Last-Minute Holiday Gift Guide: Things That People Will Actually Like

So you completely forgot to buy something nice for your boss, and come to think of it, your father-in-law and your sweet neighbor from down the hall, too. Failing at the gift-giving game is bound to put you on the holiday blacklist, but as many holiday miracles go, all hope isn’t lost for you yet. 

Gift options for last-minute shoppers have improved, with brands coming up with a multitude of items perfect for this purpose. The trick is to pick out things that are either practical or novelty; neutral things that easily fit into someone’s home or routine, while playful picks can be valued just for being fun to have.

Without further ado, check out these great last-minute holiday shopping finds. 

Novelty gifts 

1) Merge Cube 

Granted, the Merge Cube is marketed to students as an AR/VR educational tool. But adults can enjoy this incredibly futuristic gadget too, especially when they need small breaks from work, chores, or just want to learn about the world in new and exciting ways. People in your life who collect oddities and cool toys, science fans, or are tech-savvy will love this gift.

2) HP Sprocket photo printer 

Enter: the 21st century version of the beloved Polaroid. HP managed to play on our nostalgia over hard copy photos, giving us this nifty little printer that prints images straight from a smartphone or tablet. It’s easy to set up and is small enough to fit into an at-home work station yet its payoffs are huge.

3) Acupuncture massage set

Do you want to give someone an acupuncture foot mat, head and neck pillow, or pressure point slippers? For someone really special, maybe even a complete set with all of the above. Anyone will appreciate an at-home spa experience that delivers comparable results and eases them into a state of ultimate relaxation. 

Practical gifts 

1) Tatami chair 

A gift to make someone’s living room or any shared recreational space cozier is always a good idea. It’s not hard to find a place for a tatami chair, a Japanese-style mat-and-chair in one that makes sitting on the floor more comfortable, or lounging more fun. They come in different materials too, like wood, rattan, cushion, or a stylish combo of these.  

2) Hard case organizer 

There are a ton of brands that make this product in different styles. Great for travel, work, and keeping small items at home tidy, a hard shell organizer will always be appreciated. (Pro tip: The kind with a divider that also has multiple compartments is highly recommended. You can also check out the varieties with valet trays for easy access to items that are frequently used, like pens, flash drives, keys, and change). 

3) Pro-grade food storage 

Pyrex’s glass storage containers with rubber lids are a best-seller because they keep food in the fridge fresher for longer. They can serve as lunch sets to take to the office or school, are safe for microwave heating, and safely preserve both wet and dry food items. They're essentials that everyone needs, but aren't frequently purchased for oneself. 

Now, just keep it cool and no one will ever know that these were rush purchases!