Skip to Content
From Good Housekeeping for

Unique Last-Minute Gifts to Pick Up From Walmart in the Nick of Time

There are plenty of fun, under-$20 picks sure to please anyone on your gift list.

By
boy holding wrapped red present
Ryan Trott

The busier you are, the more likely it is something will slip through the cracks. This old adage is especially apt during the holidays, when a swirl of obligations tend to take up large swaths of the calendar. By the time you get to the last couple of months of the year, it starts to feel like you never have a free evening or weekend anymore.

And with so many of those tasks involving gifting, it’s not that unlikely that you’ll belatedly realize — shoot! — you were meant to grab a gift before a casual luncheon or concert at your children’s school. The art of the last-minute present is one that you’ll never regret perfecting: not telegraphing to the recipient that they’re unwrapping a belated thought, while at the same time saving you unnecessary stress.

One of the best strategies, we’ve found, is heading straight to Walmart. The retailer has some fantastic options under $20 that will delight anyone on your list.

So, as paradoxical as it may sound: Start shopping now for the gifts you’re going to forget. These items are fun, unique and so much better than an impersonal gift card from the grocery checkout.

A well made, thoughtfully designed toy is always the best, and a unique kit that lets little imaginations soar makes a fantastic gift.

This cult-favorite lip mask has devoted fans all over the globe and yes, it’s worth the hype.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Extra-sparkly crystal earrings that can be worn every single day? Yep, you can grab a pair at Walmart! And classic studs work no matter whether someone loves dressing up or lives in denim.

Seeing a friend with a little one? (Or are you a new grandmother?) There are few things cuter than holiday jammies with reindeer feet. Wrap this up as a thoughtful gift they’ll absolutely use.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

You can find a Dreamhouse anywhere, but real-world accessories and appliances? Now that’s a unique find! This pint-size (and pink!) dishwasher features nine separate items, including a drying rack, dish soap, and more.

This isn’t your standard bath bomb. A smart present for nearly anyone, it's a universal item to have on hand. This one is blueberry-lemongrass-scented and sparkles with golden sugar crystals.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

If your holiday season involves a lot of activities with children (whether family get-togethers or events through your kids’ school), it’s never a bad idea to have an extra gift on hand. Old-school walkie talkies always feel fun and appeal to a wide age range.

Yes, you can snag the fashion world’s favorite nail-polish brand at Walmart! All four colors included in this set work year-round, but the rich red and berry hues are especially appropriate for end-of-year festivities.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

It’s nearly impossible to find someone who doesn’t like these creamy, indulgent truffles — which is what makes a grab bag so perfect as a last-minute present. Whether you’re gifting them to a teacher, colleague, or neighbor, you know they’ll be a hit.

Most home chefs know they need to season their cast-iron pans, but the question is more: How? This easy-to-use formula can be used on new pans as well as to condition old favorites.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

A high-speed frother is a luxe coffee-bar accessory — and one you can snag at Walmart for an amazing price. Quick and easy to use, it’s an unexpected present that anyone who makes coffee at home will appreciate.

Cute, cozy and comfy is the trifecta for perfect holiday gifting. Beyond the fact that these cheerful knits are something most people will love, they’re also helpfully one-size-fits-all — so no worries about wrapping up something that the giftee can’t wear.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Don’t let the “I just woke up like this” energy fool you. The man with a well-groomed beard has to put energy on his look. Like anyone with great hair, he’ll be intrigued to try new tools, too.

Festive pajamas might not be appropriate all 12 months of the year, but the three or so where they feel right? They’ll be worn constantly. A classic red-and-green-plaid pair feels thoughtful (and can return seasonally for years to come).

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

A Christmas-tree ornament that feels super-personal tends to come across as a gift that required months of careful searching. Scooping up a great one at Walmart? Unexpected — and fantastic.

Headshot of Leah Melby Clinton
Leah Melby Clinton is a writer, editor, and serious shopper who loves discovering new labels, detailing the best ways to build a wardrobe, and interviewing interesting people.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below