A standard willow basket is what usually comes to mind when people think of gift basket containers, but there are many other unique containers that can be used that will save you money. Often these containers are much more practical and have far more uses then a standard willow basket and are much more personalized. And a wide range of products for your custom gift baskets can be considered, beyond the usual scope of the traditional gift basket items or products. Many of the ideas will save you money and/or fit the frugal lifestyle. Some containers or products you may already own and will be essentially free. How about a gift you received that you can't use or item you bought and didn't use that will make a nice container or filler item?

Here's a list of gift container ideas to consider:

any type of basket, wicker basket, straw basket, bucket, laundry basket, plastic container, toy dump truck or other large toy truck, purse, tin, Christmas tin, seasonal container, large tea pot, large upside-down hat, plastic storage container-put lid underneath, extra-large coffee mug, boot, potted plant holder, wire basket, large pasta bowl, large popcorn bowl, cooking pot, clay pot, tackle box, colander, small wagon, skillet, antique trunk, champagne bucket, hamper, Asian-style trunk or picnic basket.

For items to put in the gift container it'll depend on the specialty or theme of the gift basket. Here is a random sampling to give you some good ideas:

small plant, disposable camera, a small book, inspirational book, spa pillows, bath pillows, spa supplies, bath and body products, facial and body scrubs, handmade soaps, fragrant soaps, shampoos, hand and foot lotion, fluffy towel, potholders, gift certificate for massage or spa visit, scented oils, scented massage oils, gift certificate to favorite store, gift certificate for restaurant, loofah, fragrant candle, matches to light candles, CD of nature sounds, favorite artist CD, DVD of newer release movie, how-to video or CD, garden trowel or other garden tools, garden gloves, work gloves, cold weather gloves, leather gloves, garden picks, seeds, hand lotion, flower pot, flavored teas, green tea, specialty tea, herbal tea, biscotti, tea infuser, small tools, gadgets, stuffed animals, toys, playing cards, healthy snacks, travel-size games, small puzzles, fancy chocolates, boxed chocolates, chocolate bars, hot chocolate mix, specialty coffee mix, handwritten poem, perfume, cologne, watch, framed photo, t-shirt, baseball cap, collectible cards, tickets to events, small dolls, homemade cookies, homemade brownies, homemade jams, movie tickets, popcorn, caramel corn, giant-size boxed candy, candy canes, suckers, lollipops, apple, pear, orange, persimmon, mango, papaya, chips, pretzels, nuts, plastic skulls, spiders, fake cob webs, magic shop items, coffee mug, gourmet pasta, gourmet olive oil, doggie biscuits, cat treats, dog or cat collar, dog or cat toys, stationery supplies, cooking tools, cooking gadgets, measuring spoons, receiving blanket, baby rattles, baby powder, baby shampoo, baby bath wash, hooded towels, pre-packaged food items, pancake mixes, brownie mixes, cookie mixes, wooden spoons, baby shower games, baby shower items , your best chocolate chip cookie recipe, Italian recipes, Mexican food recipes or other ethnic recipes, birthday poems, corkscrews , computer-related items, mouse pad, yarn, painting or artist supplies, golf balls, golf tees, golf knick knacks, tennis balls, tennis knick knacks, key chains, small calendars or desk calendars, barometer, outdoor thermometer, science gadgets, electronic gadgets, health-related items, auto-related items or cinnamon sticks.

So this should give you some unique, money-saving tips and ideas for more personalized, custom containers and products to use for your gift baskets. Many will be free and are much more practical than the standard wicker basket and traditional contents. I guarantee you'll love the results of your personalized gift basket and it'll be much loved and appreciated.