How to set a Secret Santa budget
Choose a cap, add the extras and share the total.
1
Agree the gift cap
Pick a number the whole group can comfortably afford.
2
Add realistic extras
Include wrapping paper, a card and shipping if the gift is sent.
3
Publish the all-in number
Give participants the true cost, not just the gift cap.
What does this tool do?
A gift cap is only part of the cost: wrapping, cards and shipping add up across a group. This tool turns a per-gift budget into the total the exchange will cost and the all-in amount each participant should plan for.
The Formula
All-in per gift = gift budget + extras; total spend = participants × (gift budget + extras)Frequently Asked Questions
Should the budget include wrapping and shipping?
Yes, if those costs come out of your own pocket. Put the cap on the gift itself and use this calculator to see what the extras add across the whole group.
What if someone drops out?
Recalculate with the final headcount and adjust the cap or the roster before names are drawn. Drawing names early creates awkward gaps.