10 Affordable Birthday Gift Ideas for Grandkids That They’ll Love

Credit: Unsplash

Finding the perfect birthday gift for your grandkids doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether they love toys, crafts, or experiences, there are plenty of budget-friendly gifts that will bring joy and excitement. Here are 10 affordable birthday gift ideas that your grandkids will love.

1. Personalized Storybooks ($10-$20)

A book featuring your grandchild’s name and a special story is a unique and thoughtful gift. Many online retailers offer personalized books that allow you to customize the character’s name, appearance, and even the storyline.

Best For: Kids ages 3-10
Where to Buy: Amazon, Wonderbly, Put Me In The Story

2. DIY Craft Kits ($10-$25)

Encourage creativity with a fun and engaging craft kit. From painting sets and friendship bracelet kits to slime-making and LEGO-compatible projects, these gifts keep kids entertained and help develop their creativity.

Best For: Kids ages 5-12
Where to Buy: Michaels, Target, Walmart

3. Memory Scrapbook ($10-$20)

Create a scrapbook filled with pictures, handwritten notes, and fun memories. Add stickers, colorful paper, and captions to make it extra special. Your grandchild will cherish a homemade gift filled with love.

Best For: Kids ages 6+
Where to Buy: Dollar Tree (for supplies), Hobby Lobby

4. Subscription Boxes for Kids ($10-$15 per month)

Many affordable subscription boxes cater to kids’ interests, from STEM projects to reading programs. Some options offer one-month subscriptions, making them an easy and fun birthday gift idea.

Best For: Kids ages 4-12
Where to Buy: KiwiCo, Highlights Magazine, Little Passports

5. Outdoor Adventure Kit ($10-$25)

If your grandchild loves the outdoors, put together a DIY adventure kit with items like a magnifying glass, bug-catching kit, mini flashlight, and binoculars. You can even include a printed scavenger hunt for extra fun.

Best For: Kids ages 5-12
Where to Buy: Walmart, Amazon, Dollar Tree

5. Outdoor Adventure Kit ($10-$25)

If your grandchild loves the outdoors, put together a DIY adventure kit with items like a magnifying glass, bug-catching kit, mini flashlight, and binoculars. You can even include a printed scavenger hunt for extra fun.

Best For: Kids ages 5-12
Where to Buy: Walmart, Amazon, Dollar Tree

7. Baking Set ($10-$20)

Get your grandchild excited about cooking with a kid-friendly baking set. Look for mini rolling pins, cookie cutters, sprinkles, and an apron. Pair it with a box of cake mix for an easy and delicious project together.

Best For: Kids ages 4-10
Where to Buy: Walmart, Amazon, Joann Fabrics

8. Fun Socks or Pajamas ($8-$15)

Every kid loves cozy socks or fun pajamas featuring their favorite characters. Look for designs with Disney, superheroes, unicorns, or animals to make bedtime extra exciting.

Best For: Kids ages 3-12
Where to Buy: Target, Old Navy, Kohl’s

9. DIY Coupon Book ($0-$5)

Create a custom coupon book with fun activities your grandchild can “redeem” throughout the year, such as:

  • “One Movie Night with Popcorn”
  • “Ice Cream Date with Grandpa”
  • “Sleepover at Grandma’s House”
    This thoughtful and personal gift is priceless and full of love.

Best For: Kids of all ages
Where to Buy: DIY at home with colored paper and markers

10. Fun Experience ($10-$25)

Instead of a physical gift, treat your grandchild to a fun experience, such as:

  • trip to the zoo or aquarium
  • mini golf or bowling night
  • movie or ice cream date
  • picnic and nature walk
    Experiences create long-lasting memories and show them how much you care.

Best For: Kids of all ages
Where to Buy: Local attractions, Groupon for deals

You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your grandchild’s birthday extra special. Whether you choose a personalized book, a DIY craft kit, or a fun day out, the most important thing is the love and thoughtfulness behind the gift.

Remso Martinez is a finance enthusiast with over a decade of experience helping others navigate the path to financial ... More about Remso Martinez

More About: