10 Easy but Unique Last-Minute Christmas Gift Ideas
It’s Christmas week, and the clock is ticking. Maybe you’ve accidentally left a gift to the last minute, or your secret Santa just revealed a name you had no clue about. Either way, fret not—we’ve pulled together 10 thoughtful, easy-to-find, last-minute Christmas gifts that don’t look rushed.
1. Personalised Digital Vouchers
Sure, a voucher might sound basic, but hear us out. Many websites now offer personalised digital vouchers that include custom messages and festive themes. Whether it’s for a favourite restaurant, a streaming service, or a local spa, it’s a quick but thoughtful gift that can be sent straight to their inbox.
2. Custom Photo Calendars
If you’ve got some solid snaps of a friend or family member, whip up a custom photo calendar online. Many photo printing websites like Snapfish or Funky Pigeon offer next-day delivery. You’ll look like you’ve spent weeks planning it (spoiler alert: you haven’t).
3. DIY Dessert Kits
Know someone with a sweet tooth? Pick up a jar or cute box and throw in all the ingredients for a fun dessert, like cookies or brownies. Add a handwritten recipe card for a personal touch. Alternatively, grab a ready-to-go kit from shops like Hotel Chocolat or M&S.
4. Houseplant or Planter Duo
Plants make lovely, low-maintenance gifts. Pop to your nearest garden centre and grab a cheerful succulent or a trendy monstera. Pair it with a quirky planter to elevate the gift. Bonus points if you can think of a pun to go along with it – “You’re the plant to my pot”?
5. Experience Day Vouchers
For the “I don’t need anything” type of person, an experience day is a winner. It could be anything from a wine-tasting experience to a pottery class or even skydiving (for the thrill-seekers). Companies like Virgin Experience Days or Buyagift have loads of options, many of which can be emailed instantly.
6. Subscription Boxes
From coffee to books to socks, there’s a subscription box for everyone. Pop into their website, sign them up for a monthly treat, and print out the confirmation. Gift sorted, future smiles guaranteed.
7. Personalised Mugs or Tumblers
With online stores like Moonpig, Vistaprint or Not On The High Street, you can create a custom mug or tumbler featuring anything from baby photos to inside jokes. Choose express shipping, and you’ll have a funny but practical gift in no time.
8. Puzzle or Card Games
Got a family games night in the works? Swing by a local shop and grab a puzzle or card game like UNO or Dobble. They’re budget-friendly and bring people together—a win-win!
9. Luxury Food Hamper
Many supermarkets stock ready-made hampers this time of year, but you can also create one yourself. Tailor it to the recipient’s taste—cheese, wine, chocolate, snacks—they’ll love the extra thought.
10. Online Courses or Skill Subscriptions
Know someone keen to learn photography, cooking, yoga, or even coding? Websites like MasterClass, Udemy, or Skillshare offer gift subscriptions. It’s a thoughtful way to help someone start the new year by levelling up their skills.
