- \n
- The process of buying a thoughtful Secret Santa gift that the recipient loves starts with understanding their lifestyle, interests or habits, not just what\u2019s trending.<\/li>\n
- With creative packaging, customized touches and clever twists, affordable Secret Santa gifts can become special and meaningful.<\/li>\n
- Personalized gifts, from mugs to puzzles, can be bought with small budgets and are popular with friends and colleagues.<\/li>\n
- The best Secret Santa gift ideas are humorous, useful or sentimental, and sometimes all three!<\/li>\n
- A simple custom upgrade, like themed wrapping or a handwritten tag, can turn any Secret Santa gift into a memorable one.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n\n Ready to find the perfect Secret Santa gift? <\/div>\n\n\n Explore VistaPrint\u2019s best Christmas gifts and get inspired. <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n \n\n Browse Christmas gifts!<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\nBest gifts for foodies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Food-related gifts are super-Christmassy and can be shared with colleagues or family (as well as with the gift-giver, if you\u2019re lucky!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nSecret Santa (in the US and UK) is also known as Kris Kringel (Ireland, Australia and Canada) and Amigo Secreto (in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries).<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
Under $10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
1. Custom can cooler<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A can cooler<\/a> is an insulated jacket for the recipient\u2019s favorite brew, keeping their cold drinks cool for only $6.99. Make this Secret Santa gift fun and personal with a funny photo or message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_702,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689380\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/customized-can-cooler_38982cfef9\/customized-can-cooler_38982cfef9.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom can cooler<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nMake a can cooler an even better gift by including the recipient\u2019s favorite drink inside!<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
2. Festive condiments<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Condiments like chutney, mustard or hot sauce can last all year, meaning they don\u2019t have to be eaten during the holiday period. Small sauce bottles make great Secret Santa gifts\u2014they\u2019re affordable and can transform leftovers or a desk sandwich into a tastier treat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"condiments](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_1024,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689394\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/hot-sauce_3898195990\/hot-sauce_3898195990.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSource: TRUFF Mini Original Hot Sauce via TRUFF<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $20<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Personalized mug<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
If your Secret Santa is more of a coffee or tea drinker, give a custom mug<\/a> for $13.29, featuring a photo, joke message or name. In a shared office, that means you\u2019re not just gifting a personalized mug; you\u2019re making sure no one has an excuse for using their mug in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Not](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_488,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689409\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/personalized-mug_3898028275\/personalized-mug_3898028275.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPersonalized mugs can be funny Secret Santa gifts for coworkers<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Custom foodie cap<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Knowing what the recipient likes can be a springboard to other gift ideas. Nod to their love of a particular food by getting it printed on clothing, like a custom cap<\/a> featuring the company logo of their favorite snack?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nCustom gifts are a great way to tailor the present to the person. Our holiday gift guide<\/a> with the best personalized Christmas gift ideas is packed with inspiration.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
Under $30<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Personalized glass<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Is the recipient a wine buff who loves nothing more than relaxing with a glass of their favorite tipple? Or perhaps they\u2019re known for their love of cocktails or fresh juice? These stemless etched wine glasses<\/a>, costing $20.99 per unit, can be monogrammed with initials for an added personal touch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"personalized](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_702,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689349\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/personalized-wine-glasses_38979e7361\/personalized-wine-glasses_38979e7361.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPersonalized etched stemless wine glasses<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nDon\u2019t assume everyone likes the same thing. A wine glass isn\u2019t a great gift if they don\u2019t drink, while meat products are an obvious no for vegetarians. If in doubt, ask around to find out what they like and don\u2019t like!<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
6. Photo coasters<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Does your housemate or colleague rely on their morning cup of coffee to get them through the day? Rather than bags of coffee beans, give them a single-serve French press or help keep their desk clean with a set of four photo coasters<\/a> for $22.99.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Personalized](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_770,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689368\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/customized-photo-coasters_3898415f78\/customized-photo-coasters_3898415f78.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPhoto coasters<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
7. Custom bottles and flasks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Christmas is a time to be merry, and for many people, warm festive drinks are at the heart of that. Custom insulated bottles<\/a> come in a range of different styles, shapes and materials, from sports to stainless steel bottles<\/a> ($27.99 per unit) that will keep the recipient\u2019s hot chocolate or mulled wine warm on a winter\u2019s walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Branded](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_702,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689431\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/customized-insulated-bottle_38978d3105\/customized-insulated-bottle_38978d3105.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom insulated bottles<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
8. A food hamper<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Hampers can be as big, luxurious and Christmassy as you like. You can also visit a deli or specialist shop, using what you know about the recipient\u2019s tastes as a starting point to select a few food items. The best hampers contain a good mix of different foods (so they\u2019re bound to like something in it) and are tailored to any likes and dislikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"custom](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_1024,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689442\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/custom-food-hamper\/custom-food-hamper.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom food hamper and kitchen knives<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nFor an extra special touch, personalize your food hamper with custom ribbon<\/a> or wrapping to make the unboxing experience even more memorable.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
Best gifts for hard workers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
We all know someone who sends emails when they should be tucked up in bed or is halfway through that report before anyone else has logged in. If your friend or colleague never seems to be out of the office, consider brightening their workday with one of these thoughtful Secret Santa gifts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. A personalized pen<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Whether used to write to-do lists or mark up documents, a custom pen is more tactile and personal than a digital device. This metal engraved ballpoint pen<\/a> gives you that for $4.99, plus the chance to personalize it with the recipient\u2019s name, initials or a short message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Personalized](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_1024,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689452\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/a-personalized-pen_389768aa64\/a-personalized-pen_389768aa64.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom engraved pen<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
10. Custom tech accessories<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The best Secret Santa gift ideas for workaholics are about injecting a bit of fun into the workday. Most people don\u2019t think twice about their mouse mats, but a personalized photo mouse pad<\/a> ($9.99) with a picture of a recent office get-together, a friend\u2019s party or a great view you shared on vacation can remind them of a happy memory at just the right moment. A custom USB flash drive<\/a> with laser engraving is a neat alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"tech](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_702,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689339\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/custom-USB-flash-drive_389751cb81\/custom-USB-flash-drive_389751cb81.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom USB flash drive<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nGift bags<\/a> instantly make even a small present feel more thoughtful. Choose colors, patterns or tags that match the recipient\u2019s interests to create a memorable unwrapping moment that\u2019s still within budget.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
11. Motivational Post-it note set\u00a0<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A pack of custom sticky notes<\/a> with witty affirmations or productivity prompts adds a bit of fun and focus to even the busiest workday. Bonus points if you personalize the Post-its with inside jokes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"post-it](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_1024,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689459\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/post-it-notes\/post-it-notes.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom post-it notes<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $20<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12. A custom journal<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Journaling has become increasingly popular in recent years, with celebrities and psychologists extolling its benefits. For as little as $11.99, gift a custom journal<\/a> featuring a design or personal mantra to make the contents feel even more meaningful, whether they\u2019re filling it with their deepest thoughts or meeting notes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Custom](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_770,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689468\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/a-bespoke-journal_38973f2a58\/a-bespoke-journal_38973f2a58.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom notebooks<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
13. Blue light-blocking glasses<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Yours, mine and definitely your work-obsessed friend\u2019s eyes are increasingly glued to screens. Specialist glasses help by blocking out blue light from screens, giving their eyes a break when they\u2019re still at their desks and everyone else is winding down. Blue light-blocking glasses also make a great gift for late-night scrollers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $30<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
14. Succulents<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A plant can be a pretty short-lived Secret Santa gift if it\u2019s not watered. But because succulents can survive on little water, even the most work-absorbed friend or colleague should be able to keep them alive. Plus, greenery has proven psychological benefits, and you can get a succulents gift box mailed right to your door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Succulents](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_595,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689478\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/succulents-gift-idea_38972e922c\/succulents-gift-idea_38972e922c.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSource: Gift pack of succulents by rahajoe via 99designs by Vista<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
15. Noise-reducing earplugs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
For coworkers who thrive on deep focus, a pair of reusable silicone earplugs or discreet noise reducers can offer welcome relief from office or home distractions. Pair them with a small storage case for easy carrying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nStill not sure what to buy your hard-working colleague? Find more inspiration in our list of Christmas coworker gift ideas<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
Best gifts for home lovers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Christmas is all about a break from the grindstone, so if you have a friend or colleague who loves nothing more than a night in or a weekend pottering about the house, lean into their homey vibe with a gift they can enjoy at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
16. Fridge poetry set<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Magnetic poetry kits are quirky, creative and great for anyone who loves to spend time in the kitchen. Go classic, romantic or silly to suit any mood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $20<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
17. Kitchen gifts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
If you don\u2019t know the Secret Santa recipient that well, it’s best to keep things generic. Just about everyone uses a fridge and washes the dishes (at least sometimes), making a classy but affordable tea towel or a fun selection of custom fridge magnets<\/a> (ten for $17.99) easy but satisfying options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Items](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_1024,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689328\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/tea-towel_38971b05de\/tea-towel_38971b05de.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSource: Tea towel via Fortnum & Mason<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
18. Custom keychains<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A keychain is a great gift for someone who\u2019s always losing their keys. But custom keychains<\/a> ($12.99) can also feature photos, fun messages or personal catchphrases, making great Secret Santa gifts that the recipient will carry with them in their pocket wherever they go, reminding them of home (and you).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Custom](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_702,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689488\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/custom-keychain_3897033b6b\/custom-keychain_3897033b6b.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom photo keychain<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
19. A transparent puzzle\u00a0<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Indoor games offer fun (or arguments) for the whole family. But the holidays can be a quiet time for some. Puzzles hit that sweet spot; they\u2019re great for groups or one person. For something a bit different, give a puzzle with a twist, like a transparent puzzle that claims to be impossible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_1024,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689499\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/transparent-puzzle_3896973a64\/transparent-puzzle_3896973a64.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSource: Transparent puzzle via Always personal<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $30<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
20. Personalized puzzle<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
If a transparent puzzle looks too complicated, for just $21.99, you could give the recipient something more familiar, like a custom puzzle<\/a> of their face, a favorite photo or a place they know well, giving them a head start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_748,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689512\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/custom-puzzle-gift-idea_389685bf59\/custom-puzzle-gift-idea_389685bf59.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPersonalized puzzle<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
21. Personalized pillows<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Comfort is big at Christmas, so a custom pillow<\/a> or cushion for $26.99 decorated with an image of the recipient\u2019s pet, favorite place or an arty design may be just the Secret Santa gift idea for home lovers.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Custom](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_770,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689317\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/custom-cushions_3896784269\/custom-cushions_3896784269.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom pillow<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nIf you\u2019re buying this comfy gift for a coworker, it could make the perfect desk chair cushion.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
22. Canvas prints\u00a0<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019ve got a good picture of the recipient, give a custom canvas print<\/a> to fill an empty wall or desk space. If you don\u2019t know them that well, you can always use a design template or text instead of a photograph. Think of a slogan or mantra they live by.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Canvas](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_621,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689523\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/custom-canvas-print_203555f556_389666b807\/custom-canvas-print_203555f556_389666b807.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom canvas prints<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best gifts for self-care<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Amongst all the gift-giving and trips to visit relatives, or the nights at home wondering if everyone else is having more fun than you, it\u2019s important to look after yourself. These Secret Santa gift ideas are all about self-care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
23. Skincare and custom beauty products<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Chapped lips and dry hands can be a symptom of cold Christmas weather if you\u2019re in the northern hemisphere. So lean into the season with products that beat the chill by gifting high-end lip balm or hand salve. Turn self-care into a jokey present by getting your own custom beauty products<\/a> made to give as gifts all year round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Secret](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_670,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689534\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/cocoa-butter-Christmas-gift_38965b6d70\/cocoa-butter-Christmas-gift_38965b6d70.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSource: Lip balm by PLVD via 99designs by Vista<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
24. Pocket-sized aromatherapy roll-on<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Essential oil blends are designed to calm, energize or de-stress, perfect for a midday pick-me-up or bedtime routine. Choose festive scents like peppermint or cinnamon for a seasonal twist, or go classic with lavender or eucalyptus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
25. Sheet face mask set<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A selection of sheet face masks (often sold in multipacks for under $10) makes for a light, pampering gift. Pop them in a small envelope with a handwritten \u201cMe Time\u201d card for instant feel-good vibes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nIf you\u2019re the Secret Santa organizer, make sure the budget works for everyone. If it\u2019s difficult for everyone to draw names from a hat, there are plenty of free generator apps.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
Under $20<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
26. Custom hats<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A custom beanie<\/a> (from $11.82) with a name or personalized design will help keep the recipient warm and is more personal than any old hat. Choose from cuffs and bobbles or broaden your search to include trucker caps<\/a> for that old-school hipster feel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
27. A custom bag<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Custom tote bags<\/a> like this cotton tote<\/a> for $14.99 are eco-friendly and practical. Turn a tote bag into a self-care gift by printing a wholesome message on it and filling it with pampering goodies or a voucher for a spa day, depending on your Secret Santa budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Tote](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_702,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689544\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/custom-tote-bag_203935f436_38964a3935\/custom-tote-bag_203935f436_38964a3935.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom tote bag<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $30<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
28. Custom sleep mask<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Help the recipient drift off with a silky sleep mask customized with names, initials or a fun slogan. Paired with a matching pouch, this luxurious gift is perfect for travelers, night owls or anyone needing better sleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
29. Essential oil diffuser<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Compact and quiet, a mini essential oil diffuser brings spa vibes to any room. Pair the diffuser with a calming scent like lavender, and this gift will quickly become a daily self-care ritual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best gifts if you know them well<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Do you know your friend or colleague like the back of your hand? Buying them a Secret Santa gift should be easy, but the pressure is on to get them a good one. Think about what they\u2019re known for\u2014do they have an (office) alter ego or a reputation for a specific thing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
30. Personalized enamel pin<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Whether it’s their favorite phrase, hobby icon or pet’s face, a custom enamel pin is a low-cost but high-impact way for them to wear their personality quirks on their jacket, tote bag or backpack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $20<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
31. Personalized T-shirt<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Buying for a friend is when humor can work best, because you\u2019re less likely to get the tone wrong or offend them. Customize a cotton T-shirt<\/a> from around $15 with an iconic photo or private joke for the perfect Secret Santa gift. Custom T-shirts come in a range of colors and styles, making them easy to tailor to your buddy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Custom](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_682,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689307\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/customized-t-shirts_3896371183\/customized-t-shirts_3896371183.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom printed T-shirts<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
32. Custom stamp<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Do they love books? A custom stamp<\/a> like this self-inking stamp<\/a> for $11.99, personalized with their initials or name, can help your friend feel like they\u2019re a librarian. Combine it with a book or two to help them build their collection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Custom](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_702,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689555\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/custom-stamp_389622b21e\/custom-stamp_389622b21e.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom stamp with initials<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
33. Movie poster<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
You know them, so use that intel and lean into their interests. If they love films, how about a movie theatre subscription or a scratch-off movie poster?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Scratch-off](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_1024,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689565\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/scratch-off-movie-list_38961dfc61\/scratch-off-movie-list_38961dfc61.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSource: Scratch-off movie poster via Uncommon Goods<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nIf you\u2019re buying for someone you don\u2019t know well, recipe books or book-club-recommended novels are universally popular. Books are also easy to regift or exchange (slip the bill between the book\u2019s pages).<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
Under $30<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
34. A personalized calendar\u00a0<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re close enough to have plenty of pics of the recipient, a custom wall calendar<\/a> ($28.99) is a brilliant gift idea. With easy-to-manage templates, you can personalize the calendar using photos of them for each month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_533,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689573\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/custom-calendar-1_38960bf90a\/custom-calendar-1_38960bf90a.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom calendar<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
35. Cameo-style message from their idol<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
For a one-of-a-kind gift, check platforms like Cameo or Memmo, where you can get a short, personal video shoutout from a celebrity or sports hero. They\u2019re surprisingly affordable and guaranteed to get a laugh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best gifts for the impossible to please<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Most Secret Santa recipients aren\u2019t someone you know inside and out. Gently ask those who know them better, or choose a universally useful gift. The following gifts will please everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
36. Travel-size game kit<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A portable set of classics\u2014think chess, backgammon, cards or dominoes\u2014makes a universally appealing gift, perfect for holidays, commutes or impromptu game nights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
37. Custom scratch card<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Add mystery to your gift with a custom scratch card revealing a fun message, mini challenge or DIY reward. Whether it says \u201cYour coffee\u2019s on me\u201d or \u201cRedeem for one night off washing up,\u201d this Secret Santa gift idea is playful, personal and cheap\u2014ideal when you\u2019re shopping for someone who\u2019s tricky to buy for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $20<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
38. A voucher with a difference<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A voucher or gift card gives your recipient the gift of choice, but it can feel like a cop-out as a Secret Santa gift. So give a voucher that feels different, like a tour of their town or city. Local businesses may also have schemes that feel more personal than a chain-store voucher. Alternatively, make a DIY voucher for an experience you know they\u2019ll love.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
39. Phone charger<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A charged phone is essential, making a power bank<\/a> or wireless charger<\/a> a decent Secret Santa gift idea for any recipient, especially if they enjoy travel or hiking. Customize this gently rounded wireless charging pad<\/a> for $14.99 using a template or custom photo, depending on how close you are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
40.\u00a0Custom phone case or wallet<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
A personalized phone case or slim wallet is both practical and personal. Add their initials, a favorite photo or a bold design that they\u2019ll love to carry everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"phone](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_1024,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689583\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/phone-wallet_389598ac08\/phone-wallet_389598ac08.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n Tip <\/div>\n\nCustom wrapping paper<\/a> and a thoughtful note can elevate any Secret Santa gift.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n
![\"custom](\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vistaprint\/images\/w_1024,h_569,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1755689291\/ideas-and-advice-prod\/blogadmin\/greeting-card\/greeting-card.jpg?_i=AA\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCustom Christmas card<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under $30<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
41.\u00a0Monogrammed scarf<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Cold-weather clothing accessories<\/a> are fairly universal and deeply Christmassy. Give gloves, mittens or a scarf a personal twist by customizing them with the recipient\u2019s initials for around $20. This useful and thoughtful gift will be cherished for winters to come and is guaranteed to win any Secret Santa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
42.\u00a0Digital gift subscription<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Instead of a one-off item, gift a subscription, like three months of a meditation app, puzzle subscription or audiobook platform. It’s low-effort, high-value and will please almost everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Secret Santa buying made easy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Secret Santa gift-giving can be joyous but it can also be stressful. To keep it simple, we recommend thinking about what you can buy within your budget, who you\u2019re buying for and using lists like this one for inspiration. Focus on finding a fun and useful personalized Christmas gift<\/a>, and you might just get something good in return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n \n\n\n\n Still not sure what to give for Secret Santa? <\/div>\n\n\n Browse VistaPrint\u2019s personalized Christmas gifts. <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n