We’ve all been there – the holidays are right around the corner, and you’ve waited until the last possible moment to get your gifts sorted.
Fortunately, technology has your back.
Here are ten apps that can help you pull off thoughtful gift-giving, even when time is running short.
Take a look.
Also Read: Best Apps To Manage Your Holiday Spending
1. Giftly
Think of Giftly as a modern spin on gift cards. Instead of being tied to a specific store, recipients can use the funds anywhere.
The app lets you personalize the experience with suggestions for how to spend the money, making it more thoughtful than traditional gift cards.
Key Features
- Flexible spending – can be used anywhere
- Personalized spending suggestions
- Digital delivery of funds
- More personal than traditional gift cards
- Can include custom messages and recommendations
2. Goody
A standout for its simplicity, Goody lets you send gifts using just the recipient’s phone number. They’ll get a text to input their shipping address, and you don’t pay until they accept.
The app features curated collections from trendy brands and artisanal makers.
Key Features
- Requires only recipient’s phone number to send gifts
- Pay-after-acceptance model
- Curated collections from trending brands
- Direct shipping address collection from recipient
- Features artisanal and boutique items
Also Read: Best Festive Apps To Get You In Holiday Spirits
3. Etsy
While not traditionally thought of as a last-minute option, Etsy’s app now features a “Digital Downloads” section where you can instantly purchase and gift digital artwork, printables, and customizable templates.
It is perfect for creative types.
Key Features
- Instant digital downloads section
- Customizable templates and artwork
- Direct artist-to-recipient delivery
- Unique and creative gift options
- Immediate delivery for digital items
4. DipJar
This app-based tipping and donation platform has evolved to include gifting capabilities.
It’s especially useful for group gifts, allowing multiple people to contribute instantly to a single present, with built-in reminders for procrastinating participants.
Key Features
- Group gift coordination
- Built-in payment processing
- Automated reminders for contributors
- Progress tracking for group gifts
- Equal split or custom contribution options
Check Out: The Ultimate Guide To Sarcastic Gifts
5. Uber Eats Pass
When all else fails, gifting a subscription to Uber Eats Pass gives your foodie friends a year of reduced fees and exclusive offers.
It’s instant, thoughtful, and keeps on giving long after the holidays are over.
Key Features
- Reduced delivery fees for recipients
- Year-round benefits
- Exclusive restaurant offers
- Instant digital gift activation
- Available in multiple countries
6. Snapfish
For sentimental gifts in a hurry, Snapfish’s app lets you create photo books, cards, and personalized gifts using pictures from your phone.
Many locations offer same-day pickup for select items at partner stores.
Key Features
- Same-day pickup at partner locations
- Photo gift creation from phone images
- Multiple product options (books, cards, prints)
- In-app editing tools
- Partner store integration
Also Read: Best Apps To Organize Your Holiday Gift Giving
7. CashApp
Sometimes the best gift is cash, and CashApp makes it instantly gratifying.
You can send money with creative digital cards and animations, making the experience more festive than a simple transfer.
Key Features
- Instant money transfer
- Festive digital gift cards
- Custom animations for gifting
- No fees for basic transfers
- Multiple payment method options
8. Loop & Tie
This sustainable gifting platform puts choice in the recipient’s hands while maintaining the personal touch.
Choose a gift collection within your budget, and your recipient can select their preferred item. They also plant a tree for every gift sent, making it perfect for eco-conscious last-minute gifting.
Key Features
- Curated gift collections at different price points
- Sustainable and eco-friendly focus
- Tree planting with every gift
- Recipient choice within budget
- Corporate gifting options available
Check Out: Last-Minute Tech Gifts For The Procrastinator
9. Giftnote
Transform ordinary digital gifts with personalized music messages.
Giftnote lets you attach popular songs to your digital gifts and messages, adding an emotional soundtrack to your last-minute presents.
It’s perfect for making e-gift cards and digital presents feel more personal and memorable.
Key Features
- Licensed music clip attachment to digital gifts
- Vast library of popular songs
- Customizable message timing with music
- Social media integration
- Works with most digital gift cards
10. Cameo
When physical gifts won’t arrive in time, Cameo offers something uniquely personal – personalized video messages from celebrities, athletes, and influencers.
You can request specific messages for your recipient, and most videos are delivered within 24 hours.
It’s an unforgettable way to surprise someone with a truly one-of-a-kind gift that arrives instantly.
Key Features
- Personalized video messages from celebrities and influencers
- 24-hour delivery on most requests
- Custom message requests
- Instant digital delivery
- Browse by category (actors, athletes, musicians, etc.)
- Price ranges for every budget
- Option for rush delivery on some videos
Pro Tips for Last-Minute Digital Gifting
Here are some tips on gifting at the last minute.
- Always check delivery times and locations before committing to a purchase
- Consider time zones when sending digital gifts
- Keep a backup option ready in case of technical difficulties
- Save your frequent recipients’ preferences and addresses in apps for future last-minute situations
- Take screenshots of confirmations and tracking numbers
Making the Most of Last-Minute Gifting
While these apps can save you in a pinch, they’re most powerful when used strategically.
Keep your recipient’s preferences in your phone notes, set calendar reminders a few days before important dates, and maintain a wishlist of gift ideas throughout the year.
The best part about these digital solutions is that they work year-round – not just during the holidays.
Most importantly, don’t let the stress of last-minute shopping overshadow the joy of giving. With these digital tools in your arsenal, you can focus on what really matters: making someone’s day special, even if you’re cutting it close on time.
Also Read: Best Tech Gifts For The Holiday Under $50
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