The holiday season is the perfect time to boost team morale, and a virtual team celebration idea like a virtual Secret Santa can do just that for your remote or hybrid team. It’s a fun, lighthearted way to bring people together, spark some laughs, and spread a bit of festive cheer—no matter where in the world your colleagues are.
But wait... how do you even buy gifts for people scattered across the globe? How do you set one up without it turning into a logistical nightmare?
Fair questions, dear reader.
That’s exactly why we’ve split this guide into two parts: first, how to set up a virtual Secret Santa, and second, thoughtful gift ideas that won’t rack up shipping fees—or even require shipping at all.
Let’s get started, shall we?
Step by step guide to organizing a virtual Secret Santa
Step 1: Choose a platform to handle name assignments
This is the heart of any Secret Santa, and using the right digital tool can make the process smooth. Elfster and DrawNames are popular options because they automate the pairing process and send email invitations to participants. They even allow people to create wish lists, making it easier for gifters to find the perfect present. Elfster stands out with extra features like excluding specific pairings, while DrawNames is straightforward and secure.
Step 2: Set some ground rules
Everyone needs to know what’s expected, starting with a reasonable budget—around $10-$20 usually works well. You might want to add a fun twist by introducing a theme like “work-from-home essentials” or “something green” to spark creativity. Be clear about whether gifts should be digital or physical, so no one gets caught off guard.
Step 3: Collect key details from your team
You’ll need email addresses to invite participants through your chosen platform. If you’re sending physical gifts, make sure delivery addresses are gathered securely—many platforms can manage this without revealing addresses to everyone. Encourage participants to add a few wish list items to make gift shopping easier and reduce the chance of awkward presents.
Step 4: Assign names and notify participants
With all the details in place, it’s time to assign names. Upload participant emails, set any exclusions (like avoiding same-household pairings), and let the platform work its magic. Everyone will receive an email revealing their assigned person, along with any wish list items and gift-giving guidelines you’ve set.
Step 5: Plan a virtual gift exchange event
Use video conferencing tools like Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Schedule the event in advance, especially if your team spans different time zones. Encourage people to get creative with wrapping their physical gifts or designing funny digital cards if they’re sending something online. During the event, have participants unwrap their gifts live or share their screens to reveal digital surprises.
Step 6: Organise gift delivery
Remind everyone to ship their gifts early, especially during the holiday rush. Amazon is a safe bet for fast, direct shipping, while Etsy is perfect for unique, handmade presents. Digital gifts are even easier—e-gift cards from popular brands, subscriptions like Audible or Spotify, and online experiences through platforms like Airbnb Experiences can be sent instantly.
Step 7: Make the exchange memorable
Consider playing a quick game of “Guess the Gifter” after each present is opened, or spice up the meeting with festive backgrounds, ugly sweaters, or even a short holiday trivia quiz. Wrap things up by having everyone share what they loved about their gifts or the effort that went into them—it’s a heartwarming way to finish the end-of-year celebration.
21 virtual Secret Santa gift ideas
Now that you know how to set up a virtual Secret Santa, it’s time for the tricky part—gift ideas. Before you groan at the thought of finding the perfect present for someone you’ve probably never met in person, relax—it doesn’t have to be that complicated!
Let’s explore 21 fun, thoughtful, and stress-free gift ideas.
1. USB heated mug warmer
It’s December, and most of the world is shivering through winter’s chill. A USB heated mug warmer is the perfect fix for anyone stuck at their desk with a cup of coffee that cools down way too fast. This handy gadget keeps drinks warm while working, so there’s no need for constant trips to the kettle. With cold months stretching well beyond Christmas, this thoughtful and practical gift will be appreciated long after the Christmas spirit fades away.
2. E-gift card (Amazon, local shops)
Struggling to figure out what your Secret Santa would like? E-gift cards are a safe bet. If your remote team doesn’t meet often, guessing someone’s perfect gift can feel like a risky game. Skip the guesswork and go for something universally loved—a digital gift card from Amazon, Starbucks, or even a local shop. It’s a guaranteed win: they can treat themselves to a mini shopping spree or fuel up on some free coffees. Everyone loves a bit of free indulgence!
3. Mini desk fan or heater
It might be cold where you are, but the world isn’t wintery everywhere. If your remote teammate is calling in from a sunny spot like the Maldives, a mini desk fan will keep them cool while working. On the flip side, if they’re enduring frosty temperatures, a small desk heater will be their best work-from-home buddy. Either way, you’re covering all bases with this thoughtful gift that’s practical, seasonal, and sure to make their workspace more comfortable.
4. Ugly Christmas sweater-themed wine bottle cover
Mulled wine and holiday cheer go hand in hand, so why not dress up the bottle too? An ugly Christmas sweater-themed wine bottle cover is the perfect blend of festive fun and practicality. It’s a quirky, inexpensive gift that could become a beloved holiday tradition in their home—all thanks to you. Bonus: it’s great for disguising that bargain wine they grabbed at the last minute at the online Christmas work party. No one will be the wiser, except for whoever pours the first glass.
5. Festive tea sampler
Not everyone’s into mulled wine or festive cocktails, but who can resist a good cup of tea? (Careful how you answer, or you might upset every Brit ever.) A festive tea sampler is a thoughtful way to introduce your colleague to a whole world of unique blends beyond the usual breakfast brew. Think seasonal flavours like spiced chai, peppermint, or gingerbread. It’s cozy, warming, and guaranteed to make those winter workdays a little more comforting, one mug at a time.
6. Personalized Santa hat
If your team is throwing an online Christmas party this year, a personalized Santa hat is a fun, lighthearted gift that guarantees laughs. Add their work nickname or a funny inside joke to make it truly unique. It’s inexpensive, festive, and perfect for adding a bit of holiday magic to Zoom calls. Who knows—this little touch might just make them the star of the virtual company Christmas party (or at least the best-dressed).
7. Mystery science experiment kit
Perfect for the curious minds on your team, a mystery science experiment kit is a fun and engaging gift. It’s great for science enthusiasts or anyone who loves a hands-on challenge. Even better, it can be shared with their family for some quality bonding time over cool experiments. Who knows—they might just discover their inner mad scientist (in a good way) or finally get answers to those “how does that work?” questions they’ve been pondering for years.
8. Cooking class with an international focus
There’s more to life than burgers and fries. Why not treat your colleague to an international cooking course? It’s the perfect nudge to ditch the microwave meals and master something like a homemade pad Thai or authentic Italian pasta. Who knows, it might even inspire them to host a globally-inspired dinner party or level up their Christmas feast this year. It’s a gift that’s fun, practical, and guaranteed to add some spice (literally) to their culinary adventures.
9. Rare music genre playlist or mix
There’s a whole universe of music out there waiting to be explored. Create a playlist featuring rare music genres like vaporwave or dark cabaret and share it with your Secret Santa pick. It’s a thoughtful, zero-cost gift that shows effort and can be enjoyed while wrapping up the last few work tasks before the holiday break. Bonus points if you make it collaborative—nothing beats discovering weird and wonderful tracks together while counting down to the holidays.
10. Snack subscription box
Let’s face it—working from home makes it far too easy to reach for unhealthy snacks. Why not subtly steer your teammate toward better choices with a healthy snack subscription box? It’s packed with tasty, nutritious treats delivered straight to their door, making snacking guilt-free and delicious. Think crunchy nuts, fruit bars, or even protein-packed nibbles. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, week after week—perfect for beating that mid-afternoon slump without the sugar crash. Yum!
11. Portable desk vacuum
Pair a snack subscription box with a portable desk vacuum, and you’ve got a match made in home-office heaven. Those sneaky crumbs won’t stand a chance! This mini gadget keeps desks and keyboards crumb-free, eliminating the dreaded cake dust buildup. It’s small, practical, and oddly satisfying to use. Your Secret Santa will thank you every time they vacuum up the aftermath of a snack-fueled work session without having to flip their keyboard upside down.
12. Digital magazine subscription
Gone are the days of popping down to the newsagent for the latest issue of your favourite magazine. Everything’s digital now! A subscription to a digital magazine or comic is a thoughtful gift for your colleague. Whether they’re into tech, cooking, gaming, or travel, there’s something out there to match their interests. It’s a fun, monthly reminder that goes beyond the usual holiday gift and gives them something exciting to read long after Christmas is over.
13. Mini bonsai growing kit
Add a touch of zen to your colleague’s workspace with a mini bonsai growing kit. It’s perfect for creating a calming desk vibe while adding some greenery to their setup. Growing a bonsai is surprisingly therapeutic—nurturing it can provide a peaceful break from a busy workday. Plus, it’s a cool conversation starter on video calls. Whether they have a green thumb or just need a low-maintenance desk companion, this thoughtful gift delivers a refreshing slice of nature.
14. Retro video game emulator
Take your colleague on a nostalgia trip with a retro video game emulator. These devices pack classic games from old Game Boy favourites like Pokémon Red and Super Mario Land to PS1 and N64 hits like Mario Kart 64. It’s a portable blast from the past that’s perfect for winding down after a long workday. Reliving childhood gaming memories has never been easier—or more fun—especially when saving the world from pixelated villains.
15. LED light strip for desk setup
Transform a boring workspace into a glowing productivity hub with an LED light strip. These customizable lights add instant ambience, making any desk setup feel modern and stylish. Whether they prefer calming blues, energizing reds, or festive holiday colours, the options are endless. They’re easy to install and can be adjusted with remote controls or apps. It’s a simple but impactful gift that turns “just another desk” into a personalized, mood-boosting workspace.
16. Weird fact-a-day calendar
Who doesn’t love a daily dose of weirdness? A weird fact-a-day calendar keeps your colleague entertained and informed with bizarre, funny, and downright strange trivia. From odd historical events to quirky animal behaviors, each day delivers a surprising fact that makes for great conversation starters—or just a fun brain break. It’s the perfect way to add a little curiosity and laughter to their daily routine, making workdays a bit more interesting, one strange fact at a time.
17. Holiday bath bomb set
Give the gift of relaxation with a holiday-themed bath bomb set shaped like festive ornaments. After a long day of work (or holiday stress), these fizzy delights transform an ordinary bath into a spa-like retreat. Think cozy scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or peppermint that fill the room with holiday cheer. They’re fun, thoughtful, and a perfect reminder to take a well-deserved break. Bonus: they make any bathroom look ready for a holiday Instagram post!
18. Festive hot chocolate bombs
Warm hearts (and hands) with festive hot chocolate bombs that explode into rich, creamy cocoa when dropped into hot milk. Watching the chocolate shell melt and release mini marshmallows is half the fun! They come in holiday-inspired designs like snowflakes or Christmas trees, making them both tasty and festive. It’s a sweet treat that turns an ordinary winter evening into a cozy, magical experience—perfect for warming up after a chilly day.
19. Oddly satisfying fidget gadget
Long meetings or brainstorming sessions can be tough, but an oddly satisfying fidget gadget makes them more bearable. Think sensory rollers, magnetic balls, or infinity cubes—perfect for keeping hands busy while minds stay focused. These stress-relievers are great for boosting concentration or easing workday tension. Plus, they’re compact and discreet, making them ideal for fidgeting without disrupting a meeting. It’s a thoughtful, fun gift that’s equal parts productivity booster and stress buster.
20. A pet rock with a care guide
Got a colleague who struggles with basic organization? A pet rock with a care guide might just be their perfect match. It’s funny, quirky, and hilariously low-maintenance—no feeding, walking, or bathing required. The care guide adds an extra layer of humor, making it a conversation starter and desk companion they’ll actually remember to “take care of.” It’s a cheeky gift that guarantees laughs and maybe even sparks a bit of rock-solid responsibility.
21. Mystery book box subscription
For the bookworm or aspiring reader, a mystery book box subscription is the ultimate gift. Each month delivers surprise reads tailored to their preferences—think thrilling mysteries, heartfelt novels, or gripping sci-fi adventures. It’s like a literary treasure hunt delivered straight to their door. The element of surprise makes reading even more exciting, turning every delivery into a mini adventure. It’s thoughtful, unique, and perfect for cozy winter evenings spent diving into new stories.
Bonus gift idea- A team-building retreat!
By now, you’ve probably noticed a recurring challenge—buying gifts for people (or groups) you’ve never met in person. It’s tough to find the perfect present when your only connection is through Slack or Zoom. So why not skip the guesswork and plan a team-building retreat early next year? Meeting your remote or hybrid team in person is the ultimate bonding experience. Everyone will leave with stories, insights, and connections they’d never gain through a screen. It’s also a great chance to thank your team for all their hard work and efforts!
But we get it, organizing something like this can be a bit of a nightmare, especially if you have a huge team!
That’s where we, at Surf Office, step in. We do all the ground work, so you don’t have to. Simply choose your location and we’ll do the rest!
With over 850+ retreats organized for companies around the globe, we know what it takes to craft a meaningful experience for every member of your team. Here's what we bring to the table:
- Stress-free travel arrangements? Sorted. ✅
- Comfortable, curated accommodations? Always. ✅
- Thoughtfully designed team-building activities? You bet. ✅
- Exceptional dining options? Handled. ✅
- Expert retreat planning every step of the way? Of course. ✅
And with access to 160+ incredible locations across Europe, APAC, the US, Latin America, and Africa, your dream retreat is closer than you think.
Contact Surf Office today and let’s create a team-building retreat everyone will love.
