Last-Minute Birthday Gift Ideas: 10 Easy Gifts for Every Personality

There’s no shame in shopping for last-minute birthday gifts. We’ve all been there. (Some of us a few times…) But just because you have to rush a little in your gift-buying doesn’t mean you can’t still put extra thought into it. We put together this last-minute birthday gift guide with ideas for any person and to fit any budget. Whether you’re shopping the day before or the morning-of, these ideas can all be delivered same-day, bought in stores or delivered virtually.

1. Amazon Echo

This is always an easy go-to gift because it suits everyone and there’s one for every budget. Even if your friend isn’t into gadgets and technology, they’ll still have fun asking Alexa to tell a joke or just tell them the weather. If they’re the type that will go all-in with a smart home, add some Amazon Smart Plugs to create a complete package.

2. Happy Birthday Gift Card

Sometimes gift cards are the best gift to give. If you’re looking for a birthday gift that can be sent virtually, our choice is the Happy Birthday Gift card. This eGift card can be delivered directly to the recipient and then redeemed for gift cards to Macy’s, The Cheesecake Factory, Dave & Buster’s, Ulta Beauty or Subway. These eGift cards be used for online or in-store shopping.

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Related Gift Guides
> Gifts for People Who Have Everything: These Are the Gifts They Actually Want
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> Gift Ideas for Men Who Have Everything: 10 Gifts He’ll Actually Get Excited About

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3. IT Makeup Brushes

Buying makeup can be tricky if you don’t know the difference between bronzer and highlighter. If you’re shopping for someone who wears makeup, you can’t go wrong with an essential tool like makeup brushes. This IT 5-piece travel brush set has the essentials needed for day-to-day application and full glam makeup looks. The compact size and carrying case also make these perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. You can order online and pickup same-day at most Ulta locations. 

We have even more gift ideas for makeup lovers if you need more beauty inspiration. 

4. Digital picture frame

Digital picture frames are a great way to see loved ones when keeping in touch is hard. We like this Sylvania digital picture frame because of the easy-to-use app and built-in storage for up to 10,000 photos. Add your friends and family in the Frameo app and they can send photos and videos to your digital frame from anywhere in the world. Pick it up same-day in most Walmart stores, or have it delivered with next-day and 2-day delivery options.

5. Oblio Wireless Phone Charger and UV Cleaner

Yup, we’re recommending sanitation gadgets. Welcome to 2021. This Oblio wireless charger is a practical gift for anyone. It keeps their phone clean and charged. The 20-minute UV sanitation cycle eliminates 99.9% of screen germs and the sleek design will be an instant upgrade from their old charging cable. Pickup is available same-day or next-day at most Nordstrom locations.

6. 50 Adventures in 50 States Illustrated Book

This beautifully illustrated book details adventurous outdoor activities in each of the 50 states. Great for family travelers looking to instill a sense of wanderlust in their children, this book will inspire many memorable vacations. Each adventure idea also includes facts about the local geography and culture. You won’t have to travel far for this gift though; most Barnes and Noble locations have it available in-store, or you can order it online for same-day delivery through Amazon. 

7. Movie Night Snack Basket

Pass the popcorn! Assemble a movie night snack basket for a tasty last-minute birthday gift.  This gift is easy to put together and can be assembled with items found in your local grocery and retail stores. Start with a bowl big enough to fit a movie-theater sized serving of popcorn and fill it with snacks, drinks and DVDs of their favorite movies. Go gourmet with a box of fancy chocolate or stick with classics from like Crunch ‘n Munch, M&M’s and Sour Patch Kids. If you aren’t sure what movies to add to their collection, include a gift card to a movie-streaming service like Fandango or Netflix and let them choose their entertainment.

8. Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee Maker

Iced coffee lovers know the struggle of trying to make iced coffee at home: it either gets watered down when hot coffee is poured over ice or it takes 12+ hours to brew in the fridge. Change their life with a Mr. Coffee iced coffee maker. Bold coffee is brewed hot and rapidly chilled to make quick, concentrated iced coffee. The machine is small, so it doesn’t take up too much counter space. Pick it up same day at select Target stores and you’ll be home before the ice melts!

This iced coffee maker is great for students needing a pick-me-up between classes. Our gift guide for college students has even more fun and practical gift ideas for students.

9. Himalayan Salt Wax Warmer

If giving candles is a burned out idea, try giving a wax warmer as a more versatile and sustainable alternative. This two-in-one Himalayan Salt Wax Warmer combines the effects of Himalayan salt lamps with the flame-free fragrance of a wax warmer to create a relaxing atmosphere. The bulb melts fragrant wax (sold separately) and the salt rocks add gentle light for a cozy ambiance. This wax warmer is available for same-day pickup at Walmart or can be shipped with next-day and 2-day delivery.

10. kate spade All Day Leather Tote

The kate spade All Day Tote is a fabulous, functional gift for anyone with style. The main compartment is big enough to fit most tablets and laptops and it has a detachable wristlet for easy access to smaller items. This sophisticated piece will be a staple in anyone’s wardrobe. You can pick it up today in select Macy’s stores.

If you need even more ideas for gifts for your mom, sister, girlfriend or wife, check out our Birthday Gift Ideas for Her and Gifts for Women Who Have Everything guides.

Whether you found a great gift in one of these ideas or decided to give a gift card, it truly is the thought that counts. The birthday person will be happy to know you are thinking of them on their special day!

More Gift Guides & Inspiration

Happy Gift Cards issued by MetaBank, Member FDIC. Card valid only in the US, no cash or ATM access. Use your Happy Gift Card to purchase goods and services at locations listed on card.