Let’s face it – a lot of us tend to wait till the last minute to shop for Christmas presents. And between the crazy crowds and being overwhelmed by the sheer number of gift options out there, the scramble at the eleventh hour gets even more panic-inducing when you have absolutely no idea what to get for your recipient.

Instead of resorting to a random nondescript scented candle or towel set, look to our list of best last-minute Christmas gift ideas in Singapore, with universal yet thoughtful items that will put a smile on just about anyone’s face without being overly generic.

Last-minute Christmas gift guide

1. Starbucks Blissful Homecoming collection (from $26.90)

We can always count on Starbucks to release new merch for every special occasion, and their Blissful Homecoming collection is the epitome of cosy holiday vibes with its warm autumnal colour scheme and motifs of Christmas trees and Santa. Adding on to the cuteness are a polar bear and woodland critters like a fox, reindeer, and bunny all revelling in the festive joy together. From small glass mugs to tumbler flasks and bottles, there’s a whole selection of designs for that one friend of yours who needs to drink more water – or coffee. Prices range from $26.90 to $65.90. Check out the full collection here.

2. Famous Amos Christmas Cookie tins (from $13.30)

No one can resist that unmistakable aroma of freshly baked Famous Amos cookies wafting through the air – so it goes without saying that this is a foolproof choice that’ll delight any recipient. The well-loved cookie brand has once again come up with a series of Christmas gift tins and boxes, all bearing cute designs featuring snowmen, reindeers, and other festive motifs. Some of the tins even come shaped like Christmas trees and gingerbread men. Pick from a variety of flavours including but not limited to original chocolate chip, butterscotch chip and pecan, and white chocolate chip.

Prices start from an affordable $13.30. Check out the full collection and make your purchase here or via their 15 outlets islandwide.

3. The Body Shop Christmas gift sets (from $16)

Everyone needs bath and body care products – after all, you do need to shower at some point – and you can’t go wrong with the pretty, practical sets from The Body Shop. While toiletries might seem like ‘generic’ gifts, the plethora of scent choices, item combinations, and different types of packaging available here allow you to thoughtfully choose something that’s best suited to your giftee’s personality and preferences.

A simple body care gift set comprising shower cream and body butter starts from a wallet-friendly $16, while bigger pouch sets with additional items like hand cream and festive fragrances can go up to around $100. For something a little more exclusive, go straight for the delightfully fruity Cherries & Cheers or Pears & Share seasonal ranges. Check out the full collection here.

4. Mr. Bucket Chocolaterie Christmas chocolates (from $15.90)

It’s hard for anyone to dislike chocolate, and homegrown artisanal chocolate brand Mr. Bucket Chocolaterie has just what you need for a giftee with a sweet tooth. Their festive specials include peppermint- and panettone-flavoured chocolate bars ($15 and $16 respectively), but we’ve got our eye on their festive bon bon boxes with handmade treats arranged in the formation of a Christmas tree. Choose from a box of six ($34.50) or box of 15 ($70), each with six flavours: yuzu tart, peppermint cookie, mont blanc raspberry, fig and balsamic, eggnog, and piedmont hazelnut. The latter two contain alcohol. Check out the full collection here.

5. Chope gift card (from $30)

Have a discerning foodie in your life? Treat them to a feast in the form of a Chope e-gift card. Load it up with $30, $50, $80, or $100 and your lucky recipient will be able to purchase their choice of dining vouchers from over 1,000 cafés, restaurants and bars listed on Chope’s website or app. It’s not at all impersonal, either – pick from four virtual card designs complete with tongue-in-cheek food-related quotes, and add on your own personalised message at no extra cost. Make your purchase here.

Jingle all the way

The best Christmas gifts for gourmands and foodies

What better way to show the foodies in your life how much they mean to you by plying them with all the things they love. From a limited-release Christmas gin to a gourmet food hamper chock-full of scrumptious treats, this gift guide features all the things that every foodie desires. Happy shopping.

The Christmas period is upon us again – our favourite time of the year to devour grand feasts of roast meat, rich sides and sweet treats. We’ve curated a list of the best Christmas meals in Singapore from luxe hotel experiences to casual restaurants. Whether you’re after an intimate family dinner or an annual festive catch-up with friends, these dinners will have you covered.