Celebrating Employee Appreciation Day doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank.
In fact, showing your team how much you value their hard work and dedication can be done in a thoughtful, budget-friendly way with incredible employee appreciation gifts!
Whether your company culture is all about fun and creativity or you’re looking to keep things simple yet meaningful, we’ve got you covered.
From affordable employee gifts that spark joy to budget-friendly options that don’t skimp on sentiment, this list is sure to inspire.
First, let’s talk about why you should be buying employee appreciation gifts for your team.
Why Are Employee Appreciation Gifts Important?
Employee appreciation gifts are more than just tokens of gratitude — they’re powerful tools for boosting morale, enhancing workplace culture, and strengthening the bond between employers and employees.
When employees feel valued and recognized, they’re more likely to stay engaged, motivated, and committed to their work.
Boosting Morale & Motivation
Employee appreciation gifts have the power to significantly boost morale within your team.
When employees feel acknowledged for their hard work and contributions, they’re more likely to stay motivated and continue performing at their best. A small gift can serve as a big reminder that their efforts are valued and noticed.
Enhancing Workplace Culture
A strong workplace culture is built on recognition and appreciation.
By giving thoughtful gifts, you reinforce a positive environment where employees feel connected and engaged.
This culture of appreciation not only improves day-to-day interactions but also attracts new talent who want to be part of a supportive and rewarding work environment.
Reducing Turnover & Increasing Loyalty
Showing appreciation through gifts can reduce employee turnover by fostering a sense of loyalty and belonging.
When employees feel appreciated, they’re less likely to seek opportunities elsewhere, saving your company the cost and disruption of frequent hiring and training. Gifts, no matter the size, can play a key role in retaining your top talent.
Promoting Productivity & Success
Happy employees are productive employees. Appreciation gifts can serve as a morale booster that directly impacts productivity levels.
When employees feel recognized and valued, they’re more likely to put in the effort and go the extra mile, driving the overall success of the company.
The 10 Best Gifts Under $25 From Swag.com
Ready to reap the rewards of employee appreciation gifts on a budget?
Here are 10 of our favorite options under $25!
Swag.com Unisex Polyblend Crew T-Shirt
Looking for a stylish yet budget-friendly way to show your team some love? The Swag.com Unisex Polyblend Crew T-Shirt is the perfect pick!
This tee combines a soft blend of combed ring-spun cotton and durable polyester, offering both comfort and longevity — without stretching your budget. Whether your employees are working from home, at the office, or out and about, this shirt makes a versatile and thoughtful gift that won’t break the bank.
This t-shirt is all about quality without the hefty price tag. It’s been laundered to reduce shrinkage, so it’ll keep its shape and fit, even after multiple washes.
And with its slightly heathered look, it’s got that trendy, casual vibe that everyone loves.
There’s nothing quite like starting the day with your favorite beverage in a stylish, go-to mug — especially when it’s as chic and affordable as the 16 Oz. Monaco Mug.
This ceramic beauty not only elevates your morning coffee or tea but also serves as a daily reminder of how much your company values its team.
Whether it’s sitting on an office desk or a home kitchen shelf, this mug’s sleek design fits right in, making it the perfect gift for Employee Appreciation Day.
Crafted with a matte gray exterior and a glossy interior, the Monaco Mug isn’t just about looks — it’s stackable and microwave-safe (as long as the imprint is non-metallic), making it as practical as it is stylish.
Whether you’re looking to impress on a budget or simply want to offer a thoughtful and practical gift, the 16 Oz. Monaco Mug is a fantastic choice that your employees will appreciate every time they take a sip.
Unleash your team’s creativity with the San Jose Notebook, the ultimate companion for jotting down ideas, notes, and to-do lists.
This soft-cover notebook has quickly become a favorite, and it’s easy to see why. With its sleek design and practical features, it’s the perfect gift for employees who love to stay organized while expressing their creativity.
And the best part? You can make it uniquely yours. Choose from debossing, screen printing, or digital printing to add your logo to the front cover.
Whether you go for a subtle debossed look or a vibrant digital print, the San Jose Notebook becomes a personalized gift that showcases your brand with style.
Looking for a stylish and sustainable way to show your team some appreciation?
The AS Colour Frame Nylon Hat is a high-profile cap that’s perfect for keeping your crew looking sharp, whether they’re at work or out and about.
Made from 100% recycled nylon, this hat not only adds a trendy touch to any outfit but also aligns with eco-conscious values—making it a win for both your employees and the planet!
Customization is key, and the AS Colour Frame Nylon Hat offers plenty of options. You can add your logo with high-quality embroidery on the front, back, or sides, turning this cap into a branded accessory that your employees will love to wear.
Whether it’s for Employee Appreciation Day, team outings, or just a casual Friday, this hat makes a practical and stylish gift that won’t break the bank.
Elevate your team’s workspace with the Fabric Mouse Pad — a simple yet impactful gift that brings both utility and a pop of color to any desk.
This essential computer accessory is perfect for everyday use, providing a smooth and comfortable surface for seamless mouse movements while keeping your brand front and center.
Made with a sturdy rubber bottom and a sleek fabric top, this mouse pad is designed for durability and comfort. It measures 9 3/8″ wide by 8″ high, with a 1/8″ thickness that ensures it stays securely in place, no matter how busy the workday gets.
Available in a range of vibrant colors, it’s easy to match the pad with your company’s branding or your employees’ personal preferences.
When it comes to staying hydrated in style, the Swag 17 Oz. Water Bottle stands out as the perfect gift!
Whether your team is hustling at the office or enjoying a day outdoors, this double-wall stainless steel bottle is designed to keep their drinks just the way they like them — hot for up to 12 hours or refreshingly cold for a full 24 hours.
Packaged in an elegant gift box, this BPA-free water bottle makes a thoughtful and affordable gift for Employee Appreciation Day or any occasion when you want to show your team some gratitude.
Customization is easy, with options to add your logo on the front, back, wrap, or even the lid, turning this bottle into a stylish branded accessory that your employees will be proud to use.
Looking for a truly unique gift that lets your employees express themselves? The Cinema Box is just the thing!
This decorative light box turns any space into a personalized marquee, allowing your team to create their own messages with the 60 included letters and symbols. It’s a fun and interactive gift that’s perfect for adding a bit of flair to their workspace or home.
Packaged in an elegant white gift box, the Cinema Box is ready to impress right out of the package. It even comes with 3x AAA batteries, so your employees can start using it immediately.
Whether it’s for Employee Appreciation Day or just a thoughtful gesture, this unique gift is sure to stand out and be a conversation starter.
Need a versatile gift that’s as dynamic as your team? The Colored Canvas Drawstring bag is a true game changer!
Whether your employees are on the go, heading to the gym, or just need a handy tote for their daily essentials, this drawstring bag has them covered. With a variety of vibrant colors to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect shade that matches your company’s vibe or your employees’ personal style.
Packaged in bulk and ready to go, this drawstring bag is a fantastic choice for those looking to make a big impact without a big spend. So go ahead, give your team a gift that’s as hardworking and versatile as they are!
When the summer heat kicks in, nothing beats the refreshing blast of a Mini Personal Mister! This handy little gadget is the ultimate budget-friendly solution for staying cool during ball games, outdoor events, or just a hot day in the sun.
Compact and easy to carry, it’s the perfect companion for anyone who wants to beat the heat without breaking the bank. With a customizable front, you can add your logo for a personalized touch, making this mister not just practical, but also a great branding opportunity.
Whether you’re looking to surprise your team with a fun summer gift or need a promotional item for an outdoor event, the Mini Personal Mister is a cool choice that won’t strain your budget.
Brighten up your team’s work-from-home setup with the Pixie Light 2.0 — the ultimate portable lighting solution that turns any smartphone, tablet, or laptop into a mini photo or video studio.
Whether your employees are hopping on a Zoom call, recording content, or just taking the perfect selfie, this compact light ensures they always have the perfect lighting, no matter where they are.
What’s even better? The Pixie Light 2.0 is lightweight at just 0.08 lbs, making it incredibly easy to carry around in a bag or pocket. It comes with a charging cable and is packaged in security-sealed recyclable packaging, so it’s ready to use right out of the box.
Plus, with digital print customization on the front, you can add your logo for a branded gift that’s both practical and stylish.
Find More Inexpensive Employee Appreciation Gifts With Swag
Looking for more inexpensive gift ideas?
Whether it’s apparel, tech, or any other gifts, we have you covered. Swag has all different kinds of customizable gifts with options for logos and branding. You’ll be able to find something to suit any taste!
Shop our collection of inexpensive employee appreciation gifts today.
[Shop Inexpensive Employee Appreciation Gifts]
The goal is to make your employees feel valued, appreciated and cared for. If you’d like to speak with one of our swag experts to find even more gifts suited for your company’s needs, fill out the form below and you’ll hear from us as soon as possible.
