It’s been a tough year, and like many of us, I’m looking to stretch my holiday dollars this season.  If you’re on a budget, but don’t want to disappoint, here are some cool gift ideas — all under $50, for the loved ones in your life.  So start spreading the green holiday cheer without breaking the bank.

For the Guy that’s…
1. Tech savvy – iGo Power Smart Wall ($29.99)

This wall module automatically reduces wasted standby power by as much as 85%, saving you power without the hassle of unplugging your devices.

2. Always losing his keys – Recycled Inner Tube “To Go” Case ($18)

Made from a recycled inner tube and discarded zipper, this case makes a perfect place to store keys, sunglasses or a cell phone.  Great for guys that seem to always carry too much stuff in their pockets.

3. Very into his beer – Bottle Opener Belt ($15)

With a clever take on multi-functional design, this black web belt doubles as a bottle opener.  It can be trimmed or adjusted to fit just about any beer drinker, so you don’t have to worry about buying the right size.

4. All about art-inspired fashion – Hand Screen Printed Tees from Partybots ($31.95)

Featuring artwork designed by Karl Addison, these hand screen printed tees are made from 100% organic cotton and printed using sustainable methods including platen glue, soy-based cleaners, and screen printing solvents made with renewable soy.  Plus, for every online order, Partybots donates $2 to Mercy for Animals.

5. On the go – Green Perspective’s Green Love for Him Kit ($33)

This eco-travel kit comes complete with organic shave foam, alcohol-free aftershave balm, bamboo socks, travel mug, and a reusable bag made from 100% recycled polyester in which to carry it all.

For the Gal that’s…

1. A fitness guru – Lotuspad Yoga Mat ($40)

Unlike traditional yoga mats that are made from polyvinyl chloride (yuck!), these yoga mats are made from ThermoPlastic Elastomer (TPE), a 100% biodegradable and photodegradable, lead-free, and latex-free material.  Plus, its construction is designed to resist sweat, bacteria, and fungus.  Choose from 4 different shades.

2. A fan of DIY projects – Sewing Green: 25 Projects Made with Repurposed and Organic Materials: Plus Tips and Resources for Earth-Friendly Stitching by Betz White ($24.95)

This book features 25 green sewing projects, from making an apron from men’s shirts to a tote bag from used Tyvek envelopes.  The looks are contemporary, yet practical.

3. A coffee aficionado – DCI Eco Cup ($9.99)

From the makers of “I am not a paper cup” travel coffee mug, comes the “eco cup,” a single wall porcelain cup with a silicon sleeve and lid that looks just like the usual paper cup minus the wasteful disposal.  A great way to enjoy that coffeehouse experience at work and at home, or bring to your favorite coffee shop and fill up.

4. All about design – Recycled Bike Part Tea Light Holders ($24 for set of 2)

Made from recycled bicycle freewheels and cassette cogs, these contemporary tea light holders make great centerpieces.  Tea light candles included in the set.

5. In need of relaxation – Just the Essentials from the Bottle Earth Company ($40)

This gift crate makes a perfect introduction to the Bottle Earth Company’s natural products, and is perfect for creating that spa experience at home.  It includes organic body cream, aromatherapy mist, natural and organic soaps, plus a small organic loofah.

Tip for wrapping presents: Instead of using wrapping paper, try cutting out old newspapers, maps, magazines and catalogs and pasting them on an old shoe box to make a unique collage.  It’s a great way to re-use paper and personalize gifts.