Even if some of your local stores look like they have been ransacked, take a deep breath. Even if things are looking awfully picked over and the shelves seem bare at this late date, all is not lost. There are still some practical ideas you can use to gather some last minute Christmas gifts.
One great idea is to try shops and stores that you would not usually consider when looking for gifts, or specialty stores you may not shop regularly. A good example -now don’t laugh- is the auto parts store.
Now, you might be shaking your head, thinking I’ve lost it, afraid I’m going to suggest something overly practical like a jug of anti-freeze… but don’t worry. There are actually some cool things in auto parts stores, from fuzzy dice to designer seat covers. Your niece with the brand new driver’s license might just think a pin striping kit for her car is pretty cool and your aging uncle might just appreciate a battery charger or jumper cables if he’s ever stranded.
You might also be surprised what you can find at the grocery store. Specialty coffees and teas, gourmet food items, cookbooks and special recipe collections, gift-wrapped chocolates, and more are available at many grocers. You can even get creative and use these items to make up gift baskets.
Don’t discount those discount centers and dollar stores either. While most of us have no intention of giving a dollar item on its own, there are several individual items that can be put together to make a decent gift. Check out 15 Simple, Low Cost Gift Ideas for some options.
Another idea that you might think sounds a little strange is picking up gifts at the hardware store. Yet, tools and small tool sets are usually well-received and you can often find some cool gadgets that would make great gifts.
*Please check back for more last minute gift ideas.
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