Staff-picks October 14 2019

10 Online Secret Santa Gifts to Impress Every Coworker

10 Online Secret Santa Gifts to Impress Every Coworker

Left your Secret Santa gift for the last minute… again? Don’t worry, we understand that office gift giving can be stressful but don’t let that convince you to run out and buy yet another novelty mug for Karen in accounting. 

Reduce stress this holiday season

Secret santa gift ideas for coworkers are often the last thing you want to be thinking amongst all the manic holiday cheer during the holiday season. The holidays are crazy enough so let us save you the time, effort and disappointment and instead, impress your lucky coworker with a unique experience that will undoubtedly be an office game changer.

Secret Santa gifts for every coworker

These 10 easy gift ideas are perfect for anyone from your work BFF to that new Intern Jesse or Jamie or Johnny or... something? No matter the relationship, these experience ideas provide a personal touch that will convince everyone you’ve actually been paying attention. 

Office Secret Santa Gift Ideas Christmas

Make your gifts that much more personal!

While it is easy to simply purchase a gift for a coworker, experience gifts can be much more memorable and special. Forget the desk organiser for more storage space, the luggage tag, the six pack, that water bottle with their favourite sports team logo or the adult colouring books and opt for a truly unique gift this year.

Think about it – when was the last time you received an experience gift? They are becoming more and more popular as people realize that they are much more meaningful than something that can simply be put on a shelf or regifted.

An experience gift shows that you took the time and care to find something unique that your coworker will appreciate. And unlike a material item, an experience lasts long after the wrapping paper has been thrown away.

Worldwide Secret Santa Gift Exchange possibilities!

No matter where they may be travelling to this Christmas there will be a perfect gift that suits their interests on Gifting Owl.

Our worldwide experience gifts are the perfect way to show your coworker that you care. From wine tastings in Tuscany to surfing lessons in Bali, we have a range of experience gifts that will appeal to everyone.

Any Occasion, Anywhere!

Our presents are perfect for any occasion, and we offer a wide selection of experiences that are sure to impress your coworker.

So why not give the gift of an unforgettable experience this holiday season?

Be Inspired

With Gifting Owl, you can be sure that your coworker will love their secret Santa gift! Fear not, and dive into some of our stress free gifting options for inspiration this year.

1. The Adventurer 

Keep the danger out of the workplace and use your gifting powers instead to satisfy that walking hazard of a coworker. Give them the gift that says “I want you to have fun over the Christmas break” with an undertone of “please don’t do anything crazy just to find that fun”.

To make sure your Secret Santa recipient still gets the thrills and none of the broken bones, why not gift them a guided adventure.

From abseiling down cliffs, climbing bridges to embarking on an undersea experience, there are endless ways to get that adrenaline flowing while avoiding the inevitable Workers Comp claim.

Snorkelling

If you're looking for a secret Santa gift that will get your coworker's heart racing, look no further than a snorkelling experience.

Snorkelling is a great way to explore the beauty of the underwater world, and it's perfect for people of all ages. It's also a fun and easy activity that anyone can enjoy at any skill level.

Your coworker will love getting the chance to explore the coral reefs and marine life up close. Gifting your coworker a snorkelling experience is a surefire way to make their holiday season unforgettable.

Kayaking, surfing & stand-up paddleboarding

For the co worker who loves being outdoors, a kayaking, surfing or stand-up paddleboarding experience is the perfect secret Santa gift.

Your coworker will love getting out on the water and enjoying the sun and waves. These experiences are great for people of all ages and skill levels.

Gifting your co worker an outdoor water activity is a great way to show them you care. It's also a gift that they will remember for years to come.

Rock climbing & Abseiling

For the coworker who loves the feeling of completing a difficult challenge, a rock climbing or abseiling experience is the perfect secret Santa gift.

Your coworker will love getting out in nature and testing their limits. These experiences are great for people of all ages and skill levels.

Rock climbing sessions are guided by qualified and experienced instructors.

No experience is necessary as each session includes instruction, a safety briefing (where you will learn how to rock climb) and equipment.

2. The Meal Prep Master

There’s always that one person who packs a gourmet lunch that puts your sad ham and cheese sandwich to shame. The second they lift the lid of that spicy, saucy concoction, a symphony of grumbling tummies choruses through the halls, indicating that its lunchtime.

It’s clear they’ve got a passion for creation so why not give them a chance to really flex those culinary muscles with an expert lead masterclass.

And who knows, maybe next time they will share that mouth-watering feast with you. 

Food Tours

A food tour is the perfect gift for the coworker who enjoys trying new cuisines and exploring.

Food tours are a great way to explore different cuisines and learn about new foods.

On a food tour, your coworker can expect to try food from a variety of different cultures, learn about the history of food, and get tips from chefs on how to cook delicious meals at home.

From the sweet tooth, to the pizza lover, no matter what kind of foodie they are, there will be a plethora of delicious treats and new flavours to savour on these vibrant tours.

Your foodie co worker will love getting the chance to try explore new flavours and will be very thankful for the considerate yet practical gift.

Cooking Classes

Cooking classes are the perfect gift for the coworker who loves to cook.

Cooking classes are a great way to learn new cooking techniques and explore different cuisines.

During a cooking class, your co worker can expect to learn about the history of certain food, try food from a variety of different cultures, and get tips from chefs on how to cook delicious meals at home.

Your cooking enthusiast co worker will love getting the chance to learn new skills in a fun and relaxed environment.

Cooking classes are an excellent way for them to improve their cooking skills whilst also having the time of their life with a friend or partner.

These are often a laugh a minute experiences when shared with someone you love.

Authentic Culinary

When it comes to secret santa gift ideas for coworkers this is truly a stand out gift that you may just hear mentioned again in the office conversations regarding 'the best secret santa gifts of the year'.

With these experiences, your co worker will be able to take an authentic private cooking class with a local in their own home. They won't only learn how to cook a new dish, but they'll also get insight into the lives of their hosts and their culture as well.

With so many distinct possibilities available around the world, no matter where your gift recipient may be, they are only minutes from a wonderful night of cultural cuisine and learning.

Consider the cuisine or atmosphere you want your culinary experience to be based on if you know your co worker well enough.

No matter what you're in the mood for, we have a dish for you.

Our culinary partner, the Travelling Spoon, only works with chefs who can guarantee an authentic and memorable experience.

These one on one gifts are simply unlike any dining experience your co worker has ever encountered.

3. The Always Running Late

This ideas for the one who just can’t seem to ever make it to work on time. You’ve heard it all, the sick wife, grandma, cat and neighbour but you can’t help but be impressed by their repertoire of extravagant excuses.

But it’s Christmas time, the office may be hectic and out of hand so at least you can rely on ol’ faithful to keep some consistency in the workplace.

Celebrate their strengths this year by gifting a guided tour through the twists and turns of a rainforest. Let them get lost on purpose!

Rainforest tours

Rainforest tours are a great way to explore different ecosystems and learn about the plants and animals that live there.

On a rainforest tour, your co-worker can expect to see a variety of different animals, learn about the plants and trees, and get tips from guides on how to identify different species.

Your rainforest-loving co-worker will love getting the chance to see new animals and learn about the rainforest ecosystem. They'll thank you for the extra special gift that you may have helped them just tick off their very own bucket list.

City tours

City tours are a great way to see the sights, learn about the history of the city, and try new foods. They're also a fun and easy way to spend time with friends or family.

On a city tour, your co-worker can expect to see a variety of different landmarks, learn about the culture and history of the city, and try new foods.

Your city-loving co-worker will love getting the chance to see new landmarks and learn about the history of the city.

Driving experiences

Secret Santa gift exchanges with the office are often a hoot, and why not add to that by sprinkling some humour into your secret santa gift!

If everyone knows your recipient is always last into the office, gift them the ironic gift of a fast paced driving experience to 'encourage' them to get to work quicker everyday!

With so many awesome driving experiences available on Gifting Owl around the world, there is bound to be something up their alley.

However, we suggest sticking clear of any humorous experience gifts if your recipient dislikes or is disinterested in the activity of course!

4. The Weekend Warrior

If your lucky Secret Santa recipient is someone who has six posters, a custom mug and screensaver stating some variation of ‘TGIF’ and ‘Let the weekend begin’, we’ve got some ideas to fuel them through.

Sleep is for the WEEK so why not start the weekend right with an authentic beer and cider tour to understand what really goes into making a great Saturday night.

I mean… what else is the weekend for?

Beer tours & tastings

If your lucky Secret Santa recipient is someone who appreciates a good brew, we've got some ideas to fuel them through the weekend.

Beer tours and tastings are a great way to learn about the history and process of beer-making, and to taste a variety of different beers from around the world.

They're also a fun and easy way to spend time with a big group of fellow beer enthusiast friends.

On a beer tour or tasting, your co-worker can expect to learn about the history and process of beer-making, taste a variety of different beers, and get tips from guides on how to identify different types of beer.

Your co-worker will love getting the chance to learn about different types of beer, taste new beers, and get tips from guides on how to identify different types of beer.

Dance classes

Dance classes may just be the perfect secret Santa gift for the party animal in your office. They're a great way to let loose and have some fun, and they're also a great way to get some exercise.

They'll be stoked that secret santa gifted them with such an educational tool to make their nights out even better.

Make sure to keep a keen eye on their dancing skills next time the crew goes out for Friday night office drinks!

Nightlife tours

If your secret Santa recipient is always the life of the party, then a nightlife tour is the one for them.

Nightlife tours are a great way to see the city lights and explore the best nightlife that the city has to offer.

On a nightlife tour, your co-worker can expect to see a variety of different nightclubs and bars, learn about the culture of nightlife in the city, and try new drinks.

Your co-worker will love getting the chance to see new nightclubs and bars, learn about the culture of nightlife in the city, and try new drinks.

5. The Intern

Remember what it was like being in their shoes? Why not give them a sneak peak on what it looks like at the top. That’s right… it’s skydiving time.

This may not be the career boost they are looking for but it sure will give them a chance to see how it feels to be at the top - literally.

Conquering this adrenaline pumping activity may even give them the confidence they need to get that job... or at least get off coffee duty.

Either way, what better way to treat that hard working intern this Kris Kringle. 

Skydiving

Is your intern always daydreaming about what it would be like to fly? Why not give them a sneak peak on what it looks like at the top. That's right... it's skydiving time.

This may not be the career boost they are looking for but it sure will give them a chance to see how it feels to be at the top - literally.

Conquering this adrenaline pumping activity may even give them the confidence they need to get that job... or at least get off coffee duty.

Either way, what better way to treat that hard working intern this Kris Kringle.

White water rafting

For the intern who's always up for a challenge, why not give them the opportunity to tackle some white water rafting.

White water rafting is a great way to get outside and explore the great outdoors, and it's also a great way to bond with friends or family.

On a white water rafting trip, your intern can expect to paddle down a river, navigate through rapids, and enjoy the scenery.

Your intern will love getting the chance to paddle down a river, navigate through rapids, and enjoy the scenery.

6. The Green Thumb

Ever wonder where your office got so many keep cups, recycling bins and printed signs that beg you to ‘turn off the lights!’. Well that's your office Green Thumb.

With their environmentally focused super powers, your office is doing its part to save the turtles and protect the trees.

To get back to nature, why not send them on a serene bush walk through the national parks, or get up close and personal with some cute and fluffy wildlife residents. And remember… It’s not easy being green. 

Nature hikes & bushwalks

For the green thumb in your office, why not send them on a serene bush walk through the national parks.

Bush walks are a great way to get back to nature and appreciate the beauty of the world around us.

On a bush walk, your co-worker can expect to see a variety of different plant life, wildlife, and landscapes.

Scuba Diving

For the coworker who loves to explore the world beneath the surface, why not give them a scuba diving experience.

Scuba diving is a very cool way to see the underwater world and learn about the different plant and animal life that lives there.

On a scuba diving trip, your co-worker can expect to see a variety of different fish, coral, and other incredibly vibrant marine life.

7. The Early Bird

No matter how early you think you are, someone else is already hard at work, slurping away on the worm (or rather a coffee in this case).

Those early risers are a different breed, getting up before the sun is certainly not for everyone.

Why not give them something worth skipping snooze for with a hot air balloon trip to start the morning right. Trust me, this experience will feel even better than having a complete pick of the office parking spaces. 

Hot air balloon ride

Hot air balloon rides are a serene and peaceful way to start the day and is perfect for those that love early mornings. Up there with some of the most relaxing secret santa gift ideas we have.

Rising with the sun, watching as the world slowly comes to life is a truly special experience.

Hot air balloon rides are an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated for the day ahead.

8. The Stress Pot

Know someone who is the walking embodiment of frazzled, as though the air around them is more static than most? The erratic mumbling and caffeine-induced jitters are no good for anyone in the office.

Help take away some of the tension and surprise your Secret Santa recipient with an aromatherapy massage to expel those work burdens and coffee toxins with the sweet smells of lavender.

This gift is a sure fire way to bring some peace and harmony back to that workplace, especially during the crazy Christmas period. 

Massages

If the person you're buying for is constantly on-the-go, give them a massage voucher so they can relax, unwind and relieve stress this christmas season.

We offer a variety of different types of massages to suit any need, including Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone and more. If you're looking to de-stress, we recommend a Swedish massage.

No matter what their preference may be, guests are sure to leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Facials

If your coworker is in need of some self-care this holiday season, give them the gift of a facial.

They'll love the pampering treatment and the results will last for weeks. If you're searching for a Christmas present that would relax and pamper them, there's no better choice than a luxury facial.

Bird watching tours

Is your coworker constantly talking about how they wish they could spend more time outdoors? Why not give them a bird watching tour!

A bird watching tour is the perfect escape for anyone who loves nature. It's relaxing to be surrounded by beautiful animals and to watch them interact with each other.

Bird watching tours are a great way to learn about different types of birds. You'll get to see them up close and learn about their habits and behaviour.

The best part about a bird watching tour is that it's a stress-free experience. You can relax and enjoy the company of beautiful animals without any hassles or worries.

9. The Office Mum

Whether you need a pen, a sugary pick-me-up or an inspirational pep talk, your office mum is always there with an arsenal of goodies to brighten up your day.

Now finally! It’s your chance to show her how much you appreciate her comforting presence with some incredible secret santa gift ideas! Why not treat her to the luxury she deserves with a pamper package.

If you’ve been extra demanding this year, you might want to try for something stronger and send her off on an all inclusive Wine tour because Santa knows she's earned it.

This Secret Santa treat will give her the strength to take on another stressful year as the superhero that she is! 

Vineyard Tours

Is the office mum a wine lover? If so, she'll love a vineyard tour! A vineyard tour is the perfect way to learn about wine and taste some of the best wines in the world.

The office mum will love spending a day learning about wine and sampling some of the best wines available. Plus, she'll appreciate the chance to relax and unwind in a beautiful setting.

Spa Day

If you know someone who could use some relaxation, a spa day would be the perfect christmas gift for them! Have them focus on their well being by spending a day being pampered at one of the best spas in their area.

They’ll have their pick of all the good stuff like treatments like massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. And they’ll definitely feel refreshed and rejuvenated after spending some time there!

10. The Boss

The most daunting selection of all. I bet your thinking- what gift can I possibly get that says ‘I care’ without trying too hard, taking out a second mortgage and/or sacrificing your first born.

There probably aren't many ‘things’ out there your boss wants this Kris Kringle so go outside the box and get them something they can experience instead.

Why not send them off to see the big bosses of the ocean to watch the majestic whales that take charge of the sea. It's not everyday that you get to meet your spirit animal so this once in a lifetime gift surely won't go without appreciation.  

Whale Watching

If your boss loves nature, they'll love whale watching! Whale watching is a great way to see some of the most beautiful animals in the world.

Your boss will appreciate the chance to see these majestic creatures up close. Plus, they'll have the opportunity to learn about their curious habits and behaviour.

Still Lost? Gifting Owl vouchers to the rescue!

Forget that amazon gift card they will never use! At Gifting Owl we have made our vouchers some of the most flexible in the world!

They are valid for three years, are fully exchangeable and are delivered instantly at any time of the day.

Let's make secret santa fun again!

It’s time we make Secret Santa something to actually look forward to this year. No matter whose name you pull out of the festive hat, there is something for everyone.

Start with the fundamentals

Secret santa gift ideas for coworkers are difficult so we don’t blame you for forgetting the names of Susie's six cats or Rob’s favourite mid-strength beer. All you need to know for these gift vouchers are the fundamentals so get out there, get snooping and be the best gift giver you can be!

Personal experience gifts

Leave behind the leather mouse pad, bluetooth speaker, luggage tag, big screen projector, the key finder, the variety pack of chocolate that will go straight to the reception candy dish or that tin of matcha green tea, and give your lucky co worker an experience gift they will always remember!

Don't let your gift exchanges become boring. Experiences are the right gifts for those looking for cool secret santa gift ideas for coworkers and it might even help create a more exciting secret santa culture within the office every year.

However, it might diminish the need for an office christmas tree!

Check out our site for more gifting inspiration!

Search through our site for more cool gift guides for many other special occasions. And if you're looking to take it up a notch to become a Gift Giving Master, check out these exciting ways to wrap your experience gift vouchers

Merry Christmas & Happy Gifting!

We hope these secret santa gift ideas for coworkers has inspired you to make this year's secret santa gift exchange one of the best yet for the office! Help them create memories this Christmas.

Start gifting today

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