10 gifts for Secret Santa that aren’t candles – and they all cost $5 or less
THE FESTIVE season is well and truly here, which for many people means only one thing: the frustration of searching for the perfect Secret Santa gift.
Of course, there are the ‘safe’ choices, like picking up a last-minute candle, a bottle of mulled wine and a pair of cozy socks to keep feet nice and warm as temperatures start to drop.
However, if you want to surprise your colleague or a friend with something less basic and at the same time don’t want to spend a fortune, don’t worry because we have the solution for you.
This is because a frugal shopper, known only as @That shop girl on TikTok has put together a comprehensive list of wallet-friendly gifts that won’t break the budget.
Whether you’re looking for cute makeup items or household items, the money-conscious TikTok user has found it all.
One of the bargains the brunette beauty came across while browsing Marks & Spencer was a cute tote bag with a cute teddy bear print.
The find, which retails for just five dollars, is sure to come in handy for everyone – whether you’re running errands, going to the gym or need a small bag for travel.
The major supermarket has also added ‘cute coasters’ to its ever-growing collection – the must-have for the living and kitchen room features initials and sells for £5.
If you’re looking for a foodie pressie, M&S also sells delicious biscuits in a beautiful red letterbox that you can then reuse as home decor for £5.
Meanwhile, rival B&M is the place to go if you’re looking for a glass mug that’s perfect for all coffee and tea lovers – the retailer is offering a selection of mugs with initials for just £3.
Not your cup of tea? Come visit their beauty salon, where you can find So…? Unique shower gel and lotion set of four mini products for €4.99.
Another high street favorite that has beautiful gifts for Secret Santa is Boots, where shoppers found a trio of brand 17 eyeshadow sticks for £5, as well as a lip duo from the same brand that comes with a lippy and a lip gloss. a fiver.
“Obsessed with this for a glossy red lip look,” said the frugal woman who also endorsed the affordable brand and said their products are “amazing.”
The budget-friendly brand has also launched ”lots of cute eyeshadow palettes” for under £5. Not only are the colors stunning, but the mini make-up essentials are easy to throw in your bag when you’re heading out.
If you need to find something for beauty lovers, Home Bargains is another store worth checking out.
According to the woman, the popular retailer has a huge selection of headbands and wristband sets at affordable prices under £5.
How to Save Money on Christmas Shopping
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to save money on your Christmas shopping.
Limit the number of presents – buying presents for all your family and friends can cost a bomb.
Instead, why not host a Secret Santa among your inner circles so you don’t have to buy multiple presents?
Plan ahead – if you have the stamina and the budget, it’s worth buying your Christmas presents for next year during the January sales.
Make sure you shop for the best deals by using price comparison sites so you don’t spend more than you need to.
Buy on sale on Boxing Day – some retailers are starting their Christmas sales early so you can actually score a bargain before December 25th.
Delivery may cost you a little more, but it could be worth it if the savings are significant.
Shop through outlet stores – you can save a lot of money by shopping through outlet stores such as Amazon Warehouse or Office Offcuts.
They work by selling returned or slightly damaged products at a discounted rate, but usually the wear and tear is minor.
Meanwhile, if you’re on a mission to surprise a fashionista, TK Maxx is the way to go – the money-conscious shopper claimed the discount store has ”so many cute earrings for £5”.
One pair she came across was a cute duo of gold bows – which are sure to elevate any party outfit on the cheap.
The same retailer, which has over 300 stores in the UK, also offers cute hair clips for £4.99 – and these will always come in handy with your make-up or skincare routine.
“Shocked by how many cute pieces I’ve found for under a fiver,” the thrifty high street shopkeeper wrote.