Gift ideas are all around so don’t let a time crunch make you panic.

Judith Fox, a grandmother from Lewiston, adores the Christmas season. Year-round, the glass cabinet in the corner of her living room is lined with caroling and Saint Nicholas figurines. Fox starts buying holiday presents months before the season begins, but usually finds herself scurrying out for last-minute gifts. When shopping last-minute, Fox turns to simple gifts.

“When I was little, I used to get a big orange, so I do that now for my grandchildren,” Fox said.

Like Fox during a typical holiday season, most of us will be out in the stores looking for that final gift to end our shopping. Perhaps we have someone difficult to buy for, or maybe we just waited until December 23rd to get our presents.

Regardless of the reason, head out to the stores with a plan by checking these last-minute gift ideas.

Gifts of safety

Few things matter more to people than the safety and security of loved ones, so consider giving this feeling as a gift. Fox said, “I’ve always liked to give something safe to families around the holidays.”

Gifts of safety can be effortless to get, but the comfort they create can be priceless. Items like smoke or carbon monoxide detectors allow families to be safe at home. Other gift ideas that offer protection are home security systems, escape ladders, and emergency kits.

Gifts of convenience

Everyone loves to receive gifts that make their lives easier, but sometimes putting your finger on a gift that will be beneficial is hard to find. A quick and simple way to find a helpful present is to allow recipients to pick their own gift with a gift card.

Joe McShane, of Auburn, always appreciates receiving a gift card. “Gift cards give me the chance to get what I want, and the freedom to get it when I need it.”

People can purchase gifts cards for Facebook credits, popular restaurants, iTunes music, movie theater tickets, Playstation network cards, or American Express gift cards.

Gifts of luxury

Another quick and simple holiday present is the gift of relaxation. Sally Smith, a teacher from Lewiston, suggests giving luxury to people. “It’s easy to make a wine and cheese basket, or pick up a spa gift certificate for a massage,” Smith said.

The best thing about gifts that give luxury is that they are good gifts for nearly everyone. Men and women alike enjoy being given time to enjoy, relax, and smile.

Gifts of time

If you’re running a low-budget holiday this year, consider making personalized coupons to give for gifts this season. These coupons can be easily made using a computer and printer, or a decorative pen and paper. Create individual coupons, or make a coupon book for the many different ways you can give the gift of time. Some ideas include babysitting, chores, a trip out to lunch, or an afternoon at the cinema.

Last-minute gift shopping can be stressful, but with these simple ideas, you can save yourself the hassle and worry that last-minute shopping can bring.