There’s nothing quite like the last-minute gift hustle. And we’ve all been there, amidst the stress of it all. But there’s no shame! Life is busy, work feels even busier, and the holiday season books up your calendar faster than you realize. Take a deep breath—we’ve got you covered. Each of these thoughtful gifts can be ordered online with speedy shipping or are available for in-store pick-up, ensuring you’ll be able to spread Christmas and winter holiday chee—even if and when it’s mixed with a little procrastination.
Still, our advice: Don’t keep dragging your feet. Though these last-minute gifts should all arrive in time for the holidays, we recommend ordering ASAP to be extra safe. That way, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the holiday season with time to spare. Below, we’ve noted a few key dates to keep in mind as you shop and wrap gifts:
What is the cutoff date for packages to arrive by Christmas?
The last date for USPS Priority Mail Express packages to arrive by Christmas (within the US) is December 21. If you’re choosing USPS Ground or First-Class Mail Service, the cutoff date is December 18. No matter the site, triple check your estimated delivery before checking out. Expected delivery dates sometimes change once finalizing your cart given the item’s availability and drop-off locations.
What if I’m ordering a gift from Amazon?
For Amazon shoppers taking advantage of Prime two-day shipping, you’ll need to order gifts before December 22.
What if I missed holiday shipping deadlines?
Your best bet is to shop in-store at a retailer like Nordstrom. Look for ‘Pick Up Today’ and ‘Pick Up Tomorrow’ options when you’re selecting the item’s size so you can pick up in-store and still avoid some of the holiday crowds.
Our top picks:
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Meaghan Kenny.
