Crafts
Fact-checked

At HomeQuestionsAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are Gift Baskets?

Lorna W.
Lorna W.

Gift baskets are a popular gift option, especially during the holiday season. The key idea behind such a basket is that you are giving someone several smaller gifts instead of one larger one. These small items are arranged in a container and the entire package is attractively wrapped in cellophane.

Gift baskets are almost always themed. There is the traditional fruit basket. Bath products are always popular, mainly scented soaps and lotions. Baskets can be tailored to the recipients' interests — books, paper and pens for a writer or new lipstick and nail polish colors for the make-up enthusiast. These baskets can be either highly personalized or generic enough that anyone would enjoy receiving them.

Gift baskets make wonderful gift ideas for best friends.
Gift baskets make wonderful gift ideas for best friends.

A gift basket doesn't even have to be a basket; any container will do. This can be a chance to really highlight the theme. A gift basket for a gardening enthusiast could consist of seed packets, a nice pair of work gloves and a new gardening tool inside a terra cotta pot or a watering can. For a movie fan, wrap a few DVDs and some microwave popcorn in a fun serving bowl. The best gifts are stored inside something that can be used long after the contents are gone.

There are three main types of gift baskets:

Pre-made - These gift baskets sit on the shelf already wrapped and ready to purchase. This is gift-giving at its easiest.

Fruit baskets feature a variety of fruits.
Fruit baskets feature a variety of fruits.

Created In-Store - Some stores and websites allow you to select the items you would like in your basket, and an employee will then arrange and wrap the assortment for you. This gives the basket a personal touch while still allowing for a more professional presentation.

Homemade - You buy the contents and wrap it yourself. You have total control over what you put in the basket and how it is presented. Unless you have practice, it may not have the crisp look of a pre-made basket, but its the thought that counts.

Whether you want to create a unique gift for your best friend or you just need something nice for your new neighbor, gift baskets are a fun and convenient choice.

A gift basket with microwave popcorn and DVDs in a serving bowl should please a film fan.
A gift basket with microwave popcorn and DVDs in a serving bowl should please a film fan.

Gift baskets make excellent presents for any occasion. They offer a unique way to express your appreciation and thoughtfulness. There are many types of gift baskets available, so you can easily find something to suit any recipient's preferences. Whether you are looking for a traditional basket or something more creative, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you're looking for gift ideas for men, consider a basket of his favorite snacks, an assortment of gadgets or tools, or a selection of jerky and meats. With so many options available, gift baskets are sure to make any man feel special and appreciated.

Discussion Comments

irontoenail

@Iluviaporos - They can get very pricey though. A gourmet gift basket is going to cost a lot more than just giving someone a nice bottle of wine. The problem with putting them together yourself is that you won't be able to get the bulk discounts that retailers would when putting baskets together.

If you have to buy each item separately at full price you aren't going to be saving money. It could be cute if each item was chosen for sentimental value and wasn't expensive, but I'd rather just give someone a store bought basket.

lluviaporos

@croydon - That's actually a pretty good idea in case you have to give someone a gift at the last minute. If you are the type of person who is always asking people over (or is being asked out yourself) that can come in handy. It's nice to be able to give a decent hostess gift when you're invited somewhere, particularly if it's a custom gift basket and not just something generic.

croydon

If you get into the habit of giving people gift baskets you might end up being always on the lookout for things to put into them. I have a friend like this who essentially had to put aside an entire cupboard to store all the odds and ends she picks up for use in her gift baskets.

She does make some incredible ones though and is very good at personalizing them as well. I think she just likes the fact that the gift is drawn out, so that it's not just a matter of giving someone a single item. They have to go through all the little gifts in the basket and exclaim over every one.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Gift baskets make wonderful gift ideas for best friends.
      By: coldwaterman
      Gift baskets make wonderful gift ideas for best friends.
    • Fruit baskets feature a variety of fruits.
      By: Anna Kucherova
      Fruit baskets feature a variety of fruits.
    • A gift basket with microwave popcorn and DVDs in a serving bowl should please a film fan.
      By: coffeemill
      A gift basket with microwave popcorn and DVDs in a serving bowl should please a film fan.
    • A gift basket might include a gift certificate.
      By: 14ktgold
      A gift basket might include a gift certificate.
    • Perfume may be included in a gift basket.
      By: Borys Shevchuk
      Perfume may be included in a gift basket.
    • Gift baskets may include scented soaps and bubble baths.
      By: sherrie
      Gift baskets may include scented soaps and bubble baths.
    • Gift baskets may include flowers.
      By: neirfy
      Gift baskets may include flowers.