33 Last-Minute Christmas Gifts for the Whole Family
We know the holiday season is hectic—especially with kiddos. We also know that it’s easy to procrastinate (or even forget) about buying presents. But don’t sweat it—we’ve got you covered with present picks for the entire family. This gift guide is your one-way ticket to a stress-free festive season. We’ve pulled out all the stops and gathered the best last-minute Christmas gifts for moms, dads, kids and grandparents to ensure everyone receives something they love by December 25th.
Even the most organized shopper may bump up against a few logistical obstacles from time to time. Our top tips? Tick the major items off your list as soon as possible and don’t forget to check holiday delivery calendars and order deadlines carefully. Shoppers can also avail of expedited shipping options on Amazon and via big-box retailers like Target. And, when it’s super-last minute, consider a gift you can send over email. A virtual gift is a great option for faraway friends and family, as it’s guaranteed to be delivered safely and can be just as special as a traditional present (especially if you send one of our suggestions).
Ready to start your search? Check out our favorite last-minute holiday gift ideas for everyone on your list below.
Baby brain is real, so we’ve come prepared with a list of last-minute holiday gifts for your little one—just in case you forgot to pick something up, or decide you should add just one more gift to the collection under the tree.
Developmental play kit
A Best of Baby award-winner for three years running, Lovevery’s subscription kits come packed with playthings for baby. Each box features age-appropriate toys made from sustainably sourced wood and 100-percent organic fabrics that are designed to engage your child in exploration and developmental play. Plus, the boxes come right to your door each month, making them an ideal last-minute Christmas gift that will keep on giving beyond the holiday season.
Plush infant elephant robe
How cute is this soft, snuggly elephant bathrobe? It’s made from a plush fleece fabric that’s gentle on sensitive baby skin and is super-affordable to boot. There’s a wide range of adorable animal designs to choose from, including a holiday-themed penguin, a panda and a duck. Better yet, Amazon Prime users can avail of free, two-day shipping with this product.
Musical toy for baby
Christmas shopping for the little groover in your life? Look no further than this interactive musical toy for baby. DJ Bouncin’ Beats bops along to more than 75 songs, sounds and phrases, and features colorful lights that baby is sure to enjoy. Best of all? Thanks to speedy shipping from Target, you still have time to get this standout toy before December 25th. Same-day delivery and in-store pickup options are also available in select locations.
Super-soft puppy blanket
This super-soft lovey from Jellycat is perfect for cuddles during the holiday season and beyond. A sweet, plush pup holds onto one of the blanket’s corners so baby can easily carry and hug it. Nordstrom offers free shipping and in-store pickup options—plus, you can even have it gift-wrapped!
Curated gift box for baby
Take the stress out of Christmas shopping with Honey Bug’s holiday gift bundles. Their gift-wrapped boxes include top-quality toys like a stuffed animal by Mon Ami and puzzle blocks by PlanToys. We can’t get enough of the Early Learner set, which consists of fun picks like an organic crinkle toy, illustrated flash cards and a ribbed cotton footie. Better yet, Honey Bug offers next-day delivery—phew!
Peek-a-boo animated bunny
This animated bunny is perfect for infants who are beginning to imitate and interact with the world around them. Just press the plush toy’s paw to start a game of peek-a-boo or to play music that baby and bunny can dance to together. Thanks to Amazon’s super-speedy shipping options, you can have this cute toy under your tree in no time.
As toddlers’ personalities develop, so do their ever-shifting likes and dislikes, which can make it hard for parents hoping to buy presents well in advance of the holidays. Luckily, there are tons of last-minute Christmas gifts that cater to every whim and fancy. From sporty toys to imaginative playthings, here are a few awesome items you can buy for your tot just in the nick of time.
Toddler STEM play kit
Help toddlers learn through play with this research-backed toy-subscription service. Every two months, a box will arrive on the doorstep filled with age-appropriate toys, parenting tips and fun activities to try. Choose between a single box or an ongoing monthly subscription—either way, it’s a great last-minute holiday gift for baby that you can buy online. From now until the end of 2022, enjoy 50 percent off your first month’s subscription to any KiwiCo crate with code THEBUMP.
Doctor-themed play set
This top-rated play set is so good, no one would ever guess you bought it at the last minute. The kit features all the tools of the medical trade, so your little one can set up their very own imaginary doctor’s office. For animal-loving tots, there’s also a cute vet-themed set available. Opt to click and collect at a nearby Target store, or use the same-day delivery service.
Book subscription service for tots
Little Feminist offers another awesome subscription gift for toddlers. Suitable for newborns to 9-year-olds, the book club includes age-appropriate books that teach little learners about diversity, inclusivity and empathy. It’s super easy to sign up online, and once your subscription begins, your kiddo will receive a new book (or two!) every month.
Eco-friendly bath toy
When it comes to buying last-minute holiday gifts, Walmart is one of our go-tos, thanks to their wide variety and quick-delivery options. We especially like this colorful floating tugboat toy that’ll make time in the tub more fun. This bath toy has a wide spout to scoop, pour and play with water, plus it’s made from 100-percent recycled plastic milk containers, so it’s good for the environment too.
Toddler activity center
Energetic tots will go wild for this sports activity center. The toy has a soccer net and basketball hoop, so your little one can exercise their fine motor skills while counting their points on the scoreboard. Bonus features include interactive buttons that introduce shapes, numbers and catchy tunes. And thanks to Target’s variety of shipping and pick-up options, this last-minute Christmas gift will arrive right in time for the festivities.
Shopping for a preschooler or a slightly older child? Any kid would be excited to unwrap these timeless and unique toys. Want more shopping inspiration? Check out our holiday gift guide for kids.
Travel-themed subscription service
This subscription program lets your kids “travel” by getting mail every month from mascots Sam and Sofia. They’ll send curated boxes of toys and activities—including cute little play passports —inspired by a different country every month. Your child will be excited to see where they go next. Who says a last-minute Christmas gift can’t be just as special as one you ordered months ago?
Customized children's book
A personalized book is a failsafe present for kids, and Wonderbly has a ton of cute customized stories to choose from. We like this search-and-find extravaganza, created for kids between the ages of 4 and 10. Little readers will embark on a quest to spot different versions of themselves scattered across six alternative universes. Move over Waldo, there’s a new explorer in town! Order this book by December 16th, and it’ll arrive right in time for Christmas.
Disney streaming subscription
There’s a whole bunch of family-friendly content on Disney+, not to mention plenty of kid-centric shows and movies your little one will love. From Marvel and Muppets to Pixar and Pinocchio (and all the other classic Disney movies), your child will find plenty to stimulate their imagination and keep them entertained. Not to mention, it’s a super-easy holiday gift you can buy online—no waiting time necessary.
Wooden play set
Choo-choo! We’re all aboard with this last-minute Christmas gift idea for kids. The set includes a train track and a log cabin for endless play possibilities. There’s nothing like a toy that stimulates your toddler’s imagination and develops their fine motor skills at the same time. Oh, and did we mention that you can get free two-day shipping if you're an Amazon Prime member? Score!
Digital learning game for kids
Designed for children between the ages of 3 and 5, Osmo’s Little Genius Starter Kit merges the digital and real world with great results! The device attaches to a tablet, transforming it into an early-learning tool that teaches kids pre-literacy and phonics skills. As kids watch the lesson on screen, they manipulate the physical pieces to play the game. It has four distinct learning modes and allows parents to track their child's progress on a handy app. With so many features and hours of fun to be had, this last-minute Christmas gift idea is one of the best we’ve seen.
Floating polar bear toy
Bring some wintery fun to the bath with this floating polar bear toy, which doubles as a ring-toss game. Who needs to go to the carnival when there’s a tub to play in? Talk about a cute, last-minute gift idea for kids that’ll ship and show up fast.
Once you’ve ticked all the kids off your shopping list, it’s time to turn your attention to the other VIPs in your life—including moms, of course! Whether you’re shopping for a new mom or an expectant mother, here are the best gifts that you can order up until the last moment.
Digital spa gift card
E-gift cards make excellent last-minute Christmas gifts—especially when it’s a voucher for a day of pampering! Purchase a digital gift card from Spa Week, and the mom in your life will have access to a network of 9,000 spas nationwide. Services include massages, facials, manicures and more. Print it out and pop it in a greeting card or send her the voucher by email.
Monthly bouquet subscription
Give her the gift of fresh-cut flowers with UrbanStems subscription service. Choose your preferred style, and Mom will receive a beautiful bouquet each month. It’s truly a last-minute Christmas gift that keeps on giving.
Digital family cooking class
How about an online cooking class? This last-minute Christmas gift for mom can be enjoyed by the whole family, as expert chefs teach participants new skills from the comfort of their own kitchens. Genius! Plus, there's a range of seasonal classes on offer that teach everything from making homemade eggnog to baking up winter cookies.
Skincare gift set
Is the mom in your life obsessed with skincare? If so, this set is an ideal last-minute Christmas gift. It contains four products with hydrating formulas that will keep skin happy and healthy during dry winter months. Plus, Sephora offers same-day delivery and in-store pickup options for your convenience.
Fitness app subscription
For the parent whose New Year’s resolution is bound to involve getting in shape (aka all of us), a subscription to the fitness app Aaptiv is a great last-minute holiday gift. The app offers access to audio recordings of thousands of guided workout classes led by professional trainers, and features hundreds of different workout types—from running to yoga—for every type of fitness level.
Dads can be hard to buy for—especially if you’re scrambling to find them a gift at the very last second. But never fear—the Bump team is here to help. Below, a selection of awesome last-minute holiday gifts dads will adore.
Coffee club subscription
If Dad enjoys a nice cup of coffee, look no further than Atlas Coffee Club for a buzz-worthy last-minute holiday gift. Atlas sources premium beans from farmers worldwide, supporting ethically sustainable farming practices. Eco-conscious and delicious? This present is a win-win. The starter pack includes single-source coffee alongside flavor notes, brew tips and postcards from each country of origin. It’s a thoughtful gift that’s sure to brighten long winter mornings.
Athleticwear gift card
Why not treat him to some fresh workout clothes? Outdoor Voices has a fabulous range of men’s sports accessories and apparel. Give the gift of choice with an email voucher that’ll be delivered instantly.
Silver sports watch
A new watch is sure to bring a smile to Dad’s face—especially if it’s this classic style by Tommy Hilfiger. Opt for two-day shipping on Amazon to ensure it arrives on time for the big day.
Wine subscription gift
Next up is a last-minute Christmas gift for wine connoisseurs: A subscription to Winc wine club. Dad can select his preferred flavor profile, and enjoy a curated selection of bottles delivered each month. Plus, this gift can be sent to his inbox bright and early Christmas morning—no wrapping paper needed!
Heated back massager
How cool is this heated neck and back massager? It has eight deep-tissue kneaders that provide targeted relief to tired muscles and sore tissue. Dad can adjust the speed and direction—plus, it can be used anywhere on the body. And like many of the last-minute Christmas gifts on this list, this product is available on Amazon Prime.
Don’t forget about Grandma and Grandpa. They’ll have no idea you picked out these presents just under the wire. Give these last-minute holiday gifts to express how much you and your kiddos appreciate them.
Meaningful keepsake book
Searching for heartfelt last-minute Christmas gifts? Check out StoryWorth. With this online gift, they’ll receive a new question each week, which invites them to share an anecdote, memory or family story via email. At the end of one year, the stories will be bound in a hardback keepsake book that your family can treasure forever.
Stylish neoprene weekend bag
Here’s another last-minute holiday gift that grandparents are sure to love. This stylish carryall bag is ideal for loved ones who don’t live close by. Whether they’re traveling for the holidays or just because, they can tote their belongings with ease, thanks to the bag’s expandable design and organizational compartments.
Expert-led digital classes
It’s never too late to learn something new. Give your loved ones a membership to MasterClass, an online platform that lets students of life access tutorials and lectures recorded by experts in various fields, from writing to cooking. This unique present has something for nearly every interest, and it’s also an easy last-minute Christmas gift for grandparents that you can buy online.
Ancestry DNA-testing service
Help grandparents discover their roots with 23andMe. This DNA test will open up a window into your family’s past and even offer an insight into the genes that make them one-of-a-kind. It’s a fascinating and unique last-minute holiday gift that’s been years in the making.
Nourishing hand cream gift set
With all the hand-washing and sanitizing that goes on during cold season, it’s safe to say everyone on your list could use some luxurious hand cream. This sweet-smelling set is a great last-minute holiday gift or stocking stuffer. It comes in three different scents, is made of soothing natural ingredients and is small enough to fit in anyone’s purse or pocket.
Audible membership
When it comes to last-minute Christmas gifts for grandparents, you can’t go wrong with an Audible Premium Plus membership. It gives them access to one book and two Audible originals per month. They’ll love listening while doing things around the house or just relaxing—and you’ll love knowing your gift is going to good use.
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