This article may contain affiliate links. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Privacy Policy.
Dads are notoriously difficult to shop for. They’re not typically the ones in your family to drop hints about that great new gadget or piece of gear that they want. So how do you pick out the perfect present to make their holiday a little bit brighter? We have a few ideas.
Here are the 34 best Christmas gifts for every type of dad.
Editor Favorites:
For the Fun Dad
Some dads just never grow up — and that’s a good thing! Here are a few toys, games and other fun gadgets and gift ideas that’ll make his day.
1. Hunt a Killer
Okay, so yeah, we say “fun” and then get right to murder. But if your dad is one of the many who’ve fallen for the recent true crime obsession (or maybe he was a true crime fan all along), he’s going to love this murder mystery game.
Hunt a Killer makes a fun family game night (for the adults, of course) or date night for your mom and dad and comes with everything needed to solve a spine-tingling case. Plus, this is a gift that keeps on giving, as it’s a subscription box, with the mystery thickening every month over the course of the next several upcoming months until the case is solved.
Want to go with a one-off murder mystery game that Dad doesn’t need to wait around for? Check out our Hunt a Killer alternatives.
2. PUTT-A-BOUT Par Three Golf Putting Green
If your dad’s favorite game is golf, but he hasn’t been out on the course as much as he’d like recently, bring the game home with this putting green that can easily fit in his office, the living room, wherever. The three-foot-by-nine-foot green includes three putting cup cutouts and built-in hazards. It also features a non-slick surface, so the mat stays easily put wherever your dad goes. The mat is totally portable and easy to roll away and store when not in use.
3. Gotrax XR Elite Electric Scooter
If your dad is all about motorized toys, he needs to try this fun, adult-size electric scooter. Marketed as a commuter scooter, it can take him nearly 20 miles on one fully-charged battery, but he doesn’t need to go nearly that far in order to enjoy it. This is just the thing to get him out of the house and zipping around the neighborhood, so he can see what the Joneses are up to without breaking a sweat.
4. Epson VS260 3-Chip 3LCD XGA Projector
Whether he’s a film buff or an NFL fanatic, if you can find Dad in front of the television more often than not, help him take his favorite viewings on the go with this projector that offers amazing image quality and easy setup for even the least tech-savvy dad.
He can take it to the basement, his office, outside, the garage — Wherever he wants to watch, he now can, and it’s all thanks to your amazing gift-giving.
5. Solo Stove
If Dad’s idea of fun is making s’mores in the backyard or playing music around a bonfire, he’s sure to love the Solo Stove. The Solo Stove is a smokeless fire pit in sleek stainless steel construction with an airflow system that won’t leave you smelling like smoke.
The Solo Stove comes in various sizes that you can travel with, as well as a tabletop model that’s perfect for use in a backyard.
For the Foodie Dad
If your dad is always in the kitchen, at the grill or just chowing down, tantalize his taste buds with one of these yummy gifts for men.
6. Brewvana
Does your dad love a frosty, cold beer? What dad doesn’t?!
With Brewvana, your dad can enjoy a seriously immersive beer-drinking experience that goes far beyond enjoying a Bud on the back deck. Brewvana offers beer gift sets, ranging from one-off holiday boxes to a monthly beer club, but also beer-making gift kits for the hands-on dad.
7. Kombucha Brewing Kit
But if your dad’s favorite brew is more kombucha than Coors, try this brewing kit that comes with everything he’ll need to get started. There’s a step-by-step brewing guide, a brew jar, organic tea, organic culture starter, pH test strips, organic sugar and more, so he can brew up his favorite healthy fermented tea at home, no trip to the health food store required.
8. Presto PanGogh Art Batter Pancake Griddle
What dad doesn’t love to have fun in the kitchen? If your dad is always the one drawing silly faces on his hamburgers with ketchup, or arranging your breakfast plate in a sunny-side-up smile, get him this ultra-fun pancake griddle that allows him to doodle his way to a pancake piece of art. It’s a yummy treat that the entire family will benefit from. Any chances you can convince him to make Christmas breakfast?
9. Meater Plus Long-Range Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer
Help your dad up his grill game with this long-range, smart, cordless meat thermometer. He can easily and accurately gauge the doneness of his favorite cut of meat, all from his phone, no hovering over the grill required. The thermometer provides him with all sorts of handy data, including a cut’s current internal temperature, the grill’s ambient temperature and the target temperature for his particular preferences and cuts of meat. A timer counts down until hi/s cut is done and alerts him when it’s ready.
10. Breville Joule Sous Vide
But if dad doesn’t have the deck space for a BBQ or he just prefers to stay indoors for his cooking adventures, rather than hone his skills as a grillmaster, you can help him explore the trendy world of sous vide cooking, with this option that’s as smart as it is sleek.
The deluxe smart tech works with his WiFi to help him keep an eye on his meat via an iPhone app or favorite Alexa device. Just make sure that he invites you over for his next steak dinner as a thank you.
11. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer
Using about 75% less fat and oil than traditional frying methods, the Ninja AF101 Air Fryer is perfect for the dad who loves fried food but needs to start eating a little bit healthier. It’s ideal for making fries, fried chicken, and other crispy snacks, but it can also be used to roast, reheat, and dehydrate all sorts of tasty meals and treats.
12. Victoria 10 Inch Cast Iron Skillet
Professional chefs swear by their cast iron pans, so if dad doesn’t already have one, this is a must-have gift. The Victoria 10 Inch Cast Iron Skillet features two drip spouts, a longer handle than most cast iron pans, and can be used on any stovetop, including induction cooktops. To prevent it from rusting, the cooking surface is pre-seasoned with non-GMO flaxseed oil. Keep it in good condition, and this is one gift that will last for years.
13. Artisan Citrus Juicer
Foodies know the importance of quality ingredients. And when it comes to orange juice in the morning or a perfectly curated cocktail, there’s no beating the taste of freshly squeezed juice. This citrus press comes in two sizes and is handmade by artisans to bring the taste of Mexico to your home. In fact, you’ll find these little gadgets in some of the most popular Mexican markets.
Related: The 10 Best Father’s Day Gifts Dad Will Love [Buyer’s Guide]
Budget-Friendly Best Christmas Gifts for Dad
But we get it. You don’t always have a big budget for gift-giving, and if that’s you this holiday season, don’t despair. You can wow Dad with one of these affordable, budget-friendly gifts that are all under $40 (or use them as a stocking stuffer!).
14. An Ultralight Two-Person Hammock
This vintage-style hammock is sure to delight any dad who had a past life as a hippie — or just any dad who likes to lounge about in the backyard. The heavy-duty hammock is easy to set up, but it’s extra-sturdy, holding up to 450 pounds and two people (so Mom can sneak in for a snooze, too). Better yet, the best seller hammock is only $15 at Amazon.
15. An Audible Subscription
Audible subscriptions start at $6 per month, and that’s after the free, 30-day trial. You can buy this gift for Dad and keep on treating him all throughout the next year, and never even have to worry about breaking your gift budget. Dad will enjoy listening to a range of books and podcasts as he works out, drives to work, mows the lawn, cooks dinner — wherever he likes to listen.
16. FirstLeaf Build Your Own Box of Wine
Think you can’t treat your dad to a nice bottle of wine on a budget? How about six bottles of wine on a budget?
With FirstLeaf’s build-your-own-box option, you can pick six bottles of amazing wines and give them to your dad, all for $30. It’s a great option for the wine-lovin’ dad who has a kid (aka you) who’s on a two-buck-Chuck budget.
17. Old-Fashioned Whiskey Glasses
You might not be able to afford his favorite spirit, but you can afford this luxurious set of whiskey glasses, which comes in an easy-to-wrap gift box. The four, 10-ounce glasses are the perfect size for his favorite whiskey or scotch.
18. EPICA Stainless Steel Compost Bin
For the dad who’s looking to live a more sustainable lifestyle, the EPICA Stainless Steel Compost Bin is the ideal holiday gift. Composting bins reduce the amount of organic waste that ends up in landfills, thus reducing greenhouse gases. And if dad’s into gardening, he can use his compost as fertilizer in flower beds and potted plants.
This compost bin features a sleek cylindrical shape and includes a charcoal filter to prevent odors from emanating throughout the kitchen.
19. #1 Dad Tee Shirt
The #1 Dad Tee Shirt is a surefire hit, especially if dad is a Seinfeld fan! This t-shirt features a comfortable, classic fit and comes in a range of colors. (Choose the light blue one if you want the authentic Morty Seinfeld look).
Whether he’s a brand new dad or has decades of experience in telling dad jokes under his belt, this tee is sure to be his favorite gift of the year.
For the Stylish Dad
If your dad always impresses with his looks, go with one of these dapper dad gifts.
20. Merkur 34C Heavy-Duty Short Handle Safety Razor
This vintage-style shaver is a favorite bestseller on Amazon and a top pick for men who want to shave the old-fashioned way (which some report is the superior way). Go with a gold, stainless steel, chrome-plated or brass variant for a look that’s just as stylish as he is.
Related: The 11 Best Shaving Products And Subscriptions For Men
21. Eight & Bob Cologne
Okay, so Eight & Bob might not be the most well-known men’s fragrance brand out there, but it’s certainly one of the coolest. This brand is notable for hiding its colognes inside of hollowed-out books during World War II. Now, when you order from Eight & Bob, they ship your cologne inside a vintage-style, hollowed-out book for extra flair.
22. The Hex Evolve Duffel
Every stylish guy needs an equally stylish duffel bag, whether he’s taking it to the gym or on his next business trip. This perfect gift option ticks all the right boxes. It’s durable, masculine, roomy and even on the budget-friendly side, at under $100. The coated canvas bottom repels dirt and water. Two interior pockets make for extra storage, and a faux fur-lined tech pocket keeps his tablet safe.
23. GQ Box
Whether dad needs grooming products, accessories, or clothing, the GQ Box has it all!
This stylish subscription service is crafted especially for men, and each box includes over $200 worth of products (for just $50). From moisturizers to sunglasses to socks to fragrances, every box is loaded with an assortment of cool gifts, making it a fab choice for the dad who loves to try new products.
New boxes ship every three months, so this a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year.
24. ABC Jogger Pant
Every dad needs a comfy pair of joggers, and you’ll find lots of great styles to choose from at Lululemon, including their best-selling ABC Jogger Pant. In stretch, wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying Warpstreme™ fabric, these joggers feature an easy pull-on fit with a drawstring waistband, functional pockets, and a modern fit.
These versatile pants come in a variety of colors, sizes, and inseams to suit every dad’s shape and style.
25. Chill Boys Hoodie
Chill Boys is dedicated to ultimate comfort. This soft-brushed hoodie is made of eco-friendly materials and perfectly blends practicality with coziness. It’s great for dads that love to hike, sit by the campfire, run, or just rock the relaxed look. It comes in three colors and is great for all seasons.
For the Dad Who Needs a New Hobby
Do you have a dad who recently retired or who just can’t really find ways to fill his time? Save his sanity (and your mom’s) by giving him one of these great gifts that might just inspire him to take up a new leisurely pursuit.
26. AeroGarden Harvest Elite
For the dad who’s always toyed around with the idea of starting a garden but just never has, opt for this beginner-friendly smart garden. It’s small, easy to use and doesn’t even require dirt. All he needs to do is set up the self-watering garden with some of the plant refill capsules and let it go. He’s that much closer to fresh herbs (whether or not he wants to actually use them).
27. Blue Yeti USB Microphone
Is it time for dad to stop listening to podcasts and start his own? Whether he wants to chat politics, sports, business, his latest handyman adventures and DIY projects, the grandkids or anything in-between, this easy-to-use and high-quality Blue Yeti mic will help him get his wise words out into the world.
28. Celestron SkyMaster 25X100 Astro Binoculars
Introduce your dad to the wonders of the natural world around him with these binoculars that are ideal for either stargazing or bird watching. The high-quality binoculars are durable, water-resistant and rugged, so he can take them anywhere without worrying about damaging them.
29. The Sunday Lawn Kit
It might not be a hobby that appeals to you, but it’s definitely one that appeals to a lot of dads out there. Taking care of the lawn is no laughing matter, after all, and it’s definitely a time-consuming pursuit.
With the Sunday lawn kit, your dad can get a better idea of what exactly his particular lawn and soil need for optimum health, and then a subscription service will ensure he has all the right tools to make that dream, lush lawn a reality.
30. Wooden Folding Chess Set
If dad is ready to figure out what Zugzwang and the Queen’s Gambit actually are, this Wooden Folding Chess Set just might encourage him to do so. This classic chess set features regulation pieces and a folding board that, when closed, doubles as a case to hold all of the pieces inside. It’s available in a variety of wooden color combinations, and it includes checkers when he’s in the mood for a less-intense game.
RELATED: 15 Chess Sets That Make Great Gifts
Gifts for the Dad Who Has Everything
Still having trouble deciding? Here are a few gifts for the dad who has everything.
31. Theragun
Perfect for the dad that loves to work out, Theragun is the gift that he doesn’t know he needs yet will thoroughly enjoy.
Theragun is a handheld massager, but it’s not your typical pulsating wand that eases your muscles for five minutes. This device provides percussive therapy that soothes pain, increases range of motion, and even improves your sleep – perfect for use after an intense workout.
32. Reclaimed Instrument Bottle Opener
Whether dad loves to host parties or enjoys cracking a cold beer at the end of a long work day, he can serve up cold brews in the coolest way possible with the Reclaimed Instrument Bottle Opener. Made with reclaimed piano keys or reclaimed wood from a guitar neck, this is a one-of-a-kind way for dad to open bottles of beer or soda.
Is your dad more into sports than music?
Uncommon Goods sells all sorts of one-of-a-kind bottle openers, including some made from MLB baseball bats and NHL hockey pucks.
33. Build Your Own Bluetooth and FM Radio
The Build Your Own Bluetooth and FM Radio is the perfect gift for the dad who loves a hands-on project. The retro style radio includes more than two dozen parts (and an instruction manual) that make it fun and easy to assemble.
The end result?
A functioning FM radio with Bluetooth connectivity.
34. Custom Face Socks
Personalized gifts are thoughtful gifts, and even if dad already has it all, there’s a good chance he doesn’t already own a pair of socks with your face on them.
Custom Face Socks can be printed with any of your favorite photos. They come in a variety of colors, and you can even add text to the design, so you can include a silly inside joke or some fun text like “Merry Christmas” or “Favorite Daughter.”
These socks are super inexpensive, so they make for a great stocking stuffer as well.
Get Dad What He Really Wants This Year
Say goodbye to giving dad yet another pair of socks or another tie. This year, go with a unique gift that he’s sure to love and something that’s plenty of fun, whatever his interests. With our 34 recommendations and dad gift guide, you won’t go wrong, whether you’re shopping for Christmas, Father’s Day gifts or any special occasion.
You might also be interested in: The 17 Best Gift Ideas For Grandpa [From The Whole Family]
The 34 Best Christmas Gifts For Dad:
- Hunt a Killer
- PUTT-A-BOUT Par Three Golf Putting Green
- Gotrax XR Elite Electric Scooter
- Epson VS260 3-Chip 3LCD XGA Projector
- Solo Stove
- Brewvana
- Kombucha Brewing Kit
- Presto PanGogh Art Batter Pancake Griddle
- Meater Plus Long-Range Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer
- Breville Joule Sous Vide
- Ninja AF101 Air Fryer
- Victoria 10 Inch Cast Iron Skillet
- Artisan Citrus Juicer
- An Ultralight Two-Person Hammock
- An Audible Subscription
- FirstLeaf Build Your Own Box of Wine
- Old-Fashioned Whiskey Glasses
- EPICA Stainless Steel Compost Bin
- #1 Dad Tee Shirt
- Merkur 34C Heavy-Duty Short Handle Safety Razor
- Eight & Bob Cologne
- The Hex Evolve Duffel
- GQ Box
- ABC Jogger Pant
- Chill Boys Hoodie
- AeroGarden Harvest Elite
- Blue Yeti USB Microphone
- Celestron SkyMaster 25X100 Astro Binoculars
- The Sunday Lawn Kit
- Wooden Folding Chess Set
- Theragun
- Reclaimed Instrument Bottle Opener
- Build Your Own Bluetooth and FM Radio
- Custom Face Socks