A gift basket can be a well appreciated and cherished gift on occasions of birthday, anniversary or for any other special occasion. A gift basket can be a container, or even a real basket, full of various related items. Gift baskets come with a variety of container options, filling options, and wrapping options.

Although the name contains the word "basket", the container need not be a basket. For example, a child might appreciate beach supplies (like a shovel, a towel, sunscreen, etc..) much more if they were to be packed inside a large bucket which can also be used on the beach. Another good idea, would be a plastic crate for a college student or a fashionable and useful bag.

When filling a gift basket, the most successful baskets contain several related items. For example, a good anniversary gift might be a basket containing a nice bottle of wine, some chocolates, and some champagne glasses. The contents of the basket can be used together, and this gives the basket cohesiveness overall.

A gift basket is a suitable present for many different occasions. 'Thank you' gifts might include luxurious toiletries, as well as gift certificates for pampering treatments such as manicures or massages for women. For men, you could include aftershave or cufflinks. If someone is graduating, a very useful gift basket can be assembled containing things they might need at college, such as stamps, stationery and bed linen. For a wedding, a picnic basket full of picnic supplies and a blanket would make a very attractive present.

Baskets like this aren't just for celebratory occasions. A "get well soon" basket for a sick colleague might include tissues, videos, and a nice card. Children will be ecstatic to receive a special "winter break" basket with hot chocolate and materials to make a snowman, all tucked inside a top hat. Even sympathy occasions can be acknowledged with a basket full of pictures and memories of the deceased, some non-perishable treats, and an IOU for a special cheer-up get together.

Another important aspect of basket giving is the wrapping. Although one could just toss everything together in a basket, arranging it attractively makes the gift appear more thoughtful. Some people use tissue paper or "Easter grass" between objects to hold them in place and add festivity. Remember to add a bow to the top to create a polished final detail!