19 Secret Santa gifts that people actually want

Pick a gift that won't just end up in the basement.
All products featured here are independently selected by our editors and writers. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission.
19 Secret Santa gifts that people actually want
Credit: pottery barn

A Secret Santa gift exchange typically means smiling and saying thank you for something that you know very well is going straight to the back of your closet so you don't have to see it or feel bad about throwing it out. Well, it's time for a change.

You don't have to spend a lot to give someone a gift that they'll actually use. When it comes to a Secret Santa gift, a great place to start is with a gift that you yourself would love to receive.

We gathered up some things that people might forget to get themselves but would definitely appreciate. Select from this list of 20 ideas and you can't go wrong during your next Secret Santa gift swap.

Williams Sonoma Classic Hot Chocolate
Credit: WILLIAMS SONOMA

Williams Sonoma Classic Hot Chocolate

For The Chocolate Addict

A lot of people may switch out their coffee for hot chocolate around the holidays. This adorably decorated tin filled with quality hot chocolate is the perfect thing for them to enjoy at home. 

Fuzzy Socks

For The One Who Always Like To Be Comfy

Who doesn't like a pair of fuzzy socks? After all, most of the holidays are spent dressed comfy at home right? This set of six is an affordable way to give a necessary gift. 
Alphabet Mug
Credit: POTTERY BARN

Alphabet Mug

For The Tea/coffee Drinker

These mugs can make just about anyone appreciate a monogrammed gift. Go for the holiday plaid look or the classic black and white ones. Either one will make sipping eggnog just a little more exciting. 

Portable Phone Charger

For The One On The Go

Everyone always seems to be running somewhere which means phones are bound to die. Save your friends the panic by getting them top-rated charger that can be carried anywhere for under $20. 

Spafinder Gift Card

For The Stressed Out One

Taking a trip to the spa are what most people need yet won't do for themselves. Make the move for them with a Spafinder gift card that allows them to book services at thousands of participating U.S locations. 
Sweets Box Fox
Credit: BOX FOX

Sweets Box Fox

For The Sweet Tooth

This company helps to make gifts feel as personal as possible. They have a bunch of holiday boxes to choose from, including some that have wine openers, candles, and socks. This one in particular includes gourmet popcorn, gummies, and more. 

Touchscreen Gloves

For The One Who's Always Cold

It's nearly impossible to walk one block in the winter without seeing a sad glove lost on the ground. People are constantly losing gloves and in need of more, which is why these are a safe gift. The touchscreen feature is something people may not think to get themselves, but they'll be so glad they have these once the temps start to plummet.

Moleskine Classic Notebook

For The Organized One

For plenty of people, typing a list on their iPhone just won't cut it. For those who like to physically write down their thoughts, this classic notebook is the way to go. 

Tile Mate

For The Forgetful One

This Bluetooth tracker can be attached to a keychain or put inside your wallet and is perfect for anyone who finds themselves misplacing something a bit too often. Simply press the button that turns on the ringer and your mind will be at ease again. 

Wireless Earbuds

For The Music Lover

Your friends may be tired of fumbling with their headphone cords but don't want to dish out the money for AirPods — and neither do you. We don't blame you. These Bluedio earbuds are a super affordable alternative. 

Amazon Fire TV Stick

For The Netflix Fan

With an Alexa voice remote included, binge-watching has never been easier. Your friend will be excited to relax during the holidays and catch up on their favorite shows. 

Waterproof Phone Pouch

For The Adventurer

Go boating, kayaking, snorkeling, and much more without worrying about water damage. Most smartphones with up to a 6.8-inch diagonal size will fit in this dry bag.

Amazon Gift Card

For The Shopaholic

We're certain there are plenty of "holideals" that your friends would love to browse through on their own. Give them a little something to treat themselves while also getting credit for the most adorable gift in this snowman tin. 

Lush Bath Bombs

For Bath Lovers

Give your friend the gift of relaxation this year. This adorable duo includes one of Lush's famous bath bombs and a reusable bubble bar. Plus, the best part of all: thanks to Lush's radical stance on packaging, you can feel good about this eco-friendly gift.

GameStop Gift Card

For The Gamer

You can never be completely sure what someone already has in their collection. So gift them a gift card to the place that is sure to have whatever they are missing. 

Digital Thermomater

For The Cook

Do you know the recommended internal temperature for cooking chicken? What about pork? Measuring temperatures from -40 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, this thermometer will make sure that whatever's in the oven or on the stovetop is cooked to perfection. 

Wine Condoms

For The Drinker

With holiday parties coming up, there's bound to be too many corks to keep track of. Make sure nothing gets stained by resealing the bottles with this "hilarious, yet effective" gift.

Contigo Travel Mug

For The On-to-go Coffee Drinkers

This trustworthy mug can be used during the cold months to make sure your coffee is still hot by the time you get to the office. Anyone would appreciate having one (or an extra). 

Fandango

For The Moviegoer

This is a safe gift, but it's one you know will be put to good use. Any movie fan — and let's be honest, that's everyone — would love a gift card to put towards catching the latest flick in theaters. For a creative add-on, toss in some popcorn and movie snacks and make a little gift basket. Congratulations: You just won Secret Santa.

Recommended For You
30+ unique Valentine's Day gifts for men: Smart, cute, and practical ideas he'll be psyched about
Two people holding custom Xbox controllers, flowers under a grow light, a sous vide device cooking steak, and a Chicago Bears book

25+ unique Valentine’s Day gifts for boyfriends: Cute (not cliché) ideas for every type of guy
Bed with gray bamboo bed sheets, two people making pottery at home, various LEGO Botanicals on table with real plants, and Nintendo Switch 2 and controllers on desk

Amazon has curated its top 100 Valentine's Day gifts. Here are our 10 favorites from the list.
LEGO flower bouquet and box, burgundy Keurig, Kindle Paperwhite with pink case, red heart-shaped Le Creuset cast iron dish, pink Bose wireless earbuds, and red wireless Xbox controller arranged on pink, orange, yellow, and white backdrop


The best college graduation gifts for life in the real world
People lifting their graduation caps to the sky.

Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 2, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone


What's new to streaming this week? (April 3, 2026)
A composite of images from film and TV streaming this week.
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!