47 Unique Last-Minute Gift Ideas for 2025

Are you looking for last-minute gift ideas for a birthday, anniversary, wedding or another special event? We all know that person who says “I really don’t need anything” or “You don’t need to get me anything.” Well, we all know that’s not going to happen.

So, how do you choose a useful and thoughtful (and possibly very last-minute) gift? Whether you’ve procrastinated, just found out about the event or simply don’t know what to get, this list is designed with a variety of occasions, budgets and interests in mind to help you pick out the perfect last-minute gift idea to please that special person. 

 Jump to Section

• Last-Minute Wedding Gift Ideas
• Last-Minute Birthday Gifts
• Last-Minute Anniversary Gifts
• Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Mom
• Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Dad
• Last-Minute Gift Ideas for the Pet Lover
• Last-Minute Gift Ideas for the Adventure Seeker
• FAQs

Last-Minute Wedding Gift Ideas

1. Foodie Gift Card

Foodie gift cards allow the recipient to choose from a variety of unique culinary experiences, like food tours, private chefs, hands-on cooking classes or even online classes. Cozymeal gift cards are available in any amount from $10 up and never expire. 

They can also be used in the Cozymeal Shop to purchase chef-recommended cookware and baking essentials, making this the best last-minute gift idea for weddings.

Price: Starting from $10

2. Towel Warmer

Bath towels are a given for wedding gifts. So why not give a special cozy gift that others may not have thought about? 

This Livefine towel warmer has a bucket-style design that can heat up two towels, a bathrobe and other cotton fabric items to a warm and cozy temperature. In the colder winter months, you’ll be their favorite person as they warm up post-shower (and no one needs to know this was a last-minute gift idea). 

Price: $139.99

3. Wine Aerator

Tuck the Viski – Summit Aerating Pour Spout in along with a nice bottle of red for the perfect last-minute hostess gift idea. The air-blending helix allows the wine to get contact with oxygen, maximizing flavor and minimizing drips.

This last-minute gift idea is not only useful, but it also gives the air of a high-quality restaurant experience, all from the comfort of home. Next time your recipients host a dinner party, they’ll be toasting your name, thanks to this practical wine gift that surely no one else will have thought of.

Price: $14.99

4. Monogrammed Steak Brand

Put a new take on the classic monogrammed wedding gift with this initial branding iron. This fun last-minute gift idea is perfect for grillmasters and steak lovers alike. It’s made from steel and can also be used on wood or leather.

As well as a last-minute gift idea for weddings, this piece is perfect for other significant occasions, such as a special birthday or graduation. 

Price: $41.71

5. Grow Your Own Bonsai Kit

As the special couple in your life embarks on their next chapter together, give them a last-minute gift idea that symbolizes new beginnings. A Grow Your Own Bonsai Kit gives the happy couple something to nurture together as they look to the future.

Including pots, trays, soil, fertilizer, seeds, markers and instructions, your loved ones will be able to easily grow four different bonsai varieties. These trees represent harmony, peace, strength, resilience, wisdom and longevity: all the things you wish for their marriage together.

Price: $35

6. Buy a Star

Give a wedding present that reaches new heights with this last-minute gift idea that’s sure to leave a twinkle in their eye. When you buy and name a star (or a pair of stars), you can choose the constellation and name of the star. 

The happy couple will then receive a certificate with these details and a star map to locate the exact point in the sky. There are few gifts you could give that are as romantic as this one!

Price: Starting from $29.95

7. State-Shaped Cutting Board

A fun gift for newlyweds is a personalized cutting board/serving tray in the shape of their home state (or anywhere else they hold dear). Choose a location that sums up your special couple for a last-minute gift idea that will always have significance to them.

Made from high-quality wood, and with exquisite carved detail, this gift is sure to become a treasured heirloom. A thoughtful last-minute gift idea like this will be put proudly on display or holding hors d’oeuvres at their next party.

Price: Starting from $30

Last-Minute Birthday Gifts

8. Cooking Classes

Do you have a friend who loves to bake, grill, roast or sauté the day away? Give them the gift of newfound culinary skills! 

There are chef-led cooking classes in Denver, cooking classes in New Orleans, cooking classes in Hanoi and beyond that make for perfect last-minute gift ideas for foodies. Explore all cooking classes near you today, or find a live online cooking class they can do from the comfort of home.

Price: Starting from $29

9. Streaming Service

A subscription to a streaming service (think: Disney+, Netflix, Paramount+ and more) is a unique birthday gift and one of the best last-minute gift ideas to present to that friend or family member who loves the latest binge-worthy series, new movies and live sports. 

It’s truly the gift that keeps on giving as, every month, their subscription renews and they remember what a great gift-giver you are. It also means they’ll stop “borrowing” your login — so everyone is happy!

Price: $7.99-$17.99 per month 

10. Acupressure Mat and Pillow

Do you have a friend or family member who is always complaining about their back and seeking expensive massages? With hundreds of spike-like nodes on the Gaiam acupressure mat and pillow, the user receives pinpointed pressure to the back, neck and head. 

While stimulating blood flow, it helps ease away aches, pain and soreness while increasing circulation and reducing stress and tension. With this last-minute gift idea, no nails are necessary (you’re welcome).  

Price: $29.98

11. Baked Goods Delivery

Order up a gift of mini cupcakes or other baked goods from a local bakery for the ultimate birthday treat (or any other special occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness). The bite-sized treats will come packaged for easy transportation or storage. 

This last-minute gift idea still feels like a thoughtful, considered choice, even if you only ordered them a day in advance. Nothing says “We love you!” or “Congratulations” like cake appearing in the mail — but we can’t guarantee the birthday person will share.

12. Disney Parks Cookbook

From Dole Whips and Mickey pretzels to churros, frozen lemonade and “Star Wars” blue milk, this cookbook is packed full of creative Disney-themed recipes. So whether they’re hosting a Disney birthday party, or they just like to add playful touches to their everyday meals, this last-minute gift idea will spark instant joy.

For an extra-special touch, write a thoughtful message in the front and fold down the pages of the dishes you think they’ll love. The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook is a last-minute gift idea that will make that Disney lover in your life the happiest person on Earth.

Price: $21.99

13. Bread Proofing Basket

Mrs. Anderson’s Round Bread Proofing Basket is a nice choice for the bread-baking birthday person. An essential tool for helping softer bread dough stay stable while rising, it has a coiled design that will add rustic texture to any bread creation.

This is one of those last-minute gift ideas that shows you care and know just what your baking buddy will love. It’s so useful, and guarantees such a delicious loaf, that they’ll wonder how they lived so long without one!

Price: $34.95

14. Charitable Donation

If your best bud says they have everything they need, you can consider a charitable donation in their name. Ideas range from health and medical research charities to conservation, disaster and environmental organizations. 

You could consider donating to the Red Cross, Save the Manatees, Make-A-Wish, Doctors Without Borders and more — choose a cause that you know they feel passionately about. Charities.Org is a great place to start to find a perfect last-minute gift idea for donations.

Price: The sky’s the limit!

Last-Minute Anniversary Gifts

15. Private Chef Experience  

Who wouldn’t want a gourmet chef to come in and prepare a multi-course meal complete with candlelight and wine? If you’re looking for last-minute gift ideas that take all the work out of a romantic dinner, or a special first anniversary gift to remember, this is for you. 

Top-rated chefs handle all of the shopping, cooking and even the kitchen clean-up. Check out private chefs in San Diego, private chefs in Austin or other private chefs near you to pick out a romantic and delicious menu for your next anniversary gift. It would also make a nice wedding gift for newlyweds, once all the excitement is over.

Price: Starting from $55

16. Food Tours

Food tours are an excellent last-minute gift idea; they allow you to explore the culinary scene in your own locale or wherever you might be visiting. Help the city you’re in come alive by immersing yourself in the authentic cuisine of the area.

Check out food tours near you to find local selections. Food tours in San Francisco, for example, take you through the Mission District and Chinatown, or you could visit Greenwich Village, Brooklyn and Hell’s Kitchen via food tours in NYC.

Price: Starting from $55

17. Virtual Wine Tasting

Surprise your sweetie with a virtual wine tasting. This is one of the best last-minute gifts for wine lovers that feels special but without the weeks of planning beforehand. 

They’ll learn about international wines, food pairings and wine history while sipping red, white and rosé varieties, from sweet to dry flavors. This one is high on our list of best last-minute gift ideas for girlfriends and wives.

Price: Starting from $25

18. Star Map

This custom star map by date shows how the stars aligned on a specific date. It’s then personalized with names as well as the chosen date and location to mark a significant period in time in a piece of artwork forever. Whether it’s a wedding date, engagement date or some other special event, the recipient is sure to love this unique, long-lasting and sentimental last-minute gift idea.

Price: Starting from $4.78

19. Chocolate Gift Box

This Godiva Classic Gold Assorted Chocolate Gift Box features assorted milk and dark chocolates, beautifully presented and all ready to give. Sure, the last-minute gift idea of chocolates might not be that original, but have you ever been less than delighted when someone presented you with a box of artisan chocolates? 

It's the best of the best and will ensure the recipient feels they’re being treated to something extra special — after all, it’s something they’re unlikely to buy for themselves.

Price: Starting from $22

Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Mom

20. Fino Pour-Over Glass Coffee Maker

Does the coffee-lover in your life spend a small fortune on takeout coffee shop coffee each month? It’s an easy habit to fall into which is why they’ll be grateful for this dreamy last-minute gift idea: the Fino Pour-Over Glass Coffee Maker. Help them save money and make their own delicious, shop-standard coffee every day.

With its high-heat glass, bamboo handle and stainless steel collar, this last-minute gift idea is built to survive wear and tear. This coffee maker works by allowing a thin stream of water to slowly wash over medium ground coffee beans, resulting in a cup that's bursting with flavor every time.

Price: $49.50

21. Waterproof Speakers

If Mom enjoys a bubble bath with background music, she’ll appreciate this last-minute gift for her: the soothing sounds of this JBL waterproof speaker. It features 20 hours of battery life and can be connected to up to two smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth. 

Along with being waterproof, this last-minute gift idea is also dustproof (what mom wouldn’t love that?) She can take it outdoors, to the beach or the waterpark without worrying about rain or the occasional splash of water or sand.

Price: $179.95

22. Tea Leaf Reading Cup and Saucer

If you’re looking for a gift that taps into your mom’s witchy side, look no further. If she’s always checking the horoscopes in magazines, throwing salt over her shoulder and following other superstitions then this Tea Leaf Reading Cup and Saucer might just be the perfect last-minute gift for her. 

With this celestial patterned tea set, and the handy guidebook that comes with it, Mom will be telling everyone’s fortunes in no time — so be careful how you treat her or she might just use this last-minute gift idea to predict something you don’t want to hear!

Price: $35

23. Wine Escape Room

Does your mom love wine? Does she love puzzles? Then there’s only one last-minute gift idea you need for the perfect present this birthday, anniversary or Christmas. 

The Wine Escape Room is a thrilling, head-scratching experience: the user has to solve a series of riddles and puzzles to unlock the delicious bottle of wine inside (not included). This last-minute hostess gift idea is also great for a group games night so mom can share with her friends, too.

Price: $25.99

24. Beach Lounge Chair and Cargo Cart Combo

If you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. However, rest assured that our editorial team recommends only the best products through independent research, selection and careful review. Prices are subject to change.

This 2-in-1 beach lounger cargo cart is a unique and useful last-minute gift idea for a mom (or anybody, really) who needs some help with all the towels, sunscreen, beach toys and whatnot. A 2-in-1 design eliminates the need to add a chair to the cart for solo beach trips. It’s also great for soccer games, gardening and trips to the park.

Price: $124.99

25. Essential Oil Diffuser

An essential oils diffuser is a top pick last-minute gift idea for her: give the gift of freshness and transportive scent every time your favorite woman walks into a room.  

An alternative solution to synthetic room fresheners and scented candles, diffusers burn up to eight hours and provide cool steam with no heat involved. Just add tap water and a few drops of essential oils for the experience of a spa day at home.

26. Etsy Gift Card

An Etsy gift card makes a great last-minute gift idea for the hard-to-shop-for person on your list. They can choose handmade jewelry, pottery, textiles, art and much more.  

Not only will they find a personal gift that they’re sure to love, but they’ll also be supporting smaller businesses and local artisans which makes this a last-minute gift idea that’s good for the soul, as well as the recipient.    

Price: Starting from $25

27. Decorative Rolling Pin

Mrs. Anderson’s Paisley Design Rolling Pin imprints Mom’s best sugar cookies, fondant and shortbread with a stylish paisley print. Give her a gift that she’ll have fun with but will also add a professional finishing touch to any bake she uses it on. 

Made from European beechwood, this last-minute gift idea for moms has a laser-etched surface to make beautiful designs on everything from pasta to pastry. This gift is sure to beat her standard rolling pin any day. 

Price: $32.95

28. Mason Cash Pie Dish

The Mason Cash 10” Pie Dish is a last-minute gift idea that will make Mom’s apple pie look as pretty as it is delicious. It’s made from scratch-resistant stoneware that’s microwave, dishwasher and freezersafe. 

A raised forest-inspired design gives a nostalgic, Nordic touch, and there’s even a rim for perfect pastry crimping. This gift also gives Mom the perfect excuse to bake your favorite pie every time you visit: it’s win/win!

Price: $33

29. Hair Dryer and Volumizer Combo

Mom can blow dry and volumize in one step with the Revlon One-Step hair dryer and volumizer. Give her the gift of time spent on herself — something every woman craves more of. 

The oval brush design smooths hair while the rounded edges create volume at the roots and ends. There are two heat/speed settings, a cool button and an ION generator to help hair dry fast and reduce heat damage. This last-minute gift idea is sure to deliver a pampering experience she wouldn’t treat herself to. 

Price: $59.99

30. Makeup Brush Sanitizer

The Brushean Makeup Brush Sanitizer stores and sanitizes up to seven brushes. UV-C light and ozone technology kill up to 99.9% of viruses and bacteria to keep all germs away. 

The make-up loving mom in your life will adore this last-minute gift idea to help them keep on top of their make-up brushes, and ensure a clean, fresh complexion every day with little fuss. You could even treat them to some new eyeshadows or lipsticks, for the perfect present. 

Price: $89

Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Dad

31. Online Mixology Classes  

Online mixology classes are a unique last-minute gift idea your dad will always remember. He can brush up his mixing, stirring and shaking skills while learning how to create delicious combinations of liqueur, mixers and garnishes.

Give him the perfect excuse to dust his shaker off and craft delicious cocktails every time you visit — with a last-minute gift idea this good, he’ll be naming one of his creations after you in no time. 

Price: Starting from $25

32. Whiskey Tasting  

For last-minute Father’s Day gifts for dads who enjoy a sip of whiskey, give a whiskey tasting experience. Classes cover food pairings, distilling methods and flavor profiles from around the world. 

With this last-minute gift idea, he will be able to spice up the next get-together with a newfound knowledge of advanced cocktails and varieties such as bourbon, scotch, rye and Irish whiskey. When it comes to after-dinner tipples, Dad will be the expert — cheers!

Price: Starting from $25

33. Moscow Mule Mug Set

Once Dad perfects his Moscow mule-making skills, he will need the right vessels to serve them in. This elegant set of two Moscow Mule Cocktail Mugs is the ideal last-minute gift idea, containing two 16oz. polished copper-plated mugs — perfect for serving the vodka-based cocktail, or any other drink he rustles up.

The metal keeps iced drinks colder for longer, so is perfect for mojitos, caipirinhas and crushed-ice mocktails. Ideal for a last-minute Father’s Day gift, Dad will be opening his own cocktail bar in the garage before you know it!

Price: $39.50

34. Bluetooth Headphones Headband

Does your special guy struggle to get the sleep he needs? Perhaps he travels a lot or just needs help zoning out from his busy, noisy life? If you want to give the gift of true rest and relaxation, look no further.

A set of SleepPhones is a last-minute gift idea that combines a comfy headband with top-of-the-range headphones. The Bluetooth function also hooks up to your phone so you can plan whatever you like through the headphones, all whilst blocking out external noise. Peace at last! 

Price: Starting from $39.95

35. Men’s Home Spa Kit

Why should it be only women who get spoiled with pampering kits for special occasions? This last-minute gift idea gives dads permission to have a little well-deserved “me time”, too.

Create a home spa kit for your dad (or even husband, brother or son) so they can enjoy a range of self-care goodies, such as detoxing bath salts, massage oils, organic soap, cologne, moisturizer and a loofah. Give the gift of relaxation and it’s sure to be one they’ll relish.

36. Fish Flip Flops

Comfortable and flexible, these fish flip flops are a great last-minute gift idea for the fun and frivolous father who likes to make a statement (whatever that statement might be).

A bit silly and certainly eye-catching, these flip flops in the shape of fish are a perfect joke gift for dads who love to go fishing or have a vacation to the ocean planned this year. And he might just be surprised by how comfy they are.

Price: Starting from $23.99

37. Death Star Cheeseboard Set

Indulge Dad’s love of everything “Star Wars” with a Death Star cheeseboard set. Made from rubberwood and stainless steel, the split-level design swivels open to reveal four stainless steel tools: a cheese cleaver, a cheese planer, a fork-tipped cheese knife and a hard cheese knife/spreader. How many last-minute gift ideas tick both the sci-fi and cheese box? 

Price: $44.19

38. Wireless Charger

If Dad is always misplacing his charger (or having it “borrowed” by family members), this fast wireless charger makes a useful last-minute gift idea. High-speed and compatible with Apple and Android, it doubles as a hands-free phone stand for portrait and landscape orientation.

Price: $15.19

39. Sushi-Making Kit

Does your dad have a passion for Japanese food, but has never had the confidence to make it himself (leading to a lot of over-priced takeout)? This last-minute gift idea allows dad to roll their own sushi — but with the helpful input of an ebay-to-follow kit. 

The Global Grub DIY Sushi Kit is the perfect present for dads who love the freshness and health benefits of sushi, but don’t know how to make it themselves. The kit comes with all the ingredients: sushi rice, nori, rice vinegar powder, sesame seeds, wasabi powder, a rolling mat, cooking instructions, shopping guide and even drink pairing suggestions. 

Price: $34.99

40. Zwilling Edge Combination Japanese Water Stone

Does your dad have a much-loved knife collection? Or perhaps every time you visit and try to do some food prep, you notice how blunt every knife in the drawer is? Make way for the perfect last-minute gift idea: the Zwilling Edge Combination Japanese Water Stone. 

Used by professionals and home chefs alike, it sharpens knives to a brilliant gleam. No pre-soaking is required so it’s a quick and easy kitchen tool your dad will wonder how he did without for so long.

Price: $89.95

41. Ryobi Glue Gun

This last-minute gift idea isn’t your typical artsy-craftsy glue gun. The Ryobi ONE+ cordless glue gun is built for tough tasks like upholstery, home repair projects and attaching pieces of wood together for sanding. We bet it’ll even hold on to those googly eyes as well — the perfect last-minute gift idea for the DIY lover in your life.

Price: $34.99

Last-Minute Gift Ideas for the Pet Lover

42. Dog Biscuit Pan

If you need a last-minute Christmas gift idea for an animal lover, there are plenty of options! Pet parents can make healthy treats for their favorite pooch with the Nordic Ware Puppy Love Pan Mold. Made of aluminum, this last-minute gift idea can make 16 dog biscuit-shaped treats.

Price: $41.95

43. Pet Subscription Box

The BarkBox subscription box is a great last-minute gift idea for any dog lover. Each month, they’ll get a box filled with treats, toys and other fun things. You can even do an e-gift card to make it extra easy-peasy for your loved one to choose the subscription type they want for themselves.

Price: Starting from $35

44. Dog DNA Test

The Embark Breed DNA Test for dogs makes a unique last-minute gift idea for pet lovers. A simple cheek swab can help identify ancestry and genetic markers of more than 350 dog breeds. The kit includes the DNA swab, DNA stabilizing solution and return shipping packaging.

Price: Starting from $84

Last-Minute Gift Ideas for the Adventure Seeker

45. Reusable Water Bottle

Whether it’s water or that morning cup o’ joe, the double-walled stainless-steel construction of the Hydro Flask keeps cold things cold and hot things hot. It holds 32oz. and has a wide lid with an attached straw.

So wherever they’re heading on their next adventure, whether it’s outdoor yoga, a hike into the wilderness or the equally challenging morning school run, consider the last-minute gift idea of a stylish and functional drinks receptacle. 

Price: $44.95

46. Solar Charger 

Capture power and charge on the go with a handy portable solar charger. It’s the perfect last-minute gift idea for camping, boating, hiking or power outages at home. 

Durable and waterproof, most solar chargers have two USB ports which are compatible with smartphones and an LED light. Give your loved one the gift of power on the move (and the peace of mind that they’re doing their bit for the environment, too).

41. Personal Locator Beacon

Safety comes first when traveling the backcountry and off-the-grid places. If your giftee is an extreme explorer or solo sailor, this buoyant personal locator beacon is a safe and essential last-minute gift idea for them. 

It uses GPS and Galileo GNSS communications to track whereabouts if lost anywhere in the world. It’s rugged, compact and works on land, sea and air. Features include global coverage, strobe, infrared strobe and a digital display to make a reliable last-minute gift idea for the adventurer in your life.

Price: $439.95

The next time you’re tasked with the dilemma of coming up with a last-minute gift idea, take a deep breath and consider some of the items on our list. Whether it’s Mom, Dad, your best friend from second grade or another special person, they’re sure to enjoy, appreciate and actually use any of these last-minute gift ideas.

For more last-minute gift ideas, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.