Christmas Gift Ideas for Broke Students

Þýðing: Julie Summers

Shopping for Christmas presents is the most anxiety-inducing part of the holidays for me. Judging a gift by its price tag is a terrible practice; the money spent on a gift doesn’t necessarily reflect the love and care of the giver. Still, of course we want to give our nearest and dearest the finest gifts - because they deserve it! For someone who’s been a student for years, it’s been quite a challenge. If you’re stumped as to what to give this year, start here.

Graphics / Margrét Aðalheiður Önnu Þorgeirsdóttir

1. Give homemade gifts.
   Most people have two hands, and you can use them to create something new. Use your creative talents to craft, paint, sew, knit, or write a song. It’s clever, fun, and economical.

2. Give coupons.
   If the people in your life are facing some sort of problem, you can offer to help solve it. Give a coupon for babysitting, a knitting lesson, or an invitation for dinner. Everyone has a talent they can turn into a Christmas gift.

3. Visit a second-hand shop.
   The Red Cross, Hertex, and Góði Hirðirinn sell used clothing and a variety of other things for pocket change, and they’ve got all sorts of treasures. With some patience and persistence, you might get lucky and find the perfect Christmas gift for your loved one.

4. Give an experience.
   If you’re not interested in giving something tangible, you can give the gift of good memories or a specific experience. For example, you can give a gift card for the movie theater or a yoga class or give a library card.

5. Give a donation in their name.
   All sorts of charities and non-profits accept donations under someone else’s name, so you can honor someone and support a good cause at the same time.