50 last-minute gifts that will actually arrive on time
There's last minute, and then there's *really* last minute.
By
Leah Stodart
and
Leah Stodart
Senior Shopping Reporter
Leah Stodart is a Philadelphia-based Senior Shopping Reporter at Mashable where she covers and tests essential home tech like vacuums and TVs, plus eco-friendly hacks. Her ever-evolving experience in these categories comes in clutch when making recommendations on how to spend your money during shopping holidays like Black Friday, which Leah has been covering for Mashable since 2017.
Read Full Bio
Miller Kern
on
Miller Kern
Deputy Shopping Editor
Miller Kern is the Deputy Editor of Shopping and Reviews at Mashable, where she writes and edits reviews, roundups, deals, and news stories about tech products, including headphones, skincare devices, laptops, sex toys, e-readers, robot vacuums, and more. She's been covering all things shopping and tech, including shopping holidays like Prime Day and Black Friday, for Mashable since 2019. Miller can tell you which products are actually worth your money. She also explores trends in the shopping sphere, such as dupes and viral TikTok moments.
Read Full Bio
All products featured here are independently selected by our editors and writers. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission.
These are the tech, tools, and products — from laptops to e-readers, from earbuds to robovacs, and more — that Mashable ranks best in class.
Oops, you did it again. You waited until the last minute to get a gift. You love your parents, boyfriend/girlfriend, friends, and that coworker who always has work tea — but when you're stressing over the perfect gift for said special person, time gets away from you. Finding a last-minute gift that's actually meaningful is hard, to be quite honest. But there are still ways to get personalized or sentimental gifts even in a time crunch. Depending on how last-minute you're pushing it, there are actually some really neat gifts you can get. This is especially true if you're an Amazon Prime member and get free one- and two-day shipping, plus some overnight delivery options. The safest bets include online services, subscription services, and stuff with digital delivery. And in a year when everything is more expensive than we're used to, a simple gift card isn't boring — it's a lifesaver. Check out some unique last-minute gift options below.
Topics Apps & Software Gadgets
Opens in a new window
Credit: DoorDash
DashPass
For the foodie who hates cooking
Sometimes, cooking dinner is just not the move. That's where delivery comes in. And when extra fees start to kill the vibe, that's where DashPass comes in. For $9.99/month, treat your friends or family to a $0 delivery fee and lower service fees on each order, plus savings on on-demand groceries. DoorDash says that a DashPass membership pays for itself in just two orders.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Shari's Berries
Chocolate covered strawberries
For someone with a sweet tooth
Chocolate-covered strawberries are a classic. Shari's Berries offers an assortment of gourmet dipped strawberries for any occasion. Same-day delivery is available in some areas.
Opens in a new window
Credit: OjuDesign
Downloadable prints
For the wall art connoisseur
For wall art that you can gift immediately, purchase a downloadable file from Etsy. You can print it at a CVS or Walgreens (or let them choose the design), plus pick up a nice frame while you're at it.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Pexels
Terrapass carbon offset
For the environmentally conscious
You may know someone who'd rather your money be spent on the earth than on them. Terrapass allows you to fund projects that destroy greenhouse gases and produce renewable energy. $7.99 offsets 1,000 pounds of CO2 — about a third of the emissions that the average American produces each month.
Opens in a new window
Credit: MasterClass
MasterClass
For the Gordon Ramsay or Annie Leibovitz stan
On-demand celebrity edutainment has exploded in popularity over the past few years. Through MasterClass, people are able to learn unique skills through the famous person who basically invented said skill. For $180 for the year or $90 for one class, they can learn cooking with Gordon Ramsay, filmmaking with Jodie Foster, plus nearly 200 other options.
Opens in a new window
Credit: GoPuff
GoPuff Fam
For a snack run without standing up
GoPuff is like a digital trip to the grocery store, the liquor store, or maybe even a quick-service restaurant. Delivery drivers pick up orders from wholesale inventory locations in tons of cities and drop them off within the hour. A $7.99/month Fam membership offers perks like nixed delivery fees, plus $10 off their first three orders.
Opens in a new window
Credit: MeUndies
MeUndies gift card
For someone who digs fun undergarments
People can always use new socks and underwear, and MeUndies has some fun options. A digital gift card allows you to pick a dollar amount and write a custom message. Then choose when you want your recipient to receive it in their email inbox.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Amazon
Amazon Prime membership
For the heavy shopper
Amazon Prime is a gift that'll keep giving throughout the year — and every time it comes in clutch for them, they'll think of you. The $119/year service includes free, fast shipping on tons of items, Prime Video, Prime Music, and more.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Headspace / Mashable photo composite
Headspace subscription
For someone into mindfulness
Headspace has sessions to help with stress, sleep, focus, and anxiety. There are guided meditations for people who want to stay mindful throughout the day. Gift options come as one-month, one-year, and two-year subscriptions.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Pexels
Classroom donation
For the charitable person
We all know someone who says, "Oh you don't have to get me a present." Here's a feel-good alternative to getting them nothing (or something they won't use). DonorsChoose lets you donate money to classrooms in need under your gift recipient's name.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Asos
ASOS premier delivery service
For the fashionista
Waiting until the last possible minute to buy an outfit for an event is simply part of the planning process. ASOS Premier is a godsend in those instances. The $24.99/year subscription locks down free next-day delivery on all US orders over $50, plus free express shipping on everything else.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Pexels
Spotify gift card
For any non-Apple Music users
Spotify Premium is so worth it over the version with ads, but having $10 snatched from the bank every month still adds up. You can gift one or more months via an electronic gift card.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Massage Envy
Massage Envy gift card
For someone who deserves a spa day
A spa day is something literally everyone can enjoy, but not everyone wants to spend the money on themselves. That's why a spa gift card makes such a thoughtful gift. Massage Envy has over 1,000 locations in the United States and offers massages, facials, and more.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Winc
Winc subscription
For the wine drinker
Winc is a subscription service that delivers tailored wines right to your recipient's doorstep. Because the wines are personalized, the best gift you can give someone is a gift card so they can pick their own selections.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Kiva
Kiva loan
For the small business supporter
Kiva is a platform where you can loan money to small businesses and causes. If there's a particular interest they have, you can loan to a cause within that realm on behalf of your gift recipient. Kiva takes loans, not donations. So, when you're repaid, you can invest that money back into your loved one another way.
Opens in a new window
Credit: The Bouqs Co.
Bouquet of flowers
For Trader Joe's flower section regulars
Flower delivery is a classic gift. Everyone can appreciate a gorgeous bouquet of flowers to put on their desk or kitchen table. The Bouqs Co. offers next-day delivery on select bouquets.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Cheryl's Cookies
Cheryl's cookies
For someone who won't turn down a cute cookie
Cookies — especially seasonal ones — make a great gift that the recipient can enjoy immediately. And since they're best eaten fresh, delivery is quick — with some packages offering same-day delivery.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Dropbox
Dropbox cloud storage
For the file hoarder
You might know somebody who constantly gets "storage full" messages. Dropbox is a great gift because the most basic level gives them 2TB of storage and file recovery up to 30 days.
Opens in a new window
Credit: CVS
Same-day photo gift
For a personalized gift
Last-minute gifts can still be personalized and special. CVS offers same-day pickup on tons of their photo products, including books, mounted panels, calendars, and more.
Opens in a new window
Credit: HealthSmart
Essential oil diffuser
For a daily dose of relaxation
Everyone should have an essential oil diffuser, and this one happens to have one-day shipping available. If the scents you'd like to gift won't ship in time, a link with the benefits of different oils would still be super helpful.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Eco-Pals
Reusable straws
For the frequent sipper
A reusable, portable straw is the perfect stocking stuffer for someone who cringes each time they reach for a plastic straw in public. Eco-Pals straws collapse into a cute carrying case and come in multiple colors.
Opens in a new window
Credit: AncestryDNA / Mashable photo composite
AncestryDNA kit
For someone curious about their family tree
DNA kits are super popular gifts. One of the best, AncestryDNA, is on sale for under $70 around the holidays and can ship overnight. Their pie chart and traits results should come back in four to six weeks.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Amazon
Echo Dot
For smart home newbies
Not all Echo devices are available with overnight shipping, but the Echo Dot is. The latest, spherical version of the classic mini smart speaker is such a simple introduction to the convenience of Alexa commands, from setting reminders to asking about the weather.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Beats / Apple
Beats Studio Buds
For the anti-AirPods audiophile
The powerful bass, long-lasting battery, and fun colors of the noise-canceling Beats Studio Buds make it hard to opt for the second-gen AirPods Pro (which are over $100 more, even on sale). And unlike those AirPods, the Studio Buds can be shipped overnight through Amazon.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Groupon / Mashable photo composite
A Groupon giftcard
For a fun experience
For those who aren't into material things, a Groupon experience is the way to go. You can choose from tons of activities in the recipient's city, or let them choose.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Alo Yoga
Alo Moves online yoga service
For the busy yogi
Alo Moves is a service that brings yoga classes to the home. Your loved one can practice on their own time at their own pace. The service is accessible via mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Pexels
Concert tickets
For someone with a very specific Spotify Wrapped
If they were in the top .0001% of listeners of a given artist in this year's Spotify Wrapped, check to see if that artist is touring soon — then give the gift of a memory through tickets to the show. (Sorry to bring up a sore subject, Swifties.) Be sure to snag two and make it an experience for both of you.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Pexels
Netflix gift card
For the binge-watcher
Almost everyone uses Netflix (even if they don't have their own account). It'll be nice for them to get a few months on someone else's dime. Pro tip: Netflix is $6.99/month at the minimum, so up your gift to $30 so they don't have random money left over. If there's a different streaming service that they can't bring themselves to pay for, gift a subscription there instead.
Opens in a new window
Credit: EA / ORIGIN
The Sims 4
For someone who loves creating (fake) drama
2002 or 2022, Sims is never not addicting. Indulge someone's nostalgia or upgrade them to the newest version of the game if they're a regular player. You can gift a digital version of the game.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Pexels
Sephora gift card
For someone always trying new beauty products
A Sephora gift card is at the top of wish lists for teenage girls — or anyone who can't not try a viral TikTok recommendation. Pay for a makeup haul (or at least a chunk of it) for them.
Opens in a new window
Credit: The Sill
The Sill digital gift card
For someone on #PlantTok
The Sill has something for everyone regardless of if their plants thrive or if their plants die. The service delivers fully grown plants ready for display. (There are even fake ones for the accidental plant killers.)
Opens in a new window
Credit: Pexels
Hotels.com gift card
For someone who's been itching to get away
A little getaway might be in the cards for the wanderlust-ridden person in your life — even if it's just for a weekend. Solidify the plans by helping with hotel expenses through a digital gift card to hotels.com.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Amazon
Kindle Unlimited
For someone with a massive reading list
Kindle Unlimited is a service that gives people access to millions of titles including e-books, audio books, and magazines. No Kindle is necessary to enjoy the benefits of Kindle Unlimited.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Birchbox / Mashable photo composite
Birchbox subscription
For people into self care
OK, so this gift won't technically arrive on time, but you can let them know it will arrive, and then keep on coming. Birchbox is a monthly subscription box for skincare and beauty products for both women and men. Send one month for $15 or a longer plan for a few dollars less each month.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Udemy
Online course
For someone who loves gaining new skills
Udemy offers online courses on almost every topic, so you can pick one that your loved one is interested in. You could even snag a couple courses as they're usually on sale for $10 to $20.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Disney
Disney gift card
For the Disney adult
For those who can't get enough of Disney, a Disney gift card is an automatic win. They're redeemable at online Disney stores, brick and mortar stores, Disneyland, Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line.
Opens in a new window
Credit: The New Yorker / National Geographic / Rolling Stone
Magazine subscription
For someone who still likes flipping pages
One-year subscriptions to magazines are a super cheap gift that pops up in your recipient's mailbox every month. Amazon has a huge selection of magazines from brands like Hearst, Meredith, and Condé Nast.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Microsoft
Xbox gift card
For the Microsoft gamer
Xbox users can buy games, add-ons, map packs, and more with a gift card to the Xbox store. A digital redemption code will be delivered via email.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Sony
PlayStation gift card
For the Sony gamer
PlayStation users can use this PlayStation Store gift card to buy games, add-ons, movies, TV shows, or a PlayStation Plus subscription. Gift cards are digitally delivered.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Lyft / Mashable photo composite
Lyft Pink (through a gift card)
For someone on the go
Some friends insist on walking everywhere. Others have been at the destination for 20 minutes already because there's no way they weren't ordering a ride. Lyft Pink unlocks free priority pickup upgrades, discounted Lux, Preferred, and XL rides, plus a free year of Grubhub+. A $30 gift card covers three months of the $9.99/month service.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Harry & David
Harry & David gift basket
Best for a fancy night in
Can't see them in person this year? A wine and cheese night sounds better than venturing outside, anyway. Select gourmet gift baskets from Harry & David can be delivered within two days. Send a charcuterie board, mini desserts, or a whole entrée, with the option to add wine.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone
For someone who wants to speak a new language
Learning a new language is something many of us say we want to do, but never actually follow through with. A free year of Rosetta Stone could be the motivation boost your recipient needs to stick to their lessons.
Opens in a new window
Credit: HelloFresh
HelloFresh subscription
For the foodie who loves cooking
Everyone appreciates a home-cooked meal, but the best contenders for a HelloFresh subscription would be the foodies who actually want to do the cooking part, too. Your gift lets them skip a grocery store run by sending a box of ingredients (that follow any dietary restrictions) sent to their door. One box containing three meals for two people per week runs around $9.99 per serving or $70.93 total.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Amazon
Fire TV Stick 4K Max
For that one non-smart TV in the house
Every home has that one ancient TV that no one can seem to part ways with. Bring it into the digital age with a Fire TV Stick 4K Max. The streamer connects to WiFi and hosts all of their streaming apps in one place. It's available for overnight shipping with Prime.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Visa
Visa gift card
For someone who's hard to shop for
For the anti-Jeff Bezos person you know, you can't go wrong with cold hard cash. Or intangible digital money. Either way, they're free to spend it on whatever they want.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Pexels
AMC Stubs A-List membership
For cinephiles who prefer the theater experience
AMC Stubs A-List gives members the ability to see up to three movies in the theater per week, including Dolby Cinema and IMAX. Gift three months for $72.99, which will work at over 600 AMC locations nationwide.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Private Internet Access / Mashable photo composite
VPN
For someone who needs internet privacy (so, everyone)
A VPN keeps internet browsing safe and secure — something that many people don't think they need to pay for, but everyone needs. Private Internet Access encrypts data and hides IP addresses for private browsing past incognito mode. A year of the service is only about $40.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Clarkson Potter
Dessert Person cookbook
For someone who's super into Bake Off
This cookbook comes to us from Claire Saffitz, who rose to internet fame after hosting the YouTube show Gourmet Makes. The same attention to detail that served Saffitz well on the show shines through in this cookbook, making it perfect for the novice and veteran baker alike. Send the Kindle version immediately or the hardcover version with overnight delivery.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Roblox
Roblox gift card
For the kid in your life
Kids cannot get enough of this game, basically guaranteeing that even though this is "just" a gift card, it'll earn you "Adult That Gets It" status. The money goes toward Robux, which allows them to purchase upgrades for their avatar or buy special abilities in experiences.
Opens in a new window
Credit: Amazon / Mashable photo composite
Amazon gift card
For someone who'd rather pick their own gift
Amazon gift card but make it ~fancy~. This card comes in fun gold packaging with a bow and everything. So, they still get to open a present, but they have the freedom to pick out whatever they want.
Leah Stodart is a Philadelphia-based Senior Shopping Reporter at Mashable where she covers and tests essential home tech like vacuums and TVs, plus eco-friendly hacks. Her ever-evolving experience in these categories comes in clutch when making recommendations on how to spend your money during shopping holidays like Black Friday, which Leah has been covering for Mashable since 2017.
Miller Kern is the Deputy Editor of Shopping and Reviews at Mashable, where she writes and edits reviews, roundups, deals, and news stories about tech products, including headphones, skincare devices, laptops, sex toys, e-readers, robot vacuums, and more. She's been covering all things shopping and tech, including shopping holidays like Prime Day and Black Friday, for Mashable since 2019. Miller can tell you which products are actually worth your money. She also explores trends in the shopping sphere, such as dupes and viral TikTok moments.
