5 Great Last Minute Gift Ideas

With Christmas fast approaching, you might be scrambling to complete your shopping. No matter how hard you try, it seems like there are always people left on the gift list, and it can be a challenge trying to find last-minute gifts that are unique and special, but get to you in time. There are lots of thoughtful gifts you can give last-minute, here are some ideas:

1. Tea

Tea is one of those universal items that people enjoy receiving. Even if they are not tea drinkers themselves, it is a nice item to gift that can be used for other occasions, so it’s always appreciated. For true tea-lovers, you can get some of out-the-box flavors that they may not have tried, or you can get them a sampler of teas from different brands so they can try lots. 

And as an additional gift (or even by itself), tea accessories are always a nice gift. For example, you can get novelty tea brewers, such as this one that’s shaped like a sloth or small containers for tea storage.

2. Christmas socks

A fun gift, Christmas socks are another item that people love to receive as a gift. It’s a special treat with a festive touch, and practical to boot. Also a great stocking stuffer, Christmas socks can work for both men and women - and the funkier the pattern, the better. You can get fun fuzzy socks like these in festive patterns, or more practical wool ones that still have some whimsy, like this pair of snowman socks.

3. Scented candles

Scented candles are a lovely addition to a home. Not only are they great for relaxation and meditation, but they are also a great item for home decor. It might seem difficult choosing a scent, but this is a great way to tap into the personality of the receiver and give them something that reminds you of them. 

Citrusy scents are always a classic, or you can go for something a little more serious and earthy depending on the person receiving the gift. Scented candles are also a great way to invoke memories and commemorate a special time spent together. For example, you can get a beach-scented candle as a reminder of summer days, or more gourmand scent like a vanilla bean scented candle for a more festive touch.

4. Personal journals

The act of journaling can be a very relaxing and therapeutic activity for many, so personal journals are always a thoughtful gift to receive. Even if your recipient is not an avid journal writer, notebooks are always a helpful and fun item to receive, and you can have a lot of fun in picking patterns and styles for the receiver. If you have some extra time, journals can always be monogrammed for an extra-special touch.

But if you’re on a time crunch, a leather journal with an antique look is a great present, or something with a little more design, such as this celestial one. Or, you can opt for a journal that’s a little more structured and has activities for each day as a time capsule of sorts, like this One Question a Day journal.

5. Essential oil diffusers

Essential oils are a powerful way to promote relaxation, peace, and meditation. Each essential oil scent has its own properties, so it can be a fun way to experiment with different smells and scents when you have an essential oil diffuser. 

There are lots of different types available, from small portable ones to larger ones for the home that have a more decorative look, so there is a lot of room to experiment. You can pair the gift with some small jars of essential oils to help start them off. 

And for some more gift inspiration, here are some fun, out-of-the-box yet affordable Christmas gifts that are sure to delight, and sometimes amuse:

We hope you found these ideas useful and all the gifts missing from your list will be soon packed under the Christmas tree. What are you getting for your family and friends? Share your great gift ideas with other seniors!