Christmas feels enchanting — until you check your bank account. If you’re shopping for children, that festive feeling can quickly turn into sticker shock.
The National Retail Federation estimates shoppers will shell out about $659 on gifts for loved ones this season. Pricey items like a $200 Barbie DreamHouse or a $300 Nintendo Switch don’t make sticking to a budget any easier.
You want to buy great presents for the kids without wrecking your finances — and you don’t have to overspend to make them happy.
We scanned the holiday toy roundups from big retailers Walmart and Target to find budget-friendly picks. Below are 15 fun toys under $20 that are wallet-friendly and still sure to be a hit.
Note: Prices shown are regular retail rates found online on Nov. 13, 2019. Final sale prices may differ.
9 Picks Under $20 From Walmart
Walmart’s roundup of this season’s hottest toys features unboxing favorites, little hero gear and items that add sparkle. Several choices won’t cost you more than $20.
1. What’s In My Purse Mystery Thoughts Pack
This little pack might contain lip-gloss rings, markers, erasers or charm bracelets — what’s inside stays a surprise until you open it.
Cost:$8.99
2. Tic Tac Toy XOXO Friends Multi Pack Surprise
Kids unzip this pack to reveal hidden delights. Each set includes two XOXO friends, three changeable wings, an accessory, a putty pack and a putty cutter.
Cost:$9.84
3. Blume Doll
A splash of water makes this doll emerge from its pot into “bloom.” The toy also hides little surprises like stickers and accessories.
Cost:$9.88
4. Pikmi Pops Cheeki Puffs
These plush collectibles are scented and come with two extra surprises — things like nail stickers, hair ties or temporary tattoos.
Cost:$10.88
5. Treasure X Alien Hunters Single Pack
Young explorers follow 12 steps to uncover treasures hidden inside this surprise pack — and they may encounter some gooey slime along the way.
Cost:$14.92
6. Banana Blast
This family game tests hand-eye coordination as players remove bananas from a tree and try to catch the monkey that pops up. Designed for two to five players, it’s best for ages 4 to 9.
Cost:$19.82
7. What’s In My Purse Surprise Pinkie Swear Doll Purse w/ Surprises
This doll-shaped purse contains lip gloss and two erasers. Kids can play with it as a toy or attach the metal chain to wear it as a mini purse.
Cost:$19.94
8. Blinger Diamond Collection Hair and Fashion Styling Tool
This styling gadget lets kids add sparkle to hair, clothing and accessories. It includes 75 colorful gems to decorate with.
Cost:$19.97
9. Marvel Spider-Man Super Web Slinger
Kids can pretend to be the iconic web-slinger with this toy that shoots “web” strings from a wrist-mounted launcher.
Cost:$19.99
6 Budget-Friendly Toys from Target
Target expanded its lineup this year with fresh and exclusive toys. Target’s selection of top toys under $20 includes a Frozen 2 board game, a creative spin on a classic and several toddler-friendly picks.
1. Fisher Price Linkimals Musical Moose
Made for babies 9 months and older, this interactive moose features a light-up belly and soft antlers. It plays songs and phrases to teach colors, counting and more.
Cost:$9.99
2. Fisher Price Linkimals Lights and Colors Llama
This modern take on a ring-stacking toy uses lights and music to help teach colors. It’s appropriate for babies 9 months and up.
Cost:$14.99
3. Fisher Price Linkimals A to Z Otter
The light-up, musical otter introduces the alphabet to little ones. Recommended for ages 9 months and older, it was a Toy of the Year finalist.
Cost:$19.99
4. Disney Frozen Frantic Forest Game
Frozen enthusiasts can enjoy this board game that uses counting, color-matching and strategy. It’s intended for two to four players ages 5 and up.
Cost:$19.99
5. Pictionary Air Game
This reimagined Pictionary uses an app plus a special pen that captures doodles drawn in the air on your phone, tablet or smart TV. It’s for two to five players and best for ages 8 and up.
Cost:$19.99
6. #Snapstar Pop Royalty: Echo’s Debut on the Pink Carpet
This doll combines tech and imaginative play — kids use the included green screen and an app to stage different scenes for Echo.
Cost:$19.99
If you’re still hunting for ideas, check out our roundups of best toys to find more budget-conscious favorites and stocking-stuffer inspiration.
