Before you choose: three questions
- What’s on their wish list? If they have one, start there: it’s the safest bet.
- What should you avoid? Allergies, strong dislikes, things they already have ten of.
- What’s the budget? Stick to the group’s range: not much more, not much less.
Still unsure? Ask them directly without giving yourself away: in Rimbi, a secret message lets you ask a question without them knowing who you are. The amounts below are in dollars; the same ideas work in pounds or euros.
Gift ideas under $10
- A quality treat: chocolate, tea, coffee, spices or small-batch jam.
- A deck of cards or a small party game.
- Fun socks or a beanie.
- A notebook and a nice pen.
- A succulent, or seeds to grow.
- A paperback picked for their tastes.
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Gift ideas under $15
- A book, a graphic novel or a cookbook.
- A jigsaw puzzle or a brain teaser.
- A water bottle or a lunch box for work.
- Slippers or a light throw blanket.
- Local specialties from your area, in a nice box.
- A mug… only if their list doesn’t say “no more mugs”.
Gift ideas under $20
- A board game to play with family or friends.
- A snack gift set, or a kit to make alcohol-free cocktails.
- A movie or show ticket.
- A reading light or a small speaker.
- A handmade item from a local maker or a Christmas market.
- A frame with a group photo.
By the person you drew
| Person | Ideas that usually work | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| A coworker you barely know | A treat, a notebook, a plant, a card game | Gifts that are too personal (perfume, clothes) and jokes that might offend |
| A friend | A book, a game, something linked to their hobby | The gag gift that ends up at the back of a closet |
| A family member | A shared memory, a well-made everyday item | Things they already have: ask their family discreetly |
| A child | A game, a book, something to draw or build with | Small parts for the youngest: check the age on the box |
Get it right without spoiling the surprise
- Check their wish list and reserve your pick, so nobody else buys it.
- Read their profile: tastes, sizes, and what they really don’t want.
- Ask an anonymous question rather than a chatty relative.
- Add a handwritten note: it costs nothing, and it’s often what people remember most.
To share your own wishes, read our guide How do you make a Christmas list to share online?
Frequently asked questions
What can you get for a $10 Secret Santa?
A quality treat, a card game, a notebook, fun socks or a plant: simple gifts that most people like. If the person has a wish list, check it first.
What should you get a coworker for Secret Santa?
Something neutral and useful: a treat, a notebook, a plant, a mug or a small game. Avoid gifts that are too personal, like perfume or clothes, and jokes that might not land.
Is a gift card OK for Secret Santa?
Yes, especially long distance or for someone you don’t know well. It can feel less personal: pick a store that matches their tastes and add a note.
Can you give a homemade gift?
Yes, and it’s often much appreciated: cookies, jam, something knitted or a framed drawing. Just leave enough time to make it before the exchange.
What if they don’t like the gift?
Say thank you anyway: that’s part of the game. To avoid it, everyone fills in their wish list before the draw, including what they really don’t want.