If you are desperately searching for some simple Secret Santa ideas that will be welcomed by the recipient but won’t break the bank, here are a few ideas.

1. Homemade treats
If you’re quite handy in the kitchen, it’s well worth putting those skills to use this festive season. A homemade batch of biscuits, date balls or millionaire’s shortbread is a great Christmas gift for anyone. You can make it look really lovely by placing it in a festive tin or glass jar, either reused or bought from a local thrift store. Tie on a bit of ribbon and you’re ready to go!

2. Drinks
You will have to consider the person you’re buying for, but a good bottle of wine can be a cost-effective yet appealing gift. If your recipient is more inclined towards coffee than alcohol, there are lots of sustainably sourced – and even home-grown – coffee beans available for purchase.

Also read: Help your child deal with Christmas gift disappointment

3. Slippers
No matter your recipient’s age or gender, a nice pair of comfortable slippers is a great option. You may need to ascertain shoe size, but it doesn’t matter if they have 10 pairs at home, slippers are always going to get used.

4. Pampering
Everyone deserves a little self-care, particularly at the end of the year, so why not consider gifting some luxury items such as a bath bomb, body creams or shower gels? A voucher for a mani-pedi at a local salon or even a homemade mani-pedi selection will also be well received.

5. Mugs and flasks
There are so many great varieties of travel mugs and flasks that are incredibly useful for everyone, from kids to students to the remote workforce. These can be used for tea and coffee, water, cold drinks, or even wine or gin for braais and festivals. No matter what or where, it will be used.

When buying Christmas gifts this year, try to shop locally wherever possible. The last few years have been difficult for many small businesses, and the support makes such a big difference to your fellow South Africans.