20 Holiday Gift Ideas to Engage and Retain Remote Employees 

Recognizing the contributions of remote employees, especially during the holidays — is one of the simplest, most overlooked ways to strengthen culture, boost retention, and remind your team that they matter.

While remote work offers flexibility and freedom, it also comes with trade-offs that affect motivation and morale: the lack of in-person connection, blurred boundaries between work and life, and the creeping sense of isolation that can settle in when you go weeks without meaningful interaction.

During the end-of-year stretch, when stress runs high and reflection sets in, these challenges tend to surface more. That’s why thoughtful, well-timed gifts can do more than check a box; they can reinforce belonging, show appreciation, and send a clear message: we see you, and we value what you do.

Even a simple, inexpensive gift,  if chosen intentionally, can cut through the distance and make a lasting impression. And when people feel appreciated, they stay longer, contribute more, and connect deeper with the mission.

In this guide, you’ll find 20 creative, practical, and personalized gift ideas designed specifically for remote employees  to help you recognize great work, strengthen your team, and end the year on a high note.

Why Holiday Gifts Still Matter — Especially for Remote Teams

For remote employees, the holidays can feel surprisingly quiet. There’s no office party, no spontaneous “thank you” from a passing manager, and no shared moment of celebration with the team. And while remote work offers flexibility, it also creates distance and that distance often shows up most during year-end.

Holiday gifts give leaders a chance to bridge that gap. Not with generic swag, but with something intentional, a signal that says, “You’re not out of sight or out of mind.”

For founders, HR leads, and team managers, it’s not just about sending a gift. It’s about reinforcing culture, encouraging loyalty, and reminding each person that they’re a key part of what you’re building, whether they’re in Boston, Bogotá, or Bali.

In the sections that follow, we’ll walk through 20 thoughtful gift ideas that work for remote teams, including practical, personalized, and experience-based options that go beyond the standard playbook.

Why Thoughtful Holiday Gifting Still Works  And What It Signals

A well-chosen gift highlights the impact each person brings to the team. It recognizes effort, celebrates contribution, and strengthens the sense of belonging that remote employees value most.

When a company selects gifts with care and genuine attention, it shows appreciation in a way that feels personal and sincere. This kind of recognition builds trust, pride, and lasting connection across every location.

Leaders who plan their gifting intentionally often see higher engagement, stronger morale, and teams that move into the new year with renewed motivation.

A thoughtful gift creates a shared moment of appreciation, one that reinforces culture, celebrates success, and reminds everyone that they are part of something meaningful.

Holiday Gift Ideas That Work for Remote Teams 

Every remote team is different  and the most appreciated gifts reflect that. Some employees prefer practical tools for their workspace. Others enjoy personalized items, shared experiences with family, or quick digital rewards that brighten their day.

The best gifts match the way your team works and lives. A smart choice can improve their daily setup, celebrate their contributions, or simply bring a moment of enjoyment into a busy season.

In the list below, you’ll find a range of proven ideas, grouped by category, so you can find the right fit for each person on your team. 

Office Supplies for Remote Employees

Home office upgrades are some of the most useful gifts you can give. They support focus, reduce friction during the workday, and show your team that you’re paying attention to how they actually work.

A well-selected office item can improve posture, cut down on distractions, or simply make the day feel more efficient. These tools don’t just sit on a desk, they get used daily, which keeps your gesture visible and appreciated over time.

Below are some of the most practical gift ideas for remote employees, each one easy to implement and consistently well-received by distributed teams. 

1. Noise-Canceling Headphones

For remote employees, focused work time is one of the hardest things to protect — especially in shared spaces or busy homes. A good pair of noise-canceling headphones helps create an immediate sense of calm and control, even during back-to-back calls or project sprints.

This gift supports deep work, improves meeting clarity, and shows that you understand the realities of working remotely. It’s a small investment that can reduce stress, lift productivity, and become part of your employee’s daily routine, which makes it both personal and practical.

2. Adjustable Laptop Stands

Long hours at a desk can take a toll without the right setup. An adjustable laptop stand helps remote employees work at eye level, maintain better posture, and stay comfortable throughout the day.

This simple tool turns any table into a more ergonomic workstation — a small upgrade that supports focus, reduces fatigue, and shows that you care about how your team feels while they work.

3. High-Quality Notebooks and Pens

A well-made notebook and pen set is one of those timeless tools people actually use. It adds a personal touch to the workday, whether your team is sketching ideas, taking notes in meetings, or planning out their week.

When customized with your company’s branding — or even their name — it becomes more than just stationery. It’s a daily reminder of team connection and shared purpose, delivered in a format that feels both practical and thoughtful.

4. Desk Organizers

A clutter-free workspace helps support clear thinking — and a quality desk organizer makes it easier to stay focused and in control. These gifts keep daily tools within reach while creating a more polished, intentional environment.

Modular sets are especially useful for remote employees, letting them arrange items in a way that fits their space and workflow. It’s a subtle upgrade that improves both productivity and peace of mind.

5. Ergonomic Chairs

Ergonomic chairs are essential for remote employees who spend long hours at their desks. Designed to provide optimal support, these chairs promote good posture and help reduce discomfort and strain on the back and neck. 

Features like adjustable height, lumbar support, and customizable armrests allow users to find their perfect seating position, ultimately enhancing productivity and comfort throughout the workday.

6. Keyboard Trays

Keyboard trays are another valuable ergonomic accessory that can significantly improve the comfort of remote workers. By allowing for adjustable height and angle, these trays help ensure that the keyboard is at a comfortable level, reducing strain on the wrists and forearms. 

This setup promotes a more natural typing posture, which can lead to fewer injuries and increased efficiency while working. Investing in keyboard trays is a simple yet effective way to enhance the overall ergonomics of a home office.

Tech Gadgets for Remote Workers

Technology shapes the daily experience of remote work and the right tools can make that experience smoother, more focused, and less stressful. While not every employee needs the latest device, there are certain gadgets that consistently improve how teams communicate, collaborate, and stay productive throughout the day.

Gifting useful tech shows your team that you’re thinking about the details that affect their work. These upgrades can make meetings more efficient, help reduce distractions, or simply bring more comfort to long hours at the desk.

Below are some go-to options that combine function, ease of use, and day-to-day value, all of which make them strong choices for remote gifting.

7. Wireless Chargers

A wireless charger is one of those subtle upgrades that quickly becomes a daily staple. It keeps desks cleaner, reduces cable clutter, and helps remote employees stay powered up without interrupting their workflow.

For team members who regularly move between calls, messages, and video meetings, the ability to simply set a phone down and charge it makes the day feel more efficient. It’s a small gesture that adds real value  and it shows that you care about the tools that support their time and focus.

8. Portable Power Banks

A portable power bank is one of the most useful gifts for remote employees who like flexibility in their workday. Whether they’re working from a café, traveling, or taking calls away from their desk, a backup power source helps them stay connected and avoid mid-task disruptions.

It’s a gift that supports mobility and peace of mind, two things remote workers value highly. Lightweight, easy to carry, and compatible with most devices, a good power bank keeps the workday flowing no matter where your team chooses to plug in.

9. Webcams and Lighting Kits

Clear, professional video setup helps remote employees show up with confidence, especially when they’re on camera with clients, leads, or cross-functional teams. Upgrading to a high-quality webcam and soft lighting kit improves both visibility and presence, which supports stronger communication.

These tools help reduce distractions during calls, present your team in the best light (literally), and reflect the company’s commitment to excellence. It’s a thoughtful gift that elevates the virtual experience and adds polish to every meeting.

10. Smart Home Devices

Smart home devices make excellent gifts for remote employees, offering convenience and enhancing their home environment.

For instance, smart speakers can play music, answer questions, and control other smart devices with just a voice command, making daily tasks easier.

Additionally, smart bulbs allow users to adjust lighting with their smartphones or through voice control, creating the perfect ambiance for work or relaxation.

These devices not only streamline routines but also add a modern touch to home offices, helping employees stay organized and efficient while working remotely. Embracing smart technology can lead to a more enjoyable and productive workspace.

Personalized Gifts for Remote Employees       

Personal gifts stand out — not because they’re expensive, but because they feel specific. When a gift reflects someone’s interests, habits, or personality, it shows that the company took time to choose something just for them. That attention to detail builds trust, strengthens team connection, and makes the gesture more memorable.

For distributed teams, personalization becomes even more valuable. It helps close the physical distance and turns gifting into a moment of recognition. Here are some smart, simple ways to make your holiday gifts feel genuinely tailored.

11. Healthy Snack Boxes

Consider providing healthy snacks through snack boxes tailored to individual preferences. Some companies offer customizable snack boxes that allow employees to select their own favorite treats as gifts for remote employees.     

Not only does this cater to well-being, but it also shows a company’s consideration for personal taste, creating a great gift for the holidays.

12. Custom Coffee Mugs and Drinkware

Personalized coffee mugs are a classic yet highly appreciated thoughtful gift, as many remote workers start their day with a hot beverage.        

A custom mug featuring the employee’s name, a motivational quote, or the company logo can brighten their mornings and remind them of their company’s support.

13. Company-Branded Apparel

Branded apparel like hoodies, t-shirts, or caps allows employees to feel a part of the team, even from afar.

Consider adding each remote employee ’s name or a custom phrase that’s meaningful to them. This kind of company swag promotes a sense of company spirit and pride among remote team members.         

14. Holiday Gift Box with a Personalized Touch

Thoughtful gift boxes can include items like scented candles, gourmet snacks, and custom ornaments. Including a personalized message shows that the gift is more than just a standard gift package; it’s a curated experience intended to bring joy and appreciation to the recipient.  

15. Christmas Ornaments

A personalized Christmas ornament is a small but memorable and great gift that can become part of an employee’s annual holiday tradition. 

A custom ornament with the year and the employee’s name adds a touch of warmth and nostalgia, connecting employees to the company in a meaningful way.  

Including it in a thoughtfully curated gift box with other small treats or personalized items enhances the experience, making the gesture even more special. 

This combination shows attention to detail and creates a memorable unboxing moment that employees will appreciate and cherish for years to come.

16. Gift Baskets 

Gift baskets are a versatile and thoughtful way to show appreciation, offering a curated selection of items that can cater to different tastes. 

Whether it’s a gourmet food gift basket or one filled with self-care essentials, these gifts create a sense of indulgence. For virtual teams, virtual gifts can complement or even replace traditional baskets. 

Experiential Gifts to Foster Team Cohesion

Experiences create stories and stories create stronger teams. Giving your remote employees a chance to connect through shared moments, even virtually, can do more for morale than any physical item.

These types of gifts support collaboration, reduce isolation, and make space for fun. Whether it’s a live class, a group activity, or something they can enjoy on their own time, the impact often lasts well beyond the holiday season. 

17. Virtual Team Building Events

Shared experiences build stronger teams and remote settings don’t have to be a barrier. Hosting a virtual event is a smart way to give your team something fun to rally around while strengthening relationships across locations.

Popular options include live cooking classes, mixology sessions, or online game nights with trivia, escape rooms, or scavenger hunts. The key is interaction — events that get people talking, laughing, and working together in real time. These aren’t just fun add-ons. They help reduce isolation, reinforce culture, and create the kind of team energy that carries into the new year.

18. Subscriptions to Wellness Apps

Tools like Calm, Headspace, or Balance help employees recharge, reset, and stay centered — especially when work and life often blur together. A wellness app subscription shows that you value more than just output, you care about how your team feels day to day.

This type of gift supports healthier routines and sends a clear message: your company encourages balance, reflection, and long-term well-being. It’s a simple, meaningful way to invest in the people who help keep everything moving.

19. Streaming Services

Streaming services are a fantastic way for remote employees to unwind after a long day of work. With a wide variety of movies, series, and documentaries available at their fingertips, these platforms provide the perfect escape and an opportunity to relax and recharge.

Whether they’re in the mood for a thrilling drama, a lighthearted comedy, or an intriguing documentary, streaming services cater to diverse tastes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

Gifting a subscription offers entertainment and encourages employees to take some much-needed time for themselves, promoting a healthier work-life balance. For example, you can give them a subscription for:

• Netflix
•  Hulu
• Amazon Prime Video
• Disney+
• HBO Max 
• Apple TV 
• YouTube Premium

These streaming services provide a perfect way for remote employees to unwind and enjoy their favorite movies and series after work, offering the flexibility to tailor the experience as their own gift. 

20. Gift Cards

Gift cards are a versatile and practical holiday gift that allow employees to choose something they truly want or need. Whether it’s a practical gift card for a popular online store, a favorite restaurant, or a service like food delivery, this option offers flexibility and personalization without the guesswork.    

Employees can use them at their convenience, making it an ideal solution for virtual teams with diverse tastes.                  

Additionally, digital gift cards are easy to distribute and ensure that no one feels left out, helping companies show appreciation in a simple yet meaningful way.

Tips for Choosing the Right Holiday Presents

Picking the right gift isn’t just about checking a box, it’s about showing your team that you understand them. The best holiday presents feel aligned with how people live, work, and contribute. They reflect individual preferences, while also reinforcing a shared culture and sense of belonging.  

For remote teams, this matters even more. You don’t have the benefit of hallway conversations or office energy to carry your message. A holiday gift is one of the few physical or personal touchpoints your team might receive all year, which gives it more weight.

That’s why thoughtful selection is worth the extra step. A few small adjustments in how you choose can turn a standard gift into something memorable, useful, and appreciated. Here’s how to make that happen.

1. Know Your Team’s Interests

Personalized gifts are always more impactful when they reflect a remote employee ’s unique tastes. Whether it’s a custom notebook with their initials, a coffee subscription for the team’s caffeine lover, or a gadget that complements their hobbies, thoughtful gifts show that you recognize and appreciate them as individuals.   

These kinds of gestures go beyond generic presents, leaving a lasting impression and fostering a stronger emotional connection. 

When employees feel seen and valued, it boosts morale and reinforces a positive work culture, making the festive season even more special

2. Consider Personal Preferences

A perfect gift is one that resonates with the recipient’s personality and preferences. If possible, survey remote team members to learn more about their likes, hobbies, or favorite pastimes. 

For example, coffee enthusiasts might appreciate a coffee subscription, while avid readers might enjoy a digital book subscription.  

3. Balance Between Practicality and Thoughtfulness

While practical gifts like office supplies and tech gadgets are essential, adding a touch of thoughtfulness makes the gift more memorable. 

Personal touches, such as a customized coffee mug or a handwritten note, can make employees feel valued and appreciated.

These thoughtful details can transform ordinary remote employee gifts into the perfect gift, showing that you genuinely care about their individual preferences and contributions. 

4. Incorporate Team Morale

Best gifts that emphasize team morale and company culture foster a stronger connection among remote teams.    

Branded merchandise, a practical gift, remote team-building events, and gifts that encourage team interaction remind employees that they’re part of something bigger, enhancing engagement and loyalty.   

Hiring virtual assistants can streamline the holiday gifting for remote employees. Virtual assistants can handle everything from gift selection to placing orders and coordinating shipping, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.        

By leveraging this support, businesses can save time while still delivering meaningful, custom gifts that show appreciation.  

Partnering with GlobalTeam gives founders the space to focus on culture, while their remote teams get the consistency, structure, and support they need to thrive.

Making Holiday Gifting an Employee Appreciation Tradition

The holidays present a valuable opportunity for companies to recognize their remote workforce and show genuine appreciation.   

Thoughtful festive gifts can strengthen the sense of belonging within remote teams and remind employees of the important role they play within the company.

Each of these gift ideas for remote employees can provide more than just a gift—they can offer motivation, joy, and a reminder of the corporate culture that connects everyone, near or far.

Incorporating a well-planned gifting process,  including the option of a virtual gift as a part of your annual appreciation program ensures that remote employees feel seen, valued, and celebrated, which can ultimately lead to higher levels of engagement and satisfaction. 

For new remote employees, adjusting to a work environment filled with endless video meetings can be challenging. To help them feel more integrated and connected to the team, consider sending gifts that foster camaraderie and support their well-being. 

Simple gestures, such as a stylish desk plant or a cozy blanket for their workspace, can make a significant difference in their comfort and morale.  

By acknowledging the unique challenges faced by team members in a virtual setting, you can create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages collaboration and strengthens team bonds.

Streamline Holiday Gifting with Virtual Assistants

Even the best gifting strategy can fall flat if it becomes a time sink. That’s where a skilled virtual assistant adds real value,  not just by placing orders, but by managing the full experience from end to end.

A VA can help you select gifts that match each team member’s preferences, handle shipping and timing across countries, and coordinate all the details that turn a generic item into something thoughtful. They can also manage digital deliveries, compare vendor options, and add custom touches like handwritten notes or gift wrap.

The result: you save hours, eliminate stress, and still show up for your team in a meaningful way.Through Global Direct Hire™, we connect companies with elite virtual talent that doesn’t just execute,  they elevate how your team operates year-round. Book a free consultation here and learn how GlobalTeam’s systems and talent can help you scale smarter.

FAQs about Holiday Gifts for Remote Employees