Auction items that sell well: 55+ ideas that drive bids

Whether it’s a live, silent, virtual, or hybrid fundraising event, many nonprofits and other charitable organizations auction off items to raise money. If this is part of your organization’s plan, it’s important to look for auction items that sell well to maximize how much you can raise.

Auction donors give an average of $529, and while every bidder won’t contribute that much, they can make significant contributions to an organization’s fundraising efforts. Some auctions can see even higher average contributions, with large or specialty auctions offering the potential to bring in tens of thousands of dollars to support a mission. 

The key is to find auction items people actually want to bid on. Check out this list of more than 55 auction items that sell well to see which items are likely to make the most money. 

Top 10 auction items that sell well

While there are many auction items you can sell, you should prioritize procuring auction items that bidders actually want. These items usually sell extremely well because they are rare or in high demand, and tend to cater to the type of buyer who doesn’t mind spending money to support a good cause.

Here are 10 of the best auction item ideas to start with.

1. Designer handbag or luxury watch

When you’re looking for the most expensive auction items, designer handbags and luxury watches are often the way to go. From Louis Vuitton bags to Rolex watches, these items usually fetch a high price. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: High-status item for a cause

2. VIP event tickets

Sports tickets, concert tickets, and other tickets to special events are always in high demand and among the best auction item ideas if you want to turn a large profit. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$$
• Effort: High
• Why it sells well: Exclusive access to amazing experiences 

3. Private chef dinner

Dining out is one of the biggest spending splurges for many Americans. There are many foodies out there willing to pay a premium for a private dinner with a renowned chef who can cook something special just for them. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Personalized, exclusive experience

4. Custom artwork

Paintings by renowned or even up-and-coming artists can often fetch a generous price, and are unique auction items worth including to boost your fundraising numbers. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Access to a one-of-a-kind item

5. Adventure excursion

Adventure items are on the list when you’re looking into good auction items. From a yachting excursion to a zipline adventure, there are many thrilling activities people would be willing to pay to participate in.

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Exciting experiences and making memories

6. Luxury car rental experience

Luxury car rental experiences allow you to auction off the chance to drive a high-end car. Whether it’s a Porsche, BMW, or another luxury brand, many bidders dream of a vehicle they’d love to drive but don’t want to pay the price to buy.

• Fundraising potential: $$$$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime experience

7. Spa day or wellness retreat

A spa package or a wellness retreat can include a hotel stay, treatments and services, and more. Since self-care is always popular, this is a chance for bidders to indulge for a good cause.

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Chance for relaxation and escapism 

8. Signed celebrity memorabilia

Autographed material from sports heroes, actors, and musicians is rare and highly valued among collectors. That’s why these things always top the list of auction items that sell well. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$$
• Effort: High
• Why it sells well: Opportunity to own a rare item

9. “Be a firefighter/mayor for a day” experience

Offer someone the chance to step out of their comfort zone and do a fun and exciting job. These types of auction item ideas have a low cost to give away but are worth a lot to bidders looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Making a dream job real

10. Wine or gourmet food basket

Wine and gourmet food items are some of the best auction basket ideas that many people appreciate. Bidders may be enticed to bid on a basket that allows them to try a new artisanal snack or a bottle of wine they might not buy outright — all while supporting their favorite charity. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Chance to try new food and beverage

Experiential and travel auction items

While there are some auction items to avoid because they don’t fetch much money or have much demand, that is definitely not the case for experiential and travel auction items.

Many people prefer to spend money on making memories rather than physical items, and you can tap into that desire with these kinds of auction items. If you decide to auction off experiences, start planning your auction timeline well in advance to minimize stress and last-minute substitutions.

11. Glamping weekend

Glamping takes camping to the next level, giving bidders the chance to stay in luxury cabins, spacious rental RVs, or unique accommodations like covered wagons. While many people enjoy rustic experiences, allowing bidders to enjoy nature without sacrificing creature comforts can encourage participation in the bid.

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Experience the outdoors in a new way

12. Hot air balloon ride for two

Hot air balloons give people the chance to see the world from a bird’s-eye view. Hot air balloon rides can be a romantic outing for couples or an exciting experience for anyone. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Memorable, one-of-a-kind experience 

13. Private winery or brewery tour 

Private winery and brewery tours allow visitors a behind-the-scenes look at where wine and beer are made. As a bonus, visitors may even get some free samples.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Opportunity for behind-the-scenes experience 

14. Cruise or resort voucher 

Vacations are always popular, and a cruise or resort voucher allows bidders to get away for several days or longer while supporting a good cause. These kinds of relaxing trips are often seen as a luxury, so offering a discount or complimentary experience makes them more accessible (and encourages more bidding).

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Luxurious experience for a good cause 

15. Scenic helicopter tour 

Scenic helicopter tours provide an overhead view of beautiful tourist areas. It’s a thrilling way to see a major attraction from a unique vantage point. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Memorable, one-of-a-kind experience 

16. Cooking class with local chef 

Cooking classes with a local chef give bidders the chance to learn to cook delicious food in their own homes while learning new techniques they may not otherwise try. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Chance to develop new skills 

17. Guided fishing or hunting trip 

Hunting and fishing are special ways to enjoy the great outdoors. You can auction off the chance to go on an excursion with a guide to make the process easy for beginners or provide a special experience for enthusiasts. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors 

18. Airline miles or travel gift cards 

Airline miles and travel gift cards give people the chance to get away to a destination of their choosing. Bidders can take a trip while also giving back to a worthwhile cause. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Travel option with the ultimate flexibility

19. Hotel staycation package 

Treat your supporters to a luxury getaway without the need to travel far. A hotel staycation package usually includes a one- or two-night stay at a high-end local hotel, which is sure to be a popular package.

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Opportunity for a local luxury escape 

20. Private museum or gallery after-hours tour 

An after-hours tour of a private museum or gallery will be a favorite for art lovers or those who want to experience a little culture. This experience may be especially appealing for cozy galleries or popular museums that get crowded; instead of feeling rushed to look at displays, visitors can enjoy the exhibits at their own pace.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Exclusive access to a cultural experience

Arts and entertainment auction items

Many people enjoy the arts and would jump at the chance to explore a performance or get some personalized art of their own. That’s why arts and entertainment auction items can have a reputation for being auction items that sell well.

21. Theater or opera tickets 

Seeing a play or an opera performance is something many people want to do but may not indulge in. Give bidders the opportunity to see a special show at a popular local theater or concert hall while supporting a good cause.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Opportunity for a memorable night out 

22. Professional photography session 

Families, couples, performers, and young professionals will love the chance to get some special pictures taken. Having memories captured by a professional isn’t something most people get to do every day, and not having to set up the experience makes it even more appealing.

You can also auction off professional headshots, pet photography, and more, depending on your audience.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Personal, special experience 

23. Annual museum or zoo membership 

An annual membership to a museum or zoo is an auction item that keeps on giving all year long. Parents especially may jump at the chance to enrich their children’s access to culture or nature. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Family-friendly appeal

24. Instrument rental 

An instrument rental is perfect for those who have dreams of making art of their own. Whether it’s piano, guitar, or violin, there are plenty of options for music lovers. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Opportunity to learn a new skill

25. Private improv or comedy workshop

Many people dream of becoming a performer or making people laugh. A private improv or comedy workshop provides a unique chance to learn essential skills, practice with games and prompts, and have fun.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Chance to learn from a professional

26. Tickets to an exclusive festival or event 

Offer passes to hard-to-get or VIP-only events, such as a film festival or festival of the arts. Since these items typically sell for higher prices than general admission, you have a chance to raise significant funds — especially if the artist or venue donates the tickets to your auction.

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Opportunity for exclusive VIP access 

27. Music lessons 

From piano to guitar, a package of music lessons will absolutely be a huge hit as an auction item. Both beginners and those who want to brush up on their skills can bid. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Chance to develop a new talent

28. Art or craft workshop 

Bidders would love to get creative with a pottery, painting, mixed media, or other type of art class. Both children and adults can take part in classes or workshops, keeping the mess away from home while creating a beautiful masterpiece. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Opportunity for a hands-on experience

29. Signed or first-edition books

Collectors and literary fans will jump at the chance to own a signed book or rare first edition from a notable author. Many authors would be more than willing to donate a signed copy for a good cause, and this auction item can easily become a treasured belonging for the winner.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Access to a collectible and rare item

Professional and educational auction items

Career advancement is a top goal for many, and auctioning off educational or professional opportunities can give bidders the chance to support your cause while increasing their earning potential.

30. Career coaching session 

Sessions with a career coach can help those looking for a job change or hoping to advance within their field. Young professionals and those who want to change their career path may be especially excited to bid on this opportunity.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Opportunity for career advancement

31. Language lessons 

Language lessons can be a great auction item for travelers, students, or anyone interested in expanding their skill set. Packages can include beginner or intermediate sessions in a wide variety of languages, including Spanish, French, Italian, or even American Sign Language.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Chance to learn new skills 

32. Resume writing coach 

Job seekers will love a session with a resume expert to help polish wording, structure, and strategy. This professional help can make their resume stand out in a competitive job market.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Opens up new professional doors

33. Financial planning consultant 

Financial planners can offer guidance on budgeting, saving, or retirement planning. This auction item will be in demand among bidders of all ages who want to take better control of their finances.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Access professional support on a complex subject 

34. Business branding package 

Developing a business brand can be challenging without professional marketing expertise. Business owners may be big bidders on a branding package to help them take their company to the next level. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium 
• Why it sells well: Enticing for entrepreneurs

35. Personal trainer sessions 

Those who want to up their fitness game might appreciate an opportunity to work with a professional. Sessions with a personal trainer will also appeal to those who want to follow through on their fitness goals.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: High
• Why it sells well: Chance to improve health and wellness 

36. Yoga or meditation classes 

Wellness-minded bidders will love the chance to bid on a class that provides a calming, restorative experience for the body and mind. The opportunity to access self-care for a good cause is often too good to pass up.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium 
• Why it sells well: Self-care for a good cause

37. Public speaking workshop 

Public speaking remains a leading fear for millions of Americans. Those looking to overcome their worries or perfect this skill may be eager to bid on the chance to attend a public speaking workshop.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Access to a confidence-building experience

38. Photography or videography workshop 

This auction item gives creative bidders the chance to learn from a professional photographer or videographer. Budding photographers can develop lighting, editing, or even smartphone photography skills. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Opportunity to develop new creative skills

39. Coding bootcamp 

Coding can be a fun way to build a custom website or the bridge to a successful career. With a coding workshop, bidders can take the first step to learning a new, highly marketable skill.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Chance to learn in-demand tech skills

Everyday favorites auction items

While many of the above auction items that sell well are unique and cater to high-end tastes, there are also some general favorites that just about everyone enjoys and would be happy to win. Here are a few everyday favorites to round out the list of auction item ideas.

40. Restaurant gift card 

A restaurant gift card is always a favorite. Whether it’s for a popular local cafe or a national chain, bidders love the chance to enjoy a delicious meal without having to foot the bill.

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Enjoy delicious food for a good cause

41. Coffee or wine of the month club 

This subscription-style item allows bidders to enjoy a selection of gourmet coffee or boutique wines sent straight to their door. Bidders can enjoy it long after the auction is over and have the option to continue or cancel the subscription once the initial period ends.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Ongoing enjoyment of special treats

42. Subscription boxes 

From snacks and self-care items to mystery games and beers of the month, subscription boxes appeal to all interests and provide bidders with months of enjoyment. You can give the winning bidder a choice or select a pre-determined theme to auction off.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Access to fun items delivered regularly 

43. Gym or fitness class membership 

A gym membership or pass to a fitness class is popular among bidders looking to improve their health and wellness. Whether it’s spin, Pilates, CrossFit, hot yoga, or one of many other popular fitness trends, there’s a class out there for bidders of all skill levels.

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Health and wellness perks

44. Local service packages 

Offering local services like car detailing, house cleaning, landscaping, or pet grooming will appeal to bidders who want to check some of these tasks off their to-do list. Partnering with service providers gives bidders the opportunity to support a local business and a good cause at the same time.

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Practical and useful 

Family-friendly auction items

Family-friendly auction items can attract bids from parents, grandparents, and caregivers. These offerings provide opportunities to make amazing family memories and should appeal to a wide audience.

45. Family photo shoot 

Offer a package with a photo shoot and some printed or digital images. This option will appeal to parents and grandparents who want to capture special memories. 

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Opportunity to record precious moments 

46. STEM activity 

Many parents are making the effort to expose their children to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects to help advance their education. Hands-on STEM activities can be a great educational option for kids of all ages. 

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Access to child enrichment 

47. Kids’ art class

Parents with budding Picassos will love the chance to get their child some professional training in painting, drawing, sculpting, or other disciplines. Kids’ art classes can help young people discover a lifelong love for art. 

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Access to creative enrichment for kids 

48. Movie theater tickets 

Modern movie theaters have more to offer than just entertainment — many offer upgraded reclining seats, meals, and more. Tickets and a gift card for concessions can help bidders enjoy a relaxing day out.

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Opportunity for family-friendly entertainment 

49. School tutoring sessions 

A tutoring session is a great auction item if you’re fundraising for causes related to education. However, it can be attractive in any situation where parents may be bidding, as most parents will jump at the chance to give their kids an academic leg up. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Ability to access extra academic support 

50. Theme park passes 

From Disney World to Six Flags, this country is full of amazing amusement parks. Tickets are an auction item that will sell well since theme parks are as expensive as they are entertaining. 

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Big-ticket family fun while supporting a cause

51. Weekend getaway package 

A weekend getaway can be a breath of fresh air to bidders struggling with burnout. The getaway package could include two nights at a local hotel, plus some entertainment or dining options as a bonus.

• Fundraising potential: $$
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Chance to get away while supporting a good cause

52. Golf outing at prestigious course 

Golf is an incredibly popular pastime enjoyed by people of all ages. A round at a local club is likely to inspire many people to bid. 

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Low
• Why it sells well: Appeal to sports lovers

53. International snack basket

If you want to bring a little international flair to your auction, why not try a snack basket offering special treats and delights from different countries? Bidders will love the exposure to different foods they may not have otherwise had the opportunity to try. 

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Chance to try new foods 

54. Family game night bundle 

Board games can bring families together and provide hours of fun and entertainment. Make the winner’s next game night a success with a bundle of games and snacks they can enjoy with their friends and family.

• Fundraising potential: $
• Effort: Low 
• Why it sells well: Access to enjoyable family fun

55. Autographed sports memorabilia 

Signed sports memorabilia is highly collectible and great for fans to bid on. Athletes may even be willing to donate signed gear to your cause. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$
• Effort: Medium
• Why it sells well: Chance to buy something collectible and rare 

56. Backstage pass for a concert 

Concerts are a fun night out in most circumstances. Backstage passes take this auction item to the next level by giving fans a chance to meet their music idols. 

• Fundraising potential: $$$$
• Effort: High
• Why it sells well: Chance at an unforgettable celebrity connection

How to choose auction items

Choosing auction items is a key part of a successful fundraiser when you’re hosting an auction. Some of the different factors to consider in selecting the right items include: 

• Relevance: Ideally, your items will be interesting and desirable to your target audience. If you’re raising money for a museum, auctioning off art makes much more sense than auctioning off a signed baseball. Consider the auction type, as well; the best silent auction ideas are often different from the best live auction ideas. 
• Uniqueness: The more unique an item is, the more bids are likely to come in as buyers see an exclusive opportunity to buy something rare and collectible.
• Value: People don’t usually want to overpay at auctions, so the items you choose must be of good value.
• Desirability: To drive bidding, you need as many people as possible to want the items you are auctioning off.
• Marketing: Pick items that are easy to market. You don’t want to have to make a hard sell to get someone to bid on your auction items. 

You can keep track of your search using fundraising software that helps you plan auction events. 

Supercharge your auction fundraiser with Bonterra 

No matter what kind of auction you’re hosting, fundraising event management requires the right tools, careful planning, and a selection of auction items that sell well. Using the best event management software can help you host a successful auction by ensuring you have everything you need in one place.

Fortunately, Bonterra EveryAction can help you organize and run your auction. Great for multiple types of auctions, this software supports the functions you need, like indicating start and end times, hosting item images, and setting minimum bid increments. 

Looking for an all-in-one solution instead? Bonterra Network for Good can simplify how you host events, manage volunteers, contact donors, and more. Create customized event pages, sell tickets, and request donations for your auction to streamline planning and execution.

FAQ

What sells most in an auction? 

Many items sell well in auctions, from luxury goods to one-time experiences. Some top-selling auction items include:

• Designer handbags
• Sports memorabilia
• Themed bundles and baskets
• Spa treatments
• Weekend trips
• Private tours
• Monthly subscriptions
• Local service packages
• Event tickets or backstage passes

These items sell well because they’re in high demand, exclusive, and have a higher perceived value.

What types of items do people buy at auctions? 

People buy many different kinds of items at auctions, including sports memorabilia, event tickets, restaurant gift cards, and more. Options with a higher perceived value (such as exclusive experiences and unique items) tend to get higher bids and more engagement, but results vary depending on your community, cause, and audience.

What are the best inexpensive silent auction ideas?

Concert and event tickets, restaurant gift cards, and baskets with health and wellness products are fairly inexpensive items that often get bids at silent auctions. You can also ask for donations from businesses and venues to lower your costs.

What are some auction items to avoid?

Auction items to avoid include food or beverages that could spoil, items in poor condition, or items that don’t align with your organization’s values and goals.