Gift Ideas for Raffle Prizes (That People Will Actually Want)
4 October 2026
The raffle prize sourcing conversation usually goes like this: "Hi, we're running a raffle for [cause], would you like to donate a prize?" followed by an awkward silence and a $20 voucher that expires next Tuesday.
Here's how to source prizes that people actually want, without becoming a professional beggar.
The trade, not the ask
Don't ask for donations. Offer a trade. "We'll put your logo on our raffle page, mention you in the draw, and tag you on social media. 200 people will see your brand. In exchange, we'd love a [specific item] as a prize."
You're offering marketing. They're providing a prize. It's a transaction, not charity. Businesses respond much better to this.
What to ask for (by business type)
- -Restaurants: Dinner for two, not a voucher. "Dinner for two at [Name] including a bottle of wine" sounds luxurious. "$50 dining voucher" sounds like a coupon.
- -Hair salons: A full colour and cut package. Worth $200+, costs them time not materials.
- -Gyms: 3-month membership. They want new members anyway.
- -Wineries/breweries: A case of their best. They have stock, you have an audience.
- -Photographers: A family portrait session. Great exposure for them.
- -Hotels: A weekend stay. Off-peak rooms are empty anyway.
The $50 rule
If you're buying prizes yourself, the $50 rule works: spend $50 on something that looks like it's worth $100. Where to find them: - Premium chocolate boxes ($30 looks like $80) - A nice bottle of gin or whisky ($45–$55 always works) - A Bluetooth speaker ($40, everyone wants one) - A premium candle set ($35, looks expensive, smells expensive) - A cookbook from a famous chef + a nice wooden spoon ($50, looks curated)
Hamper hacks
A hamper is greater than the sum of its parts. Five $10 items in a basket with tissue paper and cellophane looks like a $100 prize. Themes that work: - Movie night: Popcorn, chocolate, two cinema vouchers, a blanket - Pamper pack: Bath bomb, face mask, candle, nice tea, fluffy socks - BBQ king: Tongs, rub, sauce, apron, beer - Coffee lover: Beans, a keep cup, biscotti, a $20 cafe voucher - Kids' rainy day: Board game, colouring book, pencils, snacks, a puzzle
Prizes to avoid
- -Anything personalised (what if the wrong person wins?)
- -Live animals (yes, people have tried this)
- -Experiences with too many conditions ("Valid Tuesday–Thursday, excluding public holidays, school holidays, and months ending in R")
- -Homemade anything (unless the person is genuinely talented and everyone knows it)
- -Gym memberships from that gym nobody goes to
- -Anything that's obviously a promotional item the business couldn't sell
The ask email template
Keep it short:
"Hi [Name], we're running a [raffle/fundraiser] for [cause] on [date]. 200 people will see every prize and sponsor on our digital draw page. Would [Business] like to contribute a prize? We'd feature your logo and mention you during the live draw. Happy to chat — thanks!"
Three sentences. Specific numbers. Clear value exchange. Send it to 20 businesses, expect 5–8 to say yes.