50 Unique Last-Minute Christmas Gift Ideas (That Don’t Feel Last-Minute)

If you’re still hunting for the perfect gift, you’re definitely not alone. Almost half of shoppers (49%) say they do most of their holiday shopping in December. So even if you’re cutting it close, there’s absolutely no reason to panic-buy something forgettable.

This guide brings together 50 unique last-minute Christmas gifts that still feel thoughtful and personal. And because I try to avoid plastic whenever possible, you’ll find plenty of quality, well-made options that look special and actually last.

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts for Babies & Toddlers

Even if they won’t remember this Christmas, you’ll never forget it. These baby and toddler gifts are beautifully made, easy to love, and perfect for creating those first holiday moments you’ll want to hold onto. And because little ones explore the world by putting everything in their mouths, choosing toys made from safer, non-plastic materials really does make a difference. Think natural textures, soft finishes, and pieces that are built to last long after the wrapping paper is gone.

1. The Color Snake Wooden Rattle & Fidget Toy is a playful twist on classic baby toys—bright, flexible, and beautifully made from sustainably sourced beech wood. Each piece bends and moves on a soft elastic band, helping little hands build coordination and strength through natural play. Crafted with PEFC-certified wood and Fasal, and a plant-based alternative to plastic. $18
2. LOVEVERY Play Gym is the ultimate all-in-one for baby’s first year with sustainably sourced wooden legs, organic cotton teethers, a stage-based play mat, and thoughtfully designed activity zones that grow alongside your little one. Crafted for brain, motor, and sensory development, it’s the kind of premium investment that feels chic, meaningful, and built to last. $150
3. DJECO Farm Wooden Puzzle is the perfect first puzzle for little hands—and a beautiful introduction to sustainable play. Handcrafted from FSC-certified wood with a soft felt base, it features five charming farm animals designed by real artists, bringing creativity and storytelling to every playtime. $28
4. The DJECO Multi Sensory Wooden Shape Sorter is a fresh take on a classic toy—artfully designed and sustainably made from FSC-certified wood. Its colorful shapes and clever elastic back make playtime fun and tactile while helping little ones build problem-solving skills naturally. $40
5. PlanToys Wooden Baby Push Toy Car checks all the boxes for smart, minimalist baby gear made from sustainably harvested rubberwood, colored with organic pigments and water-based dyes, and designed to support both motor and sensory development. With its soft, flexible body and smooth wooden wheels, it encourages little ones to crawl, push, and explore while fitting seamlessly into a plastic-reduced, design-driven home. $18
6. Make bath time feel like a mini ocean adventure. This PlanToys Sea Life Bath Set—made from sustainably sourced rubberwood and eco-friendly PlanWood with non-toxic paints features easy-to-grip starfish, turtle, and dolphin shapes, plus a shell shape that pours and bubbles for simple, screen-free fun. $25
7. The PlanToys Rainbow Dancing Alligator is a cheerful, movement-boosting toy that makes every step more fun. Crafted from sustainable PlanWood with non-toxic, water-based paints, it wiggles and clacks as little ones pull it along, encouraging balance, coordination, and confident walking. Bright, sturdy, and thoughtfully made, it’s a playful favorite for curious toddlers. $30
8. HABA Magica Wooden Clutching Toy brings color, movement, and craftsmanship together in one clever design. Handcrafted in Germany from sustainably sourced beech wood and finished with non-toxic, water-based lacquers, it’s perfectly safe for little hands and mouths. The elastic threading lets babies twist, shake, and explore, helping develop early coordination and sensory awareness through play. $18
9. The Hape Bunny Stacker brings a sweet, modern touch to classic stacking play. Made from durable, child-safe wood with soft pastel rings and a wobbly base, it helps little ones practice balance, coordination, and fine motor skills. With a pull-string bunny tail that clicks and rings that jingle and flip, it’s as charming as it is developmental. $17
10. Mushie Dino Teething Ring brings comfort and style to teething days. Made from 100% food-grade silicone, it’s soft on gums and safe for little mouths, with playful dino shapes that invite touch and exploration. Designed in calming, earthy tones, it turns relief time into a moment of simple, modern play. $15

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts for Kids

Once kids are past the toddler stage, gifting gets a lot more fun—and a lot easier to personalize. This section is full of creative, open-ended toys and activities that spark imagination and keep little hands busy. These are the kinds of gifts kids actually use: the ones they build with, experiment with, and come back to long after the holidays are over.

1. The HABA Knuckling Knights 3D Board Game turns family game night into a medieval adventure. Crafted in Germany from sustainably sourced beech wood and finished with non-toxic, water-based colors, it combines storytelling, strategy, and laughter in one interactive castle setup. With two game modes—including the Dragon Spectacle—it’s designed to grow with your child, encouraging problem-solving, counting, and creativity through imaginative play. $40
2. Skip the plastic dolls and go for something timeless. The Tender Leaf Toys Doll Family is beautifully made from sustainable rubberwood, with flexible arms and legs that make play feel real and engaging. This diverse set includes four hand-painted wooden figures—a mom, dad, son, and daughter—crafted with care and character. $32
3. The HABA Basic Building Blocks Starter Set is a beautiful, heirloom-quality alternative to plastic blocks. Crafted in Germany from sustainably sourced beech wood, this 102-piece set inspires open-ended creativity while helping little ones develop coordination, problem-solving, and early STEM skills. Durable, timeless, and made to grow with your child, it’s a classic toy built for endless imagination and responsible play. $129
4. The DJECO Lili Rose’s Tea Party Set turns pretend play into something truly special. Made from 100% FSC-certified wood and designed by French artist Caroline Faup, it blends artful design with sustainable craftsmanship. With a full set of cups, saucers, and even a wooden cake to “slice,” it encourages storytelling, sharing, and creativity—all without a trace of plastic. $56
5. DJECO Wooden Tool Kit makes hands-on play both creative and meaningful. Crafted from 100% FSC-certified wood, it comes with beautifully designed tools sized just right for little builders. Kids can saw, hammer, and “fix” along with the included activity cards, building fine motor skills and imagination through play—all while learning the joy of making and mending. $40
6. Tender Leaf Toys Sunshine Baby Activity Walker is a beautifully designed first-steps companion that grows with your child. Made from sustainably sourced rubberwood and finished with non-toxic, water-based paints, it offers a mix of interactive features from spinning cogs to sliding bugs that keep little ones engaged while building confidence and coordination. With its built-in storage compartment and sturdy, artful design, it’s both a keepsake and a developmental essential for early walkers. $147
7. The Tender Leaf Toys Foxtail Villa is a stunning wooden dollhouse that blends timeless design with sustainable craftsmanship. Made from FSC-certified plywood and rubberwood, it’s finished with non-toxic, water-based paints and built to last through years of imaginative play. With opening shutters, a removable roof, and a complete set of starter furniture, it invites kids to create stories, decorate rooms, and build confidence through open-ended play. $258
8. Tender Leaf Toys Penny Windmill is a charming storybook-style playset that brings imagination to life. Crafted from sustainably sourced rubberwood and finished with non-toxic, water-based paints, it features a working windmill, a cozy mouse family, and tiny accessories that spark endless storytelling. Thoughtfully designed and beautifully detailed, it encourages language development, creativity, and gentle, nature-inspired play. $79
9. The PlanToys Cooking Utensils Playset invites little chefs to cook up big imagination. Made from sustainably harvested rubberwood and finished with non-toxic, water-based dyes, this five-piece set is perfectly sized for small hands. It’s a simple, beautifully made collection that encourages storytelling, motor skills, and eco-conscious play in the kitchen. $30
10. The DJECO World of Dinosaurs Multi-Activity Craft Kit is a dream for creative kids who love art and prehistoric creatures. Made with FSC-certified paper and non-toxic materials, it offers a variety of projects, including painting, scratch art, stamping, foil work, and 3D crafting, all designed by real artists. With hours of hands-on activities in one box, it’s an engaging way for kids to explore different art styles while building confidence and imagination. $50

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts for Her

When you’re shopping for her, the goal is simple: choose something she’ll genuinely enjoy and reach for often. This section highlights thoughtful, well-made pieces that feel special the moment she opens them and continue to bring joy long after the wrapping comes off.

1. I’ve been using the OSEA Undaria Body Oil for a couple of years now, and it’s one of those products I refuse to run out of. My skin always feels softer, smoother, and genuinely nourished after using it, and the light orange scent is so calming. Fun fact: orange actually stimulates the limbic system, which explains why it feels instantly relaxing every time I put it on. This Bestseller OSEA Set is such a great way to try (or gift!) their essentials. You get a mini Ocean Cleanser, Hyaluronic Sea Serum, Atmosphere Protection Cream, and, of course, the iconic body oil. It’s the perfect clean-beauty ritual in travel sizes, and honestly, once you try the oil, you’ll understand why I’m so loyal to it. $44
2. This Handmade Ceramic Incense Holder instantly brings warmth and calm to any space. Crafted in northern Peru using ancient Vicús techniques, each piece is burnished with river stones and fired without plastic or synthetic finishes. The matte brown finish feels earthy and soothing—and every holder supports artisans keeping a 2,000-year tradition alive. $60
3. The Birth Month Flower Heart Necklace is such a meaningful, everyday-wear piece. Each pendant holds real dried flowers encased in eco-friendly, plant-based resin, so your birth month blooms stay beautifully preserved. Finished with a 24k gold–plated chain and handmade in Colombia, it’s a thoughtful, artful gift for anyone who loves jewelry with a story. $50
4. I have this Caraway set in blue, and I’m genuinely obsessed—they’ve become my everyday pans. The ceramic non-stick surface is so smooth that cooking (and cleaning) feels effortless, and the colors are gorgeous. If blue isn’t your vibe, they have multiple shades to match any kitchen style. These pans are an investment, but if you’ve been holding off and your current set is scratched up or starting to peel, it’s definitely time to replace them. Caraway’s non-toxic, PTFE- and PFOA-free coating is worth every penny. $364
5. The Olive Oil Dipping Gift Set is such a beautiful, crowd-pleasing present—especially for anyone who loves hosting or experimenting in the kitchen. It comes with a robust organic extra-virgin olive oil (cold-pressed at peak ripeness in Spain), a curated selection of gourmet dipping spices, and those gorgeous deep-blue stoneware plates designed exclusively for Uncommon Goods. It’s one of those gifts that turns a simple loaf of bread into a whole moment, making home entertaining feel special without any effort. $68-$98
6. The Nebula Rainbow Bracelet is such a striking, one-of-a-kind piece—handmade with tiny glass orbs that each represent a different nebula. The colors shimmer in this perfect little cosmic rainbow, giving it that dreamy, art-meets-astronomy feel. Designed by independent artist Samantha Wal and made in the USA, it’s a beautiful gift for anyone who loves meaningful jewelry with a hint of star power. $60
7. The Repurposed Cotton Sari Robe is one of those gifts that feels both luxurious and meaningful. Each one is handmade from reclaimed sari fabrics by an artisan cooperative outside Rajasthan, giving new life to beautiful cotton textiles that would otherwise go unused. The colors and patterns are all one-of-a-kind, so no two robes are ever the same. Lightweight, soft, and perfect for lounging or travel, it’s the kind of piece that instantly makes downtime feel special while supporting women artisans and sustainable craft. $58
8. Grove Co. Soy Wax Candle has become one of my new holiday staples. I’ve always been picky about winter candles, but I decided to give this one a try—and I’m so glad I did. The fragrance is gorgeous and actually lasts, filling the room without being overpowering. Their Winter Grove scent transports you to a snowy evergreen forest, and the clean soy wax blend burns beautifully for 40+ hours. Plus, the glass jar is completely plastic-free and perfect for upcycling after the season. $18
9. The Repurposed Sari Carry-all Bag is such a fun, feel-good piece—bright, roomy, and completely one-of-a-kind. Each tote is handwoven in India from reclaimed sari fabric and jute, giving new life to beautiful textiles that would otherwise go unused. It’s sturdy enough for everyday errands, travel, or tossing in all your essentials, and every bag has its own unique color and pattern mix. It’s practical, eye-catching, and a great way to support sustainable craft. $59
10. If you have travel plans in the new year, this is such a great Christmas gift to start the season off right. The Pact Organic Cotton Sun Dress is one of those effortless pieces you can wear anywhere—soft, breathable, and made from 100% organic cotton that drapes beautifully. The relaxed fit and simple pull-on style make it perfect for airports, sightseeing, beach days, or just staying comfy at home. And if the French Navy isn’t your shade, it comes in several other colors and stripes, so you can pick the one that fits your vibe.$65

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts for Him

Guys can be tough to shop for, but these ideas make it a little easier. Each pick is practical, well-made, and something he can actually use. If you’re aiming for gifts that feel thoughtful without being over-the-top, this section keeps things simple with unique ideas.

1. If you want a gift with a bit of personality, this Original Grain Whiskey Espresso Barrel Watch is a great pick. It’s made from reclaimed whiskey barrels paired with espresso-plated stainless steel, so it feels rugged but still polished. The design has a nice weight, and the wood bezel gives it a warm, understated look. It comes in a wooden gift box too, which makes it feel extra special without trying too hard. $199
2. If you’re looking for a gift that feels cozy yet pulled together, the Quilted Colville Overshirt is an excellent option. It comes in a range of colors, so you can pick something that actually fits his style, whether he’s more neutral or likes a little contrast. The fabric is soft and lightweight, with a quilted feel, making it an easy layer over a tee on cooler days. And one thing I really love about this brand—they plant trees with every purchase, which adds a thoughtful touch to a gift he’ll wear all season. $108
3. The Golfer’s Wallet with Ball Marker is a clever little upgrade for anyone who spends weekends on the course. The slim vegan leather design includes a built-in ball marker on the money clip, a smooth pop-up card slot for easy access, and RFID blocking for extra security. It stays compact in the pocket and comes in black or brown. $79
4. The Grillmaster’s Cookout Caddy is such a clever gift for anyone who loves being in charge of the BBQ. It keeps all the essentials—spatulas, tongs, sauces, napkins—organized in one spot, so there’s no more running back and forth from the kitchen. I also love that you can personalize it with a name or phrase, which instantly makes it feel more thoughtful. The wooden design is sturdy, easy to carry, and even has a built-in bottle opener and paper towel holder. It’s one of those gifts that’s genuinely useful and fun at the same time. $65-$78
5. Is he looking to go plastic-free with his coffee? The Bialetti Mini Express Kandinsky Set is such a charming little upgrade. It brews an authentic Italian espresso right into the two included cups, which sit on a warming plate so your shot comes out piping hot. The design is all aluminum—no plastic parts—and the Kandinsky artwork gives it a playful, artsy touch that looks beautiful on the counter. $50-$55
6. Do you have a football fan on your list? The Interception! NFL Pint Glass is such a fun pick. It’s handmade, officially licensed, and features a metal football embedded in the side that looks like it just blasted through the glass. You can choose their favorite team, and the logo is etched right onto the pint, giving it a personalized feel without any extra effort. It’s a great watch-party glass and one of those gifts that always gets a reaction. $35
7. If you love hosting on game day, this College Football Stadium Serve Board is such a great way to show school pride. It’s officially licensed and carved in the shape of a football field, with plenty of space for snacks, dips, and all the finger foods that somehow disappear before halftime. You can choose your favorite team or alma mater, and the engraved details pull in the stadium’s look, making it feel extra special. It even comes with little wooden food picks shaped like footballs and field markers. It’s a fun, practical gift for superfans and home tailgaters alike. $75
8. The Coyuchi Organic Cotton Robe is one of those gifts that’s instantly appreciated. Made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton terry, it feels soft, breathable, and gentle on sensitive skin. The absorbent looped texture makes it great to slip into after a shower, and the unisex cut keeps it relaxed and comfortable without feeling bulky. It also comes in a few colors, so you can choose the one that fits their style. A cozy, practical upgrade they’ll use every day. $62
9. Sage green or white, the Lomi 3 is such a modern, unexpected Christmas gift—especially for anyone who loves a tidy kitchen or is trying to live a little more sustainably. It sits right on the counter and turns everyday food scraps into nutrient-rich dirt in as little as three hours. The 3-liter bucket is big enough for busy households, and it runs quietly in the background while you cook. $449
10. The House of Marley Get Together Duo Speakers are an excellent gift for anyone who appreciates good sound and good design. They deliver warm, rich audio, and the right speaker is portable with up to 20 hours of playtime. Made with bamboo and recycled materials, they look beautiful on a shelf and pair easily with Bluetooth—a thoughtful pick for music lovers who want style and sustainability in one. $170

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts for Friends

1. If you’ve got a friend who treats espresso martinis like a personality trait, this set will absolutely delight them. The Flavored Espresso Martini Gift Set comes with four infusion blends—Classic, Cocoa, Vanilla, and Cardamom—so they can mix up their own custom batches at home. It’s fun, thoughtful, and way more memorable than showing up with another bottle of wine. Perfect for cocktail lovers, hosts, and anyone who loves a little “Espress-OH!” in their life. $35
2. The retro-style tin is adorable; it burns cleanly, is vegan, and eco-friendly, making it an easy yes for gifting. If you have a friend who’s happiest on a trail or planning their next national park road trip, the National Park Candle is such a thoughtful little surprise. A specific park inspires each scent—so they can light it up and instantly feel transported to Glacier’s huckleberries, Yosemite’s cedarwood, or Acadia’s salty driftwood air. $26
3. If you want an actually valuable gift, this one’s a winner. The Ocean Bottle Big keeps drinks hot or cold for hours, comes in tons of gorgeous colors, and feels really well-made. I also love that each bottle funds the collection of 1,000 ocean-bound plastic bottles — such an easy way to give something thoughtful and sustainable at the same time. $49
4. This one is such a cute, feel-good gift. The A Tea for Every Situation Gift Set comes with eight organic blends, each with a funny little “life moment” attached — like Plotting Your Revenge, Running Late, or Too Tired to Fall Asleep. It’s playful, cozy, and actually functional, and the compostable tea bags are a nice sustainable touch. Perfect for a friend who loves a little self-care with a sense of humor. $40
5. The Birth Month Flower Grow Kit is one of those gifts that feels personal without being complicated. Each kit grows the flower tied to their birth month, from lavender to poppy to marigold, and it’s such a thoughtful way to celebrate someone without adding more “stuff” to their space. It even comes in a pretty glass bottle that they can reuse as a vase once it blooms. Simple, meaningful, and perfect for anyone who loves plants or sentimental gifts. $36
6. If you’re shopping for a cozy-drink lover, the Spicewalla Golden Milk Turmeric Latte Sampler is such a fun little gift. It comes with three blends — Classic Golden Milk, Chai-Spiced, and Golden Mocha — so they can make their own antioxidant-rich “liquid gold” at home. I love that Spicewalla makes everything in small batches, so the spices actually taste fresh instead of dusty. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and made with simple ingredients, which makes it an easy win for wellness lovers, foodies, or anyone who wants a warm nightly ritual. $26
7. If you love giving gifts that feel a little artsy and one-of-a-kind, these Segunda Vida Tortuga Hand-Blown Wine Glasses are a gorgeous pick. They’re made from recycled glass and hand-blown by Mexican artisans, so every pair has its own tortoise-shell pattern and warm, speckled glow. They feel sturdy in your hand, look beautiful on a dinner table or bar cart, and make even a simple glass of wine feel like a moment. $35
8. The Upcycled Bottle Serving Platter is such a cool, unexpected gift — especially for anyone who loves hosting or appreciates something with a little character. It’s made from a repurposed whiskey bottle, so it has that nostalgic, “story behind it” feel while still looking modern and sleek. You can use it for snacks, nuts, or olives, or set it out as a catch-all for keys and jewelry. $35
9. The Savannah Bee Company Winter White Whipped Honey is one of those little luxuries that instantly makes any moment feel a bit more special. This raw wildflower honey is whipped for days until it turns into a dreamy, creamy, frosting-like spread — it even has a subtle winter-spiced sweetness that feels so comforting. It’s pure, natural, and supports sustainable beekeeping, making it such a thoughtful little gift for anyone who loves cozy, elevated treats. $18
10. The Artisan Holiday Chocolate Truffles are pure festive magic. You get 12 hand-painted truffles — yes, literally painted by hand — in seasonal flavors like Crunchy Peppermint, Eggnog, and Mulled Wine. They feel luxurious the moment you open the box and make such a gorgeous treat for hosts, friends, or anyone who loves a little holiday indulgence. $40

Don’t Miss: Plastic-Free Living 👉 If this gift guide has you thinking more about what things are made of, click to read more. Read more →

Final Thoughts on Last-Minute Christmas Gifts

When you’re shopping late in the season, it’s easy to think the “good” gifts are long gone — but they’re not. Choosing something thoughtful doesn’t require weeks of planning. Meaningful gifting is really about finding items that feel personal, practical, and made to last.

That’s exactly what this list delivers. Many of these ideas skip the usual throwaway plastic and lean into better materials, timeless design, and things people truly use because a last-minute gift can still feel intentional when it’s something well-made and thoughtfully chosen.

And if you want even more inspiration, especially for gifts that support a lower-waste lifestyle, here are a few reader favorites:

• Plastic-Free Coffee Maker Guide: great for the coffee lovers on your list
• Best Barefoot Shoes: perfect for the wellness-minded friend who’s impossible to shop for
• Non-Toxic Makeup Brands: an excellent pick for anyone who loves clean beauty and wants safer, toxin-free makeup they can feel good about gifting (or receiving!)

🎄 Wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with cozy moments, meaningful gifts, and time with the people who matter most. Thanks for spending a little bit of your holiday season here with me — I’m so grateful for you.