Believe it or not, there’s no time like the present to start planning your employee holiday gifts.
Getting a head start on the holiday season means you can enjoy more swag options, better deals, and less last-minute stress.
However, finding meaningful gifts that strengthen engagement, boost morale, and show genuine appreciation for your team’s hard work is never straightforward.
That’s why we’ve rounded up expert tips and 18 thoughtful Thanksgiving gift ideas to make your employees feel valued and celebrated.
Let’s jump right in!
Table of Contents
18 Thoughtful Thanksgiving Gifts to Show Employee Appreciation
Why Is It Important to Give Employees Thanksgiving Gifts?
What Are the Benefits of Giving Thanksgiving Gifts to Employees?
How Do You Pick the Perfect Thanksgiving Gift for Employees?
How Can You Personalize Thanksgiving Gifts for Employees?
How SwagDrop’s Swag-on-Demand Shops Simplify Thanksgiving Rewards
What’s the Best Way to Distribute Thanksgiving Gifts to Employees?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
18 Thoughtful Thanksgiving Gifts to Show Employee Appreciation
A well-chosen employee appreciation gift can go a long way in making team members feel seen and appreciated.
Check out our exclusive Thanksgiving gift selection that our clients can’t get enough of.
1. MiiR Vacuum Insulated Camp Cup
Coffee mugs are budget-friendly employee gifts that work well on any occasion.
Yet, if you want this small token of appreciation to leave a lasting impression, opt for the MiiR stainless steel, insulated camp cup with a sipping lid.
Why we recommend it: This custom mug keeps beverages hot indoors and outdoors, allowing team members to enjoy hot coffee anywhere they go during the holiday season.
2. Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler with Straw
Express gratitude toward your team with custom tumblers they can sip from on their way to work, at the gym, or on trips.
Thanks to its durable handle, large size, and reusable straw, the Hydro Flask tumbler encourages recipients to stay hydrated all day.
Why we recommend it: According to the CDC, proper hydration prevents unclear thinking, mood swings, and kidney stones, making this tumbler a thoughtful healthcare gift.
3. Welly Traveler Copper Vacuum Bottle
Offering reusable water bottles is a thoughtful gesture that shows employees you care about their well-being and the environment.
This insulated bottle keeps water cold for 48 hours, offering all-day hydration and reduces waste by eliminating the need for plastic water bottles.
Why we recommend it: Welly donates 1% of each product sold to water projects that provide clean water solutions to communities worldwide.
4. Recycled Cotton Twill Grocery Tote
Tote bags are sustainable, fashionable, and practical, making them one of the most popular eco-friendly promotional products for employees.
Our tote bag is made from pre-consumer waste produced by factories during the fabric-cutting, featuring 70%-80% recycled cotton and 20%-30% recycled PET.
Why we recommend it: This trendy tote bag is also roomy enough to fit Thanksgiving groceries, reducing plastic bag usage and waste.
5. Reclaim Recycled Computer Backpack
Enhance your team members’ daily routine with this office-ready backpack, designed to conveniently hold all their work essentials.
What we love most about this employee gift is that it’s manufactured from 100% recycled PET, promoting a company culture of social responsibility.
Why we recommend it: Branded backpacks offer tremendous company logo visibility since recipients can use them while commuting to work, on outdoor adventures, and short trips.
6. Aft Recycled Duffel
Duffel bags make fabulous Thanksgiving and Christmas gifts because they inspire employees to take a short vacation and recharge after all their hard work.
This travel promotional item offers a spacious main compartment, three side pockets, and a separate shoe compartment for maximum convenience.
Why we recommend it: The Aft duffel bag is made from recycled water bottles, promoting sustainable travel.
7. Courant Classics Catch
One-of-a-kind desk accessories can elevate your staff members’ workspace, boosting morale and productivity.
With the Courant Classics Catch, workers will never have to frantically search for their keys, wallet, and phone when they’re in a rush since everything will be in one place.
Why we recommend it: This outstanding catch tray also features a built-in wireless charger, keeping gadgets powered throughout the workday.
8. Cleer Enduro 100 Bluetooth Headphones
Bluetooth headphones are one of the best Thanksgiving gifts for employees because they increase focus and productivity while allowing recipients to enjoy their favorite songs or podcasts on the go.
Show workers that you’re willing to go the extra mile for them with the state-of-the-art Cleer Enduro headphones, offering 100 hours of playback.
Why we recommend it: A 2023 research study found that listening to music while working improves employee performance.
9. Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Playing good music is the secret ingredient to any fun and memorable Thanksgiving dinner or party.
Our top-of-the-line waterproof Bluetooth speaker lets team members entertain guests indoors or outdoors, creating unforgettable holiday memories.
Why we recommend it: Recipients can clip this high-quality tech swag item to their backpacks and take it with them on hikes or camping trips.
10. Tentree Space Dye Classic Hoodie
Show thoughtfulness toward your staff with custom hoodies that will keep them warm during the cold season.
The Tentree hoodie is manufactured from a sustainable, extra-soft mix of organic cotton and recycled polyester, offering maximum comfort.
Why we recommend it: Tentree plants 10 trees worldwide for each hoodie sold to capture carbon, regenerate ecosystems, and create job opportunities.
11. WHISTLER Lightweight Down Puffer Jacket
If you’re looking for a Thanksgiving-themed employee reward that will leave a lasting impression, opt for the Whistler puffer jacket in orange.
This premium branded jacket features a stylish, lightweight, compact, and multi-pocket design, ideal for active staff members who enjoy exploring the great outdoors.
Why we recommend it: According to the 2023 ASI report, outerwear generates 7,856 impressions over its lifetime and is the most influential swag item for men and women.
12. iLive Portable Cordless Massage Gun
Promote corporate wellness in your work environment with the extraordinary iLive portable massage gun.
This healthcare promotional item is designed to relieve muscle fatigue, discomfort, and pain, which are common in workers who spend long hours at a desk.
Why we recommend it: Getting a massage can help employees unwind after a stressful day, supporting their mental health.
13. Restore Yoga Bag and Mat
Encourage team members to practice yoga to reduce stress, enhance concentration, and stay fit.
This wellness gift for employees includes a professional yoga mat that can also be used to improve physical strength and flexibility through Pilates.
Why we recommend it: You can pair this yoga gift set with scented candles and a self-care book to create magnificent employee care packages that will strengthen your bond.
14. All Wrapped Up Gift Set
The All Wrapped Up gift bundle offers staff members the perfect way to relax at home during the holiday season.
Recipients can cozy up under the soft custom blanket while sipping hot cocoa from the sleek mug and indulging in the yummy Lark Artisanal cookies.
Why we recommend it: This set can also serve as a perfect gift for remote employees, lifting their spirits and comfort to improve retention.
15. W&P Power Lunch & Book Bundle
Support corporate wellness with Thanksgiving team gifts that inspire recipients to eat healthily.
Let team members discover over 100 healthy lunch recipes and grocery shopping tips from author Olivia Mack McCool.
Why we recommend it: This thoughtful employee appreciation gift also includes a reusable silicone bowl and silverware for bringing home-cooked meals to the office.
16. Limerick Lane Cellars Wine & Gourmet Backpack Cooler Gift Set
While healthy eating is important, employees also deserve a treat every once in a while, and a snack gift basket is an ideal choice.
Don’t worry about what to put in the gift basket because this set has it all, including mouth-watering sweet and salty treats and a gift voucher for an exquisite bottle of wine.
Why we recommend it: This promotional gift also includes a trendy backpack cooler that team members can use to transport healthy snacks to work.
17. La Cuisine Cheese Board with Serving Set
Add a touch of sophistication to your team members’ Thanksgiving dinner table with an elegant cheese serving set.
This modern Acacia wood cheese board includes four essential tools for serving hard and soft cheeses to dinner guests.
Why we recommend it: Customize this corporate gift with your company logo to create a meaningful keepsake that employees will appreciate for years.
18. Heritage Supply Traveling Mixologist Tote Kit
Lighten the mood in the workplace with company swag that inspires workers to have fun over the holidays.
The Heritage Supply tote kit offers seven mixology tools for creating delicious cocktails at any party.
Why we recommend it: You can pair this holiday gift with a cocktail recipe book or enroll employees in a mixology class as a team-building activity.
Now, let us explain why holiday gift-giving matters.
Why Is It Important to Give Employees Thanksgiving Gifts?
Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, gratitude, and appreciation for the people who make a difference in our lives.
Just as families take time to appreciate one another, the workplace should also be a space where you recognize hard work and dedication.
A meaningful gift can build emotional connections, making employees feel like an important part of a business family that respects and values them.
Likewise, when leaders take the time to show their appreciation, they create a supportive work environment where staff members feel motivated to give their best.
This culture of gratitude lifts team morale, building a happy workplace where everyone can thrive.
Next, we’ll take a closer look at the advantages of investing in Thanksgiving gifts.
What Are the Benefits of Giving Thanksgiving Gifts to Employees?
Giving gifts to employees can bring extraordinary benefits to your business and staff.
Here are some of the most noteworthy rewards.
Boost employee engagement
Recognizing team members’ efforts makes them feel appreciated, increasing their commitment and enthusiasm.
In fact, according to a Nectar survey, 81.9% of employees agree that recognition for their contributions improves their engagement.
Enhance workplace culture
A workplace culture of gratitude creates stronger relationships, improving collaboration and overall job satisfaction.
Improve retention
Employees who feel valued are more likely to stay, reducing turnover and recruitment costs.
The same Nectar survey concluded that 71% of workers would be less likely to quit their jobs if recognized more frequently.
Encourage productivity
Motivated employees typically work harder and perform better, increasing efficiency and company success.
According to Nectar, regular recognition would make 77.9% of employees more productive.
Of course, if you want to enjoy all these benefits, you must choose the right employee gifts.
Keep reading to discover some practical tips.
How Do You Pick the Perfect Thanksgiving Gift for Employees?
The perfect employee gift shows genuine appreciation in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
Here’s how you can ensure your Thanksgiving gifts leave a lasting impression.
1. Know your team’s preferences or let them pick
Start by learning everything about your employees’ interests, lifestyles, and workplace needs.
For instance, some team members may prefer cool gadgets, while others might enjoy promotional fitness products.
Conduct surveys and seek feedback to identify the promotional products that resonate best with your team.
However, analyzing all the collected data and making personalized gift choices can be overwhelming for large companies.
That’s why, we recommend allowing workers to choose their preferred products from our swag-on-demand shops.
2. Consider company values
Your Thanksgiving gifts should align with your company’s mission and culture.
If sustainability is one of your core values, opt for reusable branded products made from recycled materials, such as tote bags or eco-friendly apparel.
Conversely, if teamwork is your main focus, consider gifts that encourage collaboration, such as team-building activities.
3. Think about usability
Always look for swag items that employees will use and enjoy.
Some examples include Bluetooth headphones, insulated tumblers, reusable lunch boxes, and backpacks.
You can also consider virtual swag, as in online learning classes or electronic gift cards.
4. Stay within budget
Remember that employee appreciation gifts don’t have to break the bank.
Therefore, if you can’t afford luxury promotional products, stick with small, high-quality items, like coffee mugs and tote bags.
Set a realistic budget and start ordering holiday gifts well in advance to use seasonal discounts.
Moreover, if you partner with SwagDrop, you’ll benefit from volume discounts all year round.
Next, we’ll teach you how to add a personal touch to your gifts.
How Can You Personalize Thanksgiving Gifts for Employees?
A personalized gift shows employees that you’ve put thought and effort into making them feel valued.
At the same time, adding a personal touch makes your corporate gift more meaningful and memorable.
Check out how you can make your tokens of appreciation stand out.
1. Custom branding
Adding your company’s logo, colors, or motto to a promotional product can create a sense of unity and pride among team members.
However, you should also consider including the recipient’s name or initials to make the gift feel exclusive and unique.
2. Handwritten notes
A handwritten note acknowledging an employee’s contributions and dedication adds a personal touch to any gift.
Don’t forget to wish team members a happy Thanksgiving and include a motivational quote to boost morale and engagement.
3. Experience-based gifts
To create an unforgettable holiday gift-giving experience for your team, pair physical gifts with experiences.
Popular experience-based gifts include tickets to concerts, escape rooms, and wine tastings, or enrolment in cooking or dancing classes.
Of course, a paid afternoon off or an employee appreciation party will also do the trick.
4. Tailored gift options
Not every employee values the same type of swag.
Therefore, letting your team pick their gifts makes the entire experience more personal.
This is where our swag-on-demand gift shops come in handy.
Find out more about them next.
How SwagDrop’s Swag-on-Demand Shops Simplify Thanksgiving Rewards
Finding the right Thanksgiving gifts for employees is often challenging, but SwagDrop’s swag-on-demand shops make the process effortless.
Here’s how our extraordinary swag solution works:
- You look through our extensive selection of high-quality branded products and pick the items that best fit your budget, brand, and staff.
- We help you set up and launch a virtual Thanksgiving gift store with your company logo and a welcome message in just a few hours.
- Then, you send employees the store link and let them choose their favorite items, colors, and sizes, making the gift feel more personal.
- After picking their gifts, team members will receive email notifications on the status of their orders and can contact us directly with any inquiries.
- SwagDrop handles order processing, fulfillment, and distribution without you having to lift a finger.
- We don’t charge any upfront or inventory costs, so you only pay for what employees order.
- You’ll also enjoy an affordable flat shipping rate of only $9.95 per order.
Before we go, we’ll look more deeply at your gift distribution options.
What’s the Best Way to Distribute Thanksgiving Gifts to Employees?
As we’ve already mentioned, our swag-on-demand shops offer a hassle-free solution where every employee receives their gift effortlessly.
However, if you prefer a more hands-on approach, here are a few great distribution options:
- In-person gifting adds a warm, personal touch, lifting team spirits and increasing employee engagement.
- Handing out gifts at a Thanksgiving office party helps you create a fun, engaging, and memorable experience for the entire team.
- Direct shipping of high-quality swag items is best suited for remote team members.
However, shipping costs typically vary depending on the package size, destination, and carrier rates, making it almost impossible to estimate the final price.
Now, over to you!
Tips, tricks, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.
It’s Your Turn Now!
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to go beyond words and show team members how much you value them.
Use this comprehensive guide to pick personalized gifts that improve employee productivity, engagement, and retention, while building a workplace culture of gratitude.
Browse our SwagDrop shop for more fabulous gift ideas and get a head start on your holiday shopping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions from our clients.
Q1. What’s the best budget for employee Thanksgiving gifts?
The best budget for employee Thanksgiving gifts varies by company size. Small businesses can spend $20–$50 per employee, while large corporations can allocate $50–$200. The goal is to choose high-quality gifts that fit your budget and resonate with employees. Bulk ordering and swag-on-demand shops can help you maximize value.
Q2. Should you give the same gift to all employees or personalize them?
Personalization makes employees feel more valued while offering similar gifts promotes fairness. The best solution is to let team members pick their preferred gifts from a selection of products of similar value. With our swag-on-demand shops, employees can also choose colors and sizes and add their names to certain items.
Q3. Are Thanksgiving gifts for employees tax-deductible for businesses?
Only small holiday gifts under $25 or a Thanksgiving snack fall under de minimis benefits and are tax-deductible in the USA. However, tax rules vary from one state to another, so consult a tax professional or review local regulations to ensure compliance.
Q4. What are some non-material Thanksgiving gift ideas?
Some non-material Thanksgiving gift ideas can include:
- Extra paid time off;
- Personalized thank-you notes;
- Virtual or in-person Thanksgiving parties;
- Taking the entire team to an escape room;
- Wellness perks, like meditation app subscriptions.
Q5. When is the best time to give Thanksgiving gifts to employees?
The best time to give Thanksgiving gifts to employees is one week before so they can enjoy their swag during the holiday. If you’re using direct shipping, send your gifts well in advance to avoid delays. If you’re hosting an office party, hand out company swag during the event.
