From practical picks to quirky finds, we've got a list of Christmas gift exchange ideas that'll surprise and delight.
We’re approaching that time of year again when we have to play nice with colleagues (or people you’ve not seen in years, probably) at the Christmas party. Of course, you can’t turn up empty-handed, as these shindigs usually have a gift exchange after all the merriment. But what can you give that won’t get you reported? Worry not – we’ve curated options that’ll have everyone ooh-ing and ahh-ing. From the practical and snatchable to the potentially questionable (in a good way!), here are the top Christmas gift exchange ideas (under $50!) in Singapore for your inspo list. Let the festive shopping begin!
Christmas gift exchange ideas for under $50 in Singapore
1. Thirsty’s mini crate bottle opener
Isn’t this just the cutest? This Thirsty creation has a dual function: you can stick it on the fridge after opening all your beer bottles. Even if your gift recipient is not an avid drinker, it works as a cute decoration. You can get two of these to make an adorable pair or just buy one and pair it with one of Thirsty’s drinking glasses. Will everyone fight over this bottle opener? Probably not, unless they’re into quirky stuff or are oddballs themselves. But hey, you may never know.
Thirsty, $15, shop online
2. The Caramelier’s handcrafted soft caramels
This is the perfect gift for that sweet tooth in your life. Picture soft caramels finely crafted with high-quality European milk and French butter by skilled artisans. That sounds divine, don’t you think? Choose from six flavours including pink salt (aka the caramel that started it all), gula melaka coconut, and coffee. Or go for the vanilla spice, a limited edition flavour to celebrate the festive season. The Caramelier also offers bespoke gifting services, which means you can leave all the hard work to the team.
The Caramelier, from $12, shop online
3. Momax ultra freeze portable icy cooling fan
It’s going to be another humid Christmas in Singapore, we can feel it. So keep cool by having this portable fan permanently on you. The high-speed fan will make you feel like there’s wind blowing in your face and hair at all times. Switch to the ice pack function and watch as the metal turns cold to the touch while the fan blasts cold air. Press it to your skin to reduce your body temperature. The fan has a base that can be placed on any stable surface.
Momax, $45, shop online
4. Loop’s Quiet 2 earplugs
Real life can be overstimulating at times. Distracting background noise when you’re trying to work from home, loud chatters at the bars or cafes when all you want is some peace… it can be too much. So, how do you tune them out? With Loop’s earplugs! Quiet 2 is designed to help you focus and reduce sensory overload by filtering out all the hubbubs surrounding you. Shipping will take some time (it can take up to a week max), so we recommend getting these baddies ahead of your Christmas gift exchange to avoid delays.
Loop, $24, shop online
5. SetOff compressible packing cubes
In 2025 and beyond, more people will continue crossing the borders and visiting destinations they’ve always wanted to explore. But travel comes with a caveat: packing your luggage. So help make a jetsetter’s life easier by gifting them these compressible packing cubes! The set comes with one large cube for tops and bottoms, two small sizes for socks and undergarments, one medium pack, and a drawstring pouch for your shoes or toiletries. On second thought, maybe you should get one for yourselves too.
SetOff, $38, shop online
6. Mayer 2-litre electric cooker
Why go through the hassle of turning on the stove to cook when you can easily do it with this electric cooker? Throw all your ingredients into the cooking pot for sumptuous hotpot, noodle soup, and porridge, or use it to blanch your vegetables. Add the steam tray at the top for your dim sum and filled buns. This electric cooker can also grill, stir-fry, and braise. We love a multi-purpose product! Its compact size makes it convenient for carrying anywhere around the house and stowing away when you’re done with it. Tip: pick this up at the store so you don’t incur shipping costs.
Mayer, $49, shop online
7. Thermo bottle from The Art Faculty
Nowadays, emotional support water bottles are all the rage. And of course, you constantly need to replenish your body with fluids. Enter these colourful thermo bottles boasting artwork by talented artists from Pathlight School. The double wall insulated vacuum keeps beverages hot or cold for up to six hours – you won’t be sipping on room-temperature drinks throughout the day. Each bottle comes with a phone stand, a mirror, and a stowage cap. Every purchase generates income for the artist, so why not pay it forward this Christmas?
The Art Faculty, $35, shop online
8. Tiong Bahru Bakery’s chewing gum handwash
Everyone loves a good lingering scent on their skin, especially after leaving the bathroom. Singapore’s favourite bakery has done it again by bringing back the handwash that smells like your favourite chewing gum. Infused with spearmint essential oil, it removes dirt and other alien activity on your fingers. Now this is one white elephant gift exchange that’ll be a hit among guests during the Christmas party. In the words of Tiong Bahru Bakery: “So good, it’s almost illegal.” We’re inclined to agree.
Tiong Bahru Bakery, $26.50, shop online
9. You tiao plushie from When I Was Four
How about a quirky Christmas gift to make your contribution stand out from the pack? The plushies can be detached from each other, though we don’t think you should do that. Unless you’re giving them to siblings, couples, or work besties who need a physical reminder of each other’s love. This adorable soft toy also makes an excellent souvenir for those leaving Singapore indefinitely or permanently.
When I Was Four, $49.90, shop online
10. Micocious’ portable multifunctional music player
At first glance, this electronic item plays the CDs in your music collection (K-pop fans, we see you). But connect your phone, laptop, or tablet to the player via Bluetooth and it functions as a speaker with good sound quality. You can also tune in to our local radio stations, and it comes in five vibrant colours. What’s not to like about this? Mark our words: we’re calling this gift the one partygoers will fight over. Better practise your grabbing skills, folks.
Micocious, $27, shop online
11. EZ-Link x Marvel Captain America charm
Now that Singapore’s MRT lines are on the right track again, commuters can ride the trains (and buses) in style thanks to this cool charm. The shield lights on each time you tap on the gantry – it’ll turn lots of heads! So put your phone back in your pocket or bag and show this off on public transport instead. Sure, the charm may have been out since 2022, but that doesn’t mean it’ll stick around in the shops much longer. Is this a snatchable gift during the Christmas exchange party? Totally.
EZ-Link, $19.90, shop online
12. Papersynthesis’ miniature paper succulents
Giving actual plants? Boring, typical, cliched. Paper plants as a Christmas gift exchange idea? Adorable, outstanding, unique. These miniature paper succulents are perfect for black thumbs and those who want a charming decoration in their home. Plus, you don’t have to worry about them wilting or fuss over them too much. Just a quick swipe of the feather duster – don’t get too zealous! – and they’ll look good as new. Top up and you can get the Peranakan tile paper artwork or the Pantone postcard collection.
Papersynthesis, from $30, shop online
Go forth and slay that party with these Christmas gift exchange ideas!
