There is a misconception that a Christmas hamper requires a wicker basket filled with Fortnum & Mason preserves to be "proper." At MeetVoucher, we disagree. A DIY hamper is not only significantly cheaper—often coming in under £20—but it allows for a level of personalization that pre-made commercial baskets cannot match.
Commercial hampers often contain "filler" items that languish in the back of cupboards (looking at you, weirdly flavored crackers). By building your own, you ensure every penny goes towards items the recipient actually loves.
Step 1: The Vessel
The packaging sets the tone. You do not need to spend £20 on the basket alone.
- The Budget Wicker: Poundland offers red Christmas Hamper Baskets for just £2.
- The Modern Box: "The Works" sells "Fill Your Own" kits including shred, ribbon, and cellophane for £3.
- Bulk Buying: If you are making hampers for the whole family, look for bulk deals. Sets of four baskets can often be found for under £10, bringing the unit cost down to ~£2.30.
Step 2: The Edible curation (Under £20)
We have priced up a luxury-feel hamper using high street prices (prices valid as of late 2025). The goal is "shelf-stable luxury."
The "Taste of Christmas" Menu
-
Mince Pies (6 pack)
Mr Kipling / Premium Supermarket Brand £1.70 -
Matured Xmas Pudding
Waitrose/M&S Single Serve £1.75 -
Specialty Fudge Bar
Co-op Irresistible / Aldi Specially Selected £2.00 -
Fine Tea Selection
Aldi Specially Selected (50 bags) £1.25 -
Premium Chutney
Sainsbury's Taste the Difference £1.85 -
Sparkling Presse (Bottle)
Non-alcoholic luxury glass bottle £2.00
Step 3: Non-Food Gift Boxes
Not everyone wants food. A themed "shoe box" style gift box can be incredibly thoughtful.
The "Cosy Night In" Box:
Combine a pair of Christmas Pyjamas (M&S or Supermarket ranges often have sales, ~£10), a festive mug (£2–£3 at ASDA/George), and a sachet of premium hot chocolate (50p). Throw in a festive scented candle (Dunelm, £2.50) to complete the sensory experience.
The "Kids Activity" Box:
Forget expensive plastic toys. Fill a box with an UNO card game (£5), a fidget toy bundle (£2 from The Works), and a "Bloomingly Terrible" Joke Book (£5). It provides hours of entertainment for under £15.
The MeetVoucher Verdict
The value of a gift lies in the thought, not the price tag. A handcrafted box containing the recipient's favorite tea and specific snacks they love will always outshine a generic £50 hamper.
For more gifting inspiration and live discounts on components, visit MeetVoucher.online.