A Trusted Friend in a Complicated World
Updated on Oct. 10, 2024
From the practical to the just for fun, our list of gifts for dads will help you find the perfect thing for every occasion—even for the guys who are impossible to shop for.
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Fathers do so much for the family, so it’s only natural that you want to show your love and appreciation for them. Whether you’re buying gifts for a husband, a boyfriend, or a father-in-law—or trying to earn the status of favorite child from your own parent—our list of gifts for dads will make your shopping easier. These presents are perfect for Christmas, Hanukkah, his birthday, or any other special occasion.
We’ve got gifts for men who enjoy the outdoors, personalized gifts for guys who already have it all, tech gifts for the gadget-obsessed, and gag gifts for those who love a good laugh, plus some stocking stuffers for men that won’t break your budget and these gifts that give back to will warm his heart. Father may know best … but so do we, and these gift ideas are sure to be a hit!
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Best for: Tech-savvy dads
If ever there was a perfect gift for Dad, it’s this Wasserstein Wi-Fi-controlled power strip, which lets him control the lights and appliances from just about anywhere he has cell reception. That means he’ll never complain about you leaving lamps turned on again because—fear not—he can turn them off in a jiffy. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant and even includes two USB ports.
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Best for: Audiobook lovers
The only thing better than gifting Dad a great book is gifting him a way to read it on the go. Audible Premium Plus gift memberships offer all the perks of a subscription without the commitment. That means audiobooks to thousands of bestsellers, plus originals you can only get on Audible, sleep tracks, meditation programs, and podcasts. And with a Premium Plus gift membership, your dad will also get an additional title every month from an extended list of bestsellers and new releases not available with a standard Audible subscription. Not sure how long he’ll want to listen? Gift memberships range between one month and one year.
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Best for: Laptop users
If your dad is always on his laptop, he knows the struggle of not having enough screen space. But carting a separate monitor around isn’t practical. Enter, the SideTrak Swivel. This magnetic screen extender plugs into his laptop to instantly double his digital workspace. Deputy Shopping Editor Reina Galhea tested this tech gadget and was impressed by how easily it installed (just stick on the magnetic strip and plug it in), as well as its maneuverability. The SideTrak Swivel attaches to either side of the computer and twist-folds to store compactly alongside your dad’s laptop without the need for a separate case.
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Best for: Dads who appreciate casual comforts
This five-pack is sure to be Dad’s new favorite set of shirts and will quickly replace the tired white tees and threadbare sweatshirts he’s been wearing for too long. From a pair of best-selling colorful tees to the comfiest, best-fitting black hoodie on the market, this pack has his back whether he wears a size small or a 2XL.
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Best for: The Yeti fan
Yeti likely already makes his favorite travel mug or cooler, and now you can introduce him to his favorite new hat from the same brand. The 100 percent acrylic Retro Knit Beanie is vintage in all the right ways.
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Best for: Hot sleepers
He’ll never have to flip the pillow in search of the cold side again, thanks to this genius ever-cool OmniPhase pillow. Its molecules attract and disperse heat as needed to maintain ventilation and advanced airflow; he’ll rave to the whole family about it! The pillow’s carbon-infused foam also creates a channel to filter heat away from his face and neck so he can sleep soundly.
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The last tool he’ll ever need for winter car care, the SnoShark is a heavy-duty, durable, and surprisingly lightweight snow remover made of high-grade aluminum, zinc alloy, and stainless steel parts that are built to last. No more snapping off the head of your snow brush on icy days! The anti-freeze nylon paddle can withstand severe temperatures—so much so that the manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty. SnoShark extends to two locking positions for easy cleaning and collapses down to a compact size for convenient storage.
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Best for: The king of movie night
He’ll feel like he’s living in the scenes of his favorite flicks with Vizio’s soundbar. It features Bluetooth technology, crystal-clear sound, and an affordable price that makes it easy to give and even easier to appreciate.
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Best for: The dad who needs more outdoor storage space
If the garage is overflowing with his gear, this easy-to-assemble galvanized metal shed from Arrow is the best gift for Dad. It ships right to his door, stands up to all sorts of weather conditions, and comes in a generous ten-feet-by-eight-feet size that fits plenty of tools and maintenance gear he can’t live without. Plus, it’s more affordable than you think.
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Best for: Clean hands and high fives
Dad always appreciates clean hands and good hygiene, and this liquid Marseille soap is sure to please. It’s made in a cauldron, per age-old French tradition, and offers rich hydration in a sleek, guy-friendly bottle he’ll proudly display. And the invigorating rosemary scent is one everyone in the family will love using.
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Best forB Clean shaves
Keep Dad looking well groomed with this face and body electric trimmer and shaver. It can work with or without shaving foam, on his face or his body, and wet or dry—even in the shower.
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Best for: The classy carnivore
This gift idea for dad takes tasteful-looking ties literally. Give him this stylish and deceptive tie box, stuffed with delectable, bite-sized meats. Unique flavors (there are ten total) like Root Beer Habanero, Garlic Beef, and Whiskey Maple will tantalize and treat his taste buds.
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Best for: Scent-sational pops
Yes, you can give a dad a candle—and you can’t go wrong with a masculine scent, like this one from Boy Smells, which has hints of cedar, sawdust, and white musk. Bonus: It is made from natural coconut wax, so no worries if he (or anyone else who might be nearby) is sensitive to synthetic fragrance. You might want to buy two so you have a hostess gift on hand when you need it.
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Best for: Home chefs
Your dad’s brisket is unsurpassed, and his outdoor grill setup is first-rate. Now, all he needs is some signage. This one comes personalized with your dad’s name, and/or whatever else suits him in 30 characters or less. Make sure he knows these delicious grill recipes, too.
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Best for: Music lovers
A Bluetooth speaker is pretty much essential these days (for dads and everyone). This outdoor-friendly waterproof version can go just about anywhere your dad wants to go—camping, fishing, the beach, even just another room in the house. It is wireless, weighs less than a pound, and offers 24 hours of playtime and 12 watts of “pure audio power.” If you’re also buying a gift for a teen, you can’t go wrong with something like this.
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Best for: Entertainers
If the dad in your life is used to dipping tortilla chips directly into the salsa jar, it might be time to elevate his snacking experience with a proper chip-and-dip server. This dishwasher-safe five-piece set, made from bamboo fiber, is great for a binge-watching sesh, taco night, or even a backyard party with the neighbors. Moms would also love one of these. (Hint, hint.)
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Best for: The tech-inclined
A portable phone charger is quite possibly the best (and the most practical) tech-related gift for dads. Why? Because at some point, he will need to charge his phone, and he won’t be able to find a place to plug it in. This one is lightweight, high-speed, and works with many different phones (including iPhone and Samsung Galaxy). Here are more Amazon Prime gifts to consider when you’re pressed for time.
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Best for: The proud papa
Forget the brag book for Grandma—it’s Dad who couldn’t be prouder of his brood. Put his greatest loves into a custom-made photo book from Mpix as a keepsake of an amazing family vacation, the kids’ highest-scoring sports games, or just a great collection of daddy-daughter snaps. The website is a cinch to use, and the resulting photo book is absolutely stunning. Even the most basic paper options feel luxe.
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Best for: The skin-care novice
Thanks to its simplicity, Kiehl’s is always a hit with those who want to keep their skin-care routine no-nonsense (which, let’s face it, includes most dads). This starter kit of necessities includes a face wash, scrub, and moisturizer—basically, everything he needs for a fuss-free regimen.
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Best for: Dads with young kids
Presents for pops would not be complete without something cute from the kids, and this fill-in-the-blank journal is fun for them and heartwarming for him—making it one of the best gifts for dads out there. While your shopping, grab the What I Love About Grandpa edition and you’ll be all set for him, too.
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Best for: Casual loungers
There’s a reason this classic hoodie has thousands of five-star reviews—it’s durable, it’s comfortable, it’s affordable, and it comes in more than 30 colors/patterns—making it the perfect gift for dad. Plus, no man can have too many hoodies, so this pick is basically a sure thing.
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Best for: Beer connoisseurs
Your lager-loving dad can craft his very own brewskis at home with this easy-to-use kit. It comes with everything he needs to brew a batch of beer (literally, everything), and it will be ready to drink in less than a month. If a nice Cabernet or Chardonnay is more his thing, you’ll want to take a look at these gifts for wine lovers.
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Best for: Hot sauce enthusiasts
If your dad doesn’t leave the house without packets of sriracha, he’ll go crazy for this travel-friendly tin packed with mouthwatering hot sauces. The pocket-friendly collection includes Smokey Bourbon, Jalapeño, Chipotle, and Garlic Del Fuego—all sure to give his food an extra kick, no matter the location.
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Best for: Obsessive cleaners
Even if your dad already has a powerful, full-sized shop vac, he’ll definitely appreciate this compact, handheld version. It’s easy to carry around (making it an ideal car vacuum), and it can even be used as a mini leaf/debris blower. If he’s always wanted a robot vacuum, we have plenty of those for you to choose from, too.
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Best for: Fitness fanatics
These ergonomic push-up handles will help him build strength and maintain proper form while he exercises in the garage, the man cave, the backyard, or wherever. They are designed to rotate to engage more muscles and increase strength and definition in arms, shoulders, chest, back, and abs.
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Best for: Guys who love to groom
Another practical choice in the skin-care department is this Shave Essentials Kit from Jack Black (which, by the way, is not affiliated with the famous comedic actor of the same name). It comes with a glycolic acid facial cleanser, a moisturizer/sunscreen combo, and a creamy shave lather. Many dads will appreciate the fact that it is paraben-, sulfate-, and phthalate-free, as well as 100 percent vegan.
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Best for: Practical pops
A hat that lights up might sound like a cheesy made-for-TV product, but these hats actually make super cool gifts for dad. With LED lights placed strategically under the bill, it provides visibility up to 42 feet and is perfect for any activity that requires hands-free lighting (camping, late-night jogging, home improvement projects, etc.). Also consider a beanie version for when the temperatures drop. Got a sibling who’s just like your dad? Get this gift for your brother, too.
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Best for: Meat lovers
Dad will appreciate the ease of use and accuracy of this Bluetooth thermometer for his grill or smoker. It pairs with his iPhone or Android device, so even if he’s occupied with a game of corn hole, he’ll know when the burgers are done.
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Best for: Style-minded men
If your dad loves the look of the Reverso Classic watch but you’re not in love with the $4,000-plus price tag, this under-$30 watch is a good alternative. It will look great on his wrist, and it won’t require you to sacrifice your life savings. It’s even water-resistant!
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Best for: The car-obsessed
Washing the car will seem like much less of a chore to your dad if you hook him up with all the right products. Everything he needs to give his whip a complete detail is included in this kit—exterior wash, tire gel, wax, an interior cleaning spray, and more. FYI, Meguiar also makes popular (and super affordable) cleaning wipes that keep your car looking and smelling brand-new.
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Best for: The handy man
Woodworking? Welding? Painting? No matter what project your dad has going on, he needs a heavy-duty shop apron to protect his skin and clothing. This one has a bunch of pockets and is adjustable, so it will fit anyone.
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Best for: Outdoor adventurers
Does your dad need tactical pants? He does if he’s into hiking, camping, climbing, hunting, or any other outdoor activity. Bonus points to this pair for being extra durable: They’re made of Teflon fabric, which effectively repels stains and liquids.
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Best for: Healthy snackers
This scrumptious gift basket has nutritious dried fruit—including exotic mango slices, luscious peaches, and tangy kiwi—packed with healthy vitamins, minerals, and fiber for the ultimate diet-friendly indulgence. The naturally sweet treats are kosher, vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. Plus, the snacks come presented on a reusable wooden basket that also folds flat into a countertop trivet or serving tray.
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Best for: Messy men
Does your guy need a little help to stay organized? This is a handy (and nice-looking) place to toss his keys, wallet, glasses, and phone. Free custom engraving is also available.
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Best for: Coffee fiends
If your dad loves artisanal coffee, he’ll go crazy for the Aeropress. A favorite among coffee connoisseurs, this handy device makes better-tasting coffee by allowing total immersion of ground coffee in the water, resulting in extensive flavor extraction. It brews faster (we’re talking less than two minutes!) to yield rich, flavorful cups.
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Best for: The perpetual wanderer
Adventurous souls will appreciate this functioning compass, which can be engraved and personalized with a message in your own handwriting or even a family photo. Add a leather case for safekeeping.
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Best for: Guys on the go
Two wrenches, six screwdrivers, pliers, a bottle opener, a wire cutter/stripper, a wire crimper, a hand drill, and two rulers and ruler extensions all in one small, lightweight package. It is OK if you don’t know what all of those tools do—your dad will, and he’ll love having this at his disposal.
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Best for: Old-school writers
It may be a digital world, but a good pen is still a necessity. How about giving your dad a four-in-one multicolored one? It’s retractable, refillable, and perfect for the guy who prefers pen and paper to screen and stylus. Test it out by writing one of these dad quotes in his card.
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Best for: Trendy dudes
Stylish and masculine, this customizable braided leather bracelet makes a great gift for the sentimental guy who likes to accessorize. Names of up to five of his loved ones can be engraved on the beads.
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Best for: Casual guys
A versatile pair of sandals are a wardrobe staple. Available in gray or black, your dad will love these ultra-comfortable slides for a day at the pool, running to the mailbox, or just hanging out. Also consider these men’s slippers for lounging at home.
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Best for: BBQ lovers
Do you know that nails-on-a-chalkboard screech you get with a regular grill brush? The Grill Rescue eliminates that because it cleans with steam and doesn’t have wire bristles. Your dad’s post-grilling cleanup regimen will be a lot easier from now on.
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Best for: Office mates
The best gifts for dads who head to an office every day are the ones that make his nine-to-five a little easier. Elevate his bagged lunch to this stainless-steel, dual-compartment container that keeps hot things hot and cold things cold. The lid also doubles as a serving bowl. Pair it with one of these smart water bottles if your budget allows.
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Best for: Rad runners
This lightweight shirt is designed to keep the trail-running enthusiast comfortable for short and long treks through the woods (or wherever he likes to run). Its long raglan sleeves let him move, while performance Omni-Wick technology helps evaporate moisture, keeping him comfortable and dry.
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Best for: Those with a sweet tooth
You should probably ship this gift direct; otherwise, you might be tempted to keep it for yourself. The festive box contains a variety of Godiva’s best Belgian chocolate truffles, including fan favorites like Crème Brulee and Aztec Spice. Oh, and did you know chocolate has health benefits?
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Best for: Fish aficionados
This pre-seasoned cast-iron pan will significantly improve your dad’s fish-grilling experience. No more fish falling through the grates! Plus, this cute, fish-shaped pan doubles as a handy serving dish. Not a fish guy? Try this other safe cookware for all types of home chefs.
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Best for: Serious golfers
He’s always talking about getting the garage more organized. This no-frills storage system for his golf clubs will get him started. It is easy to install and will hold up to two golf bags, and his golf shoes, too. It’ll score big in terms of gifts for dads that satisfy both function and necessity.
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Best for: Cocktail connoisseurs
What could be better for the dad who likes to throw ’em back than a personalized decanter and a set of swanky barware glasses? This is definitely a present that he can show off—and use—all year long. If you’re looking for a gift for your boyfriend, this would also be a hit.
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Best for: The always-prepared dad
Light up your dad’s life with a weather- and impact-resistant flashlight. It delivers up to 1,200 real lumens, which means its ultra-wide beam can effortlessly illuminate a whole room or backyard. It also has an adjustable zoom-spotlight feature that allows you to focus on small objects up to 1,000 feet away. Plus, it’s strong enough to survive a 10-foot drop or being temporarily submerged in water.
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Best for: Audio masters
Give your dad the gift of hands-free calling so he can talk to you while working on one of his many DIY projects—or, if he prefers, jamming to music, or even listening to podcasts. He’ll love these fan-favorite earbuds (they have more than 166,000 five-star reviews on Amazon!) that come with a wireless charging case and are even waterproof.
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Best for: Preppy loungers
Guess what? Guys like comfortable clothes to wear around the house, too, so you can’t go wrong with this gift idea for dad. Don’t take our word for it, though—these shorts have tons of positive reviews from men who actually own them. For more on this order, check out the best men’s pajamas.
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Best for: The sharp-dressed man
The best gifts for dads are the ones he may not buy for himself, and this very handsome and versatile belt fits the bill. Built with quality full-grain leather on both sides and a reversible swivel buckle that lets him choose between brown or black with ease, it’s sure to become the most worn belt in his wardrobe.
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Best for: Sun worshippers
A polished midgrain strap wraps the crown of this stylish fedora woven from pale straw. Sun protection is just a (very necessary) bonus: The best thing about this hat is how dashing he’ll look while wearing it. For the ladies in your life, try these sun hats for every activity.
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Best for: Active dudes
Your dad already has a Hydro Flask, you say? That is OK, because everyone needs multiple Hydro Flasks—for home, for the office, for the car, for the gym, etc. These bottles keep hot liquids hot for up to six hours and cold liquids cold for up to 24 hours. In other words, no more stale coffee or lukewarm water!
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Best for: Pizza fanatics
Who doesn’t love a crispy homemade pizza pie? Dad can now make his own with this compact pizza oven that’s the perfect addition to any patio. A built-in ignition heats it to a pizza-perfect 900 degrees in less than 15 minutes, and a heat-control dial helps him stay on top of the temp when cooking a pizza, which takes only 60 seconds. Heading to an outdoor party? He can take this chimney-less portable oven with him. Just connect it to a gas source and it’s ready to fire up.
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Best for: Party starters
This compact radio/speaker looks retro, but it is totally contemporary. Splash-proof and constructed with silicone, it can be used in the shower or even at the pool or beach. It’s available in white and black.
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Best for: Sun bums
If your dad likes the look and feel of designer sunglasses, he’ll love these smart-looking shades from Quay. They are polarized with 100 percent protection, and the quality is right up there with any luxury line. For more ways to keep his eyes protected, here are other highly rated sunglasses with UV protection.
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Best for: Dads in need of date night
Let’s face it: Kids can get in the way of quality time with your partner. If you’re looking for a creative way to spice up your next date night, this painting kit puts a sexy spin on couples’ art.
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Best for: Wine enthusiasts
This is a decanter and aerator in one, so your dad can enjoy that celebratory bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon without giving it time to breathe. Simply insert the contraption into a wine bottle as you would a conventional pourer. When you pour the wine, you see and hear aeration happening, and it will improve the flavor of any old vino. Ringing in at less than $15, it would be a stellar Secret Santa gift.
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Best for: Sober guys
If he prefers mocktails over cocktails, how about giving him a bottle of Seedlip’s distilled botanicals? The spicy and sweet spirit can be used in place of the real thing in just about any cocktail, with zero alcohol. It’s also calorie-free, sugar-free, and allergy-friendly.
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Best for: Gardeners
Gardening is a lot easier when all the tools are right there. With this convenient caddy, your dad will love the fact that he won’t have to keep running back and forth between the raised beds and the shed every time he realizes he needs to grab another tool. It even has space for a water bottle!
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Best for: Spice hounds
Hot sauce goes great with just about everything—meat, veggies, eggs, you name it. The General’s trio has a deep, rich flavor sure to spice up your dad’s life (or at least his lunch). Just be warned that these grenade-shaped bottles are not for the faint of heart. Each hot sauce is 86 percent actual peppers, versus other brands that often clock in around 20 percent.
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Best for: Germaphobes
This handy tool fits right onto a key chain and keeps your dad from having to touch filthy surfaces when he’s out and about. Made from copper and zinc, it is antimicrobial and easy to clean.
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Best for: Caffeine fiends
With this brilliant gadget, your dad will never be without his beloved cup of joe again, even if he’s backpacking in the middle of nowhere. It’s the smallest, lightest, and most versatile handheld espresso machine on the market—no battery or electricity needed.
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Best for: Those in need of a wardrobe upgrade
If he hasn’t bought new socks in a decade, or they’re just constantly getting lost in the dryer, get him a pair of stylish socks that have a surprise twist. Made from super-soft yarn derived from recycled water bottles, each pair has a moisture-resistant pocket to safely hold small valuables like credit cards, keys, and cash. Round out his collection with these other warm socks worth buying.
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Best for: Happy-hour hounds
For the guy who loves to relax after a long day with a cold beer but already has every cocktail gift you can think of, look no further. He’ll smile every time he opens a brewski with a bottle opener that features his grinning mug.
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Best for: The eco-conscious
If your guy cares about the planet, get him a pack of reusable stainless steel metal straws—with character. He’ll get three straws, a cleaning brush, and a carrying case in one of three cool patterns.
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Best for: The dad who has back pain
Your dad might not be able to change the fact this his job involves a lot of time sitting or driving, but this seat cushion could be a game-changer in terms of how he feels after all those hours spent at a desk or behind the wheel of a car. Not only is it ergonomically designed for pain reduction and comfort—it is also gel-infused for temperature control. If he’s a jet-setter, you might want to opt for this quirky travel pillow that reviewers swear by.
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Best for: Woodworkers
Tools always make a great gift—especially ones that you know he’ll use but won’t go out and buy for himself, like a quality jigsaw. This electric version makes straight and curved cuts on wood, metal, and plastic, and it illuminates your cut line for enhanced visibility and precision.
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Best for: Movie buffs
Upgrade his movie-night snacks with this yummy variety pack that includes three sets of popcorn kernels and five premium seasonings. The spices (White Cheddar, Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn, Chili Lime, Buttery Caramel, and Sizzling Sriracha) aren’t just for popcorn—sprinkle the toppings on potatoes, nuts, chips, or even ice cream to jazz up any snack.
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Best for: The outdoor-inclined guy
Does he love sitting around a bonfire, but lacks an actual fire pit? That’s no longer an issue with this portable, reusable mini bonfire that he can take on all of his outdoor adventures. This fun (and yummy!) kit has everything he’ll need to make s’mores, including graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate, portable skewers, and even an EZ lighter. It’s the perfect family activity!
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Best for: The dad who has it all
If there’s truly nothing your dad needs or wants, get him the best present of all: quality time with you! Fever delivers a curated list of the most exciting events and things to do and see in your city. Browse by category and choose from thousands of unique events—from immersive dining experiences and pop-up food festivals to concerts, cultural activities, and more.
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Best for: The hygiene-obsessed
If your dad is the type to always want the latest and greatest gadget, this electric flossing device will help him keep his teeth in tip-top shape. It’s rechargeable, portable, cordless, and proven to be more effective than traditional dental floss.
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Best for: Proud Americans
With the ability to stand up to wind, rain, and sun, DaydreamHQ’s American flag wall hanging can stay outside all year long (or indoors, if your dad prefers). Made in the USA, it is printed with eco-friendly ink and is truly a beautiful—and patriotic—work of art. Didn’t find what you were looking for? Try these unique gifts for people who are impossible to shop for.
