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Short answer: Regifting isn't rude if you do it carefully: only regift brand-new items you know the person will like, never give it back to the same circle of people it came from, and remove any notes or tags. If you're unsure, a small, useful gift like a YETI tumbler or a good candle is an easy alternative.
Most people quietly regift at some point, and etiquette experts generally say it’s fine when it’s done thoughtfully. The key is to give something new and useful, to someone who will really like it, without anyone feeling slighted. If the item doesn’t pass that test, these easy gifts are good backups. For more, see What to buy for Christmas.
How we chose: This is a researched shopping guide, not a hands-on product test. Every pick comes from products we researched for our full Masters of Gifts gift guides, and prices shown are the ones we last checked. Prices change, so check the retailer before you buy. Our editorial standards explain how we research every list.
Easy backups for anyone
Gifts that work when a regift won't.
YETI Rambler 20 oz tumbler with MagSlider lid
For coffee on the go. It keeps drinks hot or cold for hours and has more than 250,000 ratings.
Amazon price: $35.00 (checked October 27, 2026)
Bedsure GentleSoft sherpa fleece throw blanket
A soft sherpa throw that works for almost anyone.
Amazon price: $18.99 (checked October 27, 2026)
Yankee Candle Balsam & Cedar large jar candle
A large Yankee Candle in a cozy balsam and cedar scent.
Amazon price: $19.97 (checked October 27, 2026)
Treats that always land
Food gifts almost everyone enjoys.
Ghirardelli assorted chocolate squares, 12.5 oz bag
Individually wrapped Ghirardelli squares to drop a few into each bag.
Amazon price: $13.49 (checked October 27, 2026)
Twinings tea bag sampler, 44 count
A 44-bag Twinings sampler to split into tea bundles for the tea drinkers.
Amazon price: $14.99 (checked October 27, 2026)
Royal Dansk butter cookies tin, 24 oz
The classic blue tin of Danish butter cookies, a tin people reuse for years.
Amazon price: $14.98 (checked October 27, 2026)
Small but fun
Little gifts that feel thoughtful.
Codenames board game, 2nd edition
A team word-guessing game for game nights.
Amazon price: $24.97 (checked October 27, 2026)
JBL Go 4 portable Bluetooth speaker
A small, waterproof JBL speaker.
Amazon price: $49.95 (checked October 27, 2026)
Apple AirTag (2nd generation)
For the guy who loses his keys or wallet. It works with Find My on iPhone, so only buy it if he uses Apple.
Amazon price: $23.00 (checked October 27, 2026)
Skip this
Some regifts are always a bad idea.
- Used or opened items. Only regift items that are brand new in their original packaging.
- Gifts from the same circle. Don't regift to someone who might know the original giver.
- Personalized or handmade gifts. Anything with a name, note or handmade touch should stay with you.
Regifting FAQ
Is regifting okay?
Yes, when the item is new, it suits the recipient, and it isn't going back to the same group of people.
How do you regift without getting caught?
Check for notes and tags, rewrap it, and give it to someone outside the original giver's circle.
What should you never regift?
Used items, personalized or handmade gifts, and anything from a person who might find out.
