12 Unusual Gift Ideas for this Christmas (2022)

Finding the perfect gift is difficult at the best of times; throw in the massive dose of Christmas anxiety, and you have a recipe for another mundane Christmas filled with regifted box sets and socks. This year, break the mould with one of these unusual gift ideas.

1. A metal print – you can choose anything your luck recipient might like, their favourite cityscape or landscape. Whether it’s a skyline shot of New York or a misty mountain scene, metal prints make for an impressive statement piece that is sure to wow.

What about a metal print of their pet? This is a great gift for animal lovers; get creative and incorporate their pet’s name into the design. And even metal prints of their favourite quote or saying.

This thoughtful gift can be personalised to suit the recipient’s taste. Choose a quote that is meaningful to them, or perhaps opt for a humorous saying that will make them crack a smile each time they see it.

2. A subscription to an exciting magazine is a gift that keeps giving all year round. Whether it’s a foodie magazine for the aspiring chef in your life or a fashion mag for the style maven, there’s sure to be a subscription that will perfectly suit your loved one.

We love Viz Magazine or Private Eye for a witty political view on life, and let’s face it, we need a laugh right now. You won’t be surprised to learn there’s a magazine for every niche, no matter how obscure. We know you can access these mags online but getting something through the post every month is a thoughtful gift.

The other great subscription is a masterclass subscription, from £14 a month. Bill Clinton can teach you not to inhale illegal substances while not having sex, or Gordon Ramsay how to scream at people in a Michelin-star restaurant not to get done for bullying. The list is endless, and while we made those subjects up, how to fall in love by Matt Hancock is real (maybe).

3. If you know someone impossible to buy for, why not try a mystery box? Mystery boxes are now available for all interests, from books and beauty products to candles and chocolate. Choose the type of mystery box you think your loved one would like, and let them be surprised on Christmas Day.

4. A personalised phone case is an excellent gift for anyone who loves taking photos on their phone. You can find phone cases with all sorts of designs, from iconic film scenes and classic art prints to personalised images and initials.

5. A month of unlimited coffee – this could be the best gift for coffee lovers or anyone who needs a little pick-me-up during the winter. Most major coffee chains offer monthly subscriptions entitling holders to unlimited monthly coffee.

Unlimited coffee is an excellent gift for busy professionals or students needing a daily caffeine fix. It can also save a ton of money as it’s cheaper to buy your daily flat white (or ten) this way.

6. A day of pampering is a great gift for anyone who deserves a little bit of me-time. Treat them to a relaxing day at a spa, complete with massages, facials and any other treatments they might enjoy. Or, if you’re on a budget, put together a personalised pamper package with some scented candles, bath salts and their favourite skincare products.

Even a note saying I will take the children out for the entire day or walk the dog every morning for a week is a lovely present on you’re short on funds.

7. A personalised book is a great gift for bookworms, especially those Harry Potter fans. Whether it’s a children’s book with their name inserted into the story or a classic novel with a personalised message on the flyleaf, this is a unique and thoughtful present that is sure to be cherished.

8. A day of adventure is the perfect present for thrill-seekers and those who love to try new things. You can buy experience days online for anything from driving supercars to skydiving, so there’s sure to be something that will appeal to your adventurous loved one. Or, if you’re feeling generous, you could treat them to an action-packed weekend away doing all the activities they love.

How about a weekend at Cadburyworld? Chocoholics, this one is for you.

9. A hamper filled with their favourite things is a great gift for foodies and those who appreciate the finer things in life. You can fill a hamper with anything you think they might enjoy, from fine wine and cheeses to gourmet chocolates and delicious biscuits.

Or consider giving a living herb garden. The Veritable Indoor Herb Garden is stylish, sustainable and doesn’t take up much space – perfect for those with a small kitchen or windowsill.

10. A personalised intelligent home device is an excellent gift for tech-savvy loved ones. You can buy devices you control by voice commands, so they can adjust the temperature, play music and even turn on the lights without lifting a finger.

People can use some devices to monitor their fitness levels, sleep patterns, and fad diets. So, if you’re looking for a unique but thoughtful gift for the tech-lover, a personalised smart home device is sure to impress.

What’s more, you can name the device, and they won’t be able to change it – imagine giving one to your mother-in-law and calling it droopy boobs or your annoying teenage sister and naming the device after her first crush. Cruel, yes, but very funny.

11. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable gift, why not treat your family member to a day of learning something new? You can buy experience days from learning to cook like a professional chef to making their own perfume. Or, if they’re more adventurous, you could book them onto a zip-lining or rock-climbing course

12. A personalised photo album is an excellent gift for anyone who loves taking photos. Whether on their phone or with a DSLR camera. You can fill the album with pictures of your favourite memories together or create a scrapbook-style album with mementoes from special occasions. Either way, they will cherish this thoughtful and unique present.