Gift Guide: Quirky Boxes for the Zaniest People on Your List

Updated by Shannon Ratliff

At Cratejoy, we care that you find that perfect gift for every loved one on your list, so we're coming at you with unique gift ideas for those fun-loving, die-hard hobbyists in your life. You probably know just who we’re talking about: young (or young at heart), independent, and super into his (or her) latest hobby or interest.

It doesn’t matter what they’ve jumped into. When they jump, they dive into the depths, be it games, geekery, foodie gadgets, a new fitness regimen, or anything else that lights a fire under them. And whether their latest passion is popular or not, they love sharing the fun and bringing you along on their quest for more.

Now you can meet them where they’re at with a monthly subscription box curated to serve up unusual gift items in any number of cool niches. Whether they’re delivering the top picks from the global zine scene or sending them deep into an interactive whodunit, we’ve put together a gift guide of 9 cool gifts for people who love to take the unbeaten path!

What are the quirkiest gift boxes of the year?

the oddball club

the oddball club

From $20.00 per box
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Gift a little fun while supporting small, women-owned businesses with a monthly subscription to The Oddball Club. They won't feel like they're on the fringes in this club, because everyone here is just looking to have a good time unboxing surprises! Whether you opt for a micro, itty-bitty teeny-weeny or medium box, they'll receive happy mail filled with everything from stickers and kitschy gadgets to accessories and sweet treats.

Shipping: Orders placed today ship by March 17th. All boxes ship on the 17th of each month. Subscriptions renew monthly.

“Super cute and fun boxes. I love all the unique items that keep coming and I am happy to have taken the chance and signed up.” – Subscription L.

Paranormal T-Shirt Puzzle Subscription

Paranormal T-Shirt Puzzle Subscription

From $17.00 per box
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Shipping: If your order is received during the first week of the month, it will ship with the current batch. If it is received after that shipment has gone out, your subscription will start the following month.

Mondo Size

Mondo Size

From $18.33 per box
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Zine-o-Matic makes it easy to get good quality zines sent directly to their doorstep. With some of the best indie zines from cities across the U.S., you'll unpack a monthly box filled with a curated assortment of zines, plus some fun add-ins. Each zine will transport you to a new creative world with beautiful artistry, talented writing, and loads of original content. And, it makes a great gift for all your fellow creatives!

Shipping: We ship on the 1st of every month!

"This is my favorite thing I've received monthly for quite a time. So much support for many small artists and always introducing me to cool new creators!" - Andrea M.

Skulls Unlimited's BoneBox

Skulls Unlimited's BoneBox

From $24.57 per box
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What's spookier than adding some real skulls to your home decor? Skulls Unlimited's BoneBox is one of the most unique subscription boxes out there, delivering new osteological specimens every month! This creepy crate brings real, professionally cleaned bones, from skulls, teeth, and claws to baculum and other intriguing finds.

Shipping: New Subscribers: We ship the 1st full week of the month. Please order by the 30th to get the next month's box. Existing Subscribers: Boxes ship the 1st full week of the month and subscriptions renew on the 15th of every month. *Holidays may cause delays*

"I love this box! All of the bones are high quality, and unique. I love the information about the species with each bone as well. I highly recommend!" - Paige W.

Cryptid Crate Monthy Subscription Box - Cratejoy Edition

Cryptid Crate Monthy Subscription Box - Cratejoy Edition

From $43.00 per box
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Happy subscribers attest that the team at Cryptid Crate goes above and beyond, curating delightful collections of all things cryptozoological. A great gift idea for any teen who's into the not-yet-substantiated species of the world, each monthly box delivers 4 to 7 handpicked curiosities, including graphic T-shirts, offbeat decor items, intriguing accessories, and books and films from some of the best independent producers and artisans in the game.

Shipping: - Cryptid Crate ships on the first weekday of every month (will ship a day or two earlier or later if first weekday is a holiday) - Every box will ordered within a calendar month will be included in the shipment that goes out on the 1st.

“Amazing! I was so excited to get this box and it did not disappoint! LOVE the t-shirt and one of my new favorite stickers came in this box. Can't wait for next month!!!” – Megan S.

Celebrate States!

Celebrate States!

From $44.00 per box
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Celebrate States will allow you to support small businesses from all over the country while staying in the comforts of home. A great gift for travel lovers and adventurous souls, each month features a different state, sending small-batch treats and artisan goods from local businesses, along with interactive information and fun facts. Explore and expand your horizons with every box.

Shipping: We will ship your first box between two and five business days of your order. Subsequent boxes ship between the 11th and 22nd of each month.

“As a Geography Teacher, I have been getting this box for over a year and have been nothing but happy! They always have great stuff sourced from each specific state that delights me and/or makes me say “wow! I didn’t know that came from there!”. They also always include great print info about the state like travel brochures, maps, visitor’s guides etc that adds extra information and value. Very worthwhile purchase!! Highly recommended!” – Layne S.

Tinned Fish Club

Tinned Fish Club

From $29.99 per box
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Tinned fish is having a moment in the culinary world—and with good reason. Not only is tinned fish a versatile ingredient or snack on its own, it’s also just downright delicious. Not to mention fish comes packed with Omega-3s and other nutritional benefits. From cod to salmon to sardines, with this subscription, they’ll fill their pantry with self-stable fish from around the world.

Shipping: We try our best to send out first time orders within 5 business days. We can also take some special requests if you just email us. Thank you for your support of our small business!

“Excellent product and service. Bought this as a gift and they couldn’t be happier with this box. I am getting my own subscription after seeing the gift.” – Travis C.

Still looking for that perfect gift? Take a look at more gift ideas below!