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We’re less than two weeks from Christmas — and yes, holiday stress is a thing.
Everything, from decorating the perfect tree and being the ‘hostess that does the mostest,’ to shopping for everyone on your list, can be overwhelming.
Although we’ve curated an endless content stream of gift guides this year, this one is particularly different and designed to alleviate that pent-up feeling of anxiety. In other words, this edit is for you — the last-minute shopper (who’s beating shipping deadlines); the perfectionist who wants to give the ultimate gift even though you’re working on limited time.
Your Quick Overview to Shipping Deadlines
| Shipping Provider | Deadline to Buy | ETA of Package |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Dec. 22, with Prime membership | Dec. 24 |
| Walmart | Dec. 22, or Dec. 24 by noon (local time) for same-day delivery | Dec. 24 |
| FedEx | Dec. 24 (SameDay) | Dec. 24 |
| USPS | Dec. 20 (Priority Mail Express) | Dec. 24 |
| UPS | Dec. 23 (Next-Day Air) | Dec. 24 |
| Best Buy | Dec. 24 by noon (local time) for same-day delivery on select gifts | Dec. 24 |
| Nordstrom | Dec. 18, Dec. 21 or Dec. 22 by noon (local time), depending on your state | Dec. 23 |
From unbeatable gift baskets to spur-of-the-moment Amazon purchases (thanks, Prime!), we have you covered with the best last-minute gifts to pick up in the season’s last inning — keeping shipping deadlines in mind as well.
For more, check out our guide to the best Amazon gifts, and make sure to check out Amazon Prime’s offerings for all products guaranteed to be delivered to your door in two days or fewer.
The Quince Responsible Down Belted Puffer Maxi Coat combines the warmth and practicality of a puffer jacket with the elegance of a long, belted design. The maxi length and sleek silhouette make it suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual outings to more formal winter events. It’s a piece that can elevate any outfit — in whichever color you choose — making it a great choice for the wife who wants to stay cozy without sacrificing style.
Shipping: Quince often offers quick shipping (including 2-day or expedited options), so if you’re shopping for a last-minute gift, the brand at large is a great choice to order from. Additionally, since Quince operates primarily online, it’s easy to check for stock and place your order quickly.
RELATED: Best gifts for wife
Yes, it’s a splurge, but for the husband who leaves the house early just to stop at his favorite coffee house before work, there’s no greater gift than the Breville Barista Touch. It’s a sleek, semi-automatic espresso maker that grinds, brews, and steams at a tap, making it an effortless, high-end last-minute gift. We have this machine and love how its automation delivers café-quality drinks with almost no fuss.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
RELATED: Best espresso machines we reviewed
UrbanStems is known for offering premium, hand-picked flowers. The brand’s arrangements are stylish and modern and they often feature unique, seasonal blooms. Whether it’s a vibrant bouquet of roses, a mixed arrangement, or a special curated gift box, the quality of its flowers is top-notch, giving your gift an elegant, luxurious feel. Plus, it’s one of the best flower delivery services we reviewed.
Shipping: UrbanStems offers same-day or next-day delivery on many of its flower arrangements, making it an ideal choice when you’re pressed for time. You can order a stunning bouquet or gift set, and it will arrive at the recipient’s doorstep in a matter of hours, ensuring your gift is timely and impactful.
RELATED: Best gifts for mom
The Abercrombie is a sporty, preppy wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down. It has a relaxed yet refined aesthetic, making it appropriate for various occasions, whether casual or a bit more polished. This versatility ensures it suits many different personal styles and can easily fit into Dad’s existing wardrobe.
Oh, and you best know we adore Abercrombie. Read our full Abercrombie review for more.
Shipping: Abercrombie offers fast and reliable shipping options, with 5-8 business days, which makes this polo a perfect choice for last-minute shopping. You can order online and have it shipped directly to the recipient’s address, ensuring it arrives on time for the occasion.
Buy Online and Pick Up in Store: You can add items to your online cart and select the “Pick up in store” option at checkout. You’ll receive an email when ready for pickup, and stores will hold orders for a limited time. You can also order in store if a specific size or style isn’t available locally, and Abercrombie will ship it to that store.
RELATED: Best gifts for dad
If your loved one doesn’t already own a pair of AirPods, do them a favor and pick up a newly minted pair for their commute. Plus, they come in handy for long walks around the neighborhood, flights and workouts at the gym.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
The wrinkle-free feature of the Performance Shirt with Pocket is perfect for anyone who values convenience and a crisp, polished look without the hassle of ironing. This makes it a particularly great gift for busy professionals (aka, the commuter you know), travelers or anyone who wants to look sharp without spending extra time on upkeep.
What’s more, its clean lines and straightforward style make it versatile, and it can be paired with jeans, chinos, or dress pants. It’s a safe yet stylish choice that will likely match the recipient’s personal taste, even if you’re unsure about specific preferences.
Shipping: UNTUCKit offers fast shipping options, including next-day or 2-day delivery, making this an excellent choice for a last-minute gift.
Buy Online and Pick Up in Store: Many UNTUCKit mall locations list curbside or in-store pickup available; call the store to confirm specifics.
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The Aerie Sherpa Henley Sweatshirt is made from a soft, waffle-knit fabric, which makes it cozy and perfect for lounging, but still stylish enough to wear out. This blend of comfort and fashion makes it suitable for a variety of occasions and the most luxurious yet budget-friendly loungewear staple to wear 24/7, whether it’s for casual wear at home or an easy layering piece for outings.
Shipping: Aerie usually takes three to seven business days to ship, making it great for ordering in a time crunch.
Buy Online and Pick Up in Store: Aerie participates in Free Store Pickup through the American Eagle and Aerie online system operated by AEO. You can select in-store pickup when available and will be notified when your order is ready. Even better? Items listed as “Free Pickup Today” can be ready in only 2 hours.
RELATED: Best gifts for sisters
Designer for less? The Michael Kors Jet Set Crossbody Bag is grabbing our attention. While Walmart recently extended its shipping deadline, you should hop on it while the carry-all is nearly $250 off.
Shipping: You can order on Dec. 24 by 5 p.m. local time for delivery as fast as one hour if you’re a Walmart+ member. Additionally, you can always order by Dec. 22 for standard shipping.
Buy Online and Pick Up in Store: Walmart offers same-day delivery and pickup options for select items if you order by Dec. 24 at noon local time.
An Amazon gift card is a great last-minute gift idea because it’ll be loved by everyone — truly. You can easily purchase and deliver the gift card instantly via email, which is perfect for those moments when you’re running out of time but still want to give something thoughtful.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime, or instant if delivered via email
Citarella Seafood Delivery is a lovely and luxe last-minute gift idea for several reasons, especially for the foodie who appreciates quality meals and ingredients. Citarella is known for its premium, fresh seafood, including wild-caught fish, lobster, oysters, crab and more. Its products are high-quality and often hard to find elsewhere, making this a special gift for someone who appreciates fine food.
Shipping: Citarella offers same-day or next-day delivery, so you can easily order fresh, high-quality seafood to be delivered straight to the recipient’s door. This makes it a perfect option when you’re in a rush but still want to give something luxurious and unique.
Rich for dry, chapped skin, the Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Moisture Treat Set is the ultimate stocking stuffer and less-than-$25 gift in one swift buy. Inside, its Skin Barrier Moisturizing Cream is truly a treat, while the Ceramidin Lip Balm lives on my nightstand and never leaves. With a $50 value, it’s a merry sale for a merry last-minute score.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
Over at Anthropologie, the Volcano scent is widely adored for its fresh, fruity and tropical fragrance blend, with notes of citrus, sugar and tropical fruits. It’s a scent that appeals to a variety of people, from those who prefer clean and refreshing aromas to those who enjoy sweeter, more vibrant fragrances. This makes it a safe yet thoughtful choice for almost anyone on your gift list.
Shipping: Anthropologie usually takes five to seven business days to ship, making it great for ordering if you’re short on time.
Buy Online and Pick Up in Store: Anthropologie offers in-store pickup where available. You can add items online and choose pickup during checkout, then receive a “ready for pickup” email before going to the store.
RELATED: Best Anthropologie gifts
For the teen (or adult gamer) on your shopping list who *really* has been wanting that Xbox, now is the time to pick it up. It will arrive well before Dec. 25 and will make it look like you had this big gift planned all along. Now that’s Christmas magic.
The brand eberjey is known for creating high-quality, ultra-soft loungewear, and the Renew Plush Long Robe is no exception. Made from plush, cozy fabric, this robe provides an immediate sense of comfort and relaxation, which is perfect for curling up at home after a long day or for lazy weekend mornings. The luxurious feel makes it a thoughtful, indulgent gift that anyone would appreciate (oh, and Oprah loves it, too).
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
RELATED: Oprah’s Favorite Things 2024
For the next-gen air dryer that’ll arrive before you know it, the Typhur Dome 2 AI Air Dryer is a model that more than 3,000 shoppers purchased this month. It’s self-cleaning and, remarkably, fits a 12-inch pizza! So yes, it’s giving self-cleaning robot vacuum and pizza oven, but a kitchen edition.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
As one of the best-in-class meat delivery services you can buy, Pat LaFrieda is an excellent choice that the meat lover you know will appreciate. We’ve tried the service and can attest that the quality of their cuts, carefulness of packing and delivery and delicious, fresh flavor is nothing short of exceptional.
Pat LaFrieda offers a wealth of options to choose from, including its signature burgers, pork, lamb, veal, dry-aged beef and more. Rest assured — this is the gift that keeps on giving.
Shipping: Pat LaFrieda typically offers 1- to 3-day delivery.
What’s great about an Audible Membership is that you can purchase it as a gift and have it delivered digitally within minutes. This makes it perfect for last-minute gifting, as there are no shipping delays or logistical concerns to worry about.
Perfect for book lovers on the go, your giftee will enjoy “reading” while commuting, exercising or doing chores — anytime and anywhere (trust us, we reviewed Audible).
Shipping: Instant, as it can be sent digitally
A gift basket is truly one of the best ideas to try an assortment of items and have it already pre-wrapped! That’s why we love the Harry & David Italian Fare Gift Box, complete with pastas, sauces and more to stock up your pantry.
Shipping: Harry & David allows you to select your delivery date for most items.
The Wine & Cheese Carousel is an unexpected and distinctive gift that stands out from typical gift ideas. It combines two classic indulgences — wine and cheese — into a fun, interactive experience. Its design is visually appealing, making it something the recipient can proudly display and use for gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Shipping: Uncommon Goods offers fast shipping and often has same-day or next-day delivery options, making this a great choice for a last-minute gift. You can order it online, have it shipped directly to the recipient and rest assured it will arrive on time for the occasion.
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When it comes to the most celebrity-loved phone protectors, we’re hot on the case. Bandolier’s crossbody styles are beloved by A-listers like Oprah, Taylor Swift, Zendaya, Reese Witherspoon and many more. But act quickly! The shipping cutoff for the holiday is Dec. 17 at 12 p.m., Pacific!
Shipping: Bandolier typically offers 1- to 3-day delivery.
The Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle makes a great last-minute gift because it’s practical, stylish, and functional for daily use. Its unique design allows for easy sipping with both a built-in straw and a wide-mouth opening, making it versatile for all kinds of hydration needs. Plus, the double-walled insulation keeps drinks cold for hours, making it ideal for anyone on the go.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
Meet our latest obsession: “The Ambitious Kitchen Cookbook” by Monique Volz. It’s an excellent last-minute gift because it offers a wide variety of healthy yet delicious recipes that anyone can enjoy, from breakfast to dinner.
With easy-to-follow instructions and beautiful photography, it inspires home cooks to create flavorful meals without sacrificing health. Whether you’re buying for someone who loves cooking or simply wants to eat better, this cookbook provides fresh, fun ideas for every meal of the day.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
The Samsonite Freeform Hardside Luggage is a tried-and-true last-minute gift because it combines durability, style, and practicality, making it perfect for frequent travelers. Its lightweight design and 360-degree spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver, while the hard shell offers excellent protection for belongings. With a sleek, modern look and multiple size options, it’s a versatile gift that suits a wide range of travel needs.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
The ASSOULINE brand is synonymous with luxury and high-quality design, making any of its books a prestigious gift. The “Fifth Avenue” coffee table book, specifically, showcases the elegance of one of New York’s most iconic streets, known for its rich history, opulent architecture and cultural significance. It’s a stunning, visually appealing piece that adds sophistication to any home or office space.
Shipping: ASSOULINE usually takes five to seven business days to ship, making it great for ordering in a time crunch.
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Unlike many traditional gifts, a 23andMe kit offers a highly personalized experience. The recipient will gain insights into their ancestry, genetic health risks and traits — a truly one-of-a-kind gift that taps into their heritage and health in a meaningful way. It’s the kind of gift that feels thoughtful and special, showing you’ve put extra consideration into selecting something personal.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
RELATED: Our full 23andMe review
The Always Pan is designed to replace multiple kitchen items, including a frying pan, sauté pan, steamer, skillet, and even a saucepan. Its multi-functionality makes it an ideal gift for anyone, from a seasoned home cook to a novice in the kitchen. It’s a practical gift that can be used daily, helping the recipient save space, time and effort while cooking. Not to mention, it doubles as aesthetically pleasing stovetop decor.
Shipping: Our Place usually takes five to seven business days to ship, making it great for ordering in a time crunch.
RELATED: Our Place Always Pan review
The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill & Impact Driver is a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of tasks around the house or on a job site. Not only do Post Wanted readers love DEWALT, but the combo includes a drill (ideal for drilling holes) and an impact driver (great for driving screws).
Whether the recipient is a DIY enthusiast, a home improvement professional, or someone who simply enjoys having the right tools for everyday repairs and projects, this combo kit offers practical, all-in-one functionality.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
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These cupcakes are not only delicious but also designed with a holiday theme in mind. The Baked by Melissa Holiday Cheer Cupcakes come in festive flavors and fun, seasonal decorations, making them an appealing and thoughtful treat. We adore the brand for its bite-sized delights as it’s one of the best cupcake delivery services we rounded up and is great for long-distance recipients as well.
Shipping: Baked by Melissa usually takes two to five business days to ship, making it great for ordering in a time crunch.
Buy Online and Pick Up in Store: You can order cupcakes online and pick them up in store at select Baked by Melissa locations. Orders placed online can often be ready within an hour, and there are options for same-day pickup and local delivery in some cities.
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Best for the Organized Guy or Gal: Skylight Calendar
The Skylight Calendar is not just a regular paper calendar; it’s a digital, interactive calendar that adds a tech-savvy twist to a traditionally analog item. It allows the recipient to view and manage their schedule digitally while also displaying photos from a tablet or phone. It’s one of our favorite gifts *ever* that’s primmed to perfection for the organized guy or gal you know.
Shipping: Order on Skylight’s website site by Dec. 16, or 2-day shipping with Amazon.
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The Flyer Mini Toy Wagon is designed for young children who love to play with their toys (from anywhere!) It’s undeniably adorable, too.
Shipping: Personalization Mall usually takes five to seven business days to ship, making it great for ordering in a time crunch.
RELATED: Best gifts for 1-year-olds
One of our favorite brands for kids’ clothing is Janie & Jack, and we can’t get over how precious the Cherry Sweatshirt is. Namely, this sweater features a classic and chic design that is both adorable and versatile — just the kind of sweater that’s timeless, not too trendy and can easily be dressed up or down.
Shipping: Janie & Jack usually takes five to seven business days to ship, making it great for ordering in a time crunch.
The Kosterina Extra Virgin Olive Oil Duo offers two premium, high-quality olive oils, often with distinct flavor profiles. This makes it a luxurious and thoughtful gift for anyone who enjoys cooking or appreciates gourmet food. Olive oil is a versatile gift that feels elegant yet practical, making it suitable for a variety of recipients, from foodies to home chefs to health-conscious individuals.
Shipping: Kosterina usually takes five to seven business days to ship, making it great for ordering in a time crunch.
RELATED: Best olive oil brands
These are the *best* rainbow cookies ever. Whether you’re picking these up for your holiday dinner or sending this to a long-distance relative, you won’t be sorry.
Shipping: Goldbelly allows shoppers to schedule delivery. Dates will vary with each shop.
RELATED: Best cookie delivery services
Best for the Person Who Needs a New Water Bottle: Stanley Quencher
Oh, Stanley, how we love you. The brand’s iconic Quencher Tumbler is a highly functional item that almost anyone can use. The Quencher is designed to keep drinks hot or cold for extended periods, making it useful for people with busy lifestyles, whether they’re working, commuting, exercising or traveling. With an endless assortment of colors, it’s ready to go underneath your tree — and quickly.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
RELATED: Our Stanley review
Many people love a high-quality cup of coffee but don’t always have the time or equipment to make it from scratch. The Nespresso Vertuo Plus offers a quick and easy way to brew coffee and espresso at home, making it a perfect gift for anyone who enjoys their daily caffeine fix but doesn’t want the hassle of traditional brewing methods. To top it off, it’s the best espresso maker we reviewed.
Shipping: 2 days with Amazon Prime
RELATED: Best coffee makers on Amazon
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
