If you’re looking to surprise your friends and family with unique gifts this year then consider the following alternative gift ideas. 

If you haven’t started your Christmas shopping already, then it’s time to kick yourself into high gear. Make a list and check it twice so you don’t forget anyone when you head off towards the shops. However, as lovely as knit jumpers, pajama packs and bottles of wine are, you might feel like mixing it up and giving unexpected gifts this year. If you’re up for giving something unique and unusual, try giving these five alternative gifts this year.

One, make a book of vouchers specific to the needs and interests of the person you are giving it to. For example, you could give your parents a set of five dinner vouchers. Then, when there’s a night they don’t feel like cooking, they’ll submit one of the vouchers to you in exchange for you cooking them dinner. Or, give your partner a set of vouchers for foot rubs or a shoulder massage. The person receiving the vouchers will no doubt appreciate such a thoughtful, personal gift.

Two, utilise a skill you have and give your friends and family lessons or help with something. For example, if you know how to play the guitar then give your niece or nephew a set of ten guitar lessons. Or, if you have carpentry skills and know your colleague is hoping to renovate their home, offer ten hours of your time to help him. This idea will cost you nothing but your time.

Three, give baked goods. Spend a weekend or two baking Christmas cookies, fudge and cinnamon rolls. Wrap them up tight with cling film or, if possible, pop them in the freezer to avoid them getting stale. Then, spend the week before Christmas calling into the homes of your friends and family and surprising them with the delicious treats. You can make the goodies look extra festive by tying them up with red and green ribbon or wrapping them in Christmas paper.

Four, give a gift experience rather than an item. If your loved ones enjoy trying new things then they’d surely like to try an alternative experience day. For your adrenaline junkie friends, book a supercar driving experience where they can get behind the wheel of a Lamborghini, Ferrari, Aston Martin and Porsche. For the football lovers you can book them a stadium tour and for those who like to enjoy the finer things in life, you can book them an afternoon tea.

Finally, the fifth alternative gift idea is for whomever you think might like a surprise. Book a top secret hotel for them. You’ll get a great rate for the booking but exactly where you’re staying will be kept secret until the booking has gone through. You pick the destination but the name of the hotel is kept top secret. If there’s someone you know who likes to be kept in suspense then this is the perfect gift for him or her.  

These alternative gift ideas are sure to surprise and delight your friends and family. They’ll be touched at the effort you put in to get or do something that’s just for them.