A thoughtful holiday gift can do more than fill a stocking—it can strengthen employee loyalty and boost engagement. In a survey of 1,500 workers, the right gift improved job satisfaction for three months or more in 75 % of employees; nearly half said the positive effects lasted a year.
On the flip side, roughly 30% have received gifts so impersonal they felt worse than if they had received nothing. Beyond boosting morale, nearly 60% of employees say a meaningful holiday gift makes them more likely to stay with their employer. With that in mind, the stakes are high.
Managers aren’t required to buy presents out of their own pockets, but when they do, the gift should match the recipient’s personality and preferences. Gifts should flow from leaders to staff—not the other way around—and spending should be roughly equivalent for everyone so no one feels overlooked.
If you’re unsure how much to spend, ask your peers and stay consistent across the team. Below are five categories of employee holiday gifts, each containing three ideas, to inspire your giving. The final section highlights why a toasty card—a flexible digital gift card that lets employees choose their own reward—might be the most inclusive gift of all.
These practical items enhance productivity and comfort for office‑based, remote or hybrid workers. They also show you pay attention to what employees actually use.
Quality headphones can transform a chaotic open office or home environment. For employees balancing work with noisy roommates or small children, this gift is both indulgent and utilitarian.
A sleek tech pouch keeps cables, chargers and other gadgets organized on the go. It’s an elegant solution for employees who travel between home and office.
Plants brighten workspaces and improve well‑being. Studies show greenery can boost mood, productivity and even sleep. Low‑maintenance options like snake plants or succulents add life to an office or home office without adding chores. Include a personalized note encouraging the recipient to take breaks and enjoy the plant.
Burnout is real. Wellness gifts help employees unwind and feel cared for when the holiday rush ends.
Weighted blankets are designed to reduce anxiety and stress by wrapping the wearer in gentle pressure. A queen‑sized weighted blanket can be a relatively affordable indulgence that encourages relaxation after a long year.
For employees who spend hours hunched over laptops or commuting, a heated neck wrap provides steady warmth and relieves shoulder tensiontremendous.com. It’s a portable spa experience that can be used in the office or at home.
Comfortable footwear is a simple luxury. High‑quality moccasins are durable and supportive. Premium socks feature contoured seaming and “stay‑up” technology, making them perfect for remote workers who value warmth and comfort.
Ongoing subscriptions give employees something to look forward to all year. Choose services with broad appeal and high perceived value.
Monthly deliveries of coffee, tea or curated snacks can delight foodies. Companies like HelloFresh and GoodFood deliver fresh ingredients and recipes, while specialty tea boxes offer hand‑selected matcha and teas. Be sure the subscription aligns with employees’ tastes and avoid niche items like artisanal jams.
Investing in professional growth demonstrates that you value employees’ aspirations. These subscriptions are appropriate for almost anyone, regardless of role or hobby.
AI assistants and productivity apps help employees manage daily tasks, creative projects and continuing education. Some employees may appreciate paid access to AI platforms or task‑management tools. Ensure the tool offers real value; pair the subscription with a handwritten note explaining how it might make their life easier.
Sometimes the best gifts aren’t things at all. Experiences and time off create lasting memories and show respect for employees’ personal lives.
After money, additional PTO is the second‑most popular holiday gift. Offering a surprise day or two off gives employees flexibility to spend their time however they wish and may boost morale more than a mandatory company outing. Make sure it won’t disrupt critical operations before announcing it.
Gift cards for dinner at a favorite restaurant or tickets to a movie or show allow employees to connect with loved ones. Cinema tickets are universally appealing and are especially timely during the holiday season. Dinner gift cards work for nearly everyone, while event vouchers let employees choose concerts or sports events that interest them.
Support employees’ wanderlust with airline or hotel gift cards. Remote workers often take advantage of location flexibility; travel credits help them explore new places. Experience cards that can be redeemed worldwide solve the challenge of finding one option that suits everyone.
When you don’t know your team’s hobbies or you have a diverse workforce, the safest option may be to let them choose. Gift cards and peer‑driven programs ensure everyone receives something meaningful.
If you’re uncertain what employees will enjoy, a gift card with a wide range of uses is a smart choice. Avoid cards tied to niche retailers—wine shop vouchers aren’t inclusive for non‑drinkers. The Toasty Choice Card works like a universal gift card, giving employees access to thousands of merchants and experiences without the guesswork.
65% of workers say their ideal holiday gift is money or a versatile digital reward. The Toasty Choice Card fulfills this desire while ensuring funds are spent on something the recipient truly wants. It’s also quick to distribute and can be personalized with a note of appreciation.
Holiday gifts don’t always need to come from management. Consider allocating a small budget for employees to recognize and reward each other during the season. Programs like peer‑to‑peer recognition encourage team members to celebrate colleagues’ contributions. Giving employees control over how they share recognition fosters camaraderie and can continue into the new year.
For socially conscious teams, donating to a charity in their name can be more meaningful than a physical item. Millennials and Gen Z workers especially value companies with strong social impact commitments. Some gift platforms like Toasty Card even allow recipients to pick the charity themselves.
Meaningful holiday gifts show employees you see them as individuals and appreciate their contributions. Keep budgets fair, align gifts with recipients’ interests, and avoid items that feel like afterthoughts.
Whether you choose high‑quality tech gear, relaxation treats, immersive experiences or a Toasty Choice Card, remember that the best gifts empower employees, reduce stress and provide flexibility. When in doubt, ask your team what they value most and let them choose their own adventure.
What is the best holiday gift for employees?
The best holiday gifts are the ones that feel thoughtful, inclusive, and genuinely useful. Survey data shows that money, additional PTO, and flexible digital gift cards are consistently ranked as the most appreciated options.
How much should I spend on employee holiday gifts?
Most companies spend between $50 and $150 per employee, depending on company size, budget, and role. If you’re unsure what’s appropriate, align with your leadership team or look at what similar companies in your industry provide.
Are gift cards a good holiday gift for employees?
Yes—gift cards are one of the most desired holiday gifts. Employees appreciate the flexibility to choose something they genuinely want, instead of receiving a one-size-fits-all item.
What are some inclusive holiday gifts for a diverse team?
If your team spans different ages, lifestyles, and cultural backgrounds, stick to gifts that appeal broadly—such as tech accessories, wellness items, experiences, subscriptions, and flexible digital gift cards. The Toasty Choice Card is particularly inclusive because employees can choose how and where they use it.
When should I send employee holiday gifts?
Most companies send gifts between early December and mid-December to avoid shipping delays and ensure employees receive their gifts before holiday PTO begins. Digital gifting platforms like Toasty Card let you schedule delivery instantly or ahead of time so the gift lands exactly when you want.
Can remote teams receive different holiday gifts?
Absolutely—just ensure they’re equally valued. For distributed teams, digital rewards work best because they eliminate shipping challenges and arrive instantly. This is where Toasty Choice Card shines: it’s fast, global-friendly, and gives every employee the same high-quality gifting experience.