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Let's face it: Secret Santa exchanges can be a minefield of disappointing, forgettable gifts. It's tough to shop for someone when you know that gift is going to be opened in front of all your friends, family, or coworkers at some holiday party.
Then there's the price limit to contend with—a good gift exchange should keep it under $20, but some creep closer to the $50 range. What's the best way to win at Secret Santa without breaking the bank, or bending the rules?
The name of the game for any gift exchange is to get something I call "strategically eccentric." You need to find something quirky and unique, so that you have a better chance of resonating with the quirks and uniqueness of the individual you're gifting. I've rounded up some ideas for crowd-pleasing presents that are both budget-friendly and hopefully a little useful, too. Whether you're shopping for a coworker you barely know, or the friend you know all too well, here are the best types of gifts to help you crush at Secret Santa this year.
Quirky tech gadgets
When in doubt, go for something practical with a fun twist.
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LED bluetooth beanie. It's a great move for a gift exchange: Perfect for music lovers, cold weather, and it satisfies the need for something unique. I mean, I'd be shocked if anyone owned one of these of their own volition. Get one for $12.99.
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Portable charger (with a nice design). Keep their devices juiced up with a charger that's both functional and fun. A good charger should stick within the $20-25 range, like this Amazon best seller for $20.99.
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Smart mug. What better way to share warmth than a favorite drink at just the right temperature? A good smart mug can keep your drink at your preferred temperature (between 120°F - 145°F) for up to 80 minutes on a full charge, or all day if it stays on its charging coaster. A quality one will run you over $100 on Amazon, but this more affordable one for $16 seems perfectly fine.
Foodie crowd-pleasers
After all, everyone needs to eat.
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Gourmet hot sauce set. Maybe they're a true spice enthusiast; maybe they just love watching celebrities sweat on Hot Ones. Either way, help them add some heat to their meals with this hot sauce variety pack for $24.99.
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Unique tea or coffee sampler. Ooh, a collection of exotic flavors to tantalize their taste buds. If you know that spices or sweets are going to be too much for your gift recipient, you can play it safe while still giving them something new to try. Depending on your budget, you can stick to a tasteful Tea Forte Tea Tasting Assortment for under $20, or spring for the Atlas Coffee Club World of Coffee Discovery Set for $59.99.
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Artisan chocolate tasting box. Because who doesn't love high-quality chocolate? Or, who doesn't love re-gifting high-quality chocolate to someone else? Again, your personal Secret Santa budget will dictate how decadent you get. Consider my personal favorite, this Taza Mexican-style chocolate sampler $28, or perhaps a fancier assorted truffles Godiva box for $50.00.
Cozy comfort gifts
'Tis the season for snuggling up and embracing laziness.
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Fuzzy socks multipack. Soft, warm, and always appreciated. If you're working with a tighter budget, you can play it safe with a multipack for just $17.99.
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Weighted eye mask. A luxurious touch for better sleep and relaxation. I stole one from my mom last year, and now I don't go a night without it. I recommend one with lavender stuffed into it, but everyone has different scent preferences. Here's a 3D sleep mask currently on sale for $15.99.
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Microwaveable heated slippers. The ultimate comfort gift for cold days. And delicious once warmed up! Just kidding. Please don't eat them. Available for $26.
Creative finds
Get them something you're sure they won't get themselves.
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Desk plant terrarium kit. A mini garden for the plant lover or office dweller. Get a cool geometric glass pattern, like this one currently on sale for $37.
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Raunchy adult card games. Think Cards Against Humanity or any similar party game that encourage players to let loose and feel funny. I recommend We're Not Really Strangers to really streamline breaking the ice with acquaintances and close friends alike. Prompts include "what part of your life works," "what part of your life hurts," and even just "admit something." Available for $25.
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Scratch-off adventure poster. A fun way to track and plan future experiences. Get ones themed around national parks, date ideas, or even "things to do with dad." All reasonably priced around $22.
Self-care indulgences
Help them treat themselves to a little luxury.
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Essential oil diffuser. A compact way to bring calm and aromatherapy anywhere. You can get the diffuser itself for around $20, but a smart move is to b
from News https://lifehacker.com/home/best-secret-santa-gift-ideas?utm_medium=RSS
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