How to do Secret Santa online
- Add everyone’s name, one per line. Use a last initial if two people share a name.
- Add exclusions for couples or people who live together, so they don’t draw each other.
- Set a budget and date. They appear on every person’s private page.
- Press Draw names and copy each private link to the right person. Want to join in yourself? Add your own name and don’t peek at the full list.
What is a good Secret Santa budget?
| Group | Typical budget |
|---|---|
| Office / coworkers | $15–$30 · £10–£20 · €15–€25 |
| Friends | $20–$50 · £15–£30 |
| Family (adults) | $25–$75 · £20–£50 |
| Kids / school class | $5–$15 · £5–£10 |
Need rules, a questionnaire or gift ideas at each price? Read the Secret Santa rules and questionnaire guide. Running a swap game instead? See the white elephant rules.
Is the draw fair?
Yes. Names are shuffled using your browser’s cryptographic random generator, nobody can draw themselves, and exclusions are always respected. Where possible the draw forms one big chain (A buys for B, B for C, and so on), which makes the reveal more fun.
Secret Santa Generator FAQs
How do I do a Secret Santa draw online for free?
Enter the names above, add any exclusions, then press Draw names. Copy each person’s private link and send it to them. It is free and needs no sign-up or email addresses.
Can the organiser take part?
Yes. Add your own name, draw, and send the links without opening the full list. Your own link shows only your match.
How do I stop couples drawing each other?
Add them in the exclusions box as “Name - Name”, one pair per line. The generator will never pair them.
What if someone loses their link?
Copy it again from the list on the organiser’s screen, as long as the page is still open. If you close the page, run a new draw and resend all links.
How much should I spend on Secret Santa?
For coworkers, $15–$30 (£10–£20) is common. Friends and family groups often choose $25–$50. The key is everyone agrees on the same budget.