Last minute gift ideas

Updated: 13/12/2021

If you’ve been a little unorganised this year, don’t worry, we’ve got your back. This year, of all years, you probably won’t be alone if you’re buying gifts at the last minute.  

When buying last minute, we know speed and simplicity is the key. Depending on how last minute you are ordering online or going to the shop might need be an option. Here are a few things you might consider to get yourself organised. 

Gift cards

It might not be the most thoughtful gift, but a classic gift, if you’re leaving it last minute, is to buy a gift card. Most major online and offline stores do them. Obviously, if you go in-store, they can give you the gift card. But if it’s last minute, you’ll probably go for the online option. This way you should be able to print off the gift card. Plus, it’s always good to know that someone is going to get themselves something they actually want. 

Give homemade gifts

Homemade gifts always feel more personal. They’re good for your bank balance and the thought and effort never goes unappreciated. Sometimes, the only problem can be thinking of ideas. We’ve had a look around for you and found this list of 100 great homemade gift ideas by The Spruce Gifts to be the best. 

Service Subscriptions 

These days there are subscriptions for just about everything.  

If you’re buying for someone who loves to read then the obvious choice is a Kindle Unlimited or Audible subscription. You might cover the cost of an annual subscription for them. 

Since lockdown, the number of gamers has significantly increased. So much so, that Sony has described demand for their new console as ‘unprecedented’. So, if you know a gamer, no doubt a welcome gift would be a year’s subscription to PlayStation Plus, Xbox Live, or Nintendo Switch Online. 

Shoppers pay for subscriptions, too. You could cover a Costco membership or another year of Amazon Prime. 

Almost everyone these days has some kind of TV streaming subscription. Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ are among the most popular ones. If you know a movie lover maybe you could get them a subscription for a service they don’t have yet. 

Any of the above can be purchased as a gift card. Just Google the subscription you’re looking to purchase: for example, ‘Playstation plus gift card.’ 

Music Subscriptions

Similar to subscriptions for TV shows, books, and movies, covering the cost of a music streaming service is a great idea. It’s practical, easy, and every month they go fee-free is like another gift. 

You can gift subscriptions to Spotify, Apple Music, and others by purchasing digital gift cards or subscriptions. 

Gift a night or day out

Gifts that you can purchase and print out are perfect for the last-minute shopper. As the theatres, cinemas, and restaurants start to re-open in some areas, you can do your bit by supporting these businesses by buying a gift voucher or a ticket to one of these places. Why not find out what’s going on in your local area. You can buy a great gift for a friend or family member and help boost the local economy at the same time. 

Donations to Charity

Finally, many people struggle to know what to ask for because they are in the fortunate position of not really needing anything. If this is the case for who you’re buying for, why not consider gifting something to charity on their behalf. There are thousands of charities to choose from. Why not pick a charity you know is close to the heart of the person you’re buying for?