25 Best Thinking of You Gift Basket Ideas for All Occasions
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Takeaway: A "Thinking of You" gift basket is a heartfelt way to show someone you care, whether they’re going through a tough time or you just want to brighten their day. The best baskets are personal, thoughtful, and tailored to the recipient’s interests—whether it’s self-care, snacks, or a cozy night in. This guide will help you find the perfect combination of items to create a meaningful and memorable gift.
Sometimes, a simple text or phone call isn’t enough to express how much you care. A "thinking of you" gift box goes beyond words, offering a tangible reminder of love, friendship, and support–in good times and in bad.
The best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to create something meaningful. Whether you’re putting together a small, budget-friendly basket or going all out with a custom-themed gift, this guide has plenty of ideas for every personality, occasion, and budget.
Let’s dive in.
Thinking of You Gift Baskets for Her
When it comes to gifting something special for the women in your life—whether it’s your mom, sister, best friend, or partner—the possibilities are endless. A "thinking of you" gift basket for her is a great way to show you’re thinking of her in a thoughtful, practical, and personal way.
Here are a few ideas to help you find the right mix of goodies for your loved one. (P.S. These ideas can definitely be used for people of any gender!)
1. Spa & Self-Care Basket
Everyone deserves a little pampering now and then. Put together a basket filled with soothing goodies like face masks, bath salts, essential oils, and a soft towel or robe. Add in a calming candle or a few of her favorite beauty products, and you’ve got yourself a spa day in a basket.
DIY tip: Add a handwritten note or create a custom “spa day” playlist for her to listen to while relaxing. Personalize the basket with a homemade sugar scrub.
2. Cozy Comfort Basket
Who doesn’t love a cozy night in? Fill a basket with soft, warm items like plush socks, a cozy blanket, and a cute mug. Toss in some hot cocoa mix or herbal tea for the ultimate comfort experience. If she loves books, add in a novel or magazine for the perfect chill evening.
DIY tip: Knit or crochet a small throw or pair of cozy socks to add a personal touch. You could also create a custom hot cocoa mix with her favorite ingredients and package it in a cute jar with a personalized label.
3. Sweet Treats Basket
For the woman with a sweet tooth, this basket is sure to hit the spot. Include an assortment of gourmet chocolates, artisanal cookies, or even a jar of her favorite jam or honey. If you want to get extra thoughtful, throw in a handwritten “thinking of you” card (I can help with that 😉).
DIY tip: Bake a batch of her favorite cookies or brownies and add them to the basket. For an extra special touch, wrap them in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon. You could also create a custom recipe card for one of the treats.
4. Creative Hobby Basket
If she’s into arts and crafts, a hobby-themed basket could be a great way to spark her creativity. Fill it with a sketchbook, colored pencils, knitting supplies, or any other tools that might inspire her next project. You can even add in a DIY kit for something new to try!
DIY tip: Personalize the sketchbook or DIY kit by adding a few hand-drawn designs or inspirational quotes inside. If she loves crafting, include a small homemade art print with a personal note of encouragement to spark her creativity.
These baskets can be as simple or as elaborate as you like—just focus on the things she loves, and you’re sure to make her day. Whether it’s something to help her relax or an indulgence she can enjoy, these baskets are all about making her feel cared for and appreciated.
Thinking of You Gift Baskets for Him
When putting together a "thinking of you" gift basket for a guy–whether it’s for your dad, brother, boyfriend, or a friend–it’s all about personalizing the contents to match his style and interests.
Here are some creative and unexpected gift basket ideas for the men (or any special person) in your life.
5. Coffee Lover’s Basket
For the guy who can’t get his day started without a cup of coffee, put together a basket that’s all about his caffeine fix. Include gourmet coffee beans or specialty pods, a fun mug, and maybe even a few delicious pastries or biscotti on the side. Add in a French press or pour-over kit if you want to make it a little extra.
DIY tip: Create a custom coffee blend by mixing different types of beans or adding flavored syrups (like vanilla or caramel) in small, labeled bottles. You can also include a handwritten note with a favorite coffee recipe.
6. The Ultimate Game Night Basket
A game-themed basket could be a hit for any man who loves a night in. Include a mix of classic and quirky board games, card games, or even a deck of trivia cards. You can also toss in some gourmet popcorn, salty snacks, and his favorite craft beer or soda to make it a complete game night experience.
DIY tip: Make a homemade "game night" coupon book with fun challenges or activities that he can use with friends or family. You could also create personalized scorecards for another fun, thoughtful touch.
7. The Outdoorsy Basket
Outdoor hobbies can get pricey, you don’t need to go all out to create the perfect gift for the adventurous guy in your life. Start with a durable water bottle, a handy compass or map, and some trail mix or energy bars to fuel his adventures. Add in a small, lightweight poncho or a set of reusable hand warmers for a practical touch.
DIY tip: Handwrite a list of your favorite outdoor spots or hiking trails that he could explore. For an added touch, create a personalized trail mix with his favorite nuts, dried fruits, and candies, and package it in a reusable bag with his name on it.
8. The Vinyl Lover’s Basket
For the music aficionado, a vinyl-themed basket can bring back the nostalgia of spinning records. Include a couple of vinyl records from his favorite artists and some vintage-inspired music accessories like a record cleaning brush or a classic band t-shirt. Toss in some retro snacks or a cool music magazine to add some flair.
DIY tip: Make a custom playlist of songs that pair well with vinyl, or create a personalized “music journal” where he can record thoughts on his favorite albums. You could also add a few handwritten album reviews or memories tied to certain songs or artists.
Small & Budget-Friendly Thinking of You Gift Boxes
Sometimes, you don’t need to spend a lot to make a big impact. These small and budget-friendly "thinking of you" gift baskets are perfect for showing you care without breaking the bank. Whether it’s for a coworker, neighbor, or just a casual gift, these ideas are simple, meaningful, and thoughtful.
9. Tea & Biscuit Mini Basket
A soothing tea break in a basket :) Fill a small container with a couple of premium tea bags, a cute mug, and some buttery shortbread cookies or your favorite biscuits. If you want to get creative, include a small honey jar or a tea infuser ball. For an added personal touch, wrap it in a fabric napkin or place it in a small wooden box.
DIY tip: Create a personalized tea blend by mixing a few loose-leaf teas together. You can also add a hand-written label with brewing instructions or a note about why you picked the specific tea varieties.
10. Positivity Basket
Who wouldn’t appreciate a basket filled with good vibes? Create a small gift basket with thoughtful, inspirational items. You could include a framed positive quote a small gratitude journal, or a stress-relief item like a fidget spinner or stress ball. You could even toss in a small plant to bring some life and energy to their space.
DIY tip: Write out a set of your favorite positive quotes on small cards, or create a personalized “happiness jar” filled with little notes of encouragement. You could also decorate the basket with bright colors or cheerful ribbons to give it an extra boost of joy.
11. Breakfast Basket
Who doesn’t love breakfast in bed (or a nice breakfast surprise)? Fill a small basket with items for a simple breakfast, like gourmet jam, a mini jar of honey, a couple of croissants or muffins, and perhaps a small bottle of orange juice or coffee pods. Add in a cute napkin or an inspiring morning quote for that personal touch.
DIY tip: If you bake, make your own muffins or granola to add to the basket. You can also print out a “breakfast recipe” card, so they can recreate the yummy breakfast experience at home.
12. Pet Lover’s Basket
If your recipient is a pet owner, create a small gift basket just for their furry friend! Add some gourmet treats or a new toy for their pet, along with a cute bandana or pet accessory. You could also throw in a small pet care item, like grooming wipes or a new leash.
DIY tip: Hand-make some dog or cat treats if you’re crafty in the kitchen, or personalize a pet collar with their pet’s name using fabric markers or paint.
13. Gardener’s Mini Basket
For someone who enjoys a little greenery, a mini gardening basket can be the perfect gift. Start with a small potted plant (like a succulent or herb), and add in a few packets of seeds for easy-growing flowers or vegetables. If you want to go a little further, include a small hand trowel or gardening gloves.
DIY tip: Customize the pot with some paint or a fun design. You can also add a personal note with gardening tips or a small DIY project like a “plant care guide” to help them keep their new plant thriving.
Seasonal & Occasion-Based Thinking of You Gift Baskets
Seasonal and occasion-based gift baskets are a wonderful way to send your love and brighten someone’s day, perfectly tailored to the time of year or a special event. Whether it's for a holiday or just to celebrate a particular occasion, these baskets add a thoughtful, personal touch that can make a moment extra special.
14. Spring Gift Basket
Spring is all about renewal and fresh starts, and a spring-themed basket can reflect that. Include items like a small potted flower or plant (think daffodils, tulips, or an herb like mint), a jar of honey or spring jams, and a fresh, fruity tea. For a fun twist, add seed packets for them to plant their own garden of blooms.
DIY tip: Hand-paint a terracotta pot for the plant or seeds, or include a custom recipe for a springtime salad or lemonade. You can also make your own flower-pressed bookmarks to add a personal touch to the basket.
15. Summer Gift Basket
Help your recipient kick back and relax with a summer-themed basket filled with everything they need for a chill afternoon. Add a beach towel or picnic blanket, sunscreen, and some refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade. Include a fun summer read, sunglasses, or even a set of pool floaties to keep things lighthearted.
DIY tip: Create a homemade popsicle mix using their favorite fruits and ingredients. You could also make a personalized playlist for summer vibes, and include a handwritten note with your favorite summer activities.
16. Autumn Gift Basket
Autumn is all about settling in and enjoying a slower pace, and what better way to send your warm thoughts than with an autumn-inspired basket? Think cozy socks, a small throw blanket, and pumpkin-scented candles. Add in a jar of apple butter, a spiced chai mix, or some warm flavored nuts. You could also include a fall-themed puzzle or a small book to curl up with.
DIY tip: Bake a batch of homemade pumpkin or apple cinnamon cookies to add in. You could also create a DIY “fall jar,” filled with small fall-related notes like autumn activities to try or a gratitude jar.
17. Holiday Cheer Basket
Perfect for spreading some holiday magic, this basket is all about bringing festive cheer. Include classic holiday items like a handmade ornament, a sweet holiday treat like gingerbread cookies, and a seasonal candle in scents like pine or cinnamon. Add a hot cocoa mix or holiday-themed mug for extra coziness.
DIY tip: Make your own holiday ornament!. You can also create a batch of spiced nuts or holiday popcorn mix to add a homemade touch to the basket.
18. Birthday Celebration Basket
For birthdays, consider creating a basket that’s all about celebrating the person! Include a small birthday cake or cupcakes, a personalized “happy birthday” banner or balloons, and perhaps a fun game or activity. You could add their favorite snacks or treats, along with a small gift that reflects their personal taste or hobby.
DIY tip: Write in a hand-drawn birthday card or create a fun birthday crown or party hat. You could also create a “bucket list” of local places to visit or things to do, tailored to their interests.
19. New Home Basket
For someone settling into a new place, a "new home" basket can offer both practicality and warmth. Include a couple of housewarming essentials like a nice candle, hand soap, and a cute dish towel. Add in some local snacks or a bottle of wine, and perhaps a small plant to brighten their space.
DIY tip: Personalize the basket by including a small, framed photo of a favorite memory or a custom-made keychain with their new address on it.
20. Congrats on Your New Job Basket
Help someone celebrate a career milestone with a basket full of items that help ease the transition. Include a professional-looking notebook or planner, a reusable water bottle, and a pack of gourmet coffee or tea. Add something fun and personal, like a motivational book or a small succulent to brighten their workspace.
DIY tip: Include a handwritten note of encouragement or a list of your favorite productivity tips. You could also personalize the notebook by adding a motivating quote or their initials on the cover.
Thoughtful Thinking of You Baskets for Tough Times
Life can be challenging, and during moments of grief, illness, or hardship, a simple gesture can provide comfort and let someone know they’re not alone. These baskets are designed to offer support and empathy during tough times, filled with items that can bring a bit of relief, comfort, and care.
21. Grief Support Basket
When someone is going through a loss, the best gift can be something that offers a bit of solace and encourages self-care. Fill the basket with items like calming teas, a comforting candle, and a favorite snack along with a handwritten note in a sympathy card.
DIY tip: Make a homemade photo album or scrapbook with space for photos, memories, and personal notes. You can include some blank pages for the recipient to fill in when they’re ready.
22. Illness Recovery Basket
For someone who’s sick or recovering, focus on things that help them feel cozy and cared for. Consider a heating pad for aches or a cooling face mask to help them relax. A puzzle book or coloring book could help pass the time, and a gourmet broth or soup mix is a thoughtful touch to keep them nourished without too much effort. You can also toss in a soft, fuzzy pair of socks for that extra cozy feeling.
DIY tip: Create a personalized “comfort jar” filled with small, handwritten notes of encouragement, jokes, or uplifting quotes that they can pull out whenever they need a pick-me-up.
23. Mental Health Care Basket
Mental health matters just as much as physical health, and a basket to help them unwind could really help. Fill it with an affirmation card deck to give them something positive to focus on, or maybe a journal with prompts to help them work through their thoughts. A weighted eye mask or a fidget toy can be perfect for easing tension. And don’t forget a little sleep spray with calming lavender or eucalyptus.
DIY tip: Make a self-care “menu” with a list of simple, feel-good activities they can do each day, like taking a walk, enjoying a favorite hobby, or just having a relaxing bath.
24. Support During Job Loss Basket
Losing a job can be a big hit, so a basket that combines a little encouragement with practical items can be really helpful. Add a motivational book to keep them inspired and a personalized planner or to-do list to help them stay organized while searching. Maybe toss in some healthy snacks or a gourmet coffee sampler to give them a boost throughout the day.
DIY tip: Create a “future goals vision board” with cut-out images or phrases that represent their dreams and aspirations. Provide a blank board or large poster and let them fill it with inspiring visuals to help them stay motivated and focused on the next chapter in their career.
25. Long-Distance Support Basket
When you can’t be there in person, showing you care from afar is still powerful. Put together a basket filled with thoughtful little touches like a personalized playlist or a photo album of shared memories. You can add something comforting, like a treat or some favorite snacks, and even include a digital frame that you can load with pictures of family, friends, or pets to brighten their space.
DIY tip: Create a “virtual hug” pack with things like video messages from loved ones, or a few voice notes filled with funny memories, affirmations, and inside jokes. It’s a way to send a little love even when you can’t physically be there.
Final thoughts
A well-thought-out “thinking of you” gift basket is more than just a collection of items—it’s a way to show someone they’re not alone, no matter what they’re going through.
Whether you’re cheering up a friend, offering support during a tough time, or just reminding someone you care, the best baskets are the ones that feel personal.
And for an even more heartfelt touch, consider adding in a card with a handwritten note. This has always been my go-to when I’m not sure what to say or do to make someone I love feel supported. That’s why I launched Nothing Gold Design Co: to help others seize these opportunities (both big and small) to connect. Check out my hand-drawn “thinking of you” cards if you’re looking for a thoughtful addition to your gift basket.
