Gift wrapping is nice, but a gift basket is better — especially when you’re not beholden to the woven baskets that come with mini-muffins and potpourri. Here at the Strategist, we like to think of a “gift basket” as an extension of the gifts inside it. Take, for example, a monogrammed L.L.Bean tote, which can be a gift on its own or a basket to hold goodies for the person who gets everything monogrammed (or vacations in Maine). Perhaps you’re shopping for a Costco regular? Your best bet is a red wagon, which will help them transport all their bulk buys. Below, we’ve created a list of the most handsome baskets and clever almost-baskets that we turned up after scouring the internet and our site’s archives. So as you make your list and check it twice, don’t forget to think about how you’ll present each gift this holiday season, too.
Here’s a basket that’s capable of doing some extra legwork. Bike commuters, motorcycle dads, and training-wheels toddlers can attach it to their handlebars when they’re done unwrapping the gifts inside.
There’s something surprisingly chic about this bucket, which you can get in a number of non-boring colors, including pastel pink and teal. Consider it for the boat dad or gardener who should appreciate the non-slip handle.
An upgrade from the bucket, this cooler is best used to store gifts for the Hudson Valley weekender or Union Square farmers’-market regular who would like to keep their produce fresh later on.
An aesthetic upgrade to the aforementioned red wagon, this foldable utility cart is a viral TikTok product that’s actually worth the hype. When one writer tested it out for a week, she found it capable of transporting everything from her laundry and a slightly confused pup to an Ikea haul.
Whether they’re a gardener or a green-thumb cosplayer, they’ll be able to add this design-y planter to their garden.
This is an upgrade from the basket that Little Red Riding Hood took through the woods.
For the dinner-party doyenne, we suggest this acacia salad bowl that comes recommended by Dan Pelosi for its size and good looks.
Here’s that L.L.Bean tote we mentioned. You can monogram it with the recipient’s name or initials for an extra $8.
After they open their gifts, they can use this popcorn bowl to hold their snack of choice, whether they’re loyal to movie-theater candy or microwave popcorn.
With fridgescaping on the rise, these ceramic berry boxes are popular. It’d make a nice gift basket for the mom who’s forever curating her space.
This list wouldn’t be complete without a few actual baskets. This one has some large handles for carrying especially heavy gifts.
Here’s a nice option for anyone easily charmed by scalloping …
Unsurprisingly, the Container Store makes a number of attractive baskets. This one varies with its accent stripe, which come in a few charming options, including a golden yellow and deep sea blue.
Perhaps you’ll opt for a basket with a lid.
This TPU-coated bag has long ergonomic handles, making it super-functional for everyday use. It’s also water resistant, so your giftee can take it to the nearest campsite or on their next fishing trip.
Both kids and adults alike will adore this handwoven basket that looks like a fairy’s mushroom house. The top opens for easy access, and it has a little door on the side that can open and shut.
Bogg bags are viral for a reason: “It’s the Crocs of bags,” singer-songwriter Amerie told us about these durable and washable totes.
A sturdy iron pail for the person on your list who’s been adding a pop of red to everything this year.
Tassel detailing and tie-knot handles complete this boho-inspired rope basket. It’s nice-looking enough to be reused as home décor.
We spotted this wide metal fruit bowl, which has low sides to show off an assortment of presents inside.
Wine buckets are a great option that your recipient will surely use again.
This heavy-duty wooden crate should work if you want something more rustic.
A few smaller gifts can fit into one of these colorful steel canisters, which feature contrasting lids and are available in three sizes.
Any record collector or music lover will appreciate this wooden storage crate from Crosley.
Here’s a broad and deep basket for displaying more sizable gifts.
This jumbo mug can hold up to 50 ounces of their favorite drink, and it would look quite delightful if you filled it with a few edible goodies.
Ikea is another retailer that sells tons of affordable bags and baskets. We have our eye on this one, which is made of seaweed and has thick blush-colored handles.
Who says a colander can’t be a gift basket? Especially if you’re shopping for a farmers’-market regular who rinses lots of veggies or the home cook with endless recipe ideas.
The Strategist is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about here. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
