These ideas will make you a pro at Secret Santa gift-giving
Part of the fun of giving a Secret Santa gift is the mystery surrounding it. Popular in the United States, the tradition typically involves drawing or being assigned a name from a group. You then become this person’s Secret Santa with the task of selecting a memorable gift. While you may be given a list of possible items to choose from, this isn’t always the case.
Being a Secret Santa should be fun, not frustrating. The key is to keep it light when selecting a gift. Gifts that are useful and practical are also good options. Whether you’re looking for a gift for the office or something silly to crack them up, this guide is full of terrific ideas sure to appeal to everyone.
In this article: JLab Go Air Pop True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, Yeti Rambler 10-Ounce Tumbler, and Dash Hot Air Popcorn Popper.
Best gifts for co-workers
For planning and organizing
MaxGear Mesh Desk Organizer 16% OFF
Your office mate will find it easy to get their desk organized with the MaxGear organizer that has seven useful slots. The mesh is made of durable metal that provides a view of the contents for easy access.
Sold by Amazon
A Vera Bradley notecube provides a unique way to write down numbers, memos, notes, and more. Each cube contains 400 sheets in a pretty holder complete with a pen and bow.
Jerry and Maggie Desktop Organizer 27% OFF
Books, files, office tools, and more — this desk organizer provides spots to stash numerous items for a neater desk. It will make your co-worker feel good about getting organized.
Sold by Amazon
Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook 37% OFF
The eco-conscious office staff member will love this Rocketbook reusable notebook, which features pages that can be wiped clean and reused time and again. It offers cloud storage through various services via the Rocketbook app that is compatible with iOS and Android.
Sold by Amazon
Kate Spade Gold-Tone Acrylic Pencil Cup
Not only will this pencil holder keep a fellow employee’s writing tools organized, but it will also add a touch of elegance to their desktop. “A stroke of genius” is engraved inside for a bit of inspiration during work hours.
Sold by Macy’s
Fox Run Rubberwood Letter and Key Rack
A wall-mountable rack makes an excellent gift for the employee who needs to free up space on their desk. This model is made of durable wood with three storage slots and three hooks for keeping multiple items neatly organized.
Sold by Home Depot and Kohl's
Rebrilliant Castiglia Pencil Cup and Note Holder
With a receptacle that holds writing tools and a built-in tray for notes, this gadget is like two gifts in one. It’s made of wood with an appealing design that looks great on a desk.
Sold by Wayfair
For break time
Bentoheaven Premium Bento Lunch Box
If you’re shopping for a co-worker who brings their lunch to work, chances are they’ll love a bento box. Although affordable, this model has two compartments, a small container, and utensils. It’s available in a variety of colors.
Sold by Amazon
Karma Gifts Black-and-White Boho Mug 19% OFF
Every office worker needs a favorite mug. Karma Gifts makes stylish mugs with black-and-white nature prints. They arrive in an attractive box that’s ready for gift-giving.
Dash Hot Air Popcorn Popper 40% OFF
The Dash popcorn popper makes snack time at the office a snap. This compact machine pops a batch of delicious, piping-hot popcorn in minutes. It’s an office-worthy gift that’s both affordable and useful.
Hamilton Beach Scoop Single-Serve Coffee Maker 21% OFF
The coffee-loving co-worker will appreciate having their own coffee maker at the office. The Scoop by Hamilton Beach brews one tasty cup at a time and offers a trim design that doesn’t take up a lot of space.
Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
Evelots Electric Desktop Mug Warmer 25% OFF
Whether your co-worker loves to sip on warm coffee, hot chocolate, soup, or tea at the office, the Evelots mug warmer will maintain the temperature of their favorite beverage or light lunch. It features an easy-to-operate on-off switch and an indicator light that alerts its owner that it’s warmed up and ready to use.
Sold by Amazon
For comfort at work
Alera Mesh Back Support 45% OFF
Any worker who spends the workday sitting at a desk will appreciate a back cushion. With a breathable, mesh material and a comfortable contoured shape, this model is perfect for long hours sitting in an office chair.
Sold by Wayfair
iCasso Keyboard and Mouse Wrist Rests
This wrist rest set will make your co-worker feel that you understand the pain they experience from constant typing. It includes rests for the keyboard and mouse that are made of comfortable memory foam. The combo comes in a choice of colors and patterns.
Sold by Amazon
Evolution Pedro LED Magnifying Glass Desk Lamp 30% OFF
In addition to illumination, this desk lamp offers a magnification function for tasks that need extra attention to details. The sleek, modern design looks nice on any work desk yet doesn’t take up a lot of work space.
Sold by Kohl’s
Packed with cards that contain tips and positive recommendations for improved life at the office, this deck of cards makes an outstanding gift. The cards are broken down into categories for different strategies designed to enhance well-being at work.
Sold by Amazon
Adidas Originals Waist Fanny Pack 12% OFF
This waist pack is the perfect solution for carrying items hands-free without the need for a bulky bag. Although compact, it’s spacious enough to fit numerous essential items, such as a phone, keys, and cash.
Sold by Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Kohl’s
Other top gifts for co-workers
- A wireless charging station with ports for multiple devices
- A message board for posting important notifications
- This organizer that’s designed for coffee pods
- A personalized desk nameplate that’s ideal for a boss
- An attractive portfolio and pen set for the serious professional
Best gifts under $25
Gifts for entertainment
JLab Go Air Pop True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
Your gift recipient will love these comfortable and compact wireless earbuds that connect easily to Bluetooth devices. They are not damaged by sweat and come with a charging case to maintain the battery outside of the house.
Sold by Amazon
This is a fun present for people who love to play games. It lets them get to know their family and friends more while having lots of laughs. It’s a compact size for portability and has straightforward instructions. The game can be played by two to eight people.
Sold by Amazon
Anker Soundcore Mini Bluetooth Speaker 20% OFF
Music fans will appreciate bringing their songs anywhere with this portable wireless speaker. It connects to Bluetooth devices and plays music for 15 hours on one charge. The speaker plays FM radio and comes with a power cord.
Sold by Amazon
Gifts for self-care
Himalayan Glow Salt Lamp 45% OFF
People will love this natural and unique lamp with a tranquil vibe and earthly look. Salt lamps may help to keep the air clean and improve mental health, sleep, energy levels, and more. This lamp has a dimmer so your gift recipient can customize brightness.
Sold by Amazon
ArioseMonde Home Spa Gift Basket
This comprehensive set of bath toiletries has an elegant presentation and will help the giftee relax. It comes with lotion, body wash, bubble bath solution, salts, a scrub, and a bath bomb. The items are made with natural ingredients and have a floral scent. After your giftee is done with all of the toiletries, they can use the basket for decor and organization.
Sold by Amazon
Eddie Bauer Ultra-Plush Collection Throw Blanket
This large and warm blanket from a name brand is a comforting and stylish addition to furniture. It has a soft plush texture on one side and sherpa on the other. The giftee will love that it is simple to clean in the washing machine.
Sold by Amazon
Royal Craft Wood Luxury Bathtub Tray Caddy 45% OFF
Taking baths can be relaxing, healing, and restorative for the body, and this adjustable bamboo tray makes bath time more enjoyable. It allows the giftee to use a device, read a book, and have snacks and other belongings accessible.
Sold by Amazon
InnoGear Essential Oil Diffuser 34% OFF
This multifunctional diffuser also acts as a night light and humidifier to improve your gift recipient’s health and help them relax. The diffuser has a dimmer and the light and mist can be used individually.
Sold by Amazon
Gifts for home decor
This is a great choice for those who love indoor plants. Money trees are easy to care for and symbols of good luck. It comes in a stylish ceramic pot and is ready for gifting.
Sold by Amazon
Cocod’or Preserved Real Flower Reed Diffuser
This reed diffuser is an elegant way to add fragrance to a room or reduce odors. The liquid is made without harmful ingredients and comes in a stylish glass jar. It includes real preserved flowers that make it more decorative.
Sold by Amazon
Clothing and accessories
Ugg Women’s Cozy Chenille Socks
This simple but luxurious exchange gift is made by a premium brand with plush and machine-washable material. The socks are long enough to provide soft and warm cushioning inside of short boots. They come in different colors with a small brand logo at the top.
Sold by Amazon
Adidas Superlite Relaxed-Fit Performance Hat 30% OFF
This environmentally friendly hat is made from recycled materials that are lightweight and comfortable. The hat features a ventilated moisture-resistant design that is great for exercise and warm weather. There is an adjustable Velcro strap in the back so your giftee can customize the fit.
Sold by Amazon
Sojos Cat Eye Blue-Light-Blocking Glasses 41% OFF
These fashion-forward frames prevent eye pain caused by screen use. The glasses are made with sturdy metal and gentle nose pads. They are thin and match well with most outfits.
Sold by Amazon
TopDesign Embroidery Initial Canvas Tote Bag
This spacious canvas bag is durable and has an elegant floral design. The gift recipient will love the personal touch of their initial on the bag. It has a full zipper to contain everything inside and can hold 50 pounds of weight.
Sold by Amazon
Gifts that make life easier
Zulay Original Milk Frother 50% OFF
This versatile handheld whisk is compact and cordless. It not only froths milk but also mixes drinks, smoothies, and sauces. It cleans quickly and comes in many color combinations.
Sold by Amazon
Lamicall Adjustable Cellphone Stand 20% OFF
This stylish phone docking station keeps their device accessible and visible while it’s charging. The cellphone stand fits most smartphones so you don’t need to worry about the recipient’s device type, and it takes up minimal space.
Sold by Amazon
Dash Mini Waffle Maker and Griddle
Breakfast lovers will have fun using these small appliances that make individual waffles, pancakes, eggs, and even burgers. They can be stored in kitchen cabinets or drawers and have easy-to-clean nonstick interiors.
Sold by Amazon
This high-quality travel mug from a trusted brand keeps drinks warm and cold and saves time and money for when they want a drink on the go. The cup is easy to clean in the dishwasher.
Sold by Amazon
Circle Joy Electric Wine Bottle Opener Set 17% OFF
Wine lovers who use manual bottle openers will enjoy having a less strenuous and quicker way to remove corks. The opener is cordless and runs on batteries. The set includes a cutter to remove foil and attachments for pouring and storing wine.
Sold by Amazon
Other top gifts under $25
- A skin care gift set made with natural ingredients
- A bottle of sweet-scented perfume
- A Bluetooth tracker to attach to keys and other belongings
- A set of natural soy candles with a lavender scent
- An affordable smartwatch
Best funny Christmas gifts
Office humor
Let's Make Memories Conference Call Bingo Mouse Pad
Every conference call is filled with the same general actions, comments, and questions from technical difficulties to asking if everyone can see your screen. Using this cleverly designed mouse pad can help your recipient stay engaged the next time they are on a conference call. It might even make them look forward to it.
Sold by Amazon
The lucky person who receives Poo-Pourri in a Pinch will no longer have to find the most remote bathroom in the workplace. This innovative product seals odors in with a refreshing citrus, lavender vanilla, tropical hibiscus, lavender peppermint, or vanilla mint fragrance to leave the bathroom better smelling than it was before it was used.
Sold by Amazon
Demotivational Pens 10% OFF
Is there a member of your team who is just a little too big for their britches? If so, these demotivational pens will help remind them of their place. They contain humorous messages such as “You’ve already peaked” and “You’re for sure getting fired.”
Sold by Etsy
It’s a cheat-sheet and a coffee mug in one. This handy item is decorated with the essential keyboard shortcuts needed for Excel. They are organized into sections, such as formatting, selection, navigation, and more, so the needed combination of keys is easy to find.
Sold by Etsy
Red Swingline Stapler 70% OFF
Milton’s red Swingline stapler could only staple 20 sheets at a time. This one handles 25! Give it (as a cautionary reminder) to someone who tends to never return the things they borrow.
“Sorry for What I Said, I Thought I Was on Mute” Notebook 20% OFF
If you know someone who constantly speaks their mind, even when they aren’t on mute, this blank notebook makes a fun gift. It is a high-quality 118-page notebook and measures 6 inches by 8 inches.
Sold by Etsy
Hey! Play! Tabletop Cornhole Game
Do you know a cornhole fan or someone who just can’t sit still at their desk? This tabletop game is made using MDF wood and comes with six beanbags — three red and three blue.
Sold by Staples
Silly and cute gifts
This tiny Magic 8 Ball is ideal for a recipient who has trouble making decisions. It is a fully functioning model that is only 1.5 inches in diameter, so it fits easily in a pocket.
Genuine Fred Big Brew Elephant Silicone Tea Infuser
This is the perfect gift for an eco-conscious tea lover. You simply fill this tiny pink elephant with your favorite loose-leaf tea, perch it on your cup, and enjoy. Discard loose tea, rinse with hot water, and it's ready to be used again.
Sold by Amazon
Casofu Burritos Blanket 62% OFF
Got someone on your list who is a little chilly and likes Mexican food? This burrito blanket is the perfect gift. This versatile item is made of soft fleece and can be used on a bed, on a sofa, or when traveling.
Sold by Amazon
Banana Phone 20% OFF
This hilarious handset is shaped like a banana. It quickly connects to any Bluetooth device and can function as a phone or a speaker. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 10 hours, and it has a 30-foot range. One percent of each purchase is donated to Gearing Up 4 Gorillas, a charity dedicated to protecting the critically endangered mountain gorilla.
Sold by Amazon
Outee Mochi Stress Relief Toys 23% OFF
Know someone a little stressed out? They can take these colorful sleeping kitties and squish them to their heart’s content. The tactile stimulation is pleasant and the crushing action is rewarding.
Sold by Amazon
BigMouth Inc. Tiny Hands Toy 17% OFF
Tiny hands walk the line between creepy and hysterical. If there’s a practical joker on your Secret Santa list, they will love using these realistic-looking 3-inch plastic hands to unnerve their friends.
Sold by Amazon
'The Screaming Goat' (Book and Figure) 13% OFF
This gorgeous gift is perfect for the animal lover in your office. It comes with a 32-page guide filled with trivia and fun facts about this adorable animal. The figure is a petite, 3-inch goat on a tree stump that lets out a soul-shredding scream when you gently press it down.
Sold by Amazon
Accoutrements Bacon Strips Bandages
These fun strips are so real looking, your recipient might try to eat them. But they are not edible. These adhesive strips help keep minor wounds free of infection. They come in a little tin container that also houses a secret surprise.
Sold by Amazon
Has there ever been a more appropriate design for a Chia Pet than Bob Ross? Even if the gift recipient doesn’t like it, remember, you didn’t make a mistake; it was just a “happy little accident.”
Sold by Amazon
This battery-operated dancing pickle listens to what people say and repeats it. It also tells knock-knock jokes, sings, and yodels. Give it to anyone you want to cheer up.
Sold by Amazon
If you want to give the most talked about gift at this year’s Secret Santa party, consider these unique porta-potty shot glasses. They come in sets of two. Each holds 2 ounces.
Sold by Amazon
Wacky Waving Inflatable Tube Guy 19% OFF
If you’re not sure what to get, buy this because everybody loves the Inflatable Tube Guy. His mesmerizing swaying brings a smile to everyone’s face. This 18-inch version has its own fan and is small enough to keep on a work desk.
Sold by Amazon
Other top funny Christmas gifts
- This pun-a-day calendar should keep them laughing all year
- A Toilet Timer to help keep friends, family members, and co-workers from monopolizing the bathroom
- If your recipient likes canines, they will love this dog-themed Mad Libs game
- A Wicked Pranks and Jokes collection for the practical jokester
- Send a personalized message on a spud with a Potato Parcel
Contributing authors: Jennifer Manfrin, Margot Malverty, and Allen Foster
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