Our Picks for Music gifts under 30
Set the rules first
Agree a budget and stick to it in both directions. Nobody wants to unwrap a pedal while handing over a keyring. Around 20 to 30 is plenty for a band, and it keeps things fair for whoever is between jobs.
Draw names properly. Pulling them out of a hat in the van never works, because someone always gets themselves. HintDrop's free Secret Santa tool does the draw for you, sends everyone their match privately and lets each person add a quick wishlist.
Useful gifts every player needs
The safest band gifts are the things everyone uses up: strings in their gauge, a tin of good picks, a clip on tuner, a capo or a fresh pair of sticks for the drummer. Ask a bandmate for the details if you are not sure.
Gig bag essentials
Gaffer tape, velcro cable ties, a spare cable, musician earplugs and a small head torch for packing down in dark venues. Not exciting to buy for yourself, always welcome in a stocking.
Funny but still useful
A joke gift works best when it still gets used: a mug with a band in joke on it, music themed socks they will actually wear, or a music quiz game for the van. If you are not sure the joke will land with that person, it probably will not.
Something for the music, not the gear
Not everyone in a band wants more kit. A record from a band you all love, a music biography or a voucher for the local music shop are easy wins for the member who already owns everything.
Making the night work
Pick a date when everyone is in the same room anyway, like the last rehearsal before Christmas or the after party at the final gig of the year. Bring the presents wrapped and open them one at a time, so each gift gets its moment and the jokes land properly.
Run the draw a couple of weeks ahead so people have time to order something. Bands tour, travel and rehearse at odd hours, and a last minute dash to a petrol station is how people end up with a scraper and a bag of ice melt.
Add exclusions if you need them. Two band members who are a couple usually do not want to draw each other, and a free draw tool lets you rule that out without anyone seeing who got who.
Frequently asked questions
How do you do Secret Santa for a band?
Agree a budget, then use a free online Secret Santa generator so the draw is fair and private. HintDrop's tool sends each person their match and lets everyone add a wishlist so nobody is guessing.
What is a good budget for a band Secret Santa?
Around 20 to 30 works for most bands. It covers useful gear like strings and tuners without putting pressure on anyone.
What are good Secret Santa gifts for musicians?
Strings, picks, a capo, a clip on tuner, musician earplugs, gaffer tape and spare cables. Useful, inexpensive and always needed.
What about a band member who does not play?
For a singer, manager or sound engineer, think earplugs, a good water bottle, a music book or a record from a band you all love.
Can couples in the same band draw each other?
They can, but most would rather not. Use exclusions in the draw so a couple, or two members who share a flat, never pick each other.
Doing a family Secret Santa? Share wishlists and keep it secret. Not sure what they'd like? Ask your Secret Santa a question anonymously.
Ready to actually find something?
Browse music gifts under 30