If you've ever participated in a Secret Santa, then you know as well as we do that the anonymous gift exchange has its highs and lows. Sure, it's fun to take a walk in St. Nicholas's shoes and surprise a family member or friend with a gift you know they'll love (or at the very least get a kick out of). But if you're buying within the confines of a budget, that makes shopping a bit trickier.
Money isn't the only issue here — there's a lot of pressure when it comes to purchasing a Secret Santa gift, mostly because the game is notorious for being an exchange of gags and presents that will either be regifted or take up space in a closet somewhere. So whether you're shopping for a loved one or a co-worker you've barely said two words to, the goal is to purchase a present they'll (hopefully) like and actually use.
To help you nail that present, we've rounded up the best Secret Santa gifts for this year's players — all under $25. If you're looking for more cheap gift ideas, we also have round-ups of the best gifts under $10. Needless to say, there is no shortage of unique and thoughtful options for any holiday gift exchange or White Elephant party.
A vintage puzzle
Uncommon Goods
Cavallini Papers & Co Vintage Puzzle at Amazon and Uncommon Goods
Any puzzle lover will be thrilled to receive a Cavallini Papers & Co Vintage Puzzle. The high-quality puzzle comes in a variety of designs, from succulents to butterflies. After the puzzle is completed, it can double as wall decor.
A trendy-cute juice glass
Anthropologie
Icon Juice Glass, available at Anthropologie
Anthropologie's Icon Juice Glasses are the perfect pick for the person on top of social media trends. These thick glasses are inlaid with hand-blown glass beads in the shape of ladybugs, fruit, ribbons, rainbows, and other charming shapes.
A pair of classic gold hoops
Pavoi
Pavoi Gold Hoops, available at Amazon
For the style maven, you can never go wrong with a pair of gold hoops. Gold hoops are a staple for any wardrobe and can be styled in any outfit. This pair, made by Pavoi, is our pick for the best budget hoop earring.
Sleek sunglasses that won't slip
Amazon
goodr Silverback Squat Mobility Polarized Sunglasses, available at Amazon and Dick's Sporting Goods
These affordable unisex sunglasses are both stylish and made for activity. Goodr principles itself on non-slip performance glasses made for running and sports.
The gift of a new hobby
Amazon
Cookie Box Crochet Kit for Beginners, available at Amazon
This crochet kit comes with everything they need to make their very own stuffed animal (called "amigurumi" in the crochet community): a crochet hook, yarn, stuffing, eyes, and stitch markets. You'll also get a written guide and a link to a video tutorial. If all goes well, this gift will get them "hooked" on a new hobby.
A reusable bag that's cute and sustainable
Baggu
Standard Baggu, available at Baggu and Urban Outfitters
If they hate single-use plastic, they'll love this cute, reusable bag. It comes in a variety of fun colors and patterns and the simple style makes it a go-to choice for bringing to the gym, grocery shopping, or even to use like a purse.
Gift them a creative outlet
Amazon
Ohuhu Alcohol Markers, available at Amazon
Level up their art supplies with fancy markers. These dual-tipped Ohuhu markers are sold in a 40-pack with a convenient storage case. The colors are vibrant and blend nicely. Round out the gift with an adult coloring book or sketchpad.
A mini waffle maker for the cutest breakfast ever
Crystal Cox/Insider
Dash Mini Waffle Maker, available at Amazon and Target
This miniature waffle maker is adorably small and will look super cute in their kitchen. Plus, it makes for a delicious, easy breakfast.
A miniature vacuum to tidy their work desk
Amazon
ODISTAR Desktop Vacuum Cleaner, available at Amazon
Whether they're work-from-home warriors or back in the office, cleaning their workspace is probably low on their priorities list. Ergo, they'll appreciate this mini desktop vacuum cleaner from Odistar, as this cleverdesk accessorydoes the grunt work for them. It's an especially useful gadget for daytime snackers who constantly munch on one thing or another at their workspace and leave crumbs in their midst.
An overnight mask to perfect their pout
LANEIGE Overnight Lip Mask
Sephora
LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask Intense Hydration with Vitamin C, available at Amazon and Sephora
In this writer's opinion, theLaneige Lip Sleeping Maskis unmatched in terms of how quickly it yields results, thanks to the brand's strategic use of its Berry Fruit Complex, Murumuru seed, and shea butter in each flavorful pot. Speaking of flavors, it comes in a selection of seven, from fan favorites like Vanilla and Gummy Bear to limited editions like Pumpkin Spice and Peppermint that are only available for the season.
A convenient phone mount for taking selfies and watching videos hands-free
Amazon
Octobuddy Silicone Suction Phone Case Adhesive Mount, available at Amazon
The latest must-have mobile tech accessory are these suction phone mounts that easily suction to flat surfaces like mirrors and windows for hands-free recording or streaming. A must-have for anyone who makes content for TikTok, and available in tons of colors. For a few dollars more you can upgrade them to a dual-sided suction mount to take the accessory on and off as they please.
A guidebook to help them manifest their dream life
Amazon
"Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life" by Roxie Nafousi, available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Target
"Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life" by self-development coach Roxie Nafousi is a culmination of steps and prompts to guide the reader on their manifestation journey. With a new year and fresh start ahead, it's the perfect Secret Santa gift for anyone who believes in "the secret" to attracting everything they want out of life.
Erasable pens that put an end to cross-outs
Amazon
Pilot FriXion Synergy Clicker Erasable Pens, available at Amazon and Office Depot
For the writer or note-taker on your list, you can't go wrong with these erasable pens from Pilot. These writing utensils are actually genius, offering users the professionalism of a pen, with the option to erase mistakes like you would with a pencil. Moreover, the pack includes seven fun colors to choose from, all of which are refillable, making this pick eco-friendly as well.
An adorable nightlight
Smoko
Lil B Dumpling Ambient Light, available at Smoko
Whether they want to use it as a nightlight or just cute decor, you can't go wrong with this little dumpling light.
A cute mug that lets them track their travels
Uncommon Goods
Color Map Mugs, available at Uncommon Goods
No matter what they're sipping on, they'll love doing so in this mug that they can completely customize. With the included markers they can color in the destinations they've been to or want to go to, for a map of the world that's unique to them.
A fancy candle
Anthropologie
Capri Blue Capiz Mini Jar Candle, available at Anthropologie
Candles are always great gift crowdpleasers, and this scented one from Capri Blue in Volcano will look good in any room. It's one of our favorite scents.
A five-year journal with plenty of prompts
Urban Outfitters
One Question a Day Journal, available at Amazon
A gift for your ambitious friend who's always asking where you see yourself in five years. Help them answer this question for themselves, with a daily journal that poses a new question each day for five years.
Sleep sprays for their best night's rest
Amazon
This Works Choose Sleep Kit, available at Amazon
On the list of best Secret Santa gifts, few things can surpass the gift of a good night's sleep. Enter This Works Choose Sleep set, which includes a roller and a pillow spray, stacked with notes of Eucalyptus, Frankincense, and Lavender essential oils to calm the busiest minds at bedtime, and lull the body to sleep. Trust us, especially around the holiday season, they'll be grateful for the snooze.
A nifty reading light
Urban Outfitters
Icon Book Light, available at Urban Outfitters
For the avid night reader or journaler, this clip-on light isn't just adorable; it's an accessory they'll use all the time. You can choose from an alien, leaf, or butterfly shape.
A portable cheese melter
Amazon
Boska Milano Partyclette Melting Pan, available at Amazon and Boska
Melted cheese can make pretty much every meal better. If you don't believe us, check out this video to see the gooey goodness in action.
A cookbook from Snoop Dogg
Amazon
Snoop Dogg and Earl "E-40" Stevens, and Barnes and Noble
made in collaboration with fellow rapper E-40. Come for the tasty recipes, and stay for the epic stories and memories that stem from dishes like Flamin Hot Cheetos Mac and Cheese Bites to Snoop's Fruity Loop Bars.
A set of sheet masks with a loyal cult following
TONYMOLY Keep Zen Set
Amazon
TONYMOLY Keep Zen Set, available at Amazon
Help them to stress lease heading into 2023 with this three-piece gift set from Tony Moly. The brand, best known for its incredible sheet masks, centered its calming trio around lavender, an ingredient recognized for its soothing powers on the mind and body. It features two sheet masks, one sleep mask, and hand cream.
A statement-making camera phone case
Amazon
Awsaccy Vintage Camera Phone Case, available at Amazon
"Emily in Paris" fans and photographers alike will toss their current phone case as soon as they unwrap this vintage camera cover. The silicone design is compatible with numerous iPhone models, and comes with a detachable lanyard and crossbody straps.
A unique hot sauce blend
Sur La Table
Bushwick Kitchen Weak Knees Gochujang Sriracha, available at Amazon and Sur La Table
Give them a gift to take their hot sauce habit to the next level. The blend of Thai sriracha and Korean gochujang is sweet, spicy, and unlike anything they've ever tasted before.
A healing Himalayan salt lamp
Amazon
Mineralamp Glow Salt Lamp, available at Amazon and The Home Depot
Himalayan salt lamps have recently become a big trend in home decor, but they're also said to have healing properties that can potentially help purify the air around them. Whether they believe in the health benefits or not, anyone can enjoy the warm glow and aesthetic appeal of this hand-carved, 100% pure Himalayan salt lamp.
A hysterical holiday rom-com
"A Very Merry Bromance" by Lyssa Kay Adams
Amazon
"A Very Merry Bromance" by Lyssa Kay Adams, available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble
For the rom-com fan, the latest installment to Lyssa Kay Adams's "Bromance Book Club" series is sure to be a hit. After all, what better season for matchmaking than mistletoe season? It's festive, it's funny, and the perfect Secret Santa gift for avid readers and/or Hallmark movie fans.
A sweet way to eat chocolate fondue
Uncommon Goods
Decadent Chocolate Fondue, available at Uncommon Goods
Sweeten up their holiday season with this incredibly easy-to-make chocolate fondue. All they have to do is heat up the stoneware containers (which are pre-filled with chocolate) and find some fruit for dipping.
A bestselling body moisturizer
Nordstrom
Kiehl's Creme de Corps, available at Sephora, Ulta, and Nordstrom
Help them treat their skin right with Kiehl's beloved, and super-hydrating Creme de Corps, another one of our favorite remedies for dryness, and one of the best body lotions.
A carry-on cocktail kit
Uncommon Goods
Old Fashioned Carry-On Cocktail Kit, available at Amazon
This kit fits right in their carry-on bag and has all of the fixings for two Old Fashioned cocktails. All they need to do is add whiskey or rye. This cocktail kit can be enjoyed at any altitude, but it will most definitely make for a fun flight activity and help inspire future travels when the time is right.
A face mask that calms red and irritated skin
Nordstrom
Mario Badescu Azulene Calming Mask, available at Amazon and Mario Badescu
This light, refreshing face mask is made with botanical ingredients that calm irritated skin. It's delicate on skin and will leave it looking more hydrated, even, and refreshed.
A tracker for keys, wallets, and other misplaced items
Tile
Tile Mate (2024), available at Amazon and Tile
Your forgetful friends and family will be so thankful for this gift. They can place this tracker in their wallet, purse, fancy water bottle, or phone case to make sure they never lose their things because if they do, the Tile app makes them easy to retrace.
A diary for sports, music, or movie lovers
Uncommon Goods
Ticket Stub Diary, available at Uncommon Goods
This is a great gift for anyone who is constantly attending shows, concerts, or sports games — and never throws away their tickets. Instead of keeping them hidden in a shoe box or desk drawer, they can use this diary, which has plastic sleeves to fit all different kinds of tickets as well as open margins on the sides where they can scribble notes to remind them of each event.
A cute set of planters
Amazon
Mkono Modern Succulent Planters, available at Amazon
Help them add some greenery to their space with these cool concrete planters. Add some small plants if you want to complete the gift.
A tarot cookbook for magical meals
Amazon
"Divine Your Dinner" cookbook by Courtney McBroom and Melinda Lee Holm, available at Amazon, Bookshop, and Barnes & Noble
For the mystical friend, this cookbook lets them conjure a magical meal according to a fortune. The tarot cookbook contains 78 tarot card-inspired recipes divinely crafted by a tarot priestess and chef.
A faux plant desk organizer
Amazon
Kikkerland Potted Pen Phone Stand, available at Amazon
If they're stuck inside an office all day, they could benefit from seeing something green. This plastic plant isn't as good as the real deal, but it adds some much-needed color and works as desk decor, plus it functions as a phone stand and organizational tool.