43 Last-Minute Gifts That Still Feel Special (They’ll Never Even Know!)

Lydia Mack
Lydia Mack
Lydia Mack is a freelance writer and author of the book "I Put Pants On for This." Her work has been published by VICE, HelloGiggles, On Our Moon, and more. She has been a sweatpants loyalist and homebody since before it was cool, and frequently forgets that she just made a cup…read more
Sarah M. Vazquez
Sarah M. VazquezCommerce SEO Editor
For the past 8 years, I've covered all things shopping. My work's been published by Hearst, PureWow, and Bauer Media Group. I'm a Brooklyn-born Jersey Girl (with a BA in English from Montclair State University) who loves a good playlist, a good bagel, and my family (but not necessarily in that order).
Jada Wong
Jada WongEditorial Shopping Director
As the Editorial Shopping Director at AT Media, I help readers find the very best home and kitchen essentials that are worth their time and money. That also means I’m constantly rearranging my house in order to test new products. Previously, I worked at Food52, Hearst, and Refinery29.
Alyssa Longobucco
Alyssa LongobuccoContributor
Alyssa is a freelance writer, editor, and stylist living in New York. When she's not diving into the latest in food and home decor, she's restoring an 1820s farmhouse in the Hudson Valley alongside her husband and son.
published Dec 16, 2024
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
DIY advent calendar made of tags with small holiday decorations
Credit: BONNINSTUDIO/Stocksy

Everyone’s been there: Whether it’s because you love the thrill of the hunt or are just struggling to find the perfect gift, no one is a stranger to last-minute shopping. But the good news? Regardless of how last-minute your shopping efforts are (after all, there are mere weeks until Christmas), there are still a ton of thoughtful presents that will help you save face and prevent you from showing up empty-handed.

Below, a curated list of the best last-minute gifts that will be delivered before December 25 if you order soon — but be sure to double-check delivery dates. And for the truly last-minute shoppers, there are even gifts that can be delivered (and enjoyed) instantly via email. Yes, you’ll spot many from Amazon (thanks, Prime shipping!), but there are also tons of other ideas, from experiential gifts and subscription memberships to digital gift cards that are easy to send and still exciting to receive.

Don’t worry — no one will ever suspect you weren’t shopping way ahead of schedule.

Costco 1-Year Gold Star Membership + $45 Digital Costco Shop Card
$65

A Costco membership means so much more than bulk TP — it's legendary croissants, essential decor, and exclusive (and viral!) Advent calendars. This deal gets them a one-year Gold Star Membership, which gets them full access to the warehouse, online store, pharmacy, and more, plus a $45 digital card they can spend online. Trust — everyone would love a Costco membership.

$65 at StackSocial
Fireplace Mantel Personalized Christmas Ornament
$21

You may think that a last-minute shopping excursion means you’re too late to score a personalized gift, but all hope isn’t lost! This charming holiday ornament will arrive well before December 25 and offers plenty of opportunity for personalization, from the names to the number of stockings hanging on the mantel.

$21 at Amazon
Monthly ClassPass Membership, 15 Credits
$35

There’s no denying that workout classes can get pricey — especially if you live in a big city like New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles. To help your favorite fitness fan out with their regular sweat sessions, consider gifting them a membership to Classpass, starting at just $35.They can try out a number of workout classes, from yoga and barre to cycling and kickboxing, all without the commitment of a studio membership.

$35 at ClassPass
"Lonely Planet: Epic Hikes of the World"
$20

Think of this book as a two-for-one gift. Packed with info on over 50 hikes around the world (in epic locales like Zion National Park, Jasper National Park, and Camino de Santiago), it’ll encourage them to dream big when planning their next outdoor adventure. Even better, you can earmark a trek you’re willing to take with them in the coming year. Voilà! Built-in plans!

$20 at Walmart
Sok It Java Sok Insulated Neoprene Cup Sleeve
$16

Know someone who loves getting their coffee to-go, even in the middle of winter? With this insulated neoprene sleeve — which will fit securely around 20-ounce, 24-ounce, or 32-ounce cups — they’ll keep their beverage to temperature and avoid wet hands from slippery condensation. It makes a great stocking stuffer or thoughtful gift for your work bestie.

$16 at Amazon
Aromatherapy Shower Steamers
$13

This time of year can be hectic, making it all the more important to sneak in a little R&R whenever possible. If you know someone who could use a bit of self-care, snag this luxe shower steamer set as a last-minute gift or stocking stuffer. Inside, they’ll find a selection of eight aromatherapy steamers infused with classic spa-worthy scents like lavender, mint, eucalyptus, and citrus, all meant to be enjoyed during a hot shower.

$13 at Amazon
EverFoams Memory Foam House Shoes with Polar Fleece Lining
$25

There’s no better time than winter to upgrade someone's cozy footwear. These memory foam slippers are lined with soft and warm polar fleece, and finished with a durable non-slip rubber sole. Quick shipping from Amazon means they can easily wear them out of the house to take out the dog or grab the mail essentially tomorrow.

$25 at Amazon
Scentbird Subscription (3-Month Subscription)
$54$50

If someone on your Nice List is obsessed with scents, they’ll love receiving a three-, six-, or 12-month subscription to Scentbird. The company takes the pricey guesswork out of finding a perfume they love by sending generous samples of high-end fragrances from brands like Gucci, Issey Miyake, and Dolce & Gabbana. There’s even a quiz they can take to help them narrow in on the fragrance notes they identify with most.

$50 at Scentbird
Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Bakeware 5-Piece Set
$245$220

If your favorite baker loves baking up a storm during the holidays, treat them to a set of Caraway's nonstick bakeware. The direct-to-consumer brand is available on Amazon, so they'll receive the set faster than it'll take you to get to their place — just in time for freshly baked treats!

$220 at Amazon
Getaway Gift Card
$50

For outdoor enthusiasts, chipping in for a weekend at one of Getaway's glamping cabins is a thoughtful gift. You can put however much you're comfortable spending into an e-gift card, and then they can choose their favorite campground and date.

$50 at Getaway
Ciccetti Cheese & Charcuterie Board
$129

This was one of Oprah's Favorite Things in 2023, and it's easy to see why. The cheese and charcutiere boards are beautifully curated and assembled, and come with free overnight shipping nationwide, so your gift will probably arrive at their doorstep before you do.

$129 at Boarderie
Nibs and Sips: Chocolate & Coffee Tasting
$95

For anyone who says they appreciate experiences more than physical gifts, Uncommon Goods' virtual classes would be perfect. The coffee and chocolate tasting class is especially sweet for the holidays, and only takes 75 minutes.

$95 at Uncommon Goods
Glass Mushroom Lamp
$27

We're still not over mushroom lamps — they're too cute! This fun bedside light comes in a bunch of colors, and it features a lovely, soft glow. The best part? With Amazon Prime's two-day shipping, this will be at your doorstep well before the holidays!

$27 at Amazon
The Sorbet
$65

A gorgeous floral arrangement is especially thoughtful around holidays that can feel more stressful than special. Multiple Apartment Therapy editors love Urban Stems for its variety of arrangements, as well as the same-day or next-day nationwide delivery.

$65 at UrbanStems
BestSelf Self Journal 13-Week Productivity Journal
$40

Thanks to its structured layouts, goal-setting prompts, and habit-tracking features, the Self Journal transforms aspirations into actionable steps, making it the perfect companion for those eager to turn up their productivity.

$40 at Amazon
MasterClass Standard (1 Year)
$120$90

With a MasterClass subscription, your inquisitive giftee will have so many learning opportunities at their fingertips. They can pick up poetry writing tips from Amanda Gorman, design inpo from Kelly Wearstler, or even business advice from Howard Schultz whenever they want.

$90 at MasterClass
Beckham Hotel Collection Queen Pillows, Set of 2
$80$60

There's no better gift than the gift of a good night's sleep. The secret? The right pillows. These Beckham Hotel Collection bed pillows are an editor- and reader-favorite. The pillows are encased in a 250-thread-count cover and filled with a super-soft down alternative. These cooling and breathable bed pillows are also wonderful for people who easily overheat.

$60 at Amazon
Hatch Restore 2
$161

The perfect companion to a set of pillows? The Hatch Restore 2. Featuring an integrated sound machine, soft-glow reading light, meditation prompts, sunrise alarm, and more, this clever gadget is basically like having your own personal sleep coach right on your nightstand.

$161 at Amazon
Pun Intended Game
$20

It’s hard not to laugh when a pun is so bad that it’s good. With more than 1,300 puns in the deck, this gift makes for one hilarious game night.

$20 at Amazon
Pasta with the Grandmas Online Experience
$100

Looking to create fun memories instead of imparting a material gift? Check out Airbnb's online experiences, including the best-selling Pasta with the Grandmas class. You can sign up as a group, request a date, and learn how to prepare authentic Italian pasta from Chiara and her Nonna.

$100 at Airbnb
SOKCVSEA Candle Warmer Lamp
$36$34

Any candle-lover will be thrilled to get this candle-warming lamp as a gift. Instead of burning candles, it warms them with a small heat lamp and lets their aroma float around without any smoke.

$34 at Amazon
Premium Membership (Monthly)
$11

Another great learning platform, Craftsy has dozens of affordable online crafting classes on embroidery, painting, quilting, and more. Depending on your budget, you can gift a monthly or annual plan.

$11 at Craftsy
Sony Noise-Canceling Overhead Headphones
$327

These Sony noise-cancelling headphones are just the thing for paying attention during Zoom meetings, maintaining privacy on flights, or relaxing with great music.

$327 at Amazon
YAMAZAKI Home Desk Wood & Steel Organizer
$36$34

Grab this modern, minimalist Yamazaki organizer for anyone on your list who could use a little help finding their phone before they leave the house (as well as a stylish place to drop their keys at the end of the day).

$34 at Amazon
Acacia Wood Cheese & Charcuterie Board
$110

Hand-sanded and laser-engraved, this beautiful natural wood board is an elegant gift for any host. The extra chese platter and serving dishes take it to the next level.

$110 at Amazon
Atlas Tea Club 3-Month Subscription
$60$50

A three-month subscription to Atlas Tea means many cups of loose-leaf tea from farms around the world. Each month's tea also includes a postcard of the origin country, as well as notes on flavor and steeping. You can customize the subscription by choosing between three tea types or get a little bit of everything with the sampler pack.

$50 at Atlas Coffee Club
Owala FreeSip Water Bottle
$27

When it comes to insulated water bottles, the Owala is pretty clever — and budget-friendly. It features a spout that allows you to drink in not one but two different ways (through the built-in straw or through the wide-mouth opening), which gives you the option to sip or swig.

$27 at Amazon
Homarden Watering Can
$41$37

Aspiring plant parents and seasoned gardening enthusiasts alike will love this pretty watering can. The gooseneck spout makes it easy to water your plants without getting leaves soggy, while the stainless steel interior is leakproof and rustproof.

$37 at Amazon
Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earphones
$250$200

If your giftee is in need of a new pair of earbuds — and quick — these are the ones to get them. The Powerbeats Pro wireless headphones have a wrap-around ear design that stays in place during even the most rigorous use, and won't compromise on rich bass, either.

$200 at Amazon
Book of the Month Six-Month Subscription
$100

For the avid reader, a three-, six-, or 12-month Book of the Month subscription will feel like heaven every time a new shipment arrives. The recipient can choose from a selection of five to seven books, and there's even the option to skip a month if the TBR stack is piling up.

$100 at Book of the Month
Humans by Brandon Stanton
$35$11

For fans of the popular Instagram account @humansofny (read: everybody), this book from photographer and storyteller Brandon Stanton features heartfelt stories from everyday folks across more than 40 countries.

$11 at Amazon
Lodge Cast-Iron Enameled 6-Quart Dutch Oven
$75

The holidays are the best time of the year to pull out the Dutch oven — and if your foodie friend is missing one in their cooking arsenal, this Lodge pick makes the perfect gift. Combining versatile porcelain enamel with Lodge’s legendary cast iron, this Dutch oven sears, roasts, and braises just as well as the more expensive pots.

$75 at Amazon
Monthly NYC Subscription — 3 Months
$270

Even if your recipient doesn't live in a major U.S. city, they can still try dishes from top dining spots across the country with a three-month subscription box from Goldbelly. Each box comes with enough food for four people, so they can share with friends and family, too.

$270 at Goldbelly
Hulu Subscription
$8

If their entertainment budget is tight, they'll love a Hulu streaming subscription. It might be only $7.99 per month, but it's one fewer thing they'll have to worry about on their budgeting spreadsheet.

$8 at Hulu
Theragun Mini
$199$139

The gift of relaxation, the Theragun Mini is a portable percussion massage gun that helps release tension and aids in muscle recovery. It's the perfect gift for your favorite workout buddy, but anyone can appreciate having a massager handy (yes, pun intended!).

$139 at Amazon
Lefonte Crystal Bedside Carafe
$23

This gorgeous bedside carafe and tumbler set looks 10x the price, and you didn't even have to spend hours at an antique store to find it.

$23 at Amazon
1-Month Subscription
$60

The wine-lovers in your life are sure to appreciate this one. With a Winc gift card, the recipient can take Winc’s Palate Profile quiz to reveal wines for their tastes. Or, if you’re buying for someone who knows what they like, they can skip that step and add bottles they like right into their cart.

$60 at Winc
Homesick Let's Toast Candle
$38$30

Homesick makes some really great candles, and this festive-yet-relaxing scent is no exception. With base notes of Champagne grapes and top notes of mandarin and grapefruit, it's great for celebrations and even just chill evenings at home.

$30 at Amazon
Skeem Design Glass Match Cloche
$36

Pair this stylish glass cloche with a candle, and you've got the perfect gift set. It’s a gorgeous hand-blown glass dome that houses matches, and comes in lots of sizes and colors. It's an elegant gift that’ll elevate any coffee table or mantel.

$36 at Amazon
COSRX Snail Mucin Essence
$25$20

If there's one skincare product likely to be on their wish list, it's the COSRX Snail Mucin Essence. The name probably doesn't sound enticing, but hear me out: This essence is formulated with a high concentration of snail secretion filtrate shown to deliver intense moisture and soothe skin quickly. With more than 40,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, it's the skincare secret they've been missing.

$20 at Amazon
JIGGY 800 Piece Decorative Artwork Puzzle
$49

Cold winter nights are made for cozy loungewear, hot beverages, and relaxing activities, like this cheerful jigsaw puzzle. The festive scene is sure to keep spirits bright, and it even includes glue so it can be framed.

$49 at Amazon
Homeries Marble Wine Chiller Bucket
$45$40

This gorgeous marble wine sleeve is an elevated take on an everyday essential, which makes it an especially thoughtful gift.

$40 at Amazon
Amazon eGift Card
$50

You can never go wrong with an Amazon gift card. Your recipient, no matter who they are, is bound to find something they like on Amazon, which is why this is a perfect last-minute option. They'll be too busy browsing for their next home purchase to realize that you might've procrastinated shopping.

$50 at Amazon

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