Need Last Minute Gift Ideas? We’ve Got You!

The holidays are right around the corner, and for some of you, gifts may not be bought yet. If so, never fear! Whether you’re buying gifts for a friend, family member, or teacher, you are sure to find a present for anyone on your list. Here are ten last-minute gift ideas for the holidays! 

1. Candy

Many people agree that candy is a very good last-minute gift. After all, it’s very hard to go wrong with sugar. Candy is very easy to find, available at any grocery and convenience stores, and even gas stations. It’s also relatively inexpensive. 

Ideally, you could get them a candy they enjoy, but if you don’t know, you could get a variety for them to choose from. Kenzie Martinsen, a freshman at Central High School, recommends chocolate such as Hershey’s. She also recommends gummy candies, such as gummy bears or worms. Additionally, seasonal candies could be a good option, such as peppermint bark or candy canes. 

2. Keychains

Keychains are another good option if you’re in a pinch. Even if your gift recipient does not drive, they are a wonderful decoration for backpacks, totes, purses, and more. 

Keychains come in a variety of designs, shapes, and colors, and there is surely one for everyone. Martinsen recommends stores such as 5 Below or Dollar General, as these are stores where you can find small, fun items. 

3. Toys

Toys are a hit gift for most younger kids, and sometimes for others as well! There is a wide range of toys available, from plushes to figurines to vehicles and more. There are always options for various characters and kinds, for a wide variety of interests. 

Chloe Flynn, a senior at Central High School, has bought toys for her younger brother’s for occasions such as birthdays, but they are an excellent holiday gift as well. She recommends stores such as Walmart, for the variety of options and kinds of toys. Target may also be a good place to find this. 

4. Handmade Things

While not the quickest to make, handmade items are a wonderful gift to consider if you’re on the craftier side. They can be easier to throw together, as they use things you already have, and show a lot of thoughtfulness. 

One example of a handmade gift is crocheted things. Bella Ondevilla, a junior at Central, often crochets gifts such as keychains and plushes as gifts. These projects, depending on difficulty, can be done fairly quickly, and utilize materials you have right at home. For more gift ideas, check out Ondevilla’s crocheted gifts article published last issue. 

5. Scarves

Scarves are a general and useful gift perfect for the winter season. They can range from stylish to homey, and provide warmth while you’re in the cold. Scarves are perfect for anyone on your list. You can buy them at places like Walmart or Target. 

6. Notebook

You can’t go wrong with a good notebook! Notebooks are readily available in stores and are an affordable gift. From smaller notebooks for drawing or larger notebooks for note-taking, there is one for anybody. These can be found in stores like Walmart, Target, or Barnes & Noble. 

7. Candle

Candles are another viable option for a last-minute holiday gift. Scented candles especially would be a great last-minute gift, as they can smell really nice! These come in a wide variety of different scents, sure to fit the taste of any recipient. They can create a lovely atmosphere for your gift receiver. Scented candles can be found at many stores, such as Bath & Body Works or Target. 

8. Toiletries

Toiletries can be a great idea for a last-minute gift. During the holidays, many look to relax and unwind, and a toiletry/spa kit would be an excellent way to do so. CieCie Thatch, a freshman at Central Central High School, recommends things such as lotions or hand sanitizer. Additionally, face masks could be a fun product to gift as well. All of these can be found in stores such as Bath & Body Works, Target, Walmart, or a drugstore. 

9. Gift Cards

Gift cards are a great last-minute gift due to their high availability in stores. You can purchase a card for any sort of store, and the user can spend that money as they please. While slightly less personal, gift cards are an excellent way to give someone a versatile gift. We recommend stores such as Target or Walmart to find a wide variety of gift cards. If you have a certain store in mind, you could also purchase a gift card from there. 

10. Game

Games are an excellent gift idea for the holiday season. Many are looking to spend more time with family and friends, and what better way to do so than a fun and entertaining board game! These can be found in stores such as Walmart, Target, and Barnes & Noble, and come in a wide variety. No matter the age or interests of your gift receiver, there is sure to be a game they’d enjoy. 

We hope these gift ideas help you find what you’re looking for!