The Royal Family has a long-standing tradition of exchanging quirky, inexpensive gag gifts on Christmas Eve rather than lavish presents. This German custom, carried over from their heritage, ensures the festivities at Sandringham are filled with laughter rather than extravagance. Over the years, we’ve heard tales of leather toilet seats, singing hamsters, and even a shower cap with a cheeky slogan.

But one gift stands out as particularly savage: the one Princess Kate reportedly gave to Prince Harry back when he was still a bachelor, navigating a string of high-profile romances that often made headlines.

According to multiple reports, the Princess of Wales presented her brother-in-law with a “Grow Your Own Girlfriend” kit – a cheap novelty toy that expands dramatically when soaked in water.


The inexpensive gag item, available online for just a few pounds, was clearly a playful jab at Harry’s single status and his well-publicized love life at the time. Sources suggest it was given before he met Meghan Markle, during the era when Kate and Harry were particularly close – often described as having a sibling-like bond.
Photos from those years show the duo sharing plenty of laughs together.