8 Last-Minute Gift Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

There are plenty of winning holiday gifts you can buy on the go.

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Key points

• Christmas is just a few days away, but there’s still a little time to do your holiday shopping.
• Last-minute gifts like a bottle of wine, gift cards, calendars and planners, and subscription services offer an affordable way to show you care.

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If you still have your Christmas shopping to complete, there’s still plenty of time. You can find a gift that is a win for both your wallet and the person receiving it. When shopping for gifts, don’t feel like the gifts you buy need to be extravagant or expensive. You can finish your purchases without breaking your budget. Here are some last-minute gift ideas that won’t break the bank.

1. Gift cards

Looking for a simple way to show appreciation this holiday season? Gift cards are an ideal gift because you can pick them up at the last minute and your loved one can use their card to buy a gift that fits their style. Most retailers sell eGift cards that can be emailed to you within hours, so this is a great last-minute gifting solution, even for your non-local friends.

2. Bottle of wine

If you have a friend or family member who likes to drink, a bottle of wine is a great gift. You can buy an affordable bottle and add a festive bow or ribbon. If you’re looking for an inexpensive bottle of wine, you can shop at Costco, Aldi, or Trader Joe’s.

3. A cookbook

Do you know someone who likes to experiment in the kitchen? A cookbook is a fun and inexpensive gift that won’t put him in credit card debt. You can head to a bookstore and browse the aisles to find a cookbook that is full of recipes your friend will love.

4. coffee

If you have a caffeine-obsessed person on your gift list, why not give them a bag of coffee beans? You can support a local coffee shop in your community while helping your loved one get the fuel they need to survive the post-holiday work week.

5. A subscription service that matches your hobbies and interests

Another fantastic gift that you can buy just before the holidays is a subscription service. Whether it’s a book subscription, a snack subscription, or a makeup subscription, there really is something for everyone on your list. Also, you don’t have to give a one-year subscription. Many subscription service companies sell three-month subscriptions at affordable prices.

6. Treats from the bakery

Most people love to receive sweets. If you’re shopping for someone local, you might consider gifting them a dessert or other delicious bakery item from a nearby bakery. It’s a sweet way to show appreciation, and it’s a gift that won’t drain your check account.

7. Slippers, socks, and anything else that’s warm and cozy

If you need a gift that’s perfect for the winter season, you might want to choose slippers, socks, or other cozy clothing and accessories. Most clothing stores and popular retailers have these items in stock throughout the winter and may even be on sale at a discounted price.

8. A 2023 calendar or planner

The holidays are a great time to gift a calendar or planner for the coming year. You can find calendars and planners at most bookstores and other major retailers like Target. With this gift, you’ll set your loved one up for success before the new year begins.

You still have time to buy

Yes, the holidays are fast approaching. But it’s not too late to finish the gift shopping. You can buy the above gifts at the last moment. Since these items are inexpensive, you can show your interest while continuing to honor your personal finance objectives.