Great last-minute gift ideas

Little or no shopping required

Read time: 2 minutes

We’ve all experienced it — that sinking feeling you get when the holidays are just days away, and you’re running out of time to finish shopping for those last few gifts.

Well, don’t worry, because here are five great personal gift ideas that won’t break the bank. And the best part is, you may have some of these items on hand, so you can finish your “shopping” without stepping foot out your front door.

1. Make a homemade gift basket

Put a personal touch on your presents by creating your own gift baskets. Simply gather a few small, inexpensive gifts and put them in a decorative basket or tin container. Here are a few ideas …

The goody basket: If you like baking, create a basket of homemade goodies, like cookies, chocolate-dipped pretzels, truffles, mixed nuts or popcorn. You can also include recipe jars (glass jars filled with dry ingredients for cakes, cookies, soups or hot cocoa).
The home-cooked meal basket: Choose a few of your favorite recipes you know the person will love. Type or handwrite the recipes on index cards wrapped with pretty ribbon. Then, gather the non-perishable ingredients the person will need to get started and arrange them artfully in the basket.
The romantic evening basket: Help a couple have a romantic evening with a few charming gifts. Simply include a few candles, a box of chocolates (or homemade truffles) and a bottle of wine.

2. Frame a photo

A framed picture of the recipient’s family, spouse, child or pet — or of the two of you together — can be a treasured gift. If you can’t decide on just one picture, make a small scrapbook or photo album. This is especially nice if you want to remember a special occasion, such as a birthday, anniversary or reunion.

3. Give something green

If you know the person enjoys plants, give him or her a small cutting from a houseplant you might already have in your home. Use a nice pot, or even decorate one yourself. This simple gift will keep growing year after year as a loving reminder of your relationship.

4. Create a sleepover gift certificate

If you have grandchildren, give them a handmade gift certificate for a “Super Sleepover” complete with movies, games and snacks of their choice. It’s a gift you’ll all enjoy together.

5. Give the gift of time

A gift doesn’t have to be tangible. Consider giving a gift certificate for an evening of free babysitting. Or, for people without children, make it an afternoon of help with errands, housekeeping or any other tasks that could make life easier for someone special.