How much should the gifts we buy reasonably cost?
When it comes to choosing a gift, one of the most common questions is: how much should you spend? The answer depends on several factors – your relationship with the person, the occasion, your budget, and even social norms. Spending on gifts shouldn’t be a burden, but it’s important that they are carefully chosen enough to convey respect, appreciation, and care.
Below you will find a guide to reasonable amounts you can spend for various people and occasions.
How much do we spend on gifts for friends?
For birthdays, Christmas, or other special occasions, gifts for friends can range between 50 and 200 lei, depending on how close you are.
- Close friends: 100-200 lei - You can choose perfumes, books , personalized items or small gadgets.
- Distant friends: 50-100 lei - A beautiful diary , a funny mug, a tea set or a T-shirt with a message can be suitable choices.
Tips: You don't have to impress with material value. A meaningful, personalized gift can be much more appreciated than an expensive one.
How much do we spend on gifts for teachers?
In the case of gifts for teachers, it is important that it be something symbolic, tasteful, without seeming like an attempt at influence.
Recommended budget: 30-100 lei
Examples: a bouquet of flowers, an interesting book, an elegant agenda , a personalized mug with the subject they teach, or a personalized gift package .
Attention: If it is a collective gift from the class, the total amount may be higher, and each student can contribute 10-20 lei.
How much money would be reasonable to spend on gifts for office colleagues?
Gifts between colleagues, especially for Secret Santa or birthdays, should be simple and fun, but also decent.
Recommended budget: 30-80 lei
Examples: a thermos, a mug with a funny message , a potted plant, a desk stand, premium chocolate or a symbolic voucher.
Tip: Avoid gifts that are too personal (perfumes, clothes) or inappropriate jokes. If it's a colleague's birthday and you contribute more to their gift, then you can choose a gift package with more premium products.
Is it recommended to spend a lot on gifts for parents?
Parents deserve heartfelt gestures, but you don't have to spend large sums to show them your appreciation.
Recommended budget: 100-400 lei (or more if you can afford it)
Examples: a coffee maker, a digital photo frame with family photos, a day at the spa for mom or a watch for dad, or even a weekend for two.
Trick: Personalized, emotionally charged gifts are often worth more than the money given.
What budget should we have for gifts for godparents?
Godparents are important people in a family's life, so a carefully chosen gift is a form of respect and gratitude.
Recommended budget: 150-500 lei
Examples: a collection wine set, a quality decorative object, an experience (dinner at a restaurant, concert), or premium products (oils, jams, cosmetics).
Suggestion: During the holidays or name days, an elegant gift package is always a safe choice.
How much is appropriate to spend on a gift for the boss?
The gift for the boss should be formal, neutral, and decent. Neither too cheap nor extravagant. It's more about the gesture than the value.
Recommended budget: 80-250 lei
Examples: a useful agenda , an elegant pen , a good wine, a business card or an office item.
Important: Avoid personal or overly expensive gifts – they can be misinterpreted. If it is a group gift , the total amount can be higher, but individually you should not jump the gun.
Some useful tips to keep in mind when budgeting for a gift:
- Set a clear budget before you go shopping.
- Keep the occasion in mind – a Christmas gift doesn't have the same impact as a birthday or name day gift.
- Packaging matters – a beautifully wrapped gift seems more valuable.
- Avoid gifts that may offend – inappropriate jokes, religious or political products, things that are too intimate.
- Don't compare yourself to others - what matters is the gesture and intention, not the amount spent.
There is no set rule for the ideal amount for a gift. Try to find a balance between your budget, your relationship with the recipient, and the significance of the occasion. A good gift is not necessarily the most expensive, but the one that conveys your thoughts and feelings in the most sincere way.
