It's less than a week to Christmas and the countdown has begun to get those final gifts for your family and friends. If you're one of those people in crunch time, here is a list of a few last-minute gift ideas.
These in-store gift ideas are simple, and sure to do the trick
If you're buying for a tech lover, an electronic gift is sure to please them on Christmas Day. Electronics, such as tablets and headphones are great gifts that could be beneficial for your loved one at work, home, or school. In addition, it might be best to stay away from large gifts, such as TVs and computers, unless you're aware of the person's needs and wants when shopping for such devices.
Stores like Walmart and Target are still offering deals with options for two-day shipping and same day pick-up. Although, one must act fast for these offers as deadlines for deliveries are quickly approaching, with some as early as December 19.
Here are a few stores that sell a variety of electronic products and their shipping deadlines:
Brookstone --- December 19 at 1 PM ET
Best Buy --- December 20 at 10:30 AM CT
Walmart --- Varies
Target --- December 20 at 11:59 PM CT
Colognes and perfumes can also be a sure way to go. The best way to save money is to purchase gift or box sets that include the fragrance along with lotion and body wash (or body wash and shaving cream in men's gift sets). Retailers such as Bath and Body Works and Victoria's Secret have Buy Three, Get Two Free offers and Gifts under $50, respectively.
If you're unsure of which fragrance(s) to buy, there are also gift box sets of mini perfumes that provide a variety of fragrances.
Here are a few stores that sell perfumes and fragrances and their shipping deadlines:
Bath and Body Works --- December 21 at 5:59 PM ET
Victoria's Secret --- December 19 at 5 PM ET
Ulta Beauty --- December 18 at 11:59 PM CT
Sephora --- December 21 at 3 PM PT
Macy's --- December 20 at 5 PM ET
Anything from necklaces, rings, earrings, etc.
can be a nice and unexpected present. Stores including Zales and Jared are continuing to have sales that include items that are up to $750 off. As time winds down, quantities become limited so it's best to take advantage of these offers early on. This year, some of the popular items are pieces in rose gold and white gold. If you're looking for a cheaper option, cubic zirconia and sterling silver jewelry can also provide a wonderful gift.
Online options can also provide some great last minute gifts
It's at Amazon that you can find pretty much anything that will meet your Christmas gift needs. From holiday deals on Amazon devices, such as the Amazon Echo, to being able to give the gift of Amazon Prime, the online retailer can be a one-stop shop. The last day for standard shipping to receive by Christmas is December 18. Although, if you're a prime member (or become one through Amazon Prime Free Trial), you have until December 23. In some areas, same-day delivery is available on December 24 ending at 9:30 am local time or earlier.
At Etsy, you can find one-of-a-kind pieces that can even have a personalized touch. Although, the majority of crafts and items on the site won't arrive by Christmas, there are gifts that are ready to be shipped in one day.
In Etsy's holiday gift guide, there are many options that include phone cases and docking stations, along with cute items for book lovers. You can even purchase gift cards with values up to $250.
If you've come down to the wire, here are a few other options
The easiest gift to come by is purchasing a gift card. Most retailers offer gift cards for their stores with some being able to be purchased online. In addition, prepaid debit cards from American Express and Visa which allow for amounts up to $500 can allow purchases in most stores and online. An additional bonus is that the receiver doesn't have to deal with the hassle of after holiday returns.
If you have a Broadway fan or someone who enjoys a specific band or artist, tickets can be an easy way to go.
Most tickets can be purchased online, which leaves the gift giver with options in terms of how to present the gift itself. Just remember to keep in mind that many tickets are non-refundable or non-transferrable, so be sure to confirm that the person will enjoy said show, concert, etc.
If you're really strapped for time, giving the gift of cash is never a bad idea. Money is a gift everyone can use. Cash given in a handcrafted card can provide a nice touch.
In the end, many of these Last Minute options (often due to expedited shipping) can be pricey, with some being reasonable. You'll do yourself a favor by shopping early and being able to avoid that last minute rush and price tag.
