5 Underrated Ideas for Last-Minute Christmas Gifts

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Even if you wait until the last minute to go holiday shopping, you can find unique presents that won’t break the bank. Check out these unique gift ideas. 

Now that we’re deep in the holiday season, you may feel stressed about all the gifts you still need to buy for your favorite people. I have some news that may ease your mind: It’s not too late to find gifts they will love. But you may be overthinking what to buy, resulting in further procrastination.

Here’s a collection of underrated gift ideas for last-minute shoppers like you. We’ve included options that fit every budget because the thought matters most, not the dollar amount spent.

1. Gas station gift cards

Gift cards are frequently given as presents during the holiday season. But at least in my experience, I’ve typically received gift cards for coffee shops, restaurants, and retail stores. However, a gas gift card is more unexpected — and it will likely be appreciated.

No one looks forward to filling up their gas tank. With this perfect gift item, you can make covering the next gas fill-up less stressful for someone on your holiday shopping list. This is also a great last-minute option because many retailers have gas station gift cards for sale.

2. A stocking full of toiletries

We all regularly use toiletries like toothpaste, deodorant, and shampoo. It can be frustrating having to run to the store at the last moment to stock up on essentials like this when you unexpectedly run out. Most of us have been there at some point in our lives.

If you’re looking for stocking stuffer–friendly gifts, why not buy your special someone a collection of their go-to toiletries so they’re set for a while? This present will make their life easier and save them a trip to the store. Plus, this is a budget-friendly idea. You may need to do some research ahead of time to figure out what their favorite products are — many people are particular about them!

3. A AAA membership

Nothing is worse than dealing with a flat tire or dead battery on a busy day. Why does it seem like car problems like this always happen when we least expect them? This holiday season, you can prepare your favorite person with the perfect gift — a AAA membership.

This may be an uncommon gift to receive during the holidays, but your recipient will thank you later when they need roadside assistance. Other little-known perks of a AAA membership include travel discounts and homeowners insurance discounts — so your loved one can also save money.

You can gift a membership through the AAA website. Prices vary by region and plan — but you can expect to spend at least $50 to buy a membership for one driver.

4. Give the gift of convenience — like grocery delivery

You probably have someone on your shopping list who lives a busy life with limited extra time to handle chores. Maybe that special someone is in grad school or works a job with long hours. Why not treat them to a service that will make their life more convenient and less stressful? One example is an Instacart+ membership. This paid membership offers savings on service fees and free delivery on eligible grocery delivery orders of $35+.

You can gift a three-month ($29), six-month ($59), or twelve-month ($99) subscription directly through Instacart and have it delivered by email — so it’s an ideal last-minute option.

5. Socks

I don’t know about you, but I’ll never turn down more socks. No matter how organized I try to be, I lose socks and end up with mismatched pairs. Socks are a practical gift, and it can be fun to shop for them. So why not get a few pairs for your best pal? You can buy them in just about any big-box or department store (or online), and this affordable gift won’t leave you with an empty bank account.

It’s not too late to shop

Your family’s holiday gathering may be quickly approaching, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to shop. Don’t be afraid to get something out of the ordinary — your present will be more appreciated than you know. And remember, it’s the thought that counts.

But as you shop, keep your personal finances in mind. Avoid overspending beyond your means. The last thing you want to deal with in the new year is a credit card debt problem.

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