With everything that going on during the holiday season, it's impossible not to get caught up with things and mix up schedules. 'Tis the season where you might need to run to a Christmas dinner right after work and realize midway, that you forgot to bring a gift for Monito, Monita (totally NOT saying this is me). This is where reliable stores come to the rescue—places where you can find affordable, last-minute gifts for anyone, even a Secret Santa, without breaking the bank.
Here are 7 shops where you can buy last-minute holiday gifts for just about anyone
Flying Tiger
Flying Tiger Copenhagen is a Danish variety store that first came to the Philippines in 2023. They opened their flagship store in Glorietta in November and since then, have opened multiple branches across Manila. In case you stumble upon a Flying Tiger store, you'll surely see items often made with sustainability in mind that you can give under P500. These include some cute knickknacks like stationery and notebooks. Their stores are also decked with Christmas decor that might make a v timely gift.
ALSO READ: Flying Tiger Copenhagen Is Here To Transform Your Home Into A Pretty Wonderland
Anko
Australian home and lifestyle brand Anko is another store where you're sure you can shop within a budget. If you're unsure what to give your workmates, the essentials you can find at Anko might just trigger your inspiration on what to get them. You can also choose from some of their pet items if you know they have furbabies who wait for them at home.
Ikea
Ikea is known for its quality furniture. And while that would make a great gift, they're not exactly the most budget-friendly (not to mention, travel-to-the-venue-friendly as well). But, they do have other items, like smaller homeware such as lamps, and cups. Their reusable straws are perfect for the iced coffee connoisseur you know and don't have a gift for yet.
Miniso
Run, don't walk to Miniso, especially if your monito or monita is a Potterhead. Here, you'll be sure to spot good reliable Harry Potter merch you could give them and maybe even get a lore explanation in exchange. Pro tip: Slyly ask for their Hogwarts house first if you don't already know so you could really match their personality!
Muji
It's not just about shopping at Muji for dependable, Japanese-quality everyday essentials. If you're looking for a practical and universally usable gift, a quick lap around Muji is all you need to find the perfect pick. This is especially ideal for gift exchanges where you don't know who the recipient is—because their versatile products, like stationery, are suitable for anyone and everyone.
The Travel Club
For the frequent flyer, a quick visit to the Travel Club should do the trick to get them a gift with their wide array of travel essentials. They carry brands like Hydro Flask, Herschel, Hedgren, Lojel, and more. But you can also opt for their smaller items like foldable cutlery, travel adapters, and even some camping essentials. The Travel Club has everything for each type of traveler! May they be frequent flyers, beach bods, or hikers and campers.
Niko And...
If you know an otaku or just a Japanese culture fan in general, you might find something within budget at the newly opened Japanese lifestyle store at the SM Mall of Asia, Niko And... From themed mugs to small home decorations and trinkets, and even clothing items like socks, you'll def find a thing or two here and maybe even have a hard time choosing from their items. So prepare some time (and your wallet!), because you might just end up finding a gift for everyone you know here.
We know Christmas shopping might get a little overwhelming, especially when in a hurry or under a budget. But, it's always important to remember that in this season of giving, it's always the thought that counts. And hey, if you also decide to pick up an item (or two) while shopping in one of these stores for yourself, we listen and we don't judge here. *wink*
