The Best Secret Santa Gifts (That Don’t Suck)

The season of joy is here, and we all need as much holiday magic as the world will provide right now. Whether you’re a diehard Christmas fanatic—or you’re just happy to have a few days off work—this series will help you pick the perfect presents, playlists, meals, and activities to make this Christmas the Best Christmas Ever. 

Let’s face it: Secret Santa exchanges can be a minefield of disappointing, forgettable gifts. First off, there’s the price limit to deal with—I’ve participated in gift exchanges that kept it under $20, but some creep closer to the $50 range. Prices aside, it’s tough to shop for someone when you know that gift is going to be opened in front of all your friends, family, or coworkers at some holiday party. What’s the best way to win at Secret Santa without breaking the bank, or bending the rules?

The name of the game for any gift exchange is to get something quirky, but plausibly thoughtful. I’ve rounded up some ideas for crowd-pleasing presents that are both budget-friendly and hopefully a little useful, too. Whether you’re shopping for a coworker you barely know, or the friend you know all too well, here are the best types of gifts to help you crush at Secret Santa this year.

Quirky tech gadgets

When in doubt, go for something practical with a fun twist.

• LED bluetooth beanie. It’s a great move for a gift exchange: Perfect for music lovers, cold weather, and it satisfies the need for something unique. I mean, I’d be shocked if anyone owned one of these of their own volition. Get one for $19.99.

• Portable charger (with a nice design). Keep their devices juiced up with a charger that’s both functional and fun. A good charger should stick within the $20-25 range, like this Amazon best seller for $21.99.

• Smart mug. What better way to share warmth than a favorite drink at just the right temperature? A good smart mug can keep your drink at your preferred temperature (between 120°F – 145°F) for up to 80 minutes on a full charge, or all day if it stays on its charging coaster. A quality one will run you about $100 on Amazon, but this more affordable one for $19.99 seems perfectly fine.

Foodie crowd-pleasers

After all, everyone needs to eat.

Cozy comfort gifts

‘Tis the season for snuggling up and embracing laziness.

• Fuzzy socks multipack. Soft, warm, and always appreciated. If you’re working with a tighter budget, you can play it safe with a multipack for just $14.99.

• Weighted eye mask. A luxurious touch for better sleep and relaxation. I stole one from my mom last year, and now I don’t go a night without it. I recommend one with lavender stuffed into it, but everyone has different scent preferences. Play it safe with a customizable sleep mask set, like this one for $18.47.

• Microwaveable heated slippers. The ultimate comfort gift for cold days. And delicious once warmed up! Just kidding. Please don’t eat them. Available for $30.99.

Creative finds

Get them something you’re sure they won’t get themselves.

• Desk plant terrarium kit. A mini garden for the plant lover or office dweller. Get a cool geometric glass one for $39.86.

• Raunchy adult card games. Think Cards Against Humanity or any similar party game that encourage players to let loose and feel funny. I recommend We’re Not Really Strangers to really streamline breaking the ice with acquaintances and close friends alike. Prompts include “what part of your life works,” “what part of your life hurts,” and even just “admit something.” Available for $24.99.

• Scratch-off adventure poster. A fun way to track and plan future experiences. Get ones themed around national parks, date ideas, or even “things to do with dad.” All reasonably priced around $22.

Self-care indulgences

Help them treat themselves to a little luxury.

• Essential oil diffuser. A compact way to bring calm and aromatherapy anywhere. You can get the diffuser itself for around $20, but a smart move is to bundle it with premium essential oils for $29.99.

• Fancy face mask set. Pamper-worthy skincare that feels like a spa day. Everyone has done a sheet mask before, but I highly encourage you to try out a true clay mask. This 4-in-1 set is available for only $14.99.

• Stress-relief squeeze toys. Cute and functional stress-busters. Make sure to share a knowing look with your fellow weary coworkers on this one. This fidget toy for adults is $24.99, or a significantly sillier “calma llama” is $13.99.

The advantage of Secret Santa over White Elephant is the ability to gain intel on your target. So, make sure to actually consider your gift recipient’s interests and personality. Do research by asking mutual friends about their interests, stalk their social media for clues, and of course lie to your recipient about who you have so you can throw them off the scent.

Remember, presentation matters—a little creative wrapping goes a long way. Another budget-friendly bonus: Most of these gifts come in under $25, giving you some wiggle room for a cute card or extra little add-on. Lifehacker’s Steve Johnson says that he goes with a lottery ticket—who knows, they could be a winner!

Ultimately, the best gifts show you’ve put thought into the person, not how much money you’ve spent. (And hey, no matter how confident you feel in your gift-giving abilities, always include a gift receipt.)

Happy gifting, and may your Secret Santa exchange be filled with joy, laughter, and zero awkward moments.