Galentine’s Day gift guide: Affordable and thoughtful presents for your KCL bestie

Valentine’s Day has crept up again and surprise, you and your bestie are still single. No grand romantic gestures or candlelit dinners, just another year of aggressively ignoring couples cuddling at the Maughan.

Who needs a romance, though, when you have a best friend who’s been there through every essay crisis, a questionable situationship, and the inevitable all-nighter before exams?

Enter Galentine’s Day – the superior celebration where you remind your bestie that they’re the only person worth your time anyway.

The only problem? You’ve left gift shopping to the last minute, and your budget is looking dangerously low thanks to London pints and takeout indulgences.

Luckily for you, we’ve pulled together the ultimate list of budget-friendly gifts that are cute, practical, and won’t leave you living off instant noodles for the next week.

Whether your bestie is a stationery hoarder, a self-care junkie, or just someone who could use a little pick-me-up, this list has got you sorted.

Mugs

Because nothing says you’re my favourite person like a mug with a sarcastic slogan or unnecessarily adorable animal on it. Extra points if you throw in some teabags or hot chocolate sachets. 

Flying Tiger has the cutest ones without breaking the bank!

A scrapbook

Print out your best (and most embarrassing) photos, throw in some inside jokes, and stick it all together. Handmade = sentimental = you win Galentine’s Day.

Socks

Fluffy socks, funky socks, or just any socks. Because when was the last time they actually did laundry on time?

Bonus points if you can find bright KCL red socks.

Flowers

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Nothing beats a classic bunch of flowers to brighten your friend’s day in the grey of February. Whether it’s roses, tulips, or any other flower, a beautiful bouquet is always a winner.

A DIY cocktail kit

Grab a cute glass, a mini bottle of your bestie’s favourite spirit, and a recipe card. Perfect for a Galentine’s night in, or a great start to pres.

A Spotify playlist

This could be a mix of bangers from your nights out, songs you scream together, or that one track you both ironically love. Thoughtful, free, and foolproof.

A fun experience

London is full of free experiences that you can surprise your bestie with. Whether it’s a thrifting day, chaotic night out or a museum hopping date, you’re guaranteed to have the most fun whatever you do with your bestie. 

A pair of pyjamas

Nothing says comfort like a fresh pair of cosy pyjamas. Get matching ones, grab a bottle of wine, put on a movie, and you’ve got yourself a cute Galentine’s date night.

Baked goods

If your bestie has a sweet tooth, you can’t go wrong with baked goods. Either grab something from a bakery, or try your hand at baking for yourself (burnt edges add character).

Face masks

A simple but always appreciated self-care essential. Grab a few sheet-masks so they can feel great whilst binge-watching Love Island.

Galentine’s Day is all about celebrating the girls who keep you sane during uni. No need to overthink it – just a small, thoughtful gift to show your appreciation is perfect.

And if all else fails, buy them a drink! Happy Galentine’s!