Well, pals while it may not feel like it (or even look like it on paper), we are once again headed into the season of Secret Santa gifts. Similar to a white elephant gift exchange, Secret Santa typically occurs within friend groups and workplaces. Each participant draws someone else’s name from within the group and anonymously picks out a present for them, usually within a certain affordable budget (think, under $25). These gifts are traditionally given at a party (though we’ve done ’em over family Zooms) which is when you find out who your Secret Santa is, too. It’s a silly, unexpected way to bond and saves everyone involved from stressing over what to buy for multiple people.
Of course, figuring out the right gift for your boss, or that aunt you hardly see, for instance requires some finesse. Shopping for a picky BFF or hard-to-please teen? You can’t go wrong with a self-care gift like a fancy tea mug or a silk pillowcase. Looking for a present for the man who says he doesn’t want anything? Wrap up a popcorn machine or tub of premium salt flakes. Shopping for a coworker you barely know? Pro tip: Scroll through their Instagram feed for hints about their hobbies, or go deep on their LinkedIn, and if you’re stuck, opt for a gag gift like a tiny desk pickleball set or a burrito throw blanket. You can’t go wrong with something funny that’ll put a smile on their face. Below, we’ve gathered some of the best Secret Santa gifts for everyone, most of which are wallet-friendly.
