Funny Yankee Swap Gifts Ideas All Under $25 That Actually Aren’t Junk

Even if you call it a White Elephant gift, the same rules apply.

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Whether you’re heading out to a White Elephant party or traditional Yankee Swap – we got some really fun gift ideas that won’t break the bank and will still get a laugh!

WHITE ELEPHANT PARTY vs. YANKEE SWAP

Believe it or not, White Elephant Parties and Yankee Swaps are basically the same type of holiday gift exchanges, but just different names. Yankee Swap parties are more common in the Northeast of the United States, while just about everywhere else in the country calls it “White Elephant.” Either way, the goals are typically the same – bring a funny wrapped gift that doesn’t cost a lot and will result in everyone “fighting” over. For us, the more ridiculous the better.

RULES OF A YANKEE SWAP GIFT EXCHANGE

Here’s the thing, there are endless ways to take part in a Yankee Swap party. And most of the rules can be changed around based on the vibe of your party. However, here’s a set of rules that we usually abide by to keep things light, fun, and full of laughter. Feel free to change any of these around so they make the most sense for you.

The Type of Gift: In a Yankee Swap Party, friends and family usually bring wrapped gifts, that are usually funny, quirky, or even nerdy rather than serious gifts or anything that is expensive.
Amount to Spend: For sure the amount to spend on your gift can fluctuate but, again, typically these parties are on the cheaper side. Anything under $50 is totally acceptable and we prefer to try and still to $30 and under, with $25 being the sweet spot.
Provide Number Tags: Randomly assign a number to each person taking part in the gift exchange and give them a number tag. This step is important as it determines the order of gift selection.
Starting the Game: The person with number “1” goes first. They choose a gift from the pile and open it, showing it to everyone.
Subsequent Turns: The person with number “2” goes next. They can either choose a wrapped gift from the pile or steal the gift from the first person. If someone’s gift is stolen, they can then choose a new gift from the pile.
Stealing Rules: A gift can only be stolen a certain number of times (usually 2 or 3) before it’s considered “frozen.” A frozen gift can’t be stolen again.
Continuing the Turns: Everyone will continue taking turns based on their numbers. They can either choose a new gift or steal from someone with an un-frozen gift until all the gifts are officially unwrapped and selected.

YANKEEE SWAP GIFTS UNDER $25

We’ve come up with some pretty fun and, at times, oddly practical gift ideas you can bring to the party and, even better, they won’t break the bank with most of these gifts under $30. In fact, some of these gifts you may actually not want to part with at all. Let’s dive right in!

1.

The "My White Elphant Gift" Tee

The perfect option when you’re heading to a White Elephant party (not great when it’s a Yankee Swap) and need a little something funny to wear or it totally makes a great present idea. If this t-shirt was an emoji it would 100% be the eye-roll. This one also comes in other colors like black, light blue, heather grey, and pink. There are a bunch of size options for men, women, and even kids.

2.

The Official Richard Simmons Chia Pet

Combining our two favorite retro heroes from the 80s (Richard Simmons and a Chia Pet) will really bring your White Elephant gift exchange to life. In fact, we predict this will be the most sought-after present, especially after the sad passing of Richard. RIP.

Inside this awesome gift, you’ll find a one-of-a-kind terra cotta pottery planter, a handy plastic drip tray, and not one, not two, but three packs of chia seeds for your planting adventures. And here’s the exciting part – your Richard Simmons Chia Head will sprout into a full-blown wonder in just 1-2 weeks! Yep, we’re talking about that famous “hair” on top of his head AND his equally famous chest hair.

3.

The People of Walmart Coloring Book For Adults

Check out this totally awesome adult coloring book that’s on a whole new level! The “People of Walmart” is packed with 37 super funny drawings (76 pages in total), and get this – each one is on its own page, so no colors will bleed through. These drawings are all original and seriously intricate, and guess what? They’re based on those funny images you’ve probably seen online already!

Don’t worry, we’re shoppers of Walmart (like everyone is) so it’s all in good fun. Our goal in life is to make it into one of these coloring books. Like Oprah says, “Dream big!”

4.

The Original Toilet Mug

Why should your dog be the only one who gets to drink out of the toilet? Now you can too. Hooray! This funny and usable toilet mug from Big Mouth hold up to 12 ounces of your favorite drink, but you can even fill it with little snacks, cereal – you name it. Your White Elephant friends will love that you can put it in the microwave, but they may not love that it has to be washed by hand. But, then again, so does your actual toilet!

5.

The "Last Place Yankee Swap" Tee

If you’re invited to a Yankee Swap themed party, get ready to see this t-shirt make the rounds over and over again. Whoever wins will wear it like a badge of honor. Finally, last place is the only place you’ll want to be!

This comfy tee comes in other colors like holiday red, navy blue, black, heather grey, and heather blue. And don’t worry about sizes, there are plenty to choose from; from extra small to 3XL. There are youth sizes available too, just incase the entire family wants to dress up this Christmas!

6.

The Pickle Flavored Candy Canes

Because they haven’t stopped telling you about all things Pickleball since last summer, so why not send a funny passive aggressive message with this yummy 6-pack of pickle flavored candy canes? Who needs boring peppermint flavor anyway? Plus, this gift idea is a must for those on a budget (aka cheaping out this year).

7.

A 6-Pack of Wine Condoms (Yes, Really)

Get ready for some seriously fun and practical wine wizardry – introducing Wine Condoms! Yep, you read that right. These quirky little things are 99% effective at preventing unplanned wine spillage. No more wine tragedies, folks!

So, you know that feeling when you’re debating whether open another bottle, but aren’t sure if you’re going to drink the entire thing? Well, these genius contraptions are like magical shields for your vino. They seal up your wine bottle like a superhero cape, keeping oxygen out and your wine perfectly delicious.

These wine condoms are not only effective, but they’re also incredibly easy and portable. Just like regular condoms, you can slip them into your pocket or purse and take them anywhere! Whether you’re at a restaurant, a party, or just chilling at home, these hilarious wine stoppers have got your back.

8.

Funny Slang Flashcard Set

How about a gift that folks just might just start using while they’re still at the Yankee Swap? Get ready to upgrade your vocab with a hilarious twist and a classic educational vibe. These flashcards are like your secret weapon against sounding basic ever again. Embrace the humor and get hip to the tricky lingo that’s poppin’ off nowadays. Did that last sentence make us sound old?

9.

The Golden Girls Shot Glass Gift Set

Drink up with your favorite girls; Blanche, Dorothy, Rose and, of course, Sophia! Not only does each shot glass have their faces on it, but this is also a drinking game with instructions on the back of each shot glass – like “Drink When Blanche says ‘Big Daddy.'” See y’all at Shady Pines!

10.

The Prosecco Pong Game

Another gift that everyone at the Yankee Swap party will want to start playing STAT. With this trendy Prosecco Pong game all you have to do is set up the game with the 6 Prosecco glasses on each end of the table, split into two teams. Get ready to show off your ball-bouncing skills, because it’s your turn to aim for the opposing team’s glasses. Land that ball in their glass, and guess what? They’re taking a sip – or a chug. Your call. Once that glass is empty it’s removed from the table. The first team with at least one glass left, wins!

11.

The Nostalgia Hot Dog Toaster

Here’s a gift that we wouldn’t be mad at getting. Introducing the Nostalgia Hot Dog Toaster (in red, blue, and yellow!).

No more kitchen dramas, just deliciousness with a side of ease. This bad boy can handle two regular-size or those extra-plump hot dogs, all in one go. And you can even toast your buns in the toaster all at the same time. Perfect for a quick snack or a meal for 2!

But wait, there’s more! Get ready to become the hot dog maestro as you take control of the heat settings. Crispy? Juicy? You call the shots, my friend! Toast those wieners to perfection and savor every mouthful. Ewww.

12.

The Prank Gift: Tidy Tips Finger Toilet Brushes

Don’t worry, it’s only a joke box. You can pack whatever your ‘real’ gift is inside. This is one of our favorite gifts because no one will really want it, but the joke is on them when you hide a gift card inside…or even cash. Lottery tickets? Your call!

13.

Bear Claws Oven Mitts

They’ll be ready to yell “ROAR!” over and over (and over and over and over) again each time they go to take something out of the oven. These “Bear Hands” oven mitts come as a set of two and are made of both cotton and silicon, so you won’t burn your “real’ hands. If you’re not into regular bear hands, check out their polar bear mitts too.

14.

Christmas Stocking Hidden Flask

It’s really the only stocking stuffer anyone at the White Elephant party would actually want. This cute and useful Christmas stocking flask will get the party flowing with zero spills and all the thrills! Just pick your poison, pour it in, and let the good times roll. It actually holds up to 3 bottles of wine! With a wide mouth for quick filling and a drip-free spout, you won’t miss a drop of the action. Plus, they’re reusable and easy to clean – just give ’em a soap-and-water bath!

15.

The Official Dolly Parton FunkoPop

This adorable 5-inch tall Dolly Parton figurine from FunkoPop really puts the Yankee in Yankee Swap! One of the latest Dolly versions this is totally the gift that everyone will be fighting to keep since just about everyone out there loves Dolly. There’s even a diamond version that sparkles just like Dolly does in real life. This wouldn’t be the worst gift to keep for yourself. Just a thought.

16.

The Classic "Poop Joke" Mug

You know we love mugs and poop jokes around here at Trendsicle, so it only makes sense that we’re choosing this funny “This Is Going To Make Me Poop” mug that’s perfect for anyone out there that drinks their coffee first thing in the morning so they can get things internally moving and grooving. This ceramic mug can hold up to 11 ounces of your favorite beverage and is both microwave and dishwasher safe.

17.

The Stress Buster Desktop Punching Bag

If you’re back to working in the office you can bug any one of your co-workers with punching this all the live-long-day. It’s perfect to get some stress out and make a little laugh all at the same time. Setting it up is as easy as setting your Out of Office. They’ve even thrown in an air pump, so you can pump up the fun without breaking a sweat. No screws, no hassle – just pop it onto your desk or countertop with the super suction power of its base. Get ready to unleash your inner champ!

18.

The Squishy Duck Nightlight

This super cute duck night light is the only nightlight that lets you tap a duck to dim the lights—because, why not? With three brightness settings (weak, medium, strong), it’s perfect for anyone who has ever thought, “This room could really use a little less light and a little more duck.”

Not only does this duck light up your nights with warm or cool vibes, it also moonlights as a phone stand. Yes, you heard right—its specially designed duck feet prop up your phone so you can binge-watch or scroll hands-free. And when you’re feeling stressed? Give this duck a squeeze. Made of soft, squishable silicone, it’s non-toxic, harmless, and doubles as a decompression toy that bounces back to shape like nothing ever happened.

19.

The Pickle That Yodels (Yes, Really)

What more can we really say about this? It’s legit a pickle that yodels. Yep, that’s the gag. From Dr. Dingus (a non-board non-certified non-doctor), this cute and almost life-like pickle will yodel every time you press its button because, why not? And in case you’re not in the mood to hear the happy sound of yodeling, Dr. Dingus also has a pickle that screams, which is what I plan on doing between the years of 2025-2028. Join me, won’t you?

20.

Set of 6 Vinyl Record Drink Coasters

Everything old is new again. This set of 6 coasters designed to look like real vinyl record, not only comes in a snazzy gift box that screams “I’m cooler than your average coaster,” but they’re also a perfect nod to the 80s—shoulder pads and big hair not included.

Each coaster features a non-slip rubber disc on the bottom, so your drink stays in place like a rockstar, even if your dance moves are more “one-hit wonder” than “chart-topper.” See what we did there? They protect your tables from hot or cold beverages, making them the focus of conversation (and envy) at any party. Whether you’re serving up steamy espresso or icy margaritas, these coasters add a touch of nostalgia and ensure your furniture stays as flawless as a mint condition LP.

21.

The Tortilla Wrap Blanket

Who knew you could fulfill your dream of becoming a human burrito without a trip to your local taco spot? With this burrito throw blanket, you can wrap yourself up and instantly become the filling of your dreams! Made from high-quality flannel fabric, this blanket weighs in at a cozy 280 grams per square meter, offering a single-layer design that’s as soft as a flour tortilla fresh off the comal.

The colors are as bright as a well-stocked salsa bar, and the touch is unbelievably soft, ensuring that you stay warm and snug without ever feeling like you’re trapped in a steamy tortilla steamer. It’s perfect for lounging on the sofa or sprawling out on your bed.

There are even other yummy choices to wrap yourself up in as well like pizzas, waffles, donuts, and more. You’ll have to check the calorie count on those.

22.

Emergency Instant Underpants

Have you ever been in a situation and thought, “Gosh I wish I had an extra pair of underwear?” Well, you’re in luck because now you can and you can do it in the most discrete and fun way possible! This little tin of emergency underpants will really come in handy in those exact situations.

Simply open the tin, drop the soft tab into water and then suddenly you got yourself some 100% underpants that can be worn immediately! They’re machine washable too. Now, this is totally a gag gift, but probably not the worst idea to have a few of these in your glove compartment. You never know!

23.

The Homesick White Elephant Candle

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to dive headfirst into a holiday party in candle form, the White Elephant candle from Homesick is your ticket to olfactory nirvana. With top notes of candied orange and yuzu fizz that pop like champagne, this candle kicks off the festivities before the first guest even arrives. Mid-notes of champagne and gingerbread cookies waft through the air, making it smell like your kitchen is in a constant state of baking bliss without any of the messy cleanup.

The base notes of sparkling cassis, balsam fir, and teakwood ground the scent, turning your living room into the best smelling forest you’ve never been lost in. And just when you think it can’t get better, remember this candle is poured with care into 13.75 oz of a natural soy wax blend, boasting a burn time that could outlast your holiday guest list’s welcome.

24.

The 2025 Pooping Pooches Calendar

If they love dogs they’re going to love starting off each month with a cute dog pooping in a brand new beautiful location – from the beaches of Australia to the billowy hills of Scotland. And while this funny wall calendar is, indeed, funny, it actually helps dogs too. Will each calendar sale, $1 goes to help a dog in need at the Maui Humane Society.

25.

The Official Shart Survival Kit

We’ve all been there. The fart that turns into more. Of course I’m talking about the “shart.” When that happens we’re usually at a loss. Well, fear no more with the 6-in-1 Shart Survival Kit, tailored specifically for those moments when life throws you a curveball—and by curveball, I mean the kind that might ruin your pants.

This gift kit isn’t just practical; it’s a lifeline. It includes the Shart Zone Freshener (because atmosphere is everything), a wet wipe (for swift damage control), disposable underwear (a fresh start), tissues (for tears of joy or otherwise), a Shart Survival Guide (knowledge is power), and a Shart Survivor badge (wear it with pride, warrior).

In Conclusion

Welp, there you have it – a wild ride through some seriously cool and quirky gifts that are bound to bring some good chuckles during your White Elephant party. From toilet mugs that redefine sipping style to epic coloring books that turn stress into art, and even Prosecco Pong for your next party adventure – these unique finds are here to spice up your day and keep boredom at bay. Embrace the fun, enjoy the absurd, and let your inner Yankee rejoice in the awesomeness that these gifts bring to the table!

Patrick Varone

Patrick is the Founder, Chief Trends Editor, and overall fun guy of Trendsicle.com since 2006 (yes, really). He used his digital expertise to create and launch BestProducts.com for Hearst Magazines in 2015, was named as one of the "Top 100 Thought Leaders" by Folio Magazine, and has contributed original content to publishers like BestProducts, Brostrick, Giftsicle, The Wine Down Report, Harper’s BAZZAR, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, Redbook, and more. He's also the published author of The Manifestation Journal. Overall, he's been writing about and reviewing products since 2014.

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Funny Yankee Swap Gifts Ideas All Under $25 That Actually Aren’t Junk

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