16 long-lasting gifts under £50

There’s something really satisfying about giving someone a gift you know they’ll have forever. But as we all know, quality products tend to require a little investment. Fortunately, this list of best gifts under £50 contains a wide range of buy-once items that won’t break the bank.

These gifts are practical, beautifully-made and ready to go the distance. From quality socks and kitchen utensils to mugs and glasses, we think there’s something for everyone.

1. Everlasting stainless steel clothes pegs.

With their ergonomic design and lifetime guarantee against rust, these versatile pegs are a household saviour that will genuinely last a lifetime. Why keep buying cheap pegs that degrade in sun and frost, when you can keep a set of Pincinox pegs on the washing line year-round? Lovingly handmade in France since 1970.

We’ve also got super-sturdy clothes pins made of recycled fishing nets - UV-resistant, strong and sustainable. Plus, don’t forget the peg bag.

2. Colourful cotton socks

For a very special pair of socks, these ribbed socks are made of extra-strong Scottish Lisle cotton. London Sock Co. uses an extra-fine, tight knit for exceptional durability, and they come in a wide variety of vibrant colours. These socks come with a no-quibble 12-month guarantee - and best of all, a pair of socks is donated to homeless or refugee charities with every order.

Looking for a hiking sock? Check out our merino wool blend socks by Darn Tough and Moggans.

3. A 2-in-1 water bottle and coffee cup

The Cupple is a combined water bottle and insulated lidded coffee cup that twist together into one. It’s an ingenious concept, one that allows you to stay hydrated on the go and get a spontaneous coffee - all without contributing to single-use plastic waste. Simple, durable and satisfying to use.

4. A set of linen bowl covers

A sustainable alternative to cling film that also manages to look nice in the kitchen. These elasticated bowl covers are handmade in Cornwall, and are great for use in the fridge, on your countertop or for outdoor dining. Made of strong, sustainable linen fabric, they allow food to breathe - helping it last longer without spoiling. This set comes in three sizes.

5. A pair of double-walled glass tumblers

These nifty glasses don’t just look smart - the air pocket insulates your drink and protects your hands. The double wall means iced drinks stay cold without condensation, and hot drinks stay hot whilst the exterior remains cool to the touch. No coaster needed! Each one is mouth-blown from borosilicate glass, which is tough and heat-resistant.

6. A Life Less Throwaway by Tara Button

Do you want to give someone practical, accessible advice about buying for life? Our founder, Tara Button, literally wrote the book on it. It’s full of useful exercises and insider advice on how to make more mindful, fulfilling shopping choices. Help someone change the way they shop, for good. 

7. A three-piece cheese knife set

Cheese lovers will appreciate this set of three stainless steel cheese knives: a pronged knife for soft cheese, a wide knife for hard cheese and a convenient cheese slicer. Each piece is made of quality 18/10 stainless steel and carries a 25 year guarantee for extra reassurance. All this gift set needs is a cheese board to go with it.

8. A linen half apron

Practical, flattering and tough. This half apron is perfect for cooking, gardening and crafts, with its deep side pockets and long ties. Made in Cornwall from 100% linen, it’s lightweight and sturdy, and will soften up the more you wear and wash it. Printed with a simple, elegant bluebell design.

9. A stoneware mug (or two)

Denby’s mugs make a morning cuppa something a little special. Crafted in Derbyshire and carrying a 10 year guarantee, they’re made from a highly robust stoneware ceramic. Say goodbye to tacky, chipped mugs - and get someone their new favourite.

10. Long-life tights

If you know someone who wears tights a lot, they’ll probably be frustrated with how flimsy and uncomfortable they are. Give them an upgrade with a pair of our Hēdoïne tights - silky, strong and completely seamless (goodbye gussets). Their 20 and 40 denier tights are guaranteed never to ladder. And have you seen their biodegradable tights too?

11. Traditional enamelware plates

Practical and versatile, these enamel dinner plates by Falcon are ready to last a lifetime. They’re made from heavy-gauge steel, double-coated with a porcelain enamel - pretty much unbreakable. We love the classic blue and white colourway, which adds a nostalgic, utilitarian touch to your dining table or picnic.

12. Turkish bath towels

A ‘peshtemal’ is traditionally a lightweight cotton bath towel - but it can also be a throw, a blanket, sarong or tablecloth. These beautiful textiles are great for holidays, or evenings out where an extra layer might be needed. What’s more, these super-versatile gifts carry the Lüks Linen 20 year repair or replace guarantee.

13. A set of hi-ball crystal glasses

Crystal glass that can go in the dishwasher! These glasses have fine, thin rims that are a pleasure to drink from - but they’re exceptionally durable too. German glass experts Schott Zwiesel use a patented lead-free crystal glass that contains titanium oxide for strength. Their impressive break resistance makes them a favourite with high-end hotels and restaurants - as well as the chronically accident-prone.

Looking for stemmed crystal glasses? Browse the Schott Zwiesel collection here.

14. A stainless steel lunchbox

This practical stainless steel lunchbox is sturdy enough to last forever. It contains a snack pod to compartmentalise your lunch, and the lid stays secure thanks to the clip-top design. Plus, unlike plastic tupperware, the ultra-hygienic stainless steel means stains and odours won’t stick around.

15. Lifetime salt and pepper grinders

A true kitchen classic. Long before they started making cars, Peugeot have manufactured iconic pepper mills in their French factory since 1874. Do you know someone who always has a disposable plastic pepper grinder by the stove? These Paris mills carry a lifetime guarantee on the grinding mechanism, so they’ll never have to buy another.

16. A seamless utility knife

An everyday kitchen essential. With a patented ergonomic wedge handle and super-sharp Japanese steel blade, Füri’s versatile utility knife carries a 25-year guarantee. That seamless design is hygienic and easy to clean too.

Still unsure of the right gift? Head here for some thoughtful (and useful) gifting inspiration.