Secret Santa gifts under 10

By Yuri Nieto Faus · Updated 12 November 2026

A small budget doesn’t mean a boring present. These ideas work for around 10 pounds or 10 dollars and are grouped by the kind of person you drew, including colleagues you barely know.

Treats and food

Edible gifts are the safest bet for someone you don’t know well (check allergies first).

• Really good chocolate — one bar of something special beats a big box of average sweets.
• Hot chocolate kit — cocoa, mini marshmallows and a candy cane in a jar.
• Hot sauce or flavoured salt — great for anyone who cooks.
• Local honey or jam — feels personal and thoughtful.
• Fancy tea sampler — for the tea drinker in the office.

Desk and everyday

Useful things that brighten a workday.

• A fun mug with something inside — add tea bags or sweets.
• A quirky notebook or nice pen — people always use them.
• A small desk plant — succulents survive almost anything.
• Phone stand — handy for video calls and recipes.
• Cable organisers — boring until you have them.

Cosy and self-care

Winter favourites that nobody refuses.

• Novelty socks — always a winner.
• Lip balm and hand cream set — perfect for cold weather.
• Scented candle (small) — unless they’ve said they have too many.
• Bath bomb or face mask — a little treat for the weekend.
• Warm beanie or gloves — look for deals in December.

Fun and games

For the person who likes a laugh.

• Pocket card game — great for the pub or a train journey.
• Mini puzzle or brain teaser — desk-friendly entertainment.
• A joke book or quiz cards — for the office comedian.
• Grow-your-own kit — herbs or chillies on a windowsill.
• Stickers or enamel pin — for laptops and bags.

How to choose in two minutes

1. Check their hints or questionnaire answers.
2. Pick one interest and one practical need, and look for a gift where they meet.
3. Add a handwritten note: it costs nothing and is what people remember.

Make any budget feel generous

• Presentation matters. Brown paper, string and a sprig of rosemary look better than expensive wrapping.
• Combine two small things that go together, like a mug and a good hot chocolate, instead of one random item.
• Buy local. A treat from a local bakery or market feels more personal than a big-brand equivalent.
• Remove price tags and include a gift receipt in case the size or colour is wrong.
• Write a note. One line about why you chose it is often the part people keep.

Frequently asked questions