The year 2020 saw the way that we traveled, socialized, and lived life to the fullest with our best friends, and said “shut it down.” For many, this meant saying goodbye to our companions, learning how to be by ourselves, and essentially perfecting the Zoom- and phone-call-filled long-distance friendship. Whether your platonic love language was acts of service, quality time, or physical touch, it's probably now forced to become gift-giving — and we've crafted a list of worthy ideas that will help you do it right just in time for the holidays.
Sending your partner-in-crime a Netflix subscription, sentimental pressed-flower picture frame, or BFF rings can be just as affectionate as a warm hug or one of your casual hangouts. Click on to discover these gifts and more from the most unique virtual haunts around — and get ready to make your faraway bestie feel like you gave them a lovely visit IRL.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Friendship Lamps
Keep one lamp for yourself and give the other to your best friend whether they live an hour away or all the way across the pond. These ambient lights will change color when your best friend gives it a tap on the head to let you know they miss you or vice versa.
Uncommon Goods The Alphabet Vase, $, available at Uncommon Goods
Fragrance Set
Everyone wants to smell good, but you can’t just willy-nilly pick a fragrance for someone else’s nose and tastes. Give them the power to pick their own signature scent with this service that lets your friend sample the options before they make a decision. Bonus: Every time your bestie spritzes this on, they’ll think of you and what an awesome friend you are.
There isn’t a friendship pair in the course of history that doesn't love pizza (right?). Share your figurative slice with your, dare we say it, homeslice by showing your devotion on your sleeve — or hat, or collar, or purse, or backpack, or anywhere you want.
Stressful times usually call for a good cry with your best friend — but when there are hundreds of miles between you, a nice care package is a good alternative.
TheraBox TheraBox - Self Care Subscription Box, $, available at TheraBox
Moon Cat Sun Cat Phone Cases
Moon Cat and Sun Cat lie on opposite sides of the Earth but are still connected, just like you and your best friend. Also, Imagine the mirror pics you both could take when you finally meet up again.
Lex Studio Designs Moon Cat Sun Cat, $, available at Etsy
Botanical Gift Set
This botanical gift set is literally the whole package — three journals, one catchall tray, a reusable bag, and the best part? A pen and stationary so that your friend can send you a handwritten letter instead of a simple heart-eyes emoji.
Rifle Paper Co. Botanical Gift Set, $, available at Rifle Paper Co
Forever Flower Polaroid Frame
Whether you fill this pressed flower frame with a dashing polaroid of you and your bestie, or you let them decide, this refreshing picture frame will shine bright on a nightstand, a dresser, or wherever one displays their love for a friend.
Orenda Crafted Forever Flower Polaroid Frame, $, available at Etsy
The Salad Lovers Kit
Being far away from your LDB means lots and lots of zoom calls, phone calls, and sometimes even a lengthy voice note. So, next chat, why not ask them about their new indoor garden and when they can harvest their first fresh batch of red kale?
Netflix Netflix Gift Card, $, available at Best BuyWhen you want to teach each other the importance of financial independence while living in your respective cities.
Rachel Antonoff RA x IGWT You Don’t Own Me Brass Money Clip, $, available at Rachel AntonoffPhoto: Courtesy of Rachel Antonoff.Have a funny word or catchphrase you two share? Make it into a necklace.
American Two Shot Custom Mini Nameplate Choker, $, available at American Two ShotPhoto: Courtesy of American Two Shot.Make their home smell cozy with a candle subscription box service — because without their bestie nearby, they’re going to want to nest.
Flicker Box Bi-Monthly Plan, $, available at Flicker BoxPhoto: Courtesy of Flicker Box.Once you figure out who’s the macaroni and who’s the cheese, you both can think about each other every time you open your door.
Pitter Platter Polymer Macaroni and Cheese Best Friend Keychains, $, available at EtsyPhoto: Courtesy of Pitter Platter Polymer.When sending a “good morning” text isn’t enough, give your BFF a better a.m. jolt with craft coffee beans that come from different parts of the world.
Atlas Coffee Club Starter Pack, $, available at Atlas Coffee ClubPhoto: Courtesy of Atlas Coffee Club.Surprise your friend with a cute pair of coordinating socks that will get you both through the winter.
Friendship Socks The Original, $, available at Friendship SocksPhoto: Courtesy of Friendship Socks.Since your friend is probably still using your Netflix account and messing up your recommendations, give her a 3-month subscription to enjoy.
Netflix, $9.99 per month, available at netflix.com. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix.Help them up their cooking game with a cool-looking set of bowls. If nothing else, these will be fancy vessels for microwaved popcorn.
Mosser Glass Jadeite Milk Glass Mixing Bowl Set, $, available at Coming SoonPhoto: Courtesy of Mosser Glass.A starter piece of art can really change a place, so contribute to your friend’s decor with a cool, unexpected print.
Beth Hoeckel Margarita Framed Art Print, $, available at Society6Photo: Courtesy of Beth Hoeckel.If you can’t physically cheers to each other, drink out of the same glasses.
Urban Outfitters You Are the Rocks Cocktail Glasses Set, $, available at Urban OutfittersPhoto: Courtesy of Urban Outfitters.Who doesn’t love a bag? Especially when it’s little. And since you’re not in the same city anymore, you can both get the same one without anyone noticing (if that matters to you).
Mansur Gavriel Baby Bucket Bag, $, available at Mansur GavrielPhoto: Courtesy of Mansur Gavriel.Upgrade their phone without the whole new software update situation.
Lolli Toasty Egg iPhone Case, $, available at LolliPhoto: Courtesy of Lolli.Skip the robe and give a luxe bath item that’s practical, pretty, and the perfect loungewear for when your friend wants to feel cozy without overheating.
Target Feathers Bath Wrap, $, available at TargetPhoto: Courtesy of Target.Did you used to share makeup with your bestie? Well, that may not be an option right now, but at the very least, you can give your friend some products you would want for yourself.
Glossier Phase 2 Set, $, available at GlossierPhoto: Courtesy of Glossier.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
