Cheap Last Minute Christmas Gifts

It's the thought that counts, not how much money was spent.

No matter how prepared you are at Christmas, there are occasions when a last-minute Christmas gift is needed. People drop by unexpectedly, and you don't want them to leave empty-handed. Other times, as you're walking out the door to a party, you realize you forgot a gift. A supply of easy, inexpensive Christmas gifts on-hand reduces stress and increases options when you find yourself needing a last-minute Christmas gift.

Gift of Time

Donating your time can be a wonderful gift.

Giving the gift of time requires no wrapping paper, boxes or bows, but often is one of the most appreciated gifts. You can give the gift of your time in a variety of ways. Stay-at-home moms will appreciate an hour or two of free babysitting. If you have a special skill or hobby, you can give the gift of time by helping someone else by using your skill. This might include planting flowers for an elderly family member or creating a scrapbook with a relative's photos. Create homemade coupons letting the recipient know what your gift is, so that they have something to cash in when they're ready to use their gift.

Gift of Food

Baked goods make a great gift for those who don't have time to bake.

The gift of food makes a wonderful last-minute Christmas gift. Cookie, quick bread and muffin recipes are simple to make in bulk, providing you with extra baked goods to give to elderly relatives or neighbors, busy young families, teachers or a new friend. Place your baked goods on a paper or plastic Christmas plate, cover it in clear plastic wrap and tie colorful ribbon.

Gift of Romance

A few small things are all it takes to create a memorable gift.

Surprise a couple of friends or your significant other with a last-minute Christmas gift of romance. An inexpensive bottle of wine can be bought at your local grocery store or liquor store. Purchase votive candles at a craft store. You can place the wine and candles in a gift bag for easy wrapping, or leave the wine bottle unwrapped, wrap the candles in a drawstring bag and hang the bag around the neck of the bottle.

References

• iVillage: The 6 Best Last-Minute Gift Ideas

Resources

• Family Fun.com: Last-Minute Homemade Christmas Gifts