15 Last Minute Birthday Gifts For Anyone You (Almost) Forgot

Updated by Timothy Paradis

Gifting is no easy task, but when you’ve left it to crunch time, it all can get a little overwhelming. Maybe a family member’s birthday just snuck up on you, or you’ve decided that this year, instead of the obligatory Starbucks friend date with your bestie, you’d like to step up your game and get them something extra special, but their birthday is just around the corner.

It doesn’t really matter the reason why you’re down to the wire, you need to find just the right last-minute gift , and we’ve got the solution for you. Whether you want to treat them to a fun surprise that just appears on their doorstep, or you prefer to choose one of the many great options that ship just days after placing an order, subscription boxes make some of the best gifts, hands down!

Sure to be a unique, one-of-a-kind gift, there’s a monthly subscription from the Cratejoy marketplace that appeals to all ages, men and women, and every personality type. With everything from K-beauty goodies and DIY cocktails , to mystery games and tasty treats, here are some front runners for the best last-minute birthday gift ideas.

4-Ever Fresh

4-Ever Fresh

From $11.90 per box
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What You’ll Get: Treat yourself with FaceTory, a K-beauty subscription box filled with a new set of sheet masks every month. If you’re not familiar with K-beauty, this subscription box will introduce you to some of the best products curated by self-described “sheet mask junkies.” It’s also really affordable — just under $12 a month — so if you’re hesitant to make the leap into a new beauty routine, you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank.

Shipping: We ship our boxes within 1-4 days of receiving the order.

Customer Review

“I got this subscription for my wife. She says: ‘I absolutely ADORE this subscription box - it is the highlight of my month. The masks are beautifully curated and the customer service is impeccable. Shout out to the LookatMe Sweet Honey Bear mask, which feels and smells like a dream. I recommend this box to everyone I talk to!’” — Evgenii F.

Hot Sauce of the Month Club - Monthly

Hot Sauce of the Month Club - Monthly

From $14.99 per box
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Aficionados at the Heat Hot Sauce Shop are bringing the heat to everyone who claims hot sauce as their favorite condiment with the Hot Sauce of the Month Club. The atomic-sauce experts put their skills to good use, selecting 1 or 3 full-size bottles of award-winning hot sauces in a preferred heat range.

Shipping: Orders placed now will ship January 1st. You can use our printable gift notes or send a gift email to notify the recipient. If you'd like to have your box shipped early, let us know by replying to the confirmation email.

Customer Review

"I bought this as a gift for my boyfriend and so far it’s amazing! He loves putting hot sauce on his eggs in the morning and this subscription is such a fun way for him to try different kinds of hot sauce and so far he’s loving it!" - Emma P.

Tea Runners

Tea Runners

From $22.08 per box
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Tea can cure illnesses, start good conversations, and warm them up on a cold winter night. Tea is a hygge moment waiting to happen! And Tea Runners sources tea from around the world and includes brewing and tasting instructions to add a bit of sophistication to their daily tea time. Choose between 30-50 cups of all-black tea, all herbal tea, or a combination of many types of loose-leaf teas.

Shipping: If you order before the 25th of the month, you will be shipped the current month's box and your account will renew on the 1st. (Example: Sign up Jan 15, your first renewal is Feb 1.) If you order after the 25th, you will be shipped next month's box within 48 hours and renew a month later. (Example: Sign up Jan 27, your first renewal is Mar 1.)

Customer Review

“Excellent selection of high-quality teas. I look forward to getting their box every month! I've occasionally customized my box by swapping out teas, which is a fast easy process. Teas I really love I've ordered from their shop. All-in-all the very best tea subscription service & shop! LOVE it!” – Susan S.

Finders Seekers Mysteries

Finders Seekers Mysteries

From $26.40 per box
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Solve puzzles while traveling the world with this thrilling escape room game! Finders Seekers is the perfect gift for puzzle solvers and mystery fans who loves a challenge! Enjoy this game with the family or venture off and uncover complex clues with a single use mystery game inclusive of hands-on and online gameplay.

Shipping: We ship on the 23rd of each month, for all orders placed by the 21st. All subsequent games will ship by the 23rd of each month. For last-minute gifts, we provide a fun PDF gift message that you can personalize and email or print. Shipping is $6 within the US, Canada shipping: $7.95.

Customer Review

“I have been getting Finders Seekers boxes for over a year, and I cannot lie, I'm obsessed. The mysteries are a lot of fun, and they are so much fun to do with friends, especially those that haven't done something like this before. Occasionally, the puzzles are evil (I'm looking at you, Paris box!), but the fact that after a year they can still challenge me is a good thing.” - Rachel C.

Craft in Style, Monthly Craft Supply Kit Subscription

Craft in Style, Monthly Craft Supply Kit Subscription

From $32.58 per box
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Do they have Pinterest FOMO? Don’t worry! The Craft in Style: Monthly Craft Supply Kit will help them transform their space with cute, unique craft projects. This monthly box sends them a new, on-trend DIY project every month so they can craft everything from handmade soaps to cute terrariums.

Shipping: Sending a gift? We have instant downloadable gift cards! Craft in Style Subscription Box ships within 3-5 business days of your order from the USA. All boxes ship USPS or UPS with tracking. Email us for assistance, anytime!

Customer Review

“I’m looking forward to my next shipment. These boxes are so fun! The packaging is gorgeous. They make a great way to have fun at home and they all make great gifts. What a treat!” — Carol C.

Signature Single Monthly (20 Stems)

Signature Single Monthly (20 Stems)

From $50.15 per box
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Shipping: We ship every Tuesday, directly from our farms in Colombia to your doorstep. Your box should arrive via UPS the next Thursday following your subscription date.

Find more great birthday gifts at our Birthday Gift Shop .