We’ve all thought about and shopped long and hard for the perfect 21st birthday gift or 30th birthday gift to get our BFFs when they hit those special milestones. But what about the birthdays we don’t always think about? Or worse, the birthdays we accidentally forget about? Coming up with the best gifts is hard enough without adding a ticking clock to your purchasing window. Unfortunately, I can’t help you magically have a better memory, but I can help ensure you never show up to a birthday party empty-handed again by rounding up the best last-minute birthday gifts money can buy.
When it comes to a last-minute birthday gift, there’s one nonnegotiable: All gifts must either be available for purchase in-store, offer fast shipping, or have virtual delivery. Speed is the name of the game, so before you press Buy, you’re going to want a clear delivery date. This might limit your options, but don’t stress: All the gifts on this list are either downloadable or have super-quick shipping options so you can get that gift STAT, so your friend will never know you kinda, sorta, totally forgot their birthday. That’ll be our little secret. From personalized jewelry to actually exciting gift cards to some of the best Amazon finds with Prime shipping, shop the best last-minute birthday gifts below.
When in doubt, think practical. This three-in-one backpack/tote is not only cute, but it’s also definitely something your friend will use on a regular basis.
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this long-distance BFF necklace
TwinklePersonalized Best Friend Personalized Necklace
2
this long-distance BFF necklace
TwinklePersonalized Best Friend Personalized Necklace
Fool your friend into thinking you totally, absolutely, definitely remembered their birthday way in advance with this personalized necklace. Etsy seller Twinkle Personalized offers super-quick shipping, so you won’t miss a beat!
Get your bestie a card that says, “It’s me. Hi. I’m the one who forgot your birthday.” Sure, a card isn’t the most thrilling gift, but it’s the thought that counts, and this digital download card can be purchased and printed in minutes. Personalize it with some heartfelt b-day wishes, and you’ve got yourself a fun, unique gift.
Let me set the scene: You’re in bed, it’s 11 at night, and you just realized it’s your friend’s b-day. You want to send a gift that’ll really stand out? Enter a Babeland eGift Card.
Sure, birthday cake is great, but you know what’s even better? Birthday cake pops. You can ship these straight to your friend’s door with only a few days’ notice.
If they haven’t seen/snagged these chunky teardrop earrings that keep going viral on TikTok, they make the perfect last-minute gift (shout-out to 2-day Prime shipping). Available in gold or silver, they’re the perfect statement earring for your stylish friend.
For the friend who’s always forgetting something, this keychain is a great last-minute gift. It is funny and feels personal, and if you really need it ASAP, Rebel Disco Designs’ Etsy shop offers a Rush My Order option to ensure your goodies will be shipped within 1 or 2 days.
Dessert-themed makeup should be a bigger thing. There, I said it. Beauty Bakerie’s sweets-inspired makeup line is perfect for a last-minute gift because it’s already got adorable packaging. No extra wrapping required.
No matter what your friend is into, there’s a master class for that. Screenwriting with Shonda Rhimes? Photography with Annie Leibovitz? Yep, they’ve got it. This yearlong membership is the perfect gift for your friend who loves to keep learning.
We have finally reached a time in society when the Rhode peptide lip treatment isn’t always sold out, but your bestie might not know that. Give them the gift of this viral lip balm that’ll give them moisturized, super-glossy lips.
A great b-day gift is one that your friend might not buy themselves. Like, say, an expensive body lotion that’ll leave their skin silky smooth. This clean, fragrance-free option from beauty brand Nécessaire feels super luxe and splurge-worthy.
Have a friend that’s super into skincare? Try getting them this complexion pillowcase from Discover Night. The double-sided pillowcase features a mulberry silk side to help those with dry skin and minimize hair breakage and a moisture-wicking eucalyptus side to help those with oily skin.
This small-but-mighty Uniqlo bag is literally my go-to everyday bag, which makes it a pretty reliable gift option in my eyes. Plus, it comes in a ton of cute colors, so you can personalize your pick.
This Honey Potion Plus mask is a fan favorite for a reason. The luxurious hydrating mask warms up upon application and immediately makes you feel like the fanciest person on planet Earth.
Yes, it is possible to subscribe to Tidal for free, but paying members get access to better quality sound, ad-free playlists, and more. It’s the perfect gift for the music lover in your life.
Olivia Truffaut-Wong is an entertainment and culture writer and editor who will never turn down a romance or superhero movie. Her work has been featured in The Cut, Refinery29, Teen Vogue, Polygon, Bustle, and more.