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.

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 Subscription - Teas of the World

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.

Mindful Box by Mindful Souls

Mindful Box by Mindful Souls

From $39.97 per box
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Looking for a self-care box that will take them deeper into healing energy work? The Mindful Box by Mindful Souls helps them discover how everything from crystal work and aromatherapy, to affirmations and sacred jewelry can enhance their health and well-being. Simplifying spirituality and making it accessible for everyone, each monthly box will help them get acquainted to an array of spiritual tools and explore their innermost self.

Shipping: Free shipping to USA First Mindful Box will be shipped immediately and will be delivered within the next 2-5 days. All the following boxes will be sent on the 7th of each month!

Customer Review

“I'm in love with these boxes. I'm on my fourth month. April did NOT disappoint🥰. As always quality items. I get so excited each month to see my gifts. Best membership ever! Inspiring and beautiful. I highly recommend to give this a try. It wont disappoint.” - Shannon D.

Faithbox

Faithbox

From $32.95 per box
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Give a gift that helps someone stay centered in Christ, live a faith-inspired simple life, and that supports personal growth with the Faithbox. Available at two different levels, both options bring daily devotionals and a varied mix of handpicked eco-friendly inspirational items that support small Christian businesses.

Shipping: All new Faithbox Subscriptions ship around the 25th of each month. For instance, any new orders placed during the month of October will receive a November Faithbox which is shipped by October 25th. Shipping usually takes 5-7 days. As soon as your box has shipped, you will receive an email with your shipping and tracking information.

Customer Review

“I purchased the Faithbox as a gift for my mom who is a 52 y/o (received 2 orders so far) - Each box had a theme; Peacefulness and Wisdom are the ones we got. These boxes are packed really well, lots of goodies (GREAT QUALITY!) - These boxes are faith-based, but focused on personal development.” – Chelsea C.

Monthly Barbella Box

Monthly Barbella Box

From $54.99 per box
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CrossFit has become a lifestyle that makes physical fitness a priority. Commit to healthy living with Barbella Box, a fitness subscription that's packed with handpicked products from well-known suppliers and those that are new on the scene. From supplements and protein blends to apparel and workout gear, this curated box is made by women, for women, to bring an extra dose of motivation.

Shipping: If you purchase your first box BETWEEN 1st-16th of the month, you will receive your first box between the 22nd-30th or 31st. If you purchase AFTER the 16th, you will receive your first box the following month between the 22nd 30th or 31st.

Customer Review

“LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE I can't even say it enough! It's like Christmas every 20th... I am always SO excited to see what's coming. I have never been disappointed in the almost 2 years that I have been a member!” – Kiersten Y.

Shabby Lane T-shirt of the month

Shabby Lane T-shirt of the month

From $22.50 per box
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Happy and positive vibes only at Shabby Lane! A fun inspirational t-shirt arrives monthly along with a new piece or two in the form of a surprise gift. The new items share one thing in common: a positive mantra. This is the perfect gift for those friends in your life who wear their hearts on their sleeves.

Shipping: Your first box will ship with 2-5 days of your purchase. Please order by the 28th of the month to get the current box. For existing subscribers and new subscribers receiving their 2nd box, we ship by the 15th of every month.

Customer Review

“This is my first order from Shabby Lane and I must say the wonderful thoughtful touches are what makes this box amazing! I love the t-shirt( it’s too big but that’s okay I’ll edit my size for the next box). The bracelets are adorable and just my style. I greatly appreciate the personalized message as well! I plan to check out your website and spread the word to others!! Thank you!!” – Jaclyn M.

Shaker & Spoon Cocktail Club

Shaker & Spoon Cocktail Club

From $49.91 per box
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Mix things up by giving them a craft cocktail subscription box. Each month, subscribers will get three unique and tasty cocktail recipes, along with everything needed (minus the liquor) to whip up 12 delicious drinks. Every Shaker & Spoon box focuses on a specific liquor, so they’ll be able to make the most of their home bar. Whether they’re celebrating a special occasion, getting together with friends, or just building their bartender expertise, this monthly box will have subscribers raising a glass in delight.

Shipping: New subscribers: your first box ships within 3 business days. After that, regular subscription boxes arrive around the 15th of each month, perfectly timed so you can stock your bar and be ready to shake, stir, and serve up fresh cocktails all month long.

Customer Review

"Gave this as a gift and got to try some of the cocktails. The cachaca box was really fun! Really interesting combinations and usually some ingredients leftover for another batch of cocktails." - Leyna M.

Monthly Baking Kit - Learn to Bake Like a Pro

Monthly Baking Kit - Learn to Bake Like a Pro

From $45.65 per box
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Bake Eat Love is more than a gorgeous box on your doorstep each month. The deliciously delightful packaging reflects the joy in the recipe inside. The monthly baking kits feature a handcrafted recipe with specialty ingredients, a new kitchen tool, non-perishable ingredients you need, and video tutorials to guide you every step of the way.

Shipping: Kits ship between the 21st and 24th. Orders placed after that ship right away! Subsequent boxes ship around the 21 of each month. **If you need a box sooner, please select our Welcome box which ships within 1-2 business days.

Customer Review

“We purchased a subscription for our daughter who is obsessed with the Kids Baking Championship tv show! She absolutely loved the desserts and was excited to make things she has heard about on the show - strawberry coulis, pate a choux dough, etc.! Directions are easy to follow and all the desserts we had were delicious!” – Addision U.

The Adults & Crafts Crate

The Adults & Crafts Crate

From $33.00 per box
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There’s no need to get bogged down in project planning when the pros behind the Adults & Crafts Crate have got it covered. Each monthly box sends at least 1 new Pinterest-worthy craft project, including all the supplies, tools, and illustrated step-by-steps to teach new crafting techniques while making one-of-a-kind keepsakes.

Shipping: New orders will ship within five business days! If you need a gift printout before we ship, just message us! Then, will ship around the 25th of each month. If you need a kit by a certain date (i.e. birthday), just message us after you order and we will get that set up for you! You can order now even if you want it to start in the future.

Customer Review

"I received the engraving kit and I love it! I practiced on an old glass weigh scale to get the hang of engraving. I then started the glass coasters using pictures off google. I am sooo happy with how they turned out! It’s very relaxing and is a great stress reliever. I have a few people now wanting me to make them sets of coasters :)" - Megan T.

BREO BOX: Tech, Gadgets, & Lifestyle

BREO BOX: Tech, Gadgets, & Lifestyle

From $82.25 per box
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Shipping: First Box Ships Immediately! All New Subscribers will start with the Current Edition, unless we're in between seasons, in which case a Past Edition will be shipped.

Platterful: A Charcuterie Experience

Platterful: A Charcuterie Experience

From $66.58 per box
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They'll become a charcuterie artist with this fun snack subscription box. They'll receive everything they need to build a drool-worthy charcuterie board, including an instructional worksheet and video for assembling the board. Each box includes a variety of cured meats, cheeses, crackers, and accompaniments.

Shipping: We ship all orders on Mondays and Wednesdays each week. We ship all orders UPS and FedEx 2 Day Express. with insulation & ice packs to ensure freshness!

Customer Review

“Nice selection of assorted cheeses, including soft, hard, and spreadable options. Additional items I don't usually think of like olives, honey, and fig spread. Fun to have small bowls and spreaders included.” — Cassandra A.

Matter

Matter

From $37.46 per box
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Described as part museum and part lab project, each month brings objects of intrigue such as rare crystals, ancient fossils, wartime artifacts, natural specimens, and items with scientific significance, like authentic NASA computer chips.

Shipping: Free US Shipping! Your first box will ship with our monthly batch. Depending on when you order, there may be a short wait. Need it ASAP? Order our Legacy Box to fill the gap until your first box arrives! International: You are responsible for any import fees, duties, or taxes for your region. Questions? Click the "Contact Seller" button below.

Customer Review

“Probably one of my favorite subscription boxes EVER! If you have kids and they love knowledge and seek out information constantly, this box is an education easter egg that initiates the start of great conversation and exciting exploration into learning. My daughter loved it and my husband and I were kind of jealous, but in a good way.” – Krista T.

Diverse Monthly Art Box - DIY Art Kits you can't wait to try!

Diverse Monthly Art Box - DIY Art Kits you can't wait to try!

From $52.99 per box
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Shipping: For special requests (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.), please contact us, & we'll do our best to accommodate. Want your subscription to start in a certain month (i.e. March instead of Feb)? Just email us after you order w/details. Interested in a past box? Just ask! Free shipping in the US-48!

Gothic Beauty

Gothic Beauty

From $45.00 per box
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Shipping: Gothic Beauty Box #58 & #59 are in stock for immediate shipping, including fast gift-giving. Starting Sept 13, 2025, new single crate orders receive Gothic Beauty Box #59. To automatically start with #58 and get TWO Boxes right away, please select 2 Box sub or greater.

Seen from above, a woman holds a box that says My Therabox. It contains a pink self care book and several scented items.

TheraBox - Self Care Box

From $37.99 per box
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Shipping: ✨ Reserve your “WINTER” TheraBox today with up to $500+ worth of therapist-curated winter wellness rituals that make the perfect holiday gift for your partner, friends, family, colleagues and of course — you! ✨ Orders placed between November 25 - December 25 will ship within 2-5 business days starting December 1.

Oh Baby Boxes

Oh Baby Boxes

From $35.99 per box
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By focusing on the special needs of pregnancy and new motherhood, Oh Baby Boxes is the baby subscription box that makes it that much easier to transition into this exciting new role. Custom-tailored to each mom's due date, every box is specifically curated to align with their specific stage of pregnancy, bringing a mix of 6-8 handpicked full-size pregnancy and self-care products like healing teas, healthy snacks, mom-approved baby necessities, journals and fun accessories.

Shipping: Free Shipping! First box ships immediately within 1-3 business days of your order, and subsequent boxes ship between the 15-20th of each month if you remain subscribed!

Customer Review

“I received my first box and loved it. The products were very good quality for the subscription price. I look forward to seeing the next box. I will be renewing my subscription.” – Lanitra W.

Tinned Fish Club

Tinned Fish Club

From $35.00 per box
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Tinned fish is having a moment in the culinary world—and with good reason. Not only is tinned fish a versatile ingredient or snack on its own, it’s also just downright delicious. Not to mention fish comes packed with Omega-3s and other nutritional benefits. From cod to salmon to sardines, with this subscription, they’ll fill their pantry with self-stable fish from around the world.

Shipping: We try our best to send out first time orders within 5 business days. We can also take some special requests if you just email us. Thank you for your support of our small business!

Customer Review

“Excellent product and service. Bought this as a gift and they couldn’t be happier with this box. I am getting my own subscription after seeing the gift.” – Travis C.

Find more great birthday gifts at our Birthday Gift Shop .