So you’ve postponed shopping on vacation until the last minute, and now you have only a few days left to find gifts for the remaining friends and family on your list. Now you’re staring into the barrel of a crowded mall to pick up gifts in time for Christmas.
Don’t give up yet! There is still time to look for gifts and avoid other procrastinators’ mobs. Here are our best bets for last minute gifts and tips on how to bring them under your family tree before December 25th:
Last Minute Gifts
Video game consoles are always a top Christmas gift. since there are no new consoles on the market, you can find some at a discount. All Xbox One X bundles are $ 150 cheaper by Christmas, and the Xbox One S bundles are $ 199. Black Friday’s “Only on PlayStation” package is back on vacation – and it’s $ 50 cheaper than on Black Friday. (Also check out our list of the best games of 2019 for suggestions on great games that you can give away this year as well.)
If everything else fails, digital games, books, comics, films or subscriptions to streaming services are a lifesaver. (Disney Plus even offers a digital gift subscription on its website.) Sure, unpacking a video game, book, or DVD is more fun, but you can always wrap and wrap a printout of the envelope in a box of clothes. If you feel creative, you can even create a card with the download code on the inside.
If you’re feeling baffled, we’ve put together numerous last-minute suggestions for video game accessories, family-friendly board games, digital gifts, and giftware.
Free shipping, even without Prime
One of the advantages of Amazon Prime membership is the free two-day shipping, which is particularly useful during Christmas. Amazon also offers the option to upgrade many products to same-day or same-day delivery, so you may be able to shop at the last minute on Christmas Eve.
However, non-prime members are out of luck. Walmart, Target and Best Buy offer free express shipping on most orders, membership is not required. (You can also simply sign up for the Amazon Prime 30-day free trial and cancel before it is billed in January.)
Avoid the lines with in-store pickup
However, if you’re really up to date, you’re out of luck. Many retailers now offer free in-store pickup when you order online, often within hours. You still have to drag to a store, but this way you can find out what you want online and avoid running around in Best Buy until something catches your eye.
Stores offering free in-store pickup this year include Best Buy, Walmart, and Target. Target even charges your car for you when you order in the Target app.
