You draw someone for secret santa who you barely know. You’re stuck shopping for the friend who has it all. Or maybe you weren’t expecting the $20 price cap for your steal-a-gift event. Regardless, here are some modest, universally appealing gifts to save your Christmas. These secret santa ideas are sure to please whichever lucky person you’re buying for!
Bonus: all items are available in Victoria, no shipping required! You’re welcome, last-minute shoppers.
1. Earbuds
Everyone could use a new pair of earbuds. Let’s face it, these tiny bundles of joy are ridiculously easy to lose/break/throw in the washing machine, and your morning commute or library study sesh falls flat without tunes.
(Get them at Best Buy or London Drugs)
2. Home-baked goods
For a thoughtful yet frugal gift, whip up some homemade treats! Now is not the time to try out that crazy new recipe you found on Pinterest, but Grandma’s famous gingerbread? Go for it! Pro tip: check for any allergies or special diets.
3. Socks
Soft, warm, stylish woolen socks. Anyone with feet will toe-tally get a kick out of this one.
(available at Roots)
4. Cactus
This one might be a little harder to wrap, but it’s so worth it. Mini succulents are cute, compact, and low-maintenance — perfect for crowded dorms and forgetful university students.
(get it at Paboom Home Imports)
5. Extra Long Charging Cord
This one is a must-have for those hard-to-reach power outlets on BC Ferries. Watt person wouldn’t be ex-static to get this?
(get it at Chapters)
6. Stationery
Is it a lecture notebook? Personal journal? Doodle pad? They get to decide. Start off the spring term with some fresh stationery.
(Find it at Chapters)
7. A Scarf
Blanket scarves: one size looks adorable on all. Or go for a classic woolen variety–you’ll be close-knit friends in no time.
(get it at H&M)
And don’t worry guys, we’ve got you covered…
(maybe don’t get this one)
All of these ideas are under $20 and available in Victoria. If you’re still stumped, Paboom Home Imports, Chapters, and Bolen Books are all good places to look for novelty gadgets and gifts. Also consider giving to charity or giving an experience instead of an item. I know I’d be stoked to receive a “dinner out on me” coupon, and then you also get to spend time with the person. And it goes without saying that chocolate is always an option.
Overall, try not to stress too much about the stuff you’re giving and just enjoy the company. Can you remember all your past Christmas gifts?
Thanks for reading, and happy hunting!
Earbuds: 1, 2 Baking: 1, 2 Socks: 1, 2 Cactus: 1, 2 Charging cord: 1, 2 Notebook: 1, 2 Scarf: 1, 2 Manket: 1, 2