Struggling with what to buy for a Christmas gift exchange at work? Don’t worry – you’re not alone. As the resident “gift whisperer” in my office, I know finding a present that’s useful, likeable and within budget can feel tricky. The good news is, there are plenty of Christmas gift ideas for colleagues in Singapore that will impress without breaking the bank. From quirky desk buddies to practical gadgets, this list has Secret Santa inspiration for every kind of coworker (yes, even your boss!). Whether your office has a gifts under $20 rule or a slightly bigger cap, we’ve got options for both. Read on for the best Secret Santa gift ideas Singapore has to offer – all affordable, thoughtful, and sure to spark joy around the office.
Secret Santa Christmas Gift Ideas Under $20
1. For the colleague who’s always jetting off to Japan: Creative Sakura Treehouse Building Set ($7.09 – $9.70)
For the colleague dreaming of Japan – or anyone who loves a touch of greenery on their desk – a Mini Sakura Blossom Building Kit makes a delightful gift. This Lego-style flower set comes in two versions: a 2151-piece kit and a 1104-piece kit. The larger set is perfect for seasoned builders or anyone who enjoys a detailed, hands-on project, while the smaller version is great for beginners or those looking for a quick, relaxing build. It’s also a thoughtful choice for colleagues who are parents — this Christmas gift idea doubles as a creative family activity, helping kids develop spatial awareness and nurture their imagination.
Related: Leggo Have Some Fun With These Best LEGO Sets
2. For the regular gym-goer: Mini Fascia Massage Gun ($7.38)
As an office worker myself, my back and neck often feel stiff after long hours at my desk, and this little Mini Fascia Massage Gun gives an instant, soothing massage that really helps. It’s compact, easy to carry, and perfect for quick relief at work or even at home after a tiring day. The best part? It’s budget-friendly (falling under gifts under $20), making it a smart pick for Christmas gift ideas for colleagues. Honestly, it’s one of those gifts that anyone who spends a lot of time sitting will actually use and love – and yes, even gym-goers will appreciate it after an intense workout.
3. For the colleague who loves to stay organised: Kokuyo Campus Study Planner Notebook ($8.18)
Don’t be fooled by its name – while it’s designed for students, this 2026 planner is just as handy for your colleagues. Help your super-organised coworker kick off the new year right with this chic Kokuyo Campus Study Planner Notebook. Unlike a regular planner, it features a unique page format that starts each day with a goal section and a total time tracker, helping them stay clear on what they want to achieve and how long each task should take. Each page also includes a schedule overview, allowing them to visualise their day and allocate time in 10-minute intervals — perfect for meticulous planners or project pros.
4. For the hygienic: FLO Hand Sanitiser ($9.90)
Got a desk buddy who’s always sanitising their workspace? While that’s great for hygiene, it’s also important to remind them to stay moisturised! The alcohol in hand sanitisers can strip moisture from the skin, leading to dryness and cracking. Surprise them with one of the best Secret Santa gift ideas in Singapore: the FLO Hand Sanitiser. With the optimal level of alcohol for effective disinfection, it also contains 30% pure essential oils, leaving a subtle fragrance. This moisturising formula dries quickly without a sticky residue, making it a thoughtful gift your santee will truly appreciate!
5. For the colleague with a sweet tooth: Pepperidge Farm Chocolate Cookies ($9.90)
When you’re unsure what to get, chocolate is always a safe – and sweet – bet. Pepperidge Farm Chocolate Cookies make an effortless Secret Santa gift that still feels thoughtful. Each box is filled with crisp, buttery cookies layered with rich dark chocolate – the kind of treat that instantly upgrades any afternoon tea break. Know that coffee buddy who sneaks away at 3pm? Yep, this one’s for them.
6. For the neat freak: Portable Small Desk Vacuum Cleaner ($10.90)
For the coworker who’s always tidying up, an adorable Mini Desktop Vacuum is sure to spark joy. Shaped like a cat, this compact gadget packs surprising suction power to whisk away crumbs from keyboards and desks. A full three-hour charge keeps it running for up to 30 days, making it as practical as it is cute. It’s the perfect Secret Santa gift for the neat freak who loves a spotless workspace.
7. For the one who’s really crafty: DIY Felt Embroidery Kit ($12.31)
This ARTBOX DIY Felt Embroidery Kit is the perfect Secret Santa gift idea in Singapore for your colleague who’s great with their hands! This therapeutic activity can take their minds away from the grind and help them relax this holiday season. This embroidery DIY kit contains a frame, cotton Oxford, felt, beads, and embroidery supplies for them to complete this art piece. Alternatively, if you’re the dexterous one, why not try your hand at completing it as your Secret Santa gift for your colleague instead!
8. For the colleague with a green thumb: Peace Lily Indoor Plant ($14)
Surprise your colleague with a green thumb with Secret Santa gift ideas revolving around houseplants! The Peace Lily Plant complements well with any decor style, which makes it a safe choice for gifts under $20. Apart from sprucing up the home aesthetics, this plant also helps to purify the air and promote better sleep! If they’ve already got a mini garden going on in their home, help enhance their setup with the Self-Watering Planter. This promises to be a lifesaver on weekends or when they are out of the office!
9. For the office joker: Actual HR-Approved Ways to Tell Coworkers They’re Stupid (Book) ($15.30)
Gift your prankster colleague a hearty laugh with this tongue-in-cheek paperback. It offers a “fun, satirical look at office politics” and dealing with pesky coworkers. No real HR policies here – just witty commentary and comic relief for anyone who’s endured corporate nonsense. It’s a lighthearted Secret Santa gift idea that’s sure to get passed around HR (after your colleague finishes laughing, of course).
10. For the colleague who can’t stand the heat: Jisulife Ultra Slim USB Fan ($15.90)
We’re not strangers to JISULife – I actually have the JISULife Ultra 1, which I now carry everywhere! Of course, that one’s a bit too pricey for an office gift exchange (unless you’re splurging on your work bestie). But the JISULIFE Portable USB Mini Fan is an excellent alternative Christmas gift, especially for under $20. It works as both a handheld and desktop fan, can be charged via USB-C, offers three wind speeds, and lasts up to 13 hours on a single charge.
Related: Jisulife Review: 6 Months In And Still Obsessed With The Ultra1
11. For the globetrotter: IUIGA Travel Packing Cubes Set ($16.90)
Keeping luggage neat is every traveller’s dream, and packing cubes make it a reality. These Compressible Organisers maximise space while keeping outfits and essentials perfectly in order. With the 2026 public holiday dates out, it’s the ideal time to plan your next getaway – and to surprise your on-the-go colleague with a practical gift they’ll actually use. They’ll love how effortlessly these cubes make packing (and unpacking) – no more rummaging through a chaotic suitcase.
12. For the creative powerhouse: Calligraphy Brush Pen + Water Brush Set ($17.31)
One of the best gifts for those with a creative flair is a set of Calligraphy Brush Pens. These calligraphy brushes are even great for those new to calligraphy and will help in mastering that cursive font we all admire! Another great Secret Santa gift idea under $20 is a Wax Seals Stamp Set. This comprehensive wax seal kit contains a wax stamp, spoon and four wax sticks in different colours to create beautiful wax seal designs that your colleague can use on Christmas cards!
13. For the tea connoisseur: Basilur Tea Vintage Blossoms Gift Box ($18.50)
Not everyone is a coffee person, so a tea sampler is a fantastic alternative. Basilur’s Gift Packs let your colleague explore a variety of fine teas – think soothing Jasmine Dream, robust Citrus Bliss, or trendy Rose Fantasy. It’s a pretty good gift, especially to relieve stress for the 4pm workday slump. Tea is packed with antioxidants, and there’s a flavour for every mood, making this sampler both a luxurious and health-conscious Secret Santa gift for under $30.
Related: Spill The Tea With These Best Tea Brands
14. For the office DJ: Retro Bluetooth Speaker ($19.10)
The office DJ or resident music lover will hit all the right notes with a funky Portable Music Player. These retro-style gadgets can spin CDs and stream via Bluetooth, blending old-school charm with modern convenience. Some popular models even mount on the wall and come in cute colours. Think of it as a modern boombox for their desk – perfect for connecting to a phone or playing a holiday mix CD. Equal parts functional and nostalgic, this cool piece of tech is sure to be the gift exchange show-stealer everyone envies.
15. For the colleague who’s forever reheating their coffee: USB Coffee Mug Warmer ($19.90)
Know someone who’s forever reheating their coffee or tea? Save them the trips to the microwave with a Mug Warmer Set. This device keeps their drink warm at the desk, and many models allow you to customise the coaster with their name or a funny quote. It’s a thoughtful gift for the caffeine-loving colleague who gets too caught up in work to sip their latte while it’s hot.
16. For the colleague who brings her own lunch: White Magic Eco Basics Paper Lunch Bag ($19.90)
Even if your colleague already has her own lunch box, this Stylish Lunch Bag makes a practical pairing. Designed to look like a simple paper bag, it’s actually built to last. Your colleague who preps her own meals will appreciate the leak-proof interior lined with aluminium foil and foam, while the durable, water-repellent Tyvek exterior keeps it looking fresh day after day.
17. For the forgetful colleague: Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker ($19.90)
We all know the colleague who is constantly misplacing their keys, phone, or access card. Enter Tile Mate, a compact tracker that helps them find items via their smartphone. Just open the app to make the Tile ring if it’s nearby, or check the map for its last known location. It even works in reverse – double-press the Tile to make a missing phone ring. With a range of about 45m and a one-year battery, this is a practical lifesaver for the absent-minded colleague. No more panicked morning searches before the daily stand-up!
18. For the stressed-out colleague: Hush Candles Handmade Scented Candle ($20)
Invite your overworked teammate to unwind with a locally made, soy-based candle. Hush Candles’ Hand-Poured Scents range from calming Lavender to refreshing Peppermint Orange, and a 4oz candle is about $20 with 12 scent options. Light one at home after a tough workday, and it’s instant zen. This aromatic treat creates a cosy atmosphere and shows you care about their well-being – all without blowing the budget.
19. For the kid-at-heart colleague: Pop-Culture Trinkets (Usually under $20)
A little nod to their interests can go a long way. If your Secret Santa pick is a fan of Marvel or anime, surprise them with a fun collectable. An EZ-Link x Marvel Captain America Charm (yes, the MRT fare card can be a cute charm) costs under $20 and even lights up each time you tap it – talk about commuting in style. Or maybe a LEGO mini-figure keychain flashlight for the kid-at-heart colleague. Even a quirky mug printed with mahjong tiles or local slang can bring a grin.
Secret Santa Christmas Gift Ideas Under $30
20. For the playful colleague: Quirky Office Plush ($20.93)
Brighten their workspace (or home couch) with a Cute Plush Toy or cushion. Because who says office decor can’t be fun? You can find all sorts of creative plushies nowadays – from a squishy stress-relief dumpling cushion to a goofy emoji pillow. One uniquely Singaporean idea is a plushie modelled after local foods or icons. Imagine the laughs when someone unwraps a Red Packet duo! It’s quirky, it’s cosy, and it makes for a great conversation piece. Perfect for the colleague with a sense of humour or anyone who could use an extra cushion for their chair.
21. For the aspiring Masterchef: Customised Kitchenware ($21.90)
Is your santee a culinary whiz who’s always whipping up delicious meals? One of the best Secret Santa gift ideas under $30 for aspiring chefs is the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet. It’s the perfect Christmas gift for those colleagues who just can’t bring themselves to splurge on kitchen essentials. For a more personalised touch, get them a Customised Wooden Chopping Board that allows you to carve their names on it! Made of solid wood, this wooden chopping board is easy to maintain and extra durable. In addition, your colleague can use this chopping board as a charcuterie board as well!
Related: Cutting Mum’s Boredom At Home With The Best Chopping Boards
22. For the colleague who loves her “me time”: Spa-at-Home Kit (From $22)
Help your hardworking colleague unwind with some pampering goodies. One idea is a set of Aromatherapy Shower Steamers – these tablets fizz in the shower to release relaxing essential oils, turning a quick shower into a zen experience. A citrus-scented pack, for example, can energise their morning routine. Alternatively, a Pillow Mist or Sleep Spray can soothe them to sleep on stressful nights. Little self-care gifts like these show that you wish them well-being and rest, much appreciated during the holiday rush.
23. For the eco-friendly colleague: SMEG Retro Coffee Cup ($22.82)
Help your coworker sip sustainably with the SMEG Vacuum-Insulated Cup. Designed to keep drinks hot (or that iced kopi-o gao perfectly cold) for up to 12 hours, it reduces the need for disposable cups – making every coffee break a little kinder to the planet. With its signature retro design and iconic SMEG branding, it’s a desk accessory that blends timeless style with eco-friendly function. A thoughtful, under-$30 gift that proves green can be gorgeous.
24. For the lighthearted colleague: Chewing Gum” Scented Handwash ($24)
25. For the new hire: Personalised Saffiano Leather ID Cardholder and Lanyard ($24.90 – $29.80)
The Christmas party is a great opportunity to bond with the newest member of the team. If you’re struggling to come up with Secret Santa gift ideas since you might not know each other well yet, we recommend the Personalised Saffiano Leather ID Cardholder and Lanyard. This thoughtful gift, priced under $30, can be embossed with their name, making it both stylish and personal. With this lanyard, it’ll be a breeze for them to introduce themselves to everyone when you’re back in the office!
26. For the aspiring content creator colleague: 360° Auto Face Tracking Selfie Stick ($26.50)
Know someone who’s always making TikToks or presenting on video calls? This AI-powered Phone Mount is a must-have. Using an advanced AI algorithm, it automatically recognises a person’s face or body and tracks their movement – no apps or Bluetooth required. Just place a phone on the mount, and it will intelligently follow the subject 360° as they move. Perfect for hands-free video conferences, virtual presentations, or filming the next viral dance in the pantry, it’s a fun and practical surprise. Your tech-savvy colleague will love having their own personal “cameraman” for under $30.
27. For the new homeowner: 5-Piece Porcelain Ceramic Sake Set
We’re at that stage where many of our colleagues are settling into their new BTOs. When you visit their place, don’t go empty-handed – bring along the 5-Piece Porcelain Ceramic Sake Set! This stylish set is perfect for any sake lover and makes for a fantastic conversation starter. Designed with a narrow neck to retain heat and prevent leakage, it’s ideal for serving warm sake on chilly evenings. Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe, combining practicality with elegance. Even when not in use, it adds a lovely touch to any home decor!
28. For the coffee lover: [Hario Asia Official] MUGEN Brewing Kit ($28)
We all know someone who can’t function without their kopi or latte. For them, consider a One-Cup Coffee Brewing Kit. A popular choice is the Hario One-Cup Coffee Maker, which lets you drip brew a fresh cup right at your desk. Pair it with a pack of gourmet ground coffee or a few sachets of fancy instant blends. Every time they enjoy a freshly brewed cup in the office, they’ll thank you for rescuing them from mediocre break-room coffee. It’s a daily luxury for the caffeine addict, delivered in a humble Secret Santa package.
29. For the coworker who needs peace and quiet to focus: Loop Quiet 2 Earplugs ($28.45)
For the colleague who’s sensitive to noise or working from home with distractions, these stylish noise-filtering earplugs are a game-changer. Loop’s Quiet Earplugs are designed to reduce overwhelming sounds and help one focus in a busy environment. Your work friend can finally tune out chatter or loud traffic and get in the zone. It’s an innovative gift that says, “I care about your peace and quiet.”
30. For the tech-reliant colleague: Power Bank 10000mAh ($29.90)
We all have that coworker whose phone is forever on 5% battery. A compact 10000mAh Portable Charger makes an ideal gift for the one who’s always hunting for an outlet. Look for a lightweight “capsule” power bank or a cute keychain charger (like the one shown above!). It ensures their devices never die during back-to-back meetings or when they’re out and about – and they’ll silently thank you every time it saves the day.
31. For the office foodie: Portable Blender Bottle ($29.90)
If you drew the name of the office foodie, consider a small kitchen gadget or a fun food-themed novelty. For under $30, you could grab a mini sandwich maker, a milk frother for their coffee, or a set of gourmet hot sauces for the spice enthusiast. My personal pick would be a Portable Juice Blender. Inspired by NINJA’s popular models, there are also affordable alternatives like the PowerPac, which works just as well and is dishwasher safe. Additionally, reviewers have noted that it handles fruits like oranges very smoothly – the juice comes out well-blended with only small bits of pulp.
Nailing Secret Santa Gift exchanges in Singapore
With a little thought, what to buy for Christmas gift exchange no longer needs to be a head-scratcher. The best Secret Santa gifts show you notice the little quirks that make your coworkers unique. And who knows – your gift might even spark a new hobby or inside joke at work! For more inspiration, check out our handy guides on last-minute Christmas gift ideas in Singapore and some fun Christmas party games to play with colleagues. Don’t forget to also peek at the ultimate Christmas gift ideas list if you’re on the hunt for even more festive surprises!
This article was updated on 5 November 2025. Additional research done by Shermyn Tan.
