Top 10 Thoughtful and Memorable Holiday Gifts for Employees

Skip the logo mugs. These gifts say “I see you”— not just “you work here.”

When the holidays roll around, it’s easy to reach for the same old swag: coffee mugs, laptop stands, desktop gadgets. But the best gifts don’t feel like work—they feel like a break from it.

This year, rethink your employee holiday gifting strategy. Go beyond the basics and give your team something personal, useful, and actually delightful. Whether it's helping them unwind, celebrate with family, or invest in themselves, these gifts recognize the people behind the job titles.

Here are 10 holiday gift ideas — each one designed to feel meaningful, and not mass-produced. And yes, you can send them all through SwagUp.

1. Luxury Robe

Because PTO should feel like a spa day.

Help your team embrace the art of doing absolutely nothing. A plush robe says: put on some music, light a candle, and let the emails wait until January.

Alternative Option: Not feeling Velour? Instead, add the branded waffle-knit robe to your next swag pack. Pair it with fuzzy socks or a candle for a full self-care moment.

2. Packing Cubes + Travel Accessories

Give them a smoother getaway.

For the coworkers finally using up their vacation days or heading home for the holidays, travel-friendly gifts make the trip feel effortless.

Bonus Option: The Jetsetter Packing Cube Set is sleek, organized, and surprisingly satisfying to use. Customize it with your branding, or bundle it with a travel pillow and luggage tag.

3. Stovetop Fire Pit or Indoor S’mores Kit

Small Fire, Big Vibes

The Solo Stove Mesa brings the campfire vibes to your coffee table. Compact, sleek, and easy to light - it’s the perfect way to unwind on cold nights, whether you’re with friends, family, or just your favorite TV show.

Make It Memorable:

Pair it with a custom s’mores kit featuring gourmet marshmallows and branded skewers. It’s nostalgic, interactive, and effortless to enjoy, no campsite required.

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4. Personal Development Books

Fuel their curiosity…not just their calendar.

For the teammate who’s always sharing podcasts or TED Talks, give a book that adds to their personal library. Topics like mindfulness, leadership, or creativity are great picks.

Pro Tip: Include a curated book in your swag pack, or give a custom card with a digital book credit.

5. Gourmet Food or Treat Baskets

Because food is love, actually.

Forget popcorn tins. Think artisanal chocolates, holiday cookies, or a cozy charcuterie board setup. No one says no to snacks.

SwagUp Pick: Build a custom snack pack with branded packaging. SwagUp lets you mix and match goodies, from small-batch sweets to savory favorites.

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6. Team-Building Activities (That Aren’t Cringe)

Bonding, minus the awkward icebreakers.

Think cocktail/mocktail kits, DIY cookie decorating, or a trivia night in a box. These shared experiences create connections — even across time zones.

Swag Pro Tip: Use a SwagUp Shop to let employees choose an interactive experience that fits their vibe.

7. Thank You Gift Cards

Sometimes the best gift is letting them choose.

Whether it’s their favorite coffee spot, a new book, or a post-holiday treat, a gift card gives them the freedom to pick what they’ll actually use…and love. It’s flexible, thoughtful, and easy to personalize.

SwagUp Pro Tip: Include a custom-branded gift card in each pack, or let employees choose theirs via a SwagUp Redeem Page. Pair it with a note or holiday card for that extra personal touch.

8. Therabody SmartGoggles or Wellness Tools

Help them relax for real.

Between meetings, deadlines, and the general chaos of the holidays, a little decompression goes a long way. Think: eye massagers, acupressure mats, or calming aromatherapy.

Another Idea: Add a wellness product to your next gift — like an essential oil diffuser, eye mask, or portable massager.

9. Comfy Blanket

Winter naps > inbox zero.

There’s no such thing as too many blankets. This one makes the couch cozier, the naps deeper, and the long nights a little more comforting.

Cozy Pick: Go with a custom travel throw or sherpa-lined blanket for maximum snuggle points.

10. Holiday-Specific Gifts

A little cheer goes a long way.

Branded ornaments, gingerbread kits, or DIY wreath kits add a festive touch without feeling corporate. Great for gifting families — or just bringing some holiday magic home.

Holiday Packs: Use SwagUp’s platform to create a holiday-themed swag pack with decorations, treats, and personal touches.

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Final Thoughts: Make It Personal

The best holiday gifts don’t say “thanks for working hard.” They say “I see you.” Whether it’s a cozy blanket, a nostalgic treat, or a handwritten note, swag is your chance to show your team they matter — even when they’re out of office.

SwagUp makes it easy to build, brand, and ship thoughtful gifts that feel anything but generic. Because great culture starts with genuine connection, and great gifts help keep it going.

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Ready to get started?

👉 Learn more and get started here.

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💬 Want to bring your brand to life in a bold new way? Talk to a Swag Expert.

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