Shopping·15 min read

26 Last-Minute Holiday Presents That Aren’t Gift Cards

the best last-minute holiday gifts that'll ship fast
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Amazon
December 5, 2022

This post was originally published in December 2021 and has been updated.

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

The holidays will be here before you know it. Big deep breath. If you haven’t started shopping yet — don’t panic. We did the work and are servin’ up gift guides on gift guides for you to shop from.

So with only a few weeks left to peruse, order, ship, and wrap your presents, we rounded up the best items that’ll arrive quickly. We even have subscriptions and experiences you can activate at the very last minute if you’re running super behind. Keep calm and gift on.

Amazon

A compact air fryer…

So they can make homemade fries like the responsible adult they are. This 2-quart one from Dash is pretty easy to use. They just need to place their food into the nonstick fry basket for crispy deliciousness and then turn the two knobs to set the temp and time. It’s that simple. It’ll shut off automatically and has nonslip feet for extra stability. Add these silicone liners for the ultimate gift. ($39.94+, Amazon)

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Amazon

A couples card game that’ll create some lasting mems…

This handy box is filled with 135 thought-provoking questions. They can keep it on their kitchen table to answer a question at every meal or answer multiple questions on game or date night. Learning new things and having a laugh with their partner = a win. ($25, Amazon)

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Jiggy

A puzzle of the month club…

Jigsaws for the win. With Jiggy Puzzle Club, they'll get a monthly curated 500-piece puzzle and opportunities to meet the artists behind some of the designs. Each one comes in a reusable drawstring bag. And if they’re interested in preserving their hard work as an art piece later on, each puzzle comes with glue that’ll help them preserve it. Add a note and thank them for always putting the pieces together for you. ($82.65/3 months, Jiggy)

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Amazon

Noise-canceling earbuds from Google…

TBH, no one’s ever not happy opening up a pair of headphones during the holidays. These Google Pixel Buds Pro have up to 11 hours of battery life on a single charge (for our full review, click here). They have a Silent Seal that‘ll adapt to their ears and block out any outside noises for ultra-clear listening. Plus, they have touch controls and a wireless charging case. The thing we love most? Its Transparency mode feature, which lets users hear some background sounds while on the go. It's super helpful for runners and anyone who needs to be aware of their surroundings. Just pick their favorite color combo and add a bow. Easy peasy. (Psst…you don’t need an Android for these to work. Apple devices are compatible too). ($186.22+, Amazon)

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UrbanStems

Fresh flowers to add some brightness in their home…

There’s nothing better than having new blooms to liven up a space. With this subscription, you can pick the arrangement style and how often they’ll receive them. And the first delivery comes with a vase. Make their daisy. (Price varies by plan, UrbanStems)

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golden steer restaurant steaks that ship
Golden Steer Company

A steak gift box if they're a real home chef...

They'll receive two steaks (that feed two to three people) from the famous Golden Steer restaurant in Las Vegas, a Golden Steer Steakhouse cookbook, and house-made extras like Sergio's Seasoning and Maitre D' Butter. It'll be unlike any meal they've ever had. They'll get to choose between rib eye or filet. If you’re hesitant on shipping — don’t be. All boxes get shipped overnight no matter where they are going nationwide. Our mouths are watering. ($210, Golden Steer Company)

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apple airtag tracking device
Apple

A tracking device that’ll help them avoid the daily frantic search for their keys…

Stop the madness with this Apple AirTag. It simply attaches to any item (backpacks, wallets, etc.) and — via a one-tap setup — syncs with an iPhone or iPad. When something goes missing, the AirTag can play a sound to help them locate their valuables. The future is here, and it’s about to make their life easier. ($29, Apple)

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Amazon

A calendar gratitude journal so they can stay mindful…

Once a new month starts, they’ll be able to record one thing a day that they’re grateful for. It can be as big as landing a new job, or as small as having a good convo with a longtime friend. When the month comes to a close, they’ll be able to look back on the last few weeks and reminisce on the things that made them feel so loved and joyful. ($24.99, Amazon)

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organic wine
Kind of Wild Wines

Wine made from organic grapes…

These bottles are from around the globe, hailing from France, Chile, Australia, and more. Every time they sip, they’ll know they’re doing good by the planet. They’re supporting organic growers and sustainable farmers, and drinking wine that’s free from additives. Which means no remnants from pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers. For 20% off, use code SKIMM20. (Prices vary, Kind of Wild Wines)

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Nurture 9

A postpartum gift box…

Because she deserves some extra TLC. If you can’t be there in person to show up for her, this three month subscription will continue to remind her that you’re thinking of her. After you place your order, the first box will be shipped within two to three days. She’ll get items like cozy pajamas, a postpartum cookbook, beauty products, stuff for their baby, and more. How sweet it is to be loved by her. ($119/3 months, Nurtured 9)

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online class experience gifts you can purchase
Uncommon Goods

An experiential gift that also comes with a physical present... 

Because sometimes you want to give more than an envelope. Choose from any number of activities: truffle making, painting lessons, cocktail crafting, and so much more. With each activity, your recipient will receive a complementary product shipped to their door. They’ll have everything they need to put their learning cap on. And for more of our fave holiday gifts from Uncommon Goods, shop here. (Prices vary, Uncommon Goods)

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nespresso machine for coffee and espresso
Amazon

A Nespresso machine for the person who can never get enough java…

Now’s the time to splurge on them. They’ll be able to choose between coffee or espresso with the push of a button. Once they place a capsule in, they’ll just need to rest their mug down. The machine automatically disposes of used capsules, aka no cleanup necessary. The water tank can heat up in as little as 15 seconds. Along with the machine, they’ll also receive an Aeroccino (so they can froth milk) and a tasting box of 12 capsules. Now they’ll actually wanna get up in the morning. ($201.95, Amazon)

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Memento

A heartwarming custom video that’ll make them smile…

With Memento, you can compile clips from all their loved ones into a personalized video montage. Once you create your account, you can send an invitation link to anyone you want to contribute. They’ll be able record their clip via any of their smart devices. And in turn, you’ll get notifications when new clips are added. The best part? You can then customize the video to your liking and send it as an email to the lucky recipient. It’s called last-minute hustle sweetie, look it up. ($6.99+/month, Memento)

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Amazon

An Echo Dot for kids…

This little smart speaker can read them a bedtime story, play music, and let them take charge of their routines by setting alarms, turning off compatible lights, and more. Alexa’s voice will be based on the design they choose (it comes as a dragon or an owl). Plus, there are character-inspired songs, jokes, and greetings. So cute. ($29.99+, Amazon)

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Amazon

A blow-dryer brush that’ll make their at-home blowouts easier…

They can use this two-in-one tool to tame and style their strands. It has three temperature settings for customized drying and a mix of nylon and tufted bristles to really grip their locks. It’s lightweight and has vents that provide maximum airflow for a super quick blowout. Giving the gift of a good hair day? Priceless. ($131.75, Amazon)

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masterclass educational class subscription
MasterClass

A MasterClass subscription to boost their brain power… 

From acting classes with Samuel L. Jackson to cooking classes with Gordon Ramsay to conservation chatter with Dr. Jane Goodall. They’ll be able to explore their interests, learn from experts, or try their hand at something brand new. All courses are on-demand videos, so learning is on their terms. Class is in session. ($180+/year, MasterClass)

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cratejoy subscription boxes
Cratejoy

A ton of subscription boxes that’ll keep on giving past the holidays…

From a succulent kit to a date-night collection, Cratejoy has lots of different subscriptions for everyone on your list. Don’t mind us, but we’re eyeing the Shaker and Spoon Cocktail Club. Pinkies up. (Shop all boxes, Cratejoy)

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tinggly experience gifts for travel
Tinggly

A handpicked adventure within the US for the travel lover in your life…

With Tinggly, your giftee is in the driver’s seat. They get to decide where to adventure — and when. You simply select a collection and then they choose which one sounds the most enticing. They can relax in Hawaii, explore San Francisco, or climb a mountain in Colorado. Pack those bags. (Prices vary, Tinggly)

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oversized fleece hoodie for lounging
Amazon

An oversized sweatshirt they can cuddle up in…

It’s gigantic, has a front pocket for their phone, and is made from flannel for ultimate warmth. It’s pretty much a wearable blanket, so it’s got more than enough room to cover their legs and feet when curled up. Evenings spent on the couch never felt so good. ($27.99+, Amazon)

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memory jar you can drop notes and photos into
Amazon

A feel-good memory jar to record special moments…

The entire fam can drop in photos, handwritten notes, tickets, and more. It’ll act as a time capsule for everyone, filled with exciting and happy moments to look back on come the end of next year. Cue the nostalgia. ($20.76, Amazon)

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handheld muscle massager for sore muscles
Amazon

A handheld massager to soothe aching muscles…

Whether they’re sore from an intense workout or poring over a report at their WFH setup, this deep-tissue back and body massager can help. It beats at up to 3,700 revolutions per minute and comes with six interchangeable heads to provide relief where they need it most. It’s kinda like their own personal masseuse. Except much more affordable. ($19.99, Amazon)

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indoor putting green for golf
Amazon

An indoor putting mat that will keep their golf game solid… 

Whether their upcoming golf trip was canceled or they’re trying not to get rusty this winter, this professional putting green will satisfy their need for green. Fitted with an automatic ball return and two different-sized practice holes, it’s a perfect way to provide hours of stress relief and entertainment to the stuck-at-home golfer. ($44.99+, Amazon)

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bamboo bathtub tray to hold bath items
Amazon

A tray that makes bath time much more relaxing… 

This bamboo tray turns even the tiniest of bathrooms into a spa-like destination. It’s expandable to fit standard-sized tubs and has designated areas to hold a wine glass and to keep a book or tablet safely in place. They’ll be able to keep their phone within reach, along with their favorite body scrub. Now they can finally lie back and enjoy their time spent soaking. ($29.99+, Amazon)

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llama shaped stress toy
Amazon

A llama stress toy for the days when they just can’t…

Squeeze it out. They can keep this mini toy on their desk, in their bag, or, if they need, in a pocket. Sometimes keeping one’s hands busy and mind distracted is a big help. Think of this as a great stocking stuffer. ($13.50, Amazon)

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Amazon

A five-minute journal with simple, short prompts…

So they can check in with themselves, even if they don’t have a lot of time. The journal is perfect for anyone who might feel intimidated by the idea of freewriting. It aims to help improve how you feel on a daily basis and can make the sometimes daunting task of journaling and habit-forming easy. It only takes a few minutes — aka the perfect welcomed window of time for them. You’re welcome, friend. ($28.99, Amazon)

Buy it
waterproof amazon kindle for reading
Amazon

A waterproof Kindle with double the storage…

What’s better than having all their favorite books at their fingertips? Not worrying about lugging them along on vacation or losing them to their bathwater. Enter this waterproof Kindle Paperwhite. It still has a glare-free screen and holds twice as many items as earlier versions. The screen brightness is adjustable, which makes it easy to read comfortably at night and outdoors. It also includes Audible, so they can pair the Kindle with their headphones via Bluetooth. ($139.99+, Amazon)

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