Is it okay to regift, or is it rude?
Dec 23, 2024
NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — For some people, regifting has become the new normal, and one in three Americans are saying that it's acceptable.
In the past, the action was considered to be tacky, so what should people do for this holiday season?
One person says that she personally doesn't regift because she worries the person wouldn't like it. However, she says that she has no problem with it and says we should do it, adding that she would happily take someone's regift.
According to a Bankrate's 2024 Financial Taboos Survey, one in three people believe that regifting is acceptable, which is more than the number of people who believe money is a normal holiday discussion or have asked for help financially at a holiday gathering.
As many as 30% of people have admitted to regifting something they've gotten as a gift.
You're in good company if you've gotten something you either don't love or need, so there's no need to shy away from passing it along.
Then comes the idea of gift cards: love, hate, or resell them?
According to Bankrate's 2024 Gift Cards Survey, over two in five people have unused gift cards, gift vouchers, or store credit.
AAA expects record number of Christmas travelers
Some of those people explained that they got a gift card for a store or restaurant that was inconvenient to get to or a place they didn't like.
This is why some people have either regifted or sold a gift card. However, these are good for a white elephant gift exchange, not for someone special.
It's noted that part of the reason for regifting this holiday season is because budgets are stretched thin due to inflation.
According to Bankrate's 2024 Early Holiday Shopping Survey, one in three people are planning to spend less on shopping. Some people admitted to being stressed out about the cost, and others said it'll strain their budget.
If any of those things are true for you, regifting could be an appropriate, money-saving option.
But there is also thrifting, offering favors, and handcrafting gifts that are affordable.
Another thing you can do is set a limit on how many gifts you buy and for whom, but remember to communicate clearly, kindly, and well in advance.
In the end, if someone gives you something that wasn't on your wish list, just say thank you, and maybe pass the gift on to someone who would love it. And if you're regifting because you can't afford new gifts, this trend encourages you to explain your situation.
Which, if you're able to share your reasoning, your loved ones might be more willing to find new (and free) holiday traditions to partake in, since they may want to put a wrap on overspending as well.
Close
Thanks for signing up!
Watch for us in your inbox.
Subscribe Now
Today's Top Stories
SIGN UP NOW