The holiday season brings a special kind of warmth, filled with traditions and the joy of connection. When you live far from family, finding the right way to show you care can feel especially important. This is more than just about presents; it’s about sharing love across distances and staying connected to the people who mean the most.
Remitly’s 2025 holiday gift guide is for those who live abroad and want to send meaningful support back home. We’ll explore thoughtful and practical gift ideas that honor the true spirit of the season—celebrating connection, love, and shared traditions, no matter how many miles separate you.
The True Meaning of Holiday Giving
Across many cultures, the holidays are a time for generosity and togetherness. Gift giving is a way to express love, respect, and gratitude. It’s not always about the size or price of the gift, but the intention behind it. A thoughtful gesture can bridge the distance, making loved ones feel seen and cherished.
For many families, the most meaningful gifts are those that provide comfort, support, and opportunity. This could mean helping with daily needs, contributing to a shared goal, or simply making life a little easier. These acts of care strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories, reinforcing that you are always there for them, even from afar.
Practical Gift Ideas for Family Abroad
Meaningful gifts don’t have to come in a box. Often, the most impactful presents are those that offer practical support and peace of mind. Here are some heartfelt ideas for giving to your family back home this holiday season.
Send Money for Essentials
One of the most direct and appreciated gifts is sending money for daily necessities. This allows your family to purchase what they need most, whether it’s groceries for a festive meal, warm clothing for the winter, or medicine. A secure money transfer gives them the flexibility to address their immediate needs, which is a powerful way to show your love and support.
Cover a Household Bill
Helping with a recurring expense, like a utility bill or rent, can lift a significant weight off your family’s shoulders. Paying for a month of electricity or covering the internet bill ensures they stay connected and comfortable. This practical gesture provides stability and shows you are thinking about their well-being every day.
Contribute to a Celebration
The holidays are often marked by special gatherings and meals. By sending money specifically for a holiday celebration, you can help your family enjoy these traditions without financial stress. Your contribution can help buy ingredients for a cherished family recipe or allow them to host a memorable get-together with relatives and neighbors. You become part of the celebration, even from a distance.
Support Their Education or Goals
Investing in a loved one’s future is a gift that keeps on giving. You could contribute to a child’s school fees, a sibling’s vocational training, or a parent’s small business idea. This type of support demonstrates your belief in their dreams and empowers them to build a better future.
Thoughtful Giving on a Budget
Showing you care doesn’t require a large budget. Small, consistent gestures can have a huge impact and let your family know they are always on your mind.
Send a Personal Message with Your Gift
When you send money, platforms like Remitly allow you to include a personal note with your transfer. A simple message like, “Happy Holidays! Thinking of you all and sending my love,” adds a warm, personal touch that transforms a practical gift into a heartfelt expression of affection. You can also send a separate video message to wish them well and share in the holiday spirit.
Pool Resources with Siblings
Joining forces with siblings or other relatives living abroad can make a big difference. By pooling your money, you can collectively provide a more substantial gift, such as helping with a home repair or purchasing a larger household item. This collaborative effort not only provides significant support but also strengthens family unity.
Plan Your Giving in Advance
Planning your holiday sending ahead of time can help you manage your budget and avoid last-minute stress. By setting aside a small amount each month, you can ensure you have the funds ready when the holidays arrive. This foresight makes the act of giving more joyful and less rushed.
Send Holiday Support with Confidence
Sending money home for the holidays should be a simple and secure process. You need a service you can trust to deliver your gift quickly and reliably. Remitly offers a dependable way to send money internationally, so your support reaches your loved ones when they need it.
With Remitly, you can send money from your phone and track the transfer every step of the way. We offer transparent fees and competitive exchange rates, so you know exactly how much your family will receive. Our focus on security means you can have peace of mind knowing your holiday gift is in safe hands.
Make Your Holiday Giving Meaningful
This holiday season, you can make a real difference for your family back home. Whether you contribute to a festive meal, help with a bill, or support a long-term goal, your thoughtful gesture will be deeply appreciated.
Start planning your holiday sending today. With a little thought and a reliable service like Remitly, you can send a gift that truly matters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I send money abroad for holiday gifts?
You can send money abroad easily using a trusted and reliable service like Remitly. Simply create an account, select your recipient, and choose your transfer amount. Remitly allows you to track your transfer in real-time, ensuring your gift arrives safely and on time.
Are there any fees for sending money internationally?
Remitly offers low fees and transparent pricing, so you know exactly what you’re paying and what your recipient will receive. Fees may vary depending on the transfer amount, destination, and speed of delivery, but everything is clearly outlined before you complete your transaction.
How long does it take for a money transfer to be delivered?
Delivery times depend on your chosen transfer speed. With Remitly, you can choose between Express delivery, which is almost instant, or Economy delivery, which takes a little longer but often comes with lower fees.
Can I send money in my local currency?
Yes, Remitly allows you to send money from your local currency to the recipient’s preferred currency. Currency exchange rates are competitive and clearly displayed, so you can make an informed decision.
Is it safe to send money using Remitly?
Absolutely. Remitly uses industry-leading security measures to protect your transactions and personal information. You can also track your transfer at every stage, giving you peace of mind.