED: The Best Gift Basket Ideas That Are Unique Enough to Impress Everyone

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This adorable crochet potato is small but mighty — it's a simple reminder to never give up. It would make a great gift for a close friend, coworker or just about anyone else on your list who could use a thoughtful pick-me-up now and again.

5
Your BFF Will Love This

Hoya Heart

Hoya Heart

Let them know they're always in your heart with this sweet little succulent. The mini plant comes with two different planter options and colors.

RELATED: The Best Places to Buy Healthy Plants Online

6

Pocket Hug Token

Amazon’s Choice
Pocket Hug Token

This small token will make them feel loved all day long. They're tiny enough to slip into a wallet or purse and come with a heartwarming message that's sure to make them smile.

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7
Gift Under $5

Acrylic Paperweight

Acrylic Paperweight
Now 33% Off

There's no better way to thank them for being a part of your life than with this acrylic paperweight. It can be used in their home office or work desk as a daily reminder of how special they are.

8
For the Home Decor-Obsessed

Moon Lamp

Amazon’s Choice
Moon Lamp
Now 31% Off

One of Good Housekeeping's most popular gifts of 2023, moon lamps are a no-fail pick for adults and children. The 3D printing is so realistic and can change colors — 128 of them to be exact.

9
Over 13,000 5-Star Ratings on Amazon

Cloud Slippers

Cloud Slippers
Now 40% Off

A hit year after year, cloud slippers have been one of the most viral products our gift experts have come across. Made of bouncy EVA foam, many Amazon reviewers have referred to the experience of wearing them as "walking on pillows."

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10
Gift Under $15

Best Friends Ring Dish

Best Friends Ring Dish

Your best friend will have a hard time misplacing her favorite trinkets once you gift her this ceramic dish, featuring an elegant gold rim. And to top it off, it's printed with a touching message to warm her heart.

11

Love Bombs Kindness Cards

Love Bombs Kindness Cards
Now 17% Off

Love bomb them in a good way with this set of kindness cards. It includes a mix of 111 appreciation and compliment cards to build them up instead of tearing them down. Plus, it has five blank cards that can be personalized.

12
For The Friend Who Has Everything

Rainbow Moonstone Necklace

Amazon’s Choice
Rainbow Moonstone Necklace

If she's a crystal lover or just a fan of beautiful necklaces, this rainbow moonstone number is the gift for her. It's said to be a protective stone that promotes intuition and new beginnings. The chain is also sterling silver with a spring ring that'll make it easy to take on and off.

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13
Sympathy Gift

Amethyst Healing Crystal

Amethyst Healing Crystal

Know a loved one who is experiencing a difficult time?This healing crystal is sure to help. Amethyst is known as a stone that reduces tension and relaxes the mind. And if they're not into crystals, the classic phrase "This too shall pass," is sure to touch their heart.

14
Gag Gift

Anniversary Fork

Amazon’s Choice
Anniversary Fork

We found the perfect silly gag gift for your boyfriend or husband. Not only is this anniversary fork made of durable stainless steel — the funny phrase and low price tag don't hurt either.

RELATED: 40 Best Gag Gifts That Will Make Any Occasion More Fun

15
SO Funny

Adult Coloring Book Set

Adult Coloring Book Set
Now 11% Off

Adult coloring books are said to promote mindfulness, so this fun set is perfect for a friend struggling with anxiety. The best part? Along with motivational phrases, the coloring book has puns and cursing (yes, cursing) to make them laugh.

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16
Gift Under $20

Women's T-Shirt

Amazon’s Choice
Women's T-Shirt

A fun gift for her, this fitted t-shirt is made of a soft blend of cotton and polyester. It doesn't hurt that it's also printed with a phrase that'll make both of them laugh away.

17

Rechargeable Hand Warmer

Rechargeable Hand Warmer

Good Housekeeping readers love this rechargeable hand warmer for good reason. It's perfect for camping and other outdoor activities and will heat up in just two minutes. They'll stay warm for up to four hours once fully charged.

18

Glass Drinking Can

Glass Drinking Can

She might forget she's awesome sometimes, so gift this glass can as a reminder. It'll hold 16 ounces of coffee, tea, juice or even a cocktail and it has a reusable straw to cut down on waste.

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19

Tie Dye Pajamas Set

Amazon’s Choice
Tie Dye Pajamas Set
Now 36% Off

These pajamas are so soft and cozy that she'll never want to take them off. The cotton and spandex blend offers just the right amount of stretch and the colorful tie-dye design is fitting for spring and summer.

RELATED: The Best Pajamas for Women

20
Unique Just Because Gift for Her

Preserved Roses

Amazon’s Choice
Preserved Roses

You can't go wrong gifting these beautiful roses any time of year. They're preserved in a wishing bottle and will create a soft glow at night that's perfect for setting the mood.

Headshot of Cailey Lindberg
Cailey Lindberg
Commerce Editor, Gifts & Lifestyle

Cailey Lindberg (she/her) is a writer and editor with over a decade of experience covering products, lifestyle, entertainment and food. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, she was a staff writer at USA Today's shopping network, Reviewed.com. 

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