The Best Gift Ideas For People Who Are Hard To Buy For
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Some people can be impossible to shop for, so finding the perfect gift for them can be a real challenge (especially when you waited ’til the last minute, but we’ve got you covered). Whether they already have it all or they’re Fort Knox and refuse to divulge any information, not even the slightest hint of what they want, some friends and family make us second-guess ourselves like crazy, with thoughts like, “But will they even like this?” and “Will she use this?” or “Do they already have this?” passing through our minds. But it’s time to forget all that and have a little fun finding a unique gift for that special person—whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just-because gift.
Related story 15 Perfect Gifts for the Fitness-Loving Mama in Your Life — Starting at $14We scoped out the latest-and-greatest gifts from our favorite of-the-moment brands like, and pulled the items they likely wouldn’t purchase for themselves but would actually use. From internet-famous cookware that looks as good as it cooks, to Meghan Markle-approved sneakers that fulfill fashion and function needs, we’ve got goodies for every picky person out there. And we even found gifts that you can send instantly, like a gift card to Masterclass, for all you procrastinators out there.
From stylish and fun to practical and functional, here are the best gifts guaranteed to impress all the impossible-to-shop-for people in your life.
Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. KEEP and MSCHF are SheKnows sponsors, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
A Smart Storage Unit for Your Medication
KEEP Intelligent Storage Box
Whether you’ve been prescribed a controlled substance or you just suspect your toddler’s gummy multivitamins are a bit too tasty, it just makes sense to store your medication and supplements in a box that locks. KEEP ups the ante by offering a container that’s not only secure, but also a smart gadget. Pair it with KEEP’s companion app, then start tracking your dosages and getting daily reminders of when you and all your family members are due to take your meds. If anyone tries to get into your KEEP Intelligent Storage box, the app will let you know. Genius.
A Puzzle That Could Win You a $1 Million Prize
MSCHF $2 Million Puzzle
For just under $30, give the ultimate gift: A not-so-bad chance at winning $1 million. Seriously. You have a 150 times better chance at winning a million dollars from this puzzle than the lottery jackpot (and 3,045 times more likely to win it than the NYC jackpot lottery). Everyone could use $1 million. All you need to do is complete this puzzle, which will form into a QR code you then scan to see what it’s worth. You’re guaranteed to win something, whether it’s $1 or $1 million. Worst case, your giftee has a bunch of fun completing a high stakes puzzle game.
A Personalized Blanket
On Repeat Custom Throw Blanket
$60 $98 39% off
I know what you’re thinking: a blanket, really? But this throw blanket is such an easy gift to give. It ships quickly, has a simple personalized touch, and looks quite similar to a very expensive designer blanket that costs upwards of $1,300. So, if you ask me, this is a total steal.
A Spacious Backpack
Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack
Whether they’re still in college or commuting to the office, a backpack is super helpful to carry all of their necessities during the winter time. Because who really wants to wrestle with throwing a tote bag over a thick, heavy coat?
A Chic Hydration Tool
Cruiser Insulated Tumbler With Handle
2023 has been the year of tumblers, and if they don’t have one already, get them this new sleek one by Corkcicle. They come in so many fun, unique colors that look much more chic than other options on the market.
A Glow Inducing Kit
Dr. Jart+ Mask Must-Haves Set
$51 $68 25% off
If you know a skincare junkie, then this is the perfect gift set from them. The Dr. Jart+ Mask Must-Haves Set comes with the brand’s most coveted sheet masks, two viral Cryo Rubber masks, and a Pore Remedy Mud mask. And considering the brand’s sheet masks start at around $9, this kit is so worth it.
A Set Of Delicious Candles
Travel Candle Trio Set
No other brand does scent as well as Jo Malone. This set includes beautiful aromas that are a holiday season must-have. It consists of travel-sized Orange Bitters, Pine & Eucalyptus, and Roasted chestnut-scented candles that’ll get your place smelling just right. Plus, it comes in a ready-to-give gift box.
PHILIPS Sonicare Electric Toothbrush with DiamondClean Brush Head
As someone who recently had braces, I believe an electric toothbrush is a must-have for all. They probably want one but don’t want to buy it themselves. So treat them to this top-notch toothbrush that features Philips Sonicare’s latest DiamondClean brush head.
A Meal Delivery Service
Martha Stewart x Marley Spoon Meal Kits
$10.99/Serving
Make meal planning simple for them with this delicious meal delivery service. You can gift them some boxes to get them started with incredible recipes inspired by Martha Stewart to create memories and meals they’ll never forget.
A Pack Of Unique Pimple Stickers
Starface X Glossier Compact
II bet they don’t have zit stickers like these! This new Starface x Glossier collaboration has plenty of fun and unique sticker designs to help your giftee embrace their pimples like never before. Plus, it comes in an adorable carrying case, so they can always be covered even on the go. But, if you think they’d rather the original Starface stickers, the brand has a new Big Lil Gift Set with 48(!) hydro-stars for just a dollar more.
A Personal Massager
Therabody Theragun mini
$149.99 $199 25% off
If your friend seems like they’re in perpetual need of a massage, gift them their own personal masseuse. This tiny but mighty massage tool will work on the muscle knots with its three speeds and quiet power. Thanks to Best Buy’s Black Friday deals that are currently going on, you can snag $50 off this popular percussive device as well as several other best-sellers from the well-tech brand.
A Sleek Cereal Dispenser That Looks Pleasing on Countertops
Honey-Can-Do Double Siver Cereal Dispenser
This cereal dispenser not only makes mornings a breeze, it also looks stunning on your counter (or in the pantry). So many shoppers rave about this handy dispenser so much that it’s been a viral TikTok sensation for months! The Double Siver Cereal Dispenser stores your favorite cereal in easy-to-use dispensers that dish out the perfect serving size when you turn the nozzle. It’s so handy that kids can even help themselves in the morning. It also comes with a removable tray that catches crumbs and any accidental spills.
Fine Chocolates That Look Like Art
All Dark 16-Piece Assortment
Just one look at these gorgeous chocolates from Gearharts Fine Chocolates, and your recipient will be more than impressed. This 16-piece dark chocolate set includes unique and divine flavors like earl grey, maple pecan, and pistachio toffee orange. Gift these to your best friend, in-law, or favorite co-worker and you’ll make their day.
Internet-Favorite Pan — With a Twist
Cast Iron Always Pan
$120 $%155 23% off
Everyone wants to get their hands on the Our Place Always pan, but did you know it also comes in a cast iron version? This multi-tasking kitchen pan does the work of 8 pieces of cookware, and comes in a bunch of gorgeous colors, so it’ll save up cabinet space and elevate their kitchen decor at the same time.
An Under-$200 Espresso Machine
De’Longhi ECP3120 15 Bar Espresso Machine
Any coffee lover will jump for joy when you gift them with this pristine De’Longhi espresso machine. Along with crafting cafe-quality espresso, it also comes with a milk steamer so that your giftee can concoct the perfect latte at home. Usually upwards of $200, you can shop it now on sale for $120
Meghan Markle-Approved Sneakers
Venturi Sneaker
Vejas are the kind of sneakers that look fabulous on hiking trails and brunch lines — it’s no wonder Meghan Markle has been spotted rocking shoes from the brand. These chunky sneaks would be a fabulous gift for your fashionista friend who loves to get their steps in.
A Gamer Necessity
<strong>Nintendo – Geek Squad Certified Refurbished Switch</strong>
$289.99 $299.99 3% off
Your teen — or, let’s be honest, your partner — would love getting a Nintendo Switch under the tree this holiday season. Best Buy has refurbished versions that will save you a hefty chunk of change. It works just as good as the new ones and comes with Geek Squad’s approval. It’s a great money-savvy purchase for a big-ticket item.
A Sweet Video Game To Play It On
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
And, of course, they will need a game to play on it. You can gift them a digital or physical copy of the latest Super Mario Bros. Wonder game, where, for the first time, Mario and Luigi leave the Mushroom Kingdom for some new adventures that’ll be a sure-fire hit for whomever you’re gifting it to.
A Coveted Cleaner
<strong>Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum</strong>
$299.99 $469.99 36% off
The best family present? A Dyson vacuum, of course! Your fam will get so much use of it, and it’ll make your home look brand new every time it’s used. For a limited time, you can get it on sale for $170 off.
Pro Cooking Lessons
MasterClass Gift Card
If your gift recipient is obsessed with Ina Garten and Martha Stewart as much as we are, then all you need to get her is a gift card from MasterClass so they can take Gordon Ramsay’s classes or world-renowned pastry chef Dominique Ansel’s baking class. Or, they can brush up on their interior design skills with Kelly Wearstler or learn to French tuck with Queer Eye’s Tan France.
The Best Belt Bag
Everywhere Belt Bag
Give the gift of free hands and arms with this lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. This fan-favorite belt bag can hold your phone, wallet and keys, so you can explore comfortably. Whether you’re gifting this to a hiker or someone who loves to travel, they’ll get tons of use out of this weather-repellent bag. Plus, it comes in some many different color combinations and patterns.
Next-Level Coffee Concentrate
Jot Ultra Coffee
Busy people run on coffee and don’t have time to waste, so gift them some delicious java that’ll make them feel like a barista at home. Jot is a concentrated liquid coffee that they can use to make cold brew, espressos, and more in just seconds. Simply add a tablespoon (there’s one included) of the liquid coffee to water or your milk of choice—and presto! Gourmet coffee that tastes like the $7 latte they’d buy at the local coffee shop.
For the Pet Parents
Blink Mini Camera
$19.99 $34.99 43% off
Now that things are beginning to go back to normal, your overly attached pet parent friends and family might be suffering from a little separation anxiety. This camera will help put anxious pet owner’s minds at ease, because they can check up on Fido or Fluffy at any time from an app on their smartphone.
Smart Mug
Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug
If the person you’re shopping for always lets their beverage get cold, this is the mug they need. It’s app-controlled and allows the user to keep their beverage from 120 to 145 degrees all day long. Yes, we’re serious. Instead of getting them yet another coffee mug for their collection, get the mug to end all mugs.
Internet-Famous Waffle Maker
Dash Mini Maker
Quite possibly the most popular TikTok-famous product, this Dash waffle maker is a must. With this mini waffle maker, you can treat yourself to gourmet waffles (or paninis!) whenever you want. Not to mention, it’ll look really cute on a kitchen countertop.
For more foolproof gift ideas for mom, check out these cozy slippers you’ll never want to take off:
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