10 Last Minute Xmas Shopping Ideas

I think most of us have been in the situation on Christmas Eve where you get home convinced that the shopping is done, you’ve bought everything for everyone, but then you start wrapping the presents and realise there’s one person you haven’t bought a present for and the shops are shut. You’re left with one of 3 options the supermarket (which could be shut), the off license or the last bastion of the Christmas shopper… The 24 hour garage.

At Sixt we like to think that even though you may have missed a gift, you’ve not missed an opportunity. Here are some of our suggestions for garage gifts at Christmas, some are genuine ideas, however others are for desperate times when they’ve run out of stock.

1. Gift Cards

   
   Some garages have gift cards for such emergencies and have a surprisingly varied and welcome range. From iTunes, Next and B&Q to Top-up cards for the different mobile networks, you can usually find the gift card you need for the right person.

2. Chocolates

   
   If you’re lucky enough you can find a few selection boxes at your local petrol station, ideal for your wife, mother-in-law or parents.

3. Flowers

   
   Garage bouquets are renowned for being the gift of the apologetic partner, but giving flowers at christmas provides a unexpected surprise to loved ones.

4. Wine

   
   Not all garages are licensed to sell alcohol, but a select few do and it’s these petrol stations that you can pick up a selection of fairly well known brands of wine.

5. Model Cars

   
   Small diecast model cars are the perfect gift for kids. Cheap to buy, easy to replace and simply great to play with, it’s everything a little child wants.

Here are some more light-hearted (less genuine) gift ideas for those of you really struggling.

1. Ginsters Cornish Pasty

   The ever present inclusion to a petrol station’s fridge, always there, often ignored but essential fayre any time of the year.

2. Samosas

   Although Indian food is not traditionally Christmassy, it’s certainly becoming the popular option on Boxing Day. With Turkey Massalas, Baltis and Kormas being whipped up across the country the samosa is an ideal starter and shows forethought for future festivities.

3. Warning Triangle

   Making sure those you love are safe, the warning triangle is a perfect gift. Although generally not well received, it is always appreciated when it’s needed.

4. Sponge

   Hand car washes are becoming more and more popular these days, but they can charge up to £6 for a complete wash. Why not get the same effect for a faction of the cost, with a little more effort on your part?

5. Anti Freeze

   The ultimate garage gift, anti freeze will ensure that the engines on your loved ones cars work throughout the winter and most importantly, when it’s time to leave you to your post christmas meal snooze in front of the TV.

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