Yes, it’s true—regifting happens. Whether you admit it or not, it’s a resourceful way to pass along items that may not suit you but could bring joy to someone else. However, there’s a fine line between thoughtful regifting and a faux pas. Regifting, or giving a gift you’ve received to someone else, has likely been practiced for centuries, but there are some basic etiquette guidelines to follow to ensure it’s done tactfully and thoughtfully.
To regift or not to regift
The best regifting practices involve thoughtfulness and sincerity. Regift only when the item in question feels like the perfect match for the recipient. For instance, if you receive a set of artisanal teas but aren’t a tea drinker, passing it along to a tea-loving friend or colleague could be a thoughtful gesture.
However, regifting shouldn’t be an act of convenience or a way to offload unwanted items. Just because you don’t appreciate a gift doesn’t mean the recipient will either. Always consider whether the regift truly suits the person’s tastes or needs.
When you do decide to regift, take these steps to personalize the process:
- Rewrap the item: Presentation matters. Remove any old wrapping paper, ribbons or tags and rewrap the item in fresh, attractive packaging.
- Replace the gift card: If the original gift came with a card or message, make sure it’s removed or replaced with a new, personalized note.
What not to regift
Use common sense when deciding what’s appropriate to regift. Here are a few scenarios to avoid:
- Seasonal mismatches: Don’t give a holiday-themed candle in the middle of summer or a winter scarf in June.
- Monogrammed or personalized items: These are generally off-limits unless, by coincidence, the recipient shares the same initials or personalization.
- Handmade or promotional items: Items like homemade crafts or branded freebies from the perfume counter aren’t suitable for regifting.
- Connection to the original giver: Be mindful of the relationship between the person who gave you the gift and the person you’re regifting it to. If there’s a chance they could cross paths, it’s best to avoid regifting altogether.
Also, never tell the recipient that their gift is a regift—it’s unnecessary and may cause discomfort. However, there’s an exception for high-value items. If the regift is particularly expensive, it’s courteous to mention its origin, ensuring the recipient doesn’t feel obligated to reciprocate with an equally costly gift.
Host a regifting party
A lighthearted way to embrace regifting is by hosting a dedicated regifting party. The website Regiftable.com suggests organizing a White Elephant exchange, where guests bring quirky, impractical, or duplicate items to swap in a playful setting. This approach removes any guilt or awkwardness associated with regifting.
How to host a regifting party
- Invite your guests: Make it clear that the event is a regifting party so everyone is on the same page.
- Set the rules: Ask each guest to bring one wrapped regift—preferably something in good condition and appropriate for general audiences.
- Draw numbers: Have participants draw numbers to determine the order of gift selection.
- Exchange gifts:
- The guest with the lowest number picks a wrapped gift and opens it.
- The next guest can either choose a new wrapped gift or “steal” an already opened gift.
- If a gift is “stolen,” the person who loses it can choose another unopened gift or steal from someone else.
- Final trade: Once all gifts are unwrapped, the first person has the chance to swap their gift with anyone else’s.
Regifting parties are an excellent way to laugh, connect and enjoy the spirit of giving without the pressure of traditional gift-giving. If you end up with an item you still don’t love, consider donating it to charity.
Alternatives to regifting
If regifting doesn’t feel right, there are other ways to thoughtfully handle unwanted gifts. Many people choose to donate these items to local charities, shelters or community organizations. Another option is selling the gift through online marketplaces, such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace, where someone else might appreciate it.
A thoughtful approach
Regifting, when done thoughtfully, can be a practical and meaningful way to share with others. It helps reduce waste, promote sustainability, and bring joy to someone who might genuinely appreciate the item. Just remember to personalize the gesture, consider the recipient’s preferences and avoid any situations that could lead to awkward encounters.
As the holiday season approaches, keep in mind that the thought behind the gift is what truly counts. Whether you’re regifting, donating or passing an item along in a fun exchange, the key is to do so with sincerity and gratitude. After all, it’s the thought—and not necessarily the gift itself—that makes any gesture special.
