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15 Secret Santa Gift Ideas Under $20 If You Have No Idea What To Get

With the arrival of the holiday season, Secret Santa becomes a popular activity among friends, families, and colleagues. Most of the Secret Santas that I’ve done in the past have a price limit between $15 to $25, which is perfect for any college student who is most likely broke during the holidays. So, if you’re on a budget and looking for a quality gift that will blow everyone away, look no further — these Secret Santa gift ideas are all under $20. 

I know that I’m someone who loves practical gifts I can use more than once, and with that, I was able to compile a list that is practical to gift to your favorite people. Pair any of these gifts with a hot cocoa packet or some candy canes and you’re all good to go! And don’t forget that with holiday sales, it might be possible to stack some of these items with coupons and deals.

Topicals Mini Faded Serum for Dark Spots & Discoloration ($15)

This serum is one of my absolute favorites for minimizing pores and correcting discoloration, and it was even featured in the Her Campus College Beauty Awards, so you know it’s good.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum ($9)

The winter is notorious for dry skin, but thankfully The Ordinary has the solution with this serum.

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm ($18)

This travel-sized gift is a slightly more affordable option than the brand’s similar Lip Sleeping Mask, which was named one of the best lip products of 2023.

Bath & Body Works Peppermint Sugar Cookie Candle ($13)

Bath & Body Works often has sales on their candles, and they make the coziest present.

Nespresso Frosted Caramel Nut Pods ($15)

For coffee lovers, Nespresso capsules are the way to go. Get this for a friend or co-worker who can’t go a morning without their daily fix.

Samnyte Hair Wax Stick ($8)

My slick-back girlies will appreciate this gift, and it’s under $10!

LORDEM Plant Grow Light ($10)

The winter time is always tough on houseplants, so gift this to a special plant lover who wants their leafy friends to last.

Indigo Christmas Mug ($12)

This cute little Gingerbread Man will play peek-a-boo while your giftee drinks their morning tea or coffee.

Tuanse Braided Keychains ($10)

For that one friend who’s always losing their keys.

Tsarey Sunset Lamp ($15)

Help your giftee set a relaxing mood with this sun lamp, which comes with over 20 different color settings.

Nalgene Wide Mouth Sustain Water Bottle ($17)

Because everyone needs to stay hydrated and happy.

BeeVines Silk Sleep Mask ($8)

We all need our beauty sleep, right?

TRODANCE Mini Travel Size Jewelry Box ($7)

A great way to organize your jewelry on the go!

Doboli Silicone Airpods Case ($6)

This will help spruce up their Airpods and protect them from bumps and scratches.

Aritzia Sunday Best Lolo Mittens ($18)

Cute, practical, and under $20! What more could you ask for?

Sabrina Bernard

Queen's U '25

Sabrina Bernard is a writer Her Campus' National Program. She writes lifestyle content on the site, including entertainment, news, and experiences. Beyond Her Campus, Sabrina is heavily involved at her university, where she is an Orientation Coordinator for the largest not-for-profit orientation in Canada, she is the Co-President of the English Department Student Council, and models for her university's Sustainable Fashion club. She also volunteers at the local Animal Shelter when she goes home. Sabrina is currently a junior at Queen's University, majoring in English Literature with a certificate in French. She has also been a panelist at several literary conferences for her works. In her free time, Sabrina enjoys reading, playing with her cat Poppy, and petting every cat she can find on the streets. She's also a huge Modern Family fan and has rewatched the series multiple times.