Do you spend every November looking for a cool outside the box gift for the people on your list, only to end up going with yet another book, scarf or gift certificate?

Buying gifts can be stressful when you don’t know what to buy, so I’ve compiled some great outside the box gift ideas that could be the answer you’ve been looking for.

1. An instrument

You’re probably not inclined to buy anyone a grand piano this year, but there is likely someone on your list who would enjoy a unique instrument that is relatively easy to play. 

For example, a kalimba, also known as a thumb piano, can play a broad range of familiar tunes and has a gorgeous tone that those around them will never tire of. You might also consider a ukulele, which is considered one of the easiest string instruments to pick up. An ocarina is another beautiful instrument that’s easy to learn. All these options are surprisingly affordable and can be learnt online, and many would also work well as a decoration in case the recipient doesn’t get the hang of it.

2. Family game night basket

For friends who spend a lot of time with their families – or wish they did – a family game night basket can be a fun way to bring them together. Choose one or two inexpensive board games that are appropriate for the group’s size and ages. Then buy some gourmet popcorn or cookies, toss in a deck of cards or some puzzles, and you’re set. 

If you’re crafty or you want to go all out, you could even make some homemade score cards that are personalised with each family member’s name.

3. Colouring book and pencils

We are all stressed beyond belief right now. While weighted blankets and pampering kits might be having a moment, a carefully chosen adult colouring book and a set of nice coloured pencils could be just the thing your harried mum friend, overworked brother-in-law, or restless grandma could really get lost in.

Adult colouring has been proven to relax your brain as it allows attention to flow away from yourself and your stresses as you focus on something with pretty low stakes. The concentration needed to stay in the lines makes it meditative, allowing your problems to evaporate from your consciousness while you’re in the moment.

4. Lessons

For the person on your list who already has more than they need, why not get some lessons for something you know they’ll love? Think beyond in-person lessons, there are a lot of online classes you can pick from.
One idea for the home chef who owns a slow cooker (and is always out of time), is my slow cooking course.

Even the best cook you know will benefit from a one-off cooking class from a local chef. Language lessons might be useful for someone who’s traveling overseas next year, while painting and dance lessons have a pretty broad appeal. Use your best judgment here, and choose something refundable if you have any doubts.

5. Adopt an animal… symbolically

Many conservation organisations offer symbolic wildlife adoption programs, and you can choose an endangered species that would be meaningful to the recipient in some way. You’ll find everything from adorable koalas and colourful toucans to dolphins and African elephant mums and babies.

In some cases, your recipient will get updates on a specific animal that the money will be used to support, complete with a name, photos and possibly updates if the animal is in recovery at a sanctuary. Others are just symbolic, however, with the money going to the species as a whole without assigning you a specific animal. Many times, the recipient will get an informational book to learn more about the species. Some may also send a stuffed animal and other mementos, which means this is also a good choice for kids that will raise their environmental awareness. 

This is also a great gift idea for children who are animal lovers. Oh, and if you’re looking for kid’s gift ideas specifically (that are not toys) – go here to check out my non-toy kids gift idea blog post.

6. Crochet set

Crocheting is a fun hobby that is easy to get into, and like colouring, many people report that it helps to alleviate anxiety. So buy or put together a starter’s kit with some hooks and yarn, along with an instructional book. There are plenty of great videos online that can help the recipient learn the ropes as well.

This is an affordable and fun outside the box gift for all ages, and don’t be surprised if the recipient ends up giving you a blanket or scarf they’ve crocheted next Christmas!

7. Homemade cookbook

Collect your family’s most treasured recipes and have them made into a professional-looking custom cookbook. There are lots of companies online that make this a relatively easy copy-and-paste job. You can even include your own photos of the food, the family member known for making the recipe, or everyone having a good time sharing meals in the past. 

It may take a little effort, but once you’ve designed your cookbook, you can print copies for everyone in the family. I’m all about checking a bunch of names off my list at once!

Happy gifting, my dear friend! Buying unique gifts that will be loved and appreciated feels so wonderful! ❤️