What Are the Best Last-Minute Gift Ideas That Anyone Would Love This Holiday?
P.S. No links or brands here, but you can easily find all of these last-minute gift ideas at your local stores or online.
By:
The Good Home Daily
Posted on December 24, 2025
Every year, we go through the same holiday routine. We plan our gift list, wrap early, and still somehow miss one or two names. That is why last-minute gift ideas never really go out of season.
And if you are here, chances are this is one of those moments—again. Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us.
Luckily, there are easy last-minute gifts that almost everyone will appreciate, even your most picky friend.
In this guide, we’ll help make rushed shopping feel a little easier. Here are holiday gifts anyone would love, no matter how close the deadline is.
10 Last-Minute Holiday Gift Ideas That Anyone Would Love
Whether you are shopping for family, friends, or coworkers, these picks are safe gift ideas that take the guesswork out of giving.
1. Home Fragrance
This can be a scented candle, diffuser, or room spray. Home Fragrance can instantly transform a space, which is perfect during the busy holiday season. So, who wouldn’t want that, right?
This is a safe gift idea for almost anyone—friends, family, roommates, or even coworkers. Pick familiar, light scents like vanilla, linen, or citrus to keep it approachable.
It’s a last-minute win because it’s easy to grab in stores or online. Even simple packaging makes it feel special and thoughtful.
2. Card Holder
A slim, stylish card holder is practical and polished. It’s perfect for keeping credit cards, IDs, or transit passes organized without carrying a bulky wallet.
This works especially well for commuters, students, or anyone who likes traveling light. Neutral tones make it easy to gift without worrying about personal style.
Even if you pick it up last minute, it looks intentional. It’s small, useful, and surprisingly memorable—a little upgrade for everyday life.
3. Reusable Water Bottle or Tumbler
Everyone needs a reliable bottle or tumbler these days. It’s eco-friendly, practical, and something people use daily.
It’s great for friends, coworkers, gym-goers, or students. Choose a simple design, and you are good to go.
4. Blind Toy Box
Turn your gift-giving session more fun with a blind box toy. These are small collectible toys sold in sealed boxes, so the recipient doesn’t know exactly what they’ll get until they open it. The surprise makes unwrapping exciting and adds a playful twist to the holidays.
This gift is perfect for teens, collectors, or anyone who enjoys quirky, unexpected surprises. It’s small, easy to grab last-minute, and instantly entertaining.
Even if you pick it up in a rush, it feels thoughtful and unique. The mystery factor makes it stand out from ordinary gifts and keeps the fun going long after it’s opened.
5. Sweater or Jacket (Choose Neutral Color)
A neutral sweater or jacket is cozy, stylish, and versatile. Stick to timeless colors like beige, grey, or navy, so anyone can wear them without worrying about taste or fit.
Even as a last-minute gift, the sweater and jacket feel thoughtful. It’s practical for the season and shows care without being over the top.
6. Extra Power Tool Batteries (for DIYers)
For anyone into DIY, an extra battery is a total game-changer. There’s nothing more frustrating than having to stop a project halfway through because your drill died. It’s a super practical gift that shows you actually pay attention to their hobbies.
Just a heads-up: Check their current tools to make sure the voltage and brand match so everything is compatible.
We’ve also prepared a separate gift guide for DIYers. Check it out for more ideas to make your present even more special.
7. Gift Check to Their Favorite Store
Gift checks are flexible, stress-free, and universally appreciated. They let the recipient pick what they truly want, which avoids guesswork.
This is perfect for picky friends, coworkers, or anyone whose tastes are hard to predict. Pair it with a small handwritten note to make it feel personal.
Even as a last-minute option, it feels intentional. It’s thoughtful, practical, and shows you care about their preferences.
8. Drawer Dividers or Storage Trays
Drawer dividers are one of those small upgrades that make a huge difference in your day-to-day. There’s something so satisfying about opening a drawer and actually being able to find what you need instead of digging through a mess.
This gift works for neat freaks, parents, or anyone who loves an organized space. You can easily find high-quality ones at almost any home store, so it’s a perfect last-minute gift for these holidays. It’s practical, thoughtful, and honestly, a lot more useful than another generic gift.
9. Mini Instant Film Camera
Instant cameras are just plain fun. They turn a quick moment into a physical photo you can actually hold, which feels a lot more special than just another picture sitting on your phone.
It’s a great gift for teens, families, or that one creative friend. If they already have one, just grab them a few packs of extra film—they’ll definitely use it.
Pro tip: Take the first shot yourself to capture the moment they open it. It’s a fun, thoughtful splurge that’s guaranteed to stand out under the tree.
10. Cozy Throw Blanket
You really can’t go wrong with a cozy throw. It adds instant warmth to a room and is one of those gifts people actually start using the second they open it. It’s the ultimate “safe” bet because everyone loves a movie night or a chilly evening spent reading on the couch.
If you aren’t sure about their style, just stick to a neutral color like cream or grey—it’ll look good anywhere. Even as a last-minute pick, it feels thoughtful and intentional.
Make a Last-Minute Gift Feel Thoughtful
Even when you’re shopping at the last minute, a gift can still feel personal and meaningful. It’s all about the little touches—wrapping it nicely, adding a handwritten note, or including a small extra like a festive ribbon or tag. These details show you cared, even if time was tight.
Think about the recipient’s lifestyle and preferences. A practical gift becomes thoughtful when it suits their daily routines, hobbies, or favorite activities. Even a simple item feels special when it clearly matches their personality.
A last-minute gift can bring just as much joy as one bought weeks in advance, especially when it’s picked with care. With the right choices, even a rushed shopping trip can end in a present that feels intentional, useful, and loved.
