Dads are really great, aren’t they? Well, hopefully your dad is. Some people aren’t as lucky. This gift list is for the ‘good dads.’ Christmas time is vastly approaching and what better time than to show dad just how much you really care about him and appreciate the many things he does? The question is, what to get dad for Christmas? A scented candle doesn’t really say much and does he really need another neck tie?

What to get dad for Christmas?

6pc beer glass set. If dad likes beer then he’ll love these.

Department stores have a way of putting up these set-ups of crazy products that jump out at you like ‘Hey look at me, I’m new and awesome. Buy Me!’ You’ve never seen these products any other time but around the holidays and they make you believe that it’s something Dad really wants. It can be tempting to just pick up something that at first glance seems like a good idea, but let’s be honest; how many of us have received a lousy gift that ended up getting re-gifted? It was probably something that was picked up from one of these displays. Dad deserves something more than that.

For someone as special as dad, you want your gift to be a meaningful one that says you really think a lot of them. The trouble with this is men can sometimes be hard to shop for. If you’re shopping for one of those ‘basic necessity’ types that doesn’t find use in fancy gadgets then you might really have a hard time searching for the right gift. Take it from someone who has thrown a lot of money away on good intentions that were never used as they were intended.

A classic made even better. Game of Thrones Monopoly

It’s not about the gift itself but the thought that counts. Anyone can pick up something nice off a shelf and give as a gift, but what is the thought behind it? When you give someone something that demonstrates meaningfulness they will appreciate it more than something as vague as a remote control holder.

If budget is a factor in trying to figure out what to get dad for Christmas keep in mind that you don’t have to shell out a ton of money for that perfect gift. If money isn’t an object then by all means go ahead and splurge — just as long as it’s something meaningful like, perhaps a getaway trip to a place he would probably enjoy.

Shopping Tips | What to Get Dad this Christmas?

If you really want to put in the effort to get dad the right gift this Christmas then take note. Understanding the type of person you are buying for can be the key to helping you determine what to get dad for Christmas. Put yourself in his shoes and ask yourself ‘is this something I would like?’ Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind while you’re shopping around.

Simple, inexpensive and practical. A brilliant idea for the DIY dad.

What are his hobbies?

Everyone has a hobby so try and pinpoint what his is and you can go from there. Does he enjoy taking on new projects around the house or does he usually hire someone else to get the job done? If the latter, then you can scratch power tools off of your list! Now think about the activities he regularly takes part in such as outdoor activities – perhaps fishing? Also consider things he may be a member of such as clubs (golfing, auto club, etc.).

What are his interests?

Think about the things dad likes. Maybe he’s into sports or Nascar or he might even be a big history buff. If you’re completely clueless as to what he likes then try casually striking up a conversation with him. Just be careful not to give away the fact that you’re trying to tap into his interests for a gift idea.

For example, refrain from simply asking him ‘hey dad, what kind of stuff do you like?” One way you can do this without being conspicuous is by asking him what kind of plans he has for the weekend. If there’s nothing eventful going on then it could be a dead end but even if he’s just into watching the game on TV it may offer some inspiration for a perfect gift. You still have time to shop so maybe do a little investigating and see what’s the norm in dad’s agenda during his leisurely time. Just don’t be weird about it, because no one likes a stalker!

I know, it’s not cheap, but perfect if you dad is a wannabe astronomer.

What does he use every day?

Think about dad’s day-to-day routine. Does he make coffee in the morning to bring with him on his way to work? Does he typically cook dinner? If you really want to know what to get dad for Christmas think of something that is practical and you know he’s going to get use out of it then try to aim for something that might make his normal routine a little easier. Coming from you, he’ll think about you every time he uses it.

Gift Ideas | What to get Dad for Christmas?

Now that we’ve covered some of the basics to help you figure out what dad likes you have your ground work done to figure out the right gift. Still not sure what to get dad for Christmas? Don’t worry. I’ve listed some general ideas below that are fitting for guys in that particular category to help you decide.

Can also cook food on cloudy days. Read our full review.

Gift Ideas for the Sporty Dad

Watching sports is one of the great all-American past times for most guys. Think about the sports your guy typically likes to watch (or play). Does he have a favorite team? Many large chain retailers and sporting good shops carry a vast selection of sports merchandise that could be the perfect addition to his man-cave. It could be something decorative like a throw blanket or something useful such as a beer mug with their logo. If he has a particular player he’s a major fan of then maybe he’d like a Fat Head or a wall poster.

Handmade and licensed by the NFL. Official sweaters with character.

Another really great idea is apparel and no, I don’t mean another ugly turtleneck sweater. With so many options to show your support for the team, you really can’t go wrong from jerseys and t-shirts to hats or even slippers! Christmas time does usually come with cooler weather so maybe he could use some new pajama pants sporting his favorite team around the house.

Thinking outside the box — Something a little more non-traditional, but also a great idea is season tickets to go see his favorite team play! Another idea could be a subscription to a sports magazine – something to look at while he’s sitting on his throne!

Gift Ideas for the Hobbyist

I mentioned earlier to think of dad’s favorite hobbies that he enjoys. Is he really good with his hands for woodworking? Perhaps he could use a new tool set or even a tool box. Does he play golf or like to go bowling? Think of accessories he could use to go with his favorite hobby like some funny golf club covers or a new gym bag for when he’s pumping iron.

A useful gift for under $10. Stanley 12″ Soft Sided Tool Bag.

Let’s say he is a sports fan and doesn’t need any more memorabilia. Maybe he just so happens to have a hobby for collecting cards of famous sports players. A new binder with card-holder sleeves could be just the thing he needs to organize his collection that has been sitting in a shoe-box under the bed.

Detects coin-sized objects up to 6-” deep and larger objects up to 2-feet.

Thinking outside the box —There may be other ‘uncommon’ hobbies dad may enjoying doing that you don’t even know about. For instance, maybe he’s secretly a coin collector. Consider a coffee table book on the history of coins, enabling him to learn a little bit more about the hobby. Depending on how serious he is about it, perhaps a metal detector would spark some interest.

Gift Ideas for the Outdoorsman

Is dad the type that lives for the outdoors? If out on the lake or in the woods is where you’re most likely to find him on his day off then hunting and fishing gear could be a great place to look for gift ideas.

Think about the things he normally takes with him or keep an ear out for him to mention something he could use for his next trip. Maybe his fishing lure collection could stand to be expanded or even a new tackle box to keep his already-expanding collection in! If he normally uses the utensils from the kitchen drawer to clean his latest kill then maybe dad would like a deer skinning kit.

Extremely well-made. This tool can easily outlive you.

Thinking outside the box — If he spends more time in the outdoors than in, he might appreciate something to make the outdoors more livable such as an ice chest or a new sleeping bag to replace that old moth-eaten one! Does dad like drinking coffee? It’s a little difficult trying to make coffee when you don’t have a spare outlet to hook up on a camping tree.

Gift Ideas for the Chef

Is dad the chef in the family? Whether indoors or out, every cook could stand to use some new tools for the kitchen or for the grill. I’m not talking about another ‘Kiss the cook’ apron either. There are endless types of knives for so many different tasks and after time, blades get dull. Get dad a new cutlery set or a knife sharpener.

A wide range of beautiful spice racks to choose from — for the aspiring chef.

If he’s a man that likes his power tools as much as he likes to cook then he might REALLY like an electric carving knife. Is he a grilling master? Consider something for the pit like a new grilling set or even a patty press.

Thinking outside the box — Guys are not very well-known for reading directions simply because they like to think of themselves as self-sufficient but if the master chef just so happens to be a hunter as well, consider a cookbook on wild game to give him some inspiration for new dishes.

Gift Ideas for the Techie Dad

Is he one of those men that likes to be the first in line to get the latest gadget? While you may not be so tech-savvy yourself, consider brushing up on some of the latest trends to get ahead of the game. There are always new gadgets coming out that help simplify the tasks we do in everyday life so that’s a good place to start. Look at gadgets that go hand-in-hand with his favorite hobby like a fish finder for his boat or a multi-use portable charger.

Echo adapts to your speech patterns, vocabulary, & preferences. Great for music!

Thinking outside the box — If it seems like he already has everything then consider looking at accessories designed for the gadgets he currently owns. If he’s typically pretty rough on his gadgets then maybe he could use a new heavy-duty case for his cell phone or tablet. If he likes to sing in the shower then a waterproof Bluetooth speaker might be something he hadn’t thought of getting.

More Ideas | What to get dad for Christmas?

Some dads are just difficult to shop for, but all hope is not lost. One of the greatest ways to show someone you think a lot about them is through a personalized gift. This is also a really great idea if you’re on a very tight budget and don’t have a lot to spend on something super fancy. You may even know someone who does custom printing that can be added to things like cups or glass. Bring his favorite pocket knife or even a money clip to have it engraved with his initials or a sentimental message.

It’s impressive how they can pack 33 tools into such a small space.

If you’re really at a loss as to what to get dad for Christmas, then think about his favorite places to go or shop. Maybe you haven’t got a clue about fishing or hunting stuff but you would like to get him something from a sporting goods store that you know he likes or frequently visits.

Gift cards are a great way to go because he can get whatever he wants or needs and you’ll know it won’t end up getting re-gifted! It will mostly be your larger retail chains that will carry gift cards to be purchased and loaded, but you can ask smaller stores for gift certificates.

Choose your dad’s favorite retailer and let him decide what to buy.

Thinking outside the box — It’s not every guy that likes to be pampered, but we live in an era where some men really do enjoy and appreciate a day of relaxation. He works hard and he’s got the feet to show for it, but maybe he never considered actually going into a spa on his own. A pedicure is a sensational gift idea that is most likely well-deserved and he will certainly enjoy.

Dads like to be pampered too! Very affordable.

Deciding on what to get dad for Christmas may have you thinking long and hard for the perfect gift idea, but with these tips in mind hopefully it will be a little easier. Don’t fall for the gimmicky products many department stores often try to convince you to buy. After all, they don’t know Dad the way you do. Show him some love with a gift that says ‘I picked this out specifically for you’.

Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad

Buckle up, hold tight and get ready for a wide variety of ideas. I know that every person is unique and I’ve made it my goal to uncover and seek out Christmas gift ideas that cover a wide range of personality types. Far too many people buy generic gifts for their dad and I don’t understand why. It’s better to write a thoughtful card and buy them nothing rather than just buy a random gift.

The purpose of this article is to inspire you to think differently about buying a gift and share some unique and thoughtful gifts that will hopefully spark your own ideas. A good gift is personal, not generic.

Etsy has some very cool and unique gifts.

If you think deeply about what your dad is truly interested in then it will be easy to decide on how to spend your money. If you’re thoughtful, a $10 gift can be the best gift ever. So, when you sit there and ponder “What to get Dad for Christmas?” don’t fret, don’t worry. Don’t feel pressure to spend more money than you can afford, but rather ask:

• What gift would dad truly appreciate?
• What makes my dad light up?
• What inspires my dad?
• What does my dad aspire to?
• What is my dad passionate about?
• What does dad always talk about? Wish for?
• What does my dad need right now that he can’t see for himself? How can I help?

Sometimes a gift can be considered a tool or a vessel to help someone accomplish a goal. For example, if your dad wants to start a business, you can buy him an inspirational book on starting a business. If your dad always talks about getting in shape but never does, buy him a treadmill (if you can afford it), or some running shoes or prepay 5 sessions with a personal trainer. If your dad likes art but doesn’t have the courage to try it himself, enroll him in a drawing class or buy him an easel and paints.

Unlock your dad’s creative spirit. It’s never too late.

When you uncover the kernel of truth that lies hidden in your father, grab onto to it and follow the clues that it gives you. Don’t throw your money away on a stupid gift. Buy something that will bring your dad joy, or a gift that will make his life easier, or a gift that will inspire your father to pursue something he cares about. It’s not the money that matters — but rather — the residual effect of how a thoughtful gift can transcend its monetary value.

My Christmas Gift Idea List for Dad

Without further Adieu, here’s my list. I hope you find something useful here. I spend a lot of time hand picking these one by one.

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

A book for anyone who wants to live an inspired life.

Named a Hot Fall Read by USA Today, Vanity Fair, Newsday, O Magazine, the Seattle Times, Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Mashable, Pop Sugar, and the San Antonio Express-News.

Readers of all ages and walks of life have drawn inspiration and empowerment from Elizabeth Gilbert’s books for years. Now this beloved author digs deep into her own generative process to share her wisdom and unique perspective about creativity.

With profound empathy and radiant generosity, she offers potent insights into the mysterious nature of inspiration. She asks us to embrace our curiosity and let go of needless suffering. She shows us how to tackle what we most love, and how to face down what we most fear. She discusses the attitudes, approaches, and habits we need in order to live our most creative lives.

Balancing between soulful spirituality and cheerful pragmatism, Gilbert encourages us to uncover the “strange jewels” that are hidden within each of us. Whether we are looking to write a book, make art, find new ways to address challenges in our work, embark on a dream long deferred, or simply infuse our everyday lives with more mindfulness and passion, Big Magic cracks open a world of wonder and joy.

Skull Egg Mold | Make Eggs Fun

Christmas is a time to have fun. Make dad smile.

EGG-A-MATIC takes an ordinary boiled egg and sculpts it into something extraordinary. Made from food safe plastic.

This grinning skull mold is super fun and easy to use. Make dad smile with this comical gift.

Pplace a freshly cooked and peeled hard boiled egg in the mold while its still hot and snap the lid shut. Then dunk the mold in ice cold water for a few minutes. Voila! You’re left with an edible work of art.

Dual Breakfast Sandwich Maker | Hamilton Beach

The gift of convenience and yummy food — fast!

You’ll probably use it as much as he does.

Features:

• Makes 1 or 2 sandwiches.
• Ready in 5 minutes.
• Cook delicious breakfast sandwiches in the comfort of your own home.
• Use your own fresh ingredients, including eggs, cheese, and much more.
• Countdown timer with audible beep.
• Quick and easy recipes included.
• Easy cleanup – all removable parts are dishwasher safe.

MakerBot Replicator | 3D Printer

If you’re wealthy, this is a great gift for the dad who loves to build stuff.

Features:

• Fifth-generation technology defines the new standard for ease of use, quality, and reliability.
• Wi-Fi, USB and Ethernet connectivity ensures a seamless production workflow.
• Smart Extruder, motion controllers, and gantry design.
• On-board camera and diagnostics, and assisted build plate leveling.
• Makes true-to-life objects quickly and easily.
• Print paper-thin layers
• Create realistic prototypes and models for demonstrations and presentations
• Get smooth-to-the-touch surfaces that don’t need sanding, finishing, or postproduction
• The swappable Smart Extruder minimizes downtime by enabling you to quickly replace a worn extruder in minutes.
• Its modular design lets you plan for the natural wear common to 3D printing extruders and prepares you to quickly adapt to future innovations in the fast-evolving world of 3D printing.

One-of-A Kind Etsy Gifts | Get them while they last

Includes, scratches, bumps, dents, & smudges, at no additional charge.

You won’t find these products by Timberson in big retail stores, they are not made overseas, and definitely don’t come off the assembly line. They are created, formed, and assembled by hand in their 1850’s workshop to present you with spectacular shape, symmetry, and colorful hues that are functional and well-pleasing to the eye.

These are stunningly beautiful items that I personally love. They have character, style and personality — something lacking in mass produced products.

Casio PRW-2500T-7CR | PRO TREK

Perfect for the man who loves the great outdoors.

Features:

• Multi-Band Atomic Timekeeping (US, UK, Germany, Japan, China.
• Tough Solar Power.
• 200M Water Resistant.
• Tide Graph (tide level for specific date and time).
• Moon Data (moon age of the specific date and moon phase graph).
• Digital Compass.
• Altimeter / Barometer / Thermometer.
• Low Temperature Resistant (-10 C / 14 F).
• Full Auto EL Back-light with Afterglow.
• 5 Independent Daily alarms.
• World Time : 31 times zones (48 cities + UTC), city code display, daylight saving on/off.
• 1/100 second stopwatch.
• Countdown Timer.

AcuRite 01075RM | For the Dad who Loves the Weather

The weather is a fascination for more people than you think.

Features:

• High-precision 5-in-1 wireless weather sensor accurately measures the temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction and rain.
• Sensor data can be monitored privately, shared with others, or be reported to online weather communities like Weather Underground.
• View your weather from virtually anywhere on a smartphone, tablet or computer.
• Setup email and text alerts to notify you when conditions change or your presets are reached.
• Illuminated color display with adjustable dimmer; electric-powered with optional battery backup.
• Weather Ticker streams real-time information and alerts.
• Tabletop or wall-mountable design.
• Strong wireless range up to 330 feet (100 meters).
• Transmits data every 16 seconds.
• Durable, all-weather construction – perfect for indoor or outdoor use.

Giant Jenga | Give the Gift of Fun

A cool take on a classic game. Gather the family on Christmas to play.

Features:

• Jenga GIANT: The classic Jenga game, but MUCH BIGGER!
• At setup, starts at nearly 22 inches, and can stack to over 4 feet high in play!
• With Booster Pack (sold separately) the tower can stack to over 5 feet!
• Blocks are over 8 times the size of Classic Jenga blocks.
• 54 precision cut, high quality, polished genuine hardwood 6″ x 2″ x 1.2″ blocks
• Sturdy box for easy storage and transport.
• Players: 1 or More.
• Ages: 10 to Adult.

IceTrekker Diamond Grip | Keep dad from falling when it’s slippery

Very practical, inexpensive and essential in cold regions of the country.

Features:

• Rubber and Steel
• Steel cleats are designed to provide aggressive traction in winter walking conditions.
• Made of case-hardened steel alloy and steel aircraft cable.
• Riveted to tough rubber sling that fits tennis shoes, boots and dress shoes.
• Sling remains elastic even in subzero temperatures to keep grips secure.
• Self-clearing design prevents snow and ice buildup.

Neuschwanstein Castle | 3D Jigsaw Puzzle

Challenge your dad to relax and have some fun.

Neuschwanstein Castle is Germany’s most visited castle. Build it with dad, and enjoy the time you get to spend together while doing something unique and engaging.

This is not your regular 3D puzzle. Standing at over 15.26” tall, this puzzle is sure to bring some joy to dad on Christmas day.

Proudly made in Canada from non-toxic polyethylene foam.

Features:

• Dimensions: 16″ X 11.5″ X 4.5″
• 890 Foam-backed puzzle pieces
• Instruction Guide is included

Goal Zero 150 Yeti | Solar Generator

In our modern digital age, it’s practical to have portable battery power.

Features:

• Plug Yeti 150 into a solar panel and place in the sun; it takes roughly 30 – 60 hrs. to charge with the Nomad 27 solar panel (not included)
• Two other ways to charge Yeti 150: from the wall (takes about 6 hrs.) or from your car using 12V port (takes about 8 hrs.)
• Common devices that Yeti 150 powers include laptops, tablets, lights, C-PAP machines, smartphones, cameras, e-readers, MP3 players and personal gaming devices
• Portable wall outlet powers laptops, lights and smartphones anywhere
• Easy to carry.
• Lead acid battery features 168 watt-hours (12V, 14Ah) capacity, hundreds of cycles, three-month shelf life, no fuses and built-in charging/low-battery protection
• Generator operates in temperatures ranging from 32° to 104° F (0° to 40° C)
• The Goal Zero Yeti 150 solar power generator offers the following approximate power: 12V light (50 hrs.); smartphone (15 recharges); tablet (6 recharges); laptop (2 recharges)

Book | Post Secret | New York Times Bestseller

For curious minds.

The project that captured a nation’s imagination.

The instructions were simple, but the results were extraordinary.

You are invited to anonymously contribute a secret to a group art project. Your secret can be a regret, fear, betrayal, desire, confession, or childhood humiliation. Reveal anything — as long as it is true and you have never shared it with anyone before. Be brief. Be legible. Be creative.

It all began with an idea Frank Warren had for a community art project. He began handing out postcards to strangers and leaving them in public places — asking people to write down a secret they had never told anyone and mail it to him, anonymously.

The response was overwhelming. The secrets were both provocative and profound, and the cards themselves were works of art — carefully and creatively constructed by hand. Addictively compelling, the cards reveal our deepest fears, desires, regrets, and obsessions. Frank calls them “graphic haiku,” beautiful, elegant, and small in structure but powerfully emotional.

As Frank began posting the cards on his website, PostSecret took on a life of its own, becoming much more than a simple art project. It has grown into a global phenomenon, exposing our individual aspirations, fantasies, and frailties — our common humanity.

Every day dozens of postcards still make their way to Frank, with postmarks from around the world, touching on every aspect of human experience. This extraordinary collection brings together the most powerful, personal, and beautifully intimate secrets Frank Warren has received — and brilliantly illuminates that human emotions can be unique and universal at the same time.

SpeedHex Rechargeable Screwdriver

We all know the frustration of working in tight spaces.

FlipOut by SpeedHex is a well-made rechargeable screwdriver with an innovative design, created specifically to reach those difficult spots. Great for those small jobs around the house. Small and compact making it easy to toss into your toolbox.

Features 380 different positions with 360 degrees of orbital rotation and 360 degrees of flexibility, LED work light, variable speed trigger and an 8 volt max quick charge lithium battery.

Also includes quick charger, nylon case, 2 inch magnetic bit holder, and 18 – 1 inch driver bits.

If dad likes to work around the home, he’ll appreciate the SpeedHex.