Long-distance relationships come with extra expenses—travel costs, phone bills, shipping fees. That doesn't mean you can't give meaningful gifts. The most touching presents often cost little money but show enormous thought and effort.
This guide features 30+ budget-friendly gift ideas that prove love isn't measured in dollars. From DIY keepsakes to affordable purchases to completely free gestures—these gifts show that thoughtfulness trumps expensive every time.
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Free & DIY Gifts (Under $10)
1. Handwritten Letters ($0-5)
Write multiple letters for different occasions—timeless and deeply personal.
Get Stationery2. Playlist Creation ($0)
Curate Spotify playlists with songs that remind you of them or your relationship.
Use Spotify4. Memory Jar ($5-10)
Jar filled with favorite memories, inside jokes, or reasons you love them.
Get Supplies5. Video Messages ($0)
Record videos for them to watch when missing you—reading poetry, sharing stories.
Record NowGifts Under $25
- 7. Custom Keychain ($10-22): Engraved with coordinates or initials.
- 8. Photo Prints Set ($12-20): Printed photos for their wall or desk.
- 9. Personalized Bookmark ($8-18): Custom bookmark for book lovers.
- 10. Cozy Socks ($10-20): Fun patterns or ultra-soft material.
- 11. Scented Candle ($12-22): Candle in their favorite scent.
- 12. Plant or Succulent ($10-20): Low-maintenance greenery with sweet note.
- 13. Framed Photo ($15-25): Simple frame with favorite photo.
- 14. Journal ($10-22): Beautiful journal for thoughts or shared writing.
- 15. Phone Grip ($10-18): Custom PopSocket with photo or design.
- 16. Bath Bombs Set ($12-20): Relaxing self-care package.
- 17. Coffee or Tea Sampler ($15-25): Variety pack of specialty beverages.
- 18. Favorite Book ($10-20): Book they've mentioned with note inside.
- 19. Movie Night Kit ($15-25): Popcorn, candy, and movie rental for virtual date.
- 20. Puzzle ($12-20): Fun activity or custom photo puzzle.
Gifts Under $50
21. Photo Book ($25-45)
Professionally bound book of your relationship memories.
Create on ShutterflyBudget Care Package Ideas ($20-40)
- Favorite snacks + handwritten letter + photos ($20-30)
- Self-care items: face mask, candle, bath bomb ($25-35)
- Study/work kit: coffee, snacks, motivational notes ($20-30)
- Movie night: popcorn, candy, streaming gift card ($25-35)
- Comfort package: cozy socks, tea, chocolate ($20-30)
Budget-Friendly Experience Gifts
- 27. Virtual Movie Night ($0-15): Watch same movie on video call.
- 28. Online Game Together ($0-20): Play free or budget games online.
- 29. Virtual Cooking Date ($15-30): Cook same recipe on video chat.
- 30. Surprise Delivery ($10-30): Order their favorite food delivered.
Money-Saving Tips
Shop Sales and Holidays
Black Friday, Cyber Monday, post-holiday sales offer deep discounts.
Use Coupon Codes
Sites like RetailMeNot and Honey find discount codes automatically.
DIY When Possible
Handmade gifts often mean more and cost less than store-bought.
Combine Small Items
Several thoughtful $5-10 items create meaningful care packages.
Final Thoughts
The best gifts aren't the most expensive—they're the most thoughtful. Your long-distance partner doesn't need you to spend a fortune. They need to feel remembered, valued, and loved. A $10 gift chosen specifically for them will always beat a $100 generic present.
More ideas: Gifts for him under $50, Gifts for her under $50, Just because gifts.