40 Small Gifts That Prove the Best Things Come in Tiny Packages
These little, yet thoughtful items are sure to go a long way with their recipient.
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
If you’ve ever questioned the saying “the best things come in small packages,” we're here to tell you that often times, it's true. The best things are small gifts and our list of compact items and teeny tiny knick knacks proves it.
At Good Housekeeping, we happen to be gifting experts, so we know a thing or two about picking out just the right thing for anyone on your list. Not only will minimalists appreciate these curated items that don’t take up much space, but these products are also great to take on-the-go and ideal for whenever they may need a small pick-me-up. Plus, many of these picks are inexpensive presents that you can buy for multiple people in a family or friend group. While they may be small in size, they'll leave a huge impression on your giftee.
A fun little paint set, which includes three canvases, a miniature easel, miniature paint brush, and seven paint pots, will be just the thing to keep them happy. It's paint by the numbers so all they have to do is match the colors to each numbered section to reveal their masterpiece.
If they're fond of road trips or spend a reasonable amount of time in their car to commute, this pack of essential oil diffusers could transform their experience. They come in 15 scents and can easily can hang from their mirror without distracting from their view. Plus, they boast long lasting fragrance of up to 45 days, per the brand.
Small enough to fit on their keychain, this mini microscope comes in four colors (blue, green, grey and orange) and has an LED light. It can magnify up to 20 times what the natural eye can see, according to the brand. Reviewers noted that it's great for taking a closer look at objects, and that kids in particular will love it.
With this mini power bank, they'll never have an excuse to let their phone die again. It has a slim profile, and includes cords, making it sleek and convenient.
It's a pocket-sized heater, essentially. At least that's what many Amazon reviewers say, thanks to its power. According to the brand, once it's charged, it can last up to four hours. It's been a consistent top-seller in all of our gift guides.
A fun twist on a message in a bottle, they will receive over 60 little notes that each have a positive message written on them. If you're looking for something a bit more personal, there's a DIY version where you can write your own messages.
How adorable is this mini Scrabble game? Whether they keep it as decor or attempt to play with the tiny magnetic letters, it'll always get a conversation going.
Functional and fun, they can use this pen for writing and as a fidget toy. According to the brand, the magnetic pieces can be shaped into anything, from a robot to a dog.
RELATED: The Best Gifts for Kids of All Ages
LED lights make this compact mirror a must-have. And nearly 12,000 Amazon reviewers agree. "For how small it is, it provides a lot of light and good magnification. I keep it in my purse for touch ups and I love it," a reviewer said.
You've seen the tube guy flailing around in front of your local car dealership, but now you can have this cute miniature version as desk decor. Standing at 17 inches, the trinket uses battery power to blow air into the tube and keep it inflated. It also comes with a tiny book detailing the origins of the toy. Note: it does not include batteries.
LEGO fans will appreciate these cute mini plants that each stand under 5 inches high. The set features 217 pieces and is designed for ages 9 and up, meaning even the little ones can get in on the building fun. Reviewers love the movable arms and ability to swap the plants in each pot.
A fully functioning vacuum that fits in the palm of your hand may be just what they need for little messes. Sure, it's not going to deep clean like our top tested vacuums, but Amazon reviewers say it works well to clean crumbs on a table, debris on a desk and other things.
Before the Labubu craze started Squishmallows were kids' favorite toys (and still are!). Though they can't bring the big stuffies with them to school, these adorable clip-ons will fit nicely right on their backpacks. And yep, they are just as squishy.
RELATED: Popular Squishmallows We Think Are the Absolute Cutest
Keep all of your favorite memories in this teeny tiny photo album. Pick from three design options and whether you want it to hold five or 10 photos. The seller will even resize all of your photos for you so they'll fit.
Small enough to fit in their pocket, this manicure set has everything they need to maintain their nails. It also comes in several colors. And although it's for anyone, we've noticed that every time it's in one of our gift guides for men, it's a reader favorite.
Over 23,000 people have given this kit 5-stars on Amazon thanks to how handy it is when it comes to fixing things like small electronics, eyeglasses and watches. There are 36 pieces in the set, including magnetic screw bits, prying tools, a cleaning brush, and tweezers.
If they're always losing their bookmarks, this one will become their new go-to. Reviewers love that they are sturdy and do not wrinkle book pages. They'll love the sweet little heart you gave them to represent your love.
It's a top-seller year after year in our stocking stuffer roundup, and it makes sense. Burt's Bees is a brand you know and can trust for soothing products, and this kit in particular comes with everything they need, from lotion to lip balm.
RELATED: Affordable Stocking Stuffer Ideas for the Entire Family
Anyone who is obsessed with Stanley cups will appreciate these little tumblers. Perfect for a shot of espresso or their favorite spirit, they are adorable and functional, as the brand says they're insulated to keep drinks hot or cold.
We're pretty much obsessed with this sweet jewelry case that is small enough to travel with, yet big enough to hold all of their favorite pieces. It's also available in eight different colors and comes with an initial embroidered on the top.
Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping, where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.
Readers Also Read
The 25 Best Gadgets on Amazon
What to Get the Person That Has Everything
40 Weirdest Things to Buy on Amazon
42 Creative Gag Gifts That Are Just Too Funny
