last-minute gifts for christmas

Last-Minute Gifts for People Who Show Up Unannounced

You know it always happens. Somebody’s cousin’s uncle shows up at your home with a tag-along. An old boyfriend from college or a stray co-worker who thought flying standby on Christmas Eve was a good idea. You know, some nincompoop you probably don’t know and definitely didn’t invite.

Well here are some last-minute gifts you can have on hand so everyone feels included. Even if you begrudge giving them the last piece of sweet potato pie!

UPDATED FOR 2023

Last-Minute Gifts for Stragglers

gift cards for last minute gifts

 

Gift Cards

These are great because they’re gender neutral, spend anywhere and take up virtually no space in your home.

  • Visa Gift Card – Cold, hard (electronic) cash. It’s self-explanatory.
  • Amazon Gift Card – You’re free to choose denominations from $50-$2000 which can be used for anything available on Amazon.

diptyque candle in berry for hostess gift

 

Fancy Candles

Scented or unscented, candles for holiday gifts are perfect. We can all use a little more warm light during the cold, dark winter nights.


last-minute gifts stocking stuffers

 

Health & Beauty Sets

Perfect travel-sized items that also double as stocking stuffers.


last-minute gifts caramel truffles

 

 

Food & Other Useful Stuff

 


This list of last minute gifts for stragglers and other unexpected guests covers a lot of bases. You’ve got food, lotions & potions, and straight up cash. What else does one need?

What are some of the go-to stocking stuffers and spare gifts you keep on hand? Do tell! And don’t forget to share this post with your last-minute shopper friends!

Happy Holidays!


RELATED GIFT GUIDES 

    • Gift Guide: Spoil Him This Year, Gifts for Guys

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6 Comments

  1. Great ideas!! I need to remember to always to something like this on hand. It’ll also relieve the stress of a hostess give for a last-minute invite.

  2. Having a spare gift is such a smart idea. We learned the hard way when we had to scramble out the other night before a last minute dinner we were invited to. Although I must say, if I had some champagne bears around the house, they would be MINE! lol

    1. Patranila says:

      I know right! I could never give them away. 😉

    1. Patranila says:

      Yes! They’re great! Happy New Year!

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