Thoughtful Gift Ideas When You’re 10,000 Miles Away

How to send love from the UK to Australia when you can’t be there in person

There’s nothing quite like the sting of missing a special moment because you’re on the other side of the world. Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, anniversary or just a random “I miss you,” long-distance gifting can feel like a puzzle. But even if you’re 10,000 miles away in the UK, it is possible to send something beautiful, meaningful and delicious to someone you love in Australia.

These are a few creative, thoughtful gift ideas that go the extra mile and might even make you feel closer.

1. Send a Slice of Joy: Cake Delivery in Melbourne

Let’s be honest, cake makes everything better. If you can’t be there to hug someone, you can still show you care by delivering a gorgeous, indulgent cake straight to their doorstep.

Cake Run is a Melbourne-based cake delivery service that lets you do just that. Their range includes halal, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free cakes, so no one has to miss out regardless of their dietary needs. They even offer $5 delivery across Melbourne, making it one of the most affordable and feel-good options for overseas gifting.

Still not convinced? Here’s what one happy customer in Europe had to say:

“I ordered the cake for my daughter’s birthday as my husband and I are currently not living in Australia and I thought it would be a nice surprise for her. She loved the cake and vegan slice. The ordering process was very easy and straightforward. I can highly recommend it.” – Tamara, Verified Trustpilot Review

Whether it’s a Ferrero Rocher dream cake or a colourful vegan slice, this is the kind of surprise that says “I’m thinking of you” in the sweetest way.

2. Personalised Keepsakes That Travel Well

If you want something more permanent than dessert (though nothing truly beats cake), consider a personalised gift that can be shipped directly to Australia. UK-based Etsy sellers often create custom name necklaces, matching long-distance bracelets, or engraved keepsakes that mark a special date or location.

Bonus tip: Pair it with a handwritten card using services like Moonpig or Papier that ship internationally.

3. Subscription Gifts That Keep Giving

Ongoing surprises can be a lovely reminder of your presence when you can’t be there in person. Think streaming subscriptions like Netflix or Spotify, because shared playlists are an underrated love language. Or try local Australian subscriptions like book clubs, wine deliveries, or tea boxes.

Want to make it extra special? Schedule a one-off delivery from Cake Run to arrive the same week as their first subscription for a sweet and thoughtful touch.

4. Host a Virtual Celebration (with Real Cake!)

Zoom parties might not be new, but can still be made special. Gather your friends or family online for a virtual toast or quiz night, and organise for a real cake to arrive before the call. It brings something tactile and turns the celebration into a true event, not just another video chat.

Cake Run makes this easy, especially since you don’t need to live in Australia to place an order. It’s perfect for siblings, parents, or besties in Melbourne, and it’s guaranteed to get a big smile on camera.

Final Thoughts: It’s About Showing Up However You Can

Gifting from afar is never just about what you send. It’s about letting someone know they’re on your mind. Whether you go for a thoughtful keepsake, a monthly surprise or a decadent slice of cake from Cake Run, what matters most is the love behind it.

Sometimes, the best way to say I’m with you in spirit is with cake.