Secret Santa presents are not just for the office! They are also an excellent way to spread joy on Christmas Day without sky-high expenses.

It is a popular option and a Christmas money saving strategy, as you only buy one present. If you are dreading present shopping, this might be the ideal cheerful gift exchange for you.

Keep reading to learn more about Secret Santa and how it can help you slash costs this festive season.

What is Secret Santa?

Secret Santa is a popular holiday game and gift exchange format. It is an easy way for friends, family or co-workers to exchange gifts without spending lots of money or buying multiple presents.

Secret Santa is about buying one mystery gift rather than buying separate gifts for everyone in your family circle.

Participants draw names and secretly buy a gift for the chosen person without their knowledge. The gifts are labelled with the recipient’s name but not the giver’s.

During the exchange, each person guesses who their Secret Santa is, with the gifter revealing themselves if the guess is wrong.

Perfect if you would prefer to do group Christmas presents or can only afford to buy one or two gifts this year.

How To Save Money At Christmas With Secret Santa

Secret Santa makes it easy to save money on presents as you only have to buy one gift!

However, there are some extra tips and tricks you can use if you want to make sure everyone is on the same page about affordable Christmas presents.

  • Set a spending limit. For example, you might want to cap gifts at £20 so everyone spends the same amount.
  • Set a theme. A theme can also help guide the spending rules. “Pre-Loved” or “Charity Shop Finds” are ideas that lend themselves to lower-priced presents.
  • Consider handmade presents. Are your loved ones crafty at heart? If so, encourage handmade presents, which tend to be more budget-friendly.
  • Write wishlists. If all participants write simple wishlists before you start, it is easier to see if anyone is asking for gifts outside the budget. It also makes shopping easier – so it is a win-win!
  • Discuss the rules. Make sure your group is clear on the rules! Otherwise, someone might overspend or buy an off-theme present, leading to an awkward situation on Christmas Day.

Cheap Christmas Present Ideas For Secret Santa

Involved in Secret Santa and unsure where to start? Here are some affordable Secret Santa ideas they will love.

  • For winter comfort – Cosy bed socks, fluffy gloves, a warm scarf, moisturisers or hand warmers.
  • For stylistas – Hair scrunchies, sunglasses, keyrings or toiletries sets.
  • For techies – Airpods cases, phone screen protectors, portable chargers or phone cases.
  • For him – Bear care sets, aftershave, wallet, craft beer or a warm beanie.

The options are endless, and there are plenty of presents for all personalities. Don’t forget to compare prices before you purchase! There are lots of deals to discover out there.

Saving Money With Secret Santa - The Takeaway

Whether you are on a particularly tight budget or simply want a more mindful Christmas, Secret Santa is a fun way to do things differently this year. Hopefully, this guide has inspired you to start shopping!

Why not send this blog to your friends and family to help them understand the rules? Bookmark it now so you don’t lose it!

Or keep exploring. Read more on the Cash Asap blog now.