Already Planning the Perfect Christmas Gift? These Gift Cards Require Minimal Effort and Still Feel Really Thoughtful
The best thing? You can shop them right up until the last minute.
In my opinion, gift cards are a very underrated present. Left your gift buying to the last minute? Gift card. Shopping for someone who’s notoriously tricky to buy for? Gift card. Buying a present for your long-distance pal? You guessed it, gift card.
We might only be in October, but Christmas Day will roll around in no time at all. I don't know about you, but I hate the stress of last minute Christmas shopping—when faced with a time limit, I simply never know which beauty gift set, piece of jewellery or cashmere jumper my giftee would prefer. With this in mind, gift cards might be the better option. Still, they often get dismissed for feeling quite impersonal—which is why I’ve only selected the gift cards that still feel pretty thoughtful.
As a Shopping Editor and incredibly fussy gift receiver, getting a gift card is my dream present. Here at Marie Claire UK, we’re all about giving the perfect gift for the right person—whether they're one to throw everything at it or perfer a 'less is more' approach; whether they love to make a fashion statement or prefer their cosy comforts.
Let's be honest: there’s nothing worse than getting a present that just sits and gathers dust, so gift cards allow people to choose something they’ll actually use and love. The fact that they take minimal effort on your part is just a bonus, really.
Not only are gift cards an ideal option for particularly picky loved ones, but you won’t have to wait for delivery or even take time wrapping them in the case of e-gift cards. So, you can pretty much make your purchase right up until you’re due to see them. Sounds like a pretty great last-minute gift idea if you ask me.
So without further ado, keep scrolling to shop the best gift cards that you can shop right up until Christmas Day itself and that still feel quite thoughtful.
Shop the Best Christmas Gift Cards in 2026
Why they'll love it: Victoria Beckham Beauty is one of the best brands on the market right now, so any makeup fan will be very glad to receive this in their inbox on Christmas morning.
Why they'll love it: From luxury bedding to cosy knitwear, Rise&Fall is my top shopping spot for affordable, high quality wardrobe and homeware staples. With gift cards starting at £15, it's the ideal treat for all tastes.
Why they'll love it: Valid at over 190 spas across the UK (from London's AIRE to Bournemouth's The Nici), the gift of R&R is always well received.
Why they'll love it: If you're really stuck, a Liberty voucher can be used online and in-store, including store treatments. Ideal for those with luxury taste.
Why they'll love it: Let's be honest, who wouldn't want a free beauty treatment? Treatwell allows them to book at a spot they love and choose from an array of manicures, hair treatments, massages and more.
Why they'll love it: If you're certain they'd love a beauty gift, there's no going wrong with Jones Road. With an array of beauty, skincare and fragrance products that will work for everyone, this is the perfect last-minute buy that is a little more unique than a generic beauty retailer.
Why they'll love it: I can bet that almost everyone could do with refreshing their underwear, and Stripe & Stare makes some of the softest and most stylish pairs on the market. The brand's pyjamas also aren't to be missed, and this voucher allows them to pick their favourites. And if they're really serious about good underwear, spoil them with a subscription.
Why they'll love it: If they take their nail care seriously, they're bound to be thrilled with a Manicurist gift card. From LED gel kits to the chicest nail strengtheners on the market, they're bound to find something they love.
Why they'll love it: A Selfridges gift card is essentially the much chicer equivalent of a One4All—from beauty and fashion to home and tech, they can pick from SO many amazing retailers.
Why they'll love it: It's no secret that we're huge fans of Adanola here at MC UK. They have some of the best (and most affordable) activewear and loungewear around, so even a modest budget will stretch a surprising amount.
Why they'll love it: This gift idea might seem a little rogue, but it's probably the most useful and practical gift (read: one they'll actually use day in, day out) in this list. If they travel a lot and love catching up on shows back from home, this clever VPN service will make that easier than ever. Find out more about how you can get them a NordVPN gift card on the website.
Why they'll love it: If they love to switch up their outfits but hate the idea of clothing waste, a gift card from Hurr is the perfect option. Your giftee can use it to rent dresses, bags and more for future special occasions. It's the perfect luxurious treat.
Why they'll love it: Whether they buy a wellness journal, diary planner or personalised recipe book, the chic stationery options at Papier are endless.
Why they'll love it: This kit allows them to discover more about their ancestors and perhaps even find new family connections. Fun fact, our editor actually found a long-lost relative thanks to AncestryDNA.
Why they'll love it: Do they love wildlife and exploring new places? Treat them to a National Trust gift card for access to over 500 of their spaces, the online Members' Area and more.
Why they'll love it: If you know they've been after a new pair of running trainers or fitness kit for a while, they can choose their preferred styles and size with this Adidas gift card.
Why they'll love it: A Rixo gift card is ideal for fashion fans with refined taste—everyone will find a chic investment here.
