The Her Campus National Editors write about products we love and think you’ll love too. Her Campus has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase. All products are in stock and all prices are accurate as of publication.
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 than these Secret Santa gift ideas 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.
- BAGGU Reusable Bag ($14)
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A sturdy reusable bag that easily folds up is a gift that everyone and anyone can appreciate. BAGGU offers three sizes of bags all under $20. Plus, each bag has an array of design options, including a few that feature the Peanuts gang.
- Jellycat Ornament, Festive Folly Pear ($15)
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Let’s be honest, few things are more adorable than a Jellycat. So, add some Jellycat cuteness to your gift recipient’s Christmas tree with this wee little pear ornament. Edge Of Urge also offers other Jellycat ornament options for under $20.
- Topicals Mini Faded Serum for Dark Spots & Discoloration ($18)
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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 for 2023 as a viral fave, so you know it’s good. Your skincare-obsessed besties will be so in love with this product.
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum ($8)
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The winter is notorious for dry skin, but thankfully The Ordinary has the solution with this serum. Hyaluronic acid helps refresh skin and lock in moisture even as the wind whips your face from class to class. It’s def a winter necessity, and it’s less than $10.
- Laneige Lip Glowy Balm ($19)
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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 2024 according to Her Campus readers.
- Bath & Body Works Peppermint Sugar Cookie Candle ($10)
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Bath & Body Works often has sales on their candles, and they make the coziest present. This single-wick Vanilla Bean Noel option is a beloved scent as well as a top seller that’s sure to please any gift recipient.
- chamberlain coffee, flavored variety cold brew singles ($16)
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Emma Chamberlain’s coffee line features single-use cold brew and hot coffee packs that are ideal for anyone without a coffee maker. Simply chill a pack with water overnight or pour boiling water over a pack in your fave mug. This coffee isn’t just trendy, it’s super delicious.
- Samnyte Hair Wax Stick ($10)
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My slick-back girlies will appreciate this gift, and it’s just $10, which is super ideal. We can’t have our hair moving around in the winter wind, right?
- LORDEM Plant Grow Light ($13)
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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)
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This cute little gingerbread man will play peek-a-boo while your giftee drinks their morning tea or coffee.
- Tuanse Braided Keychains ($10)
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For that one friend who’s always losing their keys.
- Tsarey Sunset Lamp ($19)
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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)
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Because everyone needs to stay hydrated and happy.
- BeeVines Silk Sleep Mask ($15)
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We all need our beauty sleep, right?
- TRODANCE Mini Travel Size Jewelry Box ($8)
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A great way to organize your jewelry on the go! You can even add a cute pair of earrings or bracelet in this gift, too.
- Doboli Silicone Airpods Case ($7)
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This will help spruce up their Airpods and protect them from bumps and scratches. And yes, it is a two-pack. We love a little bang for our buck.
- Aritzia Sunday Best Lolo Mittens ($14)
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Cute, practical, and under $20! What more could you ask for?
