Your parents are unique in that they’ll probably be the first people you ever give a gift to and you’ll continue to give them gifts for many, many years, if you’re lucky. The beauty of that possibility is having them in your life for longer, but it doesn’t make giving gifts easier to have to come up with something new and special for Christmas every year. When it gets hard, you have to put in a bit more effort to make sure you’re getting the right gift, but don’t sweat it this year, we’ve done the work for you.
We reviewed dozens of Christmas gift ideas for Dad to identify the best of the best. We looked for gifts that he can use right away and for those to help him in the warmer months, too. We found funny gifts, and tools; both practical and sentimental gifts. No matter what kind of gift you want to give Dad, we have you covered.
After just one look, we think you’ll agree that the Alpha Grillers Heavy Duty BBQ Grilling Tools Set was an obvious choice for our top pick spot. Grilling may be a traditionally “Dad” role, but whether he’s new and needs these tools to start out or he’s been doing it for years, and it’s the upgrade he’s been looking for – the set is sure to be a huge hit for Dad this Christmas.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Alpha Grillers Heavy Duty BBQ Grilling Tools Set | 4.8 |
| Runner Up | I Don't Snore Dream I'm a Motorcycle Dad Coffee Mug | 4.9 |
| Best Budget Buy | Home-X Mug Warmer | 4.3 |
| Best Outdoor Christmas Gift for Dad | Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Locking Patio Outdoor Lounger Chair | 4.3 |
| Best Stocking Stuffer for Dad | Multi-Tool for Everyday Carry (EDC) Survival Gear | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Alpha Grillers Heavy Duty BBQ Grilling Tools Set
The Alpha Grillers Heavy Duty BBQ Grilling Tools Set includes four heavy duty utensils that will likely be the last grilling tool set he’ll ever need. Each is made with extra thick stainless steel and a strong and comfortable cushioned grip that will feel nearly indestructible in Dad’s hands. And that’s with good reason: they weigh an impressive 2.5 pounds! There is a spatula, a pair of tongs, a basting brush, and a turning fork. Our favorite utensil is, by far, the spatula, as it is definitely the most efficient. It has a scraping side that will allow you to flip even the hard stuck-on burgers and it even has a bottle opener. Because what good is a grill if Dad doesn’t have a cold beer to enjoy the complete experience?
There are huge hanging loops on the end of each utensil, making sure that you’ll easily be able to hang it from even the clunky and wide hooks that grills come with these days. That way Dad can wash them and replace them before covering the grill back up and mom will certainly appreciate not having to hear “Where are the grill tongs?” every time he grills. Also, we love the idea of Dad wanting so badly to use his new gift that he puts on his boots to go use the grill even in the dead of winter.
With well over 500 customer reviews on Amazon, this set has plenty of support to assure you that it’s rating is true to life. And with a rating like 4.8 stars, that’s really saying something.
Alpha Grillers Heavy Duty BBQ Grilling Tools Set Key Features:
- 4 stainless steel utensils
- Ergonomic, contoured grips
- Lifetime money back guarantee
Our Runner Up Pick: I Don’t Snore, I Dream I’m a Motorcycle Dad Coffee Mug
The I Don’t Snore, I Dream I’m a Motorcycle Dad Coffee Mug is perfect for the dad who’s heard a few times about how loudly he snores. Or for the dad who’s obsessed with motorcycles. Or who likes a good, wholesome metaphor-type joke. We took some time to think who wouldn’t like this and didn’t really come up with much. You just have to decide how much your dad, in particular, will like it.
If you want our argument for this cup, though, here it is: 40% of all adult men are habitual snorers and even more do it occasionally to frequently. Even more than that, the average motorcycle rider is between 40-48 (prime “Dad” age) and 80% of motorcyclists are male. There are nearly 9 million motorcycle riders in the US, 200 million worldwide. And the percentage of Dads who enjoy a good play on words joke? 100%
The mug has an overall rating of 4.9 stars on Amazon and even for a dad joke/coffee mug combo, that’s pretty good. Factor in that the rating is earned by over 200 customer reviews, then it’s more than just a bit tempting isn’t it?
I Don’t Snore Dream I’m a Motorcycle Dad Coffee Mug Key Features:
- Microwave and dishwasher safe
- Buy more and save: 2 packaging options
- 11 or 15 oz options
Best Budget Pick: Home-X Mug Warmer
Having the Home-X Mug Warmer is essentially giving your dad the gift of hot coffee all through the day. No matter how long he gets distracted – whether he forgets it during his morning meeting at work or he has an unplanned nap while thoroughly enjoying retirement, this will take care of him. Of course it doesn’t have to be coffee, if he’d rather a hot chocolate on a particularly cold day or a calming cup of tea before bed, this will keep it warm while he winds down.
And actually, while we assume he’ll be using this to maintain a warm temperature for his drinks, it can also come in handy for candle and wax warming, too. So if he wants to enjoy the smell of a candle without the open flame, this can help him out. There’s no limit to what he can use it for, really; just the size. So if he wants to keep his own cup of buffalo dip warm while he’s watching a game, he can.
This mug warmer has 4.3 stars on Amazon with over 400 customer reviews. And while those are certainly nice numbers to read, the most important number for this one is the cost. You can get one of these warmers for just under $10!
Home-X Mug Warmer Key Features:
- Red light power indicator
- On/Off switch on cord
- 3.5″ diameter heated surface
Best Outdoor Christmas Gift for Dad: Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Locking Patio Outdoor Lounger Chair
The Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Locking Patio Outdoor Lounger Chair is an excellent option for a bad back, or for just a comfortable seat – something all dads can appreciate. By the time we’re parents, sitting somehow just seems like a better alternative to standing and when Dad is outdoors, there isn’t always a seat to be had. This chair, though, folds flat and is easy to set up so he can take it most anywhere he wants. The flexible bungee system will provide a zero gravity, weightless experience and that will relieve virtually all pressure he may feel. There’s even a padded headrest to make sure that he’s getting the best comfort possible.
The chair will open to almost flat at 170 degrees and is 72 inches long when it’s fully reclined. There are locking mechanisms to ensure Dad isn’t thrown from the chair or even jolts unexpectedly while sitting and reclining. The armrests are a durable and comfortable wood and there is a cup holder along one side. The design of this chair has thought of everything!
On Amazon, 86% of the more than 400 customers came back to review and sing the chair’s praise. In fact, they’ve given it an overall rating of 4.3 stars a that’s plenty enough to suggest your dad would be one of the vast majority of satisfied customers.
Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Locking Patio Outdoor Lounger Chair Key Features:
- 43.5″H X 22″W X 21.3″D
- 4 color options
- 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
Best Stocking Stuffer for Dad for Dad: Multi-Tool for Everyday Carry (EDC) Survival Gear
The Multi-Tool for Everyday Carry (EDC) Survival Gear is a great stocking stuffer to give dad so he’ll have something he can carry with him to help him in a pinch. It’s discreet enough to pass as a simple pen, but in a kind of spy-wear fashion, it is so much more. It also features an LED flashlight, a bottle opener, and a glass breaker tip that secures atop the ballpoint pen. Of course, there are the obvious uses: the bottle opener will keep him prepared to drink his beer, the flashlight will let him see in the dark, a pen writes, but that glass breaking tip is the one you hope he’ll never use. If he ever finds himself trapped, though, this little gadget could just save his life.
The pen and case is made with aircraft grade machined aluminum and is made to have a maximum strength-to-weight ratio. This means that he’ll have this multi-tool for quite possibly the rest of his life. And the manufacturer is so confident in its quality that it’s offered a 1-year completely unlimited warranty.
With all that this mightier-than-the-sword pen offers, of course it’s well received by customers. On Amazon, there are nearly 600 customer reviews and it has earned an overall rating of 4.7 stars – and that’s definitely not something you should overlook!
Multi-Tool for Everyday Carry (EDC) Survival Gear Key Features:
- 4 tools in one device
- 2 color options
- Includes 2 ink refills and extra battery
Who Should Buy a Christmas Gift for Dad
The simple answer to whether you need to buy a gift for Dad for Christmas is if you a) have a dad and b) celebrate Christmas. If you meet both of those requirements, there’s a pretty good chance you should start your shopping. He’ll certainly be getting you a gift and all things considered, you’re probably woefully behind on the “who owes what to whom” with your dad. He taught you to tie your shoes, helped you every single time you’ve moved, and everything in between. And those “in betweens” are probably the most important, life-altering events and lessons. No matter how much pizza or how many hug coupons you give, the scales will always be in his favor. Christmas is a chance to show him that you know that. Don’t skip the opportunity.
Of course, you may not be shopping for your dad. If you’re shopping for your spouse, who happens to be a dad, there’s still a good chance most of the gifts on our list fit the bill for him, too. And yes, as long as one or both of you celebrate Christmas (and unless you’ve previously discussed it), you do have yo buy your significant other a Christmas gift. If you don’t celebrate Christmas, it won’t be expected, but New Year’s is right around the corner and the “Holiday Season” is still a pretty perfect time to give to your loved ones. Even without the religious celebration, you can certainly take the excuse to spoil your friends and family; Dads especially.
Important Features to Consider
A Christmas gift for your dad should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a Christmas gift for your dad:
- Humor. Dads have a reputation for a specific type of humor and we’re here to encourage it. A good pun or fart joke can bring a simple and happy feeling that you can’t help but love. Dad jokes are also an easy crutch if you struggle with what to get your dad. You can poke a bit of fun at a habit of your dad’s – like snoring, for example. Or you could make a joke that you know he’ll appreciate. If he has a favorite TV show, book, movie, comic, etc, that he’d love referenced, you can pull a joke from there or you can make your own gift with a joke regarding a topic you know he loves (zombies, hunting, or politics, for example).
- Sentiment. This may be a better idea if you have a bit more of a sentimental relationship or he appreciates the touchy-feely stuff, but even if you don’t and he doesn’t, there’s probably still a line you can approach without it getting uncomfortable for either of you. You can give gifts that will remind him of your fond childhood memories and how much you appreciate him without going too far into that territory. Or, you can just choose to say “whatever” and lay it all out for him. You can give him a gift that tells him exactly how much he’s meant to you, and how much you love him and just let him be surprised. Chances are, even if he says nothing, that’s going to be a favorite gift of his and he’ll cherish it. And keep in mind, there’s a very common trend that men tend to “soften” up as they age, appreciating sentiment more as they age.
- Tools. There’s a good chance that by the time you come along, Dad has a pretty solid collection of tools. However, there are still two categories of tools that he’s likely to need or appreciate: “Luxury” tools and gadgets. By luxury tools, in this case, we mean the best version of a tool he uses often. For example, he may have a power saw, but if he is constantly complaining about it, you may want to look for the best version of that tool for him. Even if he had the top of the line 20 years ago, there’s always an opportunity to upgrade and you can save him a lot of time and aggravation by doing that for him. For gadgets, there are infinite shortcuts and advancements in tool technology that can make his every day craftsmanship easier and help him improve the quality of his work. A magnet that stretches under the deep freeze in the garage to pull out the screw that rolled under while he was changing the oil, for example, may be a new gadget he’ll use frequently. (And it just so happens to be on our list, too.)
- Spoiling him. You probably won’t want to spring for a spa day for your dad if it would make him feel incredibly uncomfortable. But there are ways that even dad relaxes and decompresses. Once you know those, you can make it happen for him. If he’s a runner, then maybe a high-quality pair of running shoes could be a good gift idea. For the fisherman, you could get him a lure or rod that are way more than he’d ever get for himself. The idea of spoiling him, though, is to give him gifts he wouldn’t get for himself. With this idea in mind, you can go an easy route and just get him something he already has, but a higher quality version.
- Customized. We’ve found that when you put a dad’s children’s names on something he’s more apt to like the gift. He did probably have a bit to do with giving all those names, so there’s a good chance he likes them. A t-shirt or coffee mug with all of the names of his descendants would be a good investment because he’ll definitely wear or use them. In fact, we dare say, the only person who likes getting gifts with their progeny’s name on it is a grandpa getting gifts with all his kids’ and grand kids’ names on it.
- Joint gifts. If you have siblings, you can join in together to get a bigger, maybe even better, gift from the two of you. One benefit is that if you pool money, your options of what to give Dad open up a bit more but, even better, you only have a portion of the idea responsibility. That means you can lean on your siblings to bounce ideas back and forth with, which will make it more likely you’ll actually get something Dad will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should you spend on a Christmas gift for your dad?
Well, he gave you life, so what’s that worth to you? All kidding aside, there’s probably no cap for how much you want to give to your dad, or what you think he deserves. But there is a cap in your finances and that’s probably going to be the biggest determiner for how much you spend on him for Christmas. If you are married and have multiple parents to buy for, or if you’re just on a tight budget, you may have to set the limit a bit lower than you’d like, but no matter how much you spend, you can get your dad a gift he’ll love because you have a secret weapon: his heart. No matter what you can spend, you can always remind him of how much he loves you by opting for a sentimental gift. Time is so precious and the more time you spend thinking of the right gift, the more appreciated the gift will be – cost is almost irrelevant to your dad. You can either find a gift he’ll like within a budget, or think of a gift that you know he’ll like and set the budget to reflect that. That is, as long as it won’t break you.
Ignoring all those considerations, there is a ballpark rule you can heed to give yourself a budget before you decide what gift to give your dad for Christmas. You will probably spend 1% of your annual income on Christmas. The bulk of that will be on your children and spouse (should you have them) and the third highest budget should be your parents. You, of course, decide how to divide the 1% between your friends and family, but the consensus is you can expect to spend $25 or higher for a parent, depending on your personal finances.
What do you get a new dad for Christmas?
Can you give him a night away from the baby so he can sleep? If that’s within your power, that’s absolutely the best gift you can give a new parent; take the baby overnight while dad sleeps for a night. Short of that, try venturing out of the ordinary and find a gift that will make the adjustment into parenthood a bit easier – or at least give him a break from the stress, if only momentarily. You can find a local laundry mat that will sort and fold laundry, or spring for a house cleaning, maybe. While those may have been a traditionally “woman” job, even for the houses where that’s still the case, the mom’s probably a bit busy at this stage and the dad has probably been picking up some slack. On that same train of thought, you can always give them the gift of meals, and that means for Christmas, a gift card to a place that delivers to them is going to be a big hit.
Beyond that, there are plenty of gifts that you can give to a new dad he’ll love. If this is his first Christmas as a parent, then any kind of sentimental gift will probably be greatly appreciated. He’s never had these kinds of gifts before and having them now will be a new experience – and keep in mind you only have this one Christmas to give the “First Christmas” gifts.
What do you get your dad for Christmas who has everything?
If your dad seems to have it all or is a self-sufficient guy who gives himself anything he could want as soon as he thinks of it, you may struggle with an idea for what to get him every single year. Fortunately, you’re not without options. You may not have the traditional gifts at your disposal like you may like, but giving him experiences and your time will be better than another tie anyways. Concerts, trips, and sports events are an excellent alternative to any gift bag, particularly if you’re not located near him or if you’re not able to spend the time with him. If you can spend time with him, though, a gift to help that will be the best gift you can give any dad. A game, if you’re able to come over and play it with him would be a great idea to facilitate closeness. If you’re looking to spend a bit more cash, spring for a weekend away. Either fly him to you or pick out a small vacation for you both to go and enjoy. (Check with his schedule before you hit the “checkout” option, though. Or at least make sure the tickets are exchangeable.)
Sentimental gifts that call to mind the pleasant memories he has with you or make him feel appreciated or loved are another excellent option. After all, he can’t give himself a mug that says “World’s Best Dad.” You could fill out the journals that have prompts to let you relay your favorite personality traits, life lessons, or memories with your dad by filling out. Or, if he’d be receptive to it, you can push the work on him and give him the journal to fill out so that he has the opportunity to make sure his memories are immortalized long after he’s gone.
How do I choose a Christmas gift for my dad?
You choose a gift for anyone based on what you know of them and while it is just slightly different for a person you’ve known every day of your whole life, the broad idea remains the same. The better you know your dad the better able you are to get him a gift you know he’ll love. You can consider his daily routine to determine what kind of gift can make his day-to-day easier or a gift that will spoil him in ways he may not consider getting himself. You could also consider his style or decor and pick a shirt he’d like or sign for a man cave that will go over smashingly. If he’s about to retire, you can consider “cure to boredom” or “bucket list” gifts, too.
Sometimes, though, surprising your dad with an epic gift just isn’t feasible. If you need to ask, your dad will probably be more likely to give you a straight answer than, say your stubborn teen. But don’t expect it to be an elaborate gift suggestion if you have to resort to asking. You can ask a sibling or his spouse for some suggestions and that will allow you to still surprise him while also getting new ideas or simply a second opinion.
Other Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other gift ideas for Dad. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best Christmas gift ideas for Dad list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your dad. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Funny Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad
- Practical Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad
- Sentimental Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad
- Tool Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad
Funny Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad
Dad Jokes: Terribly Good Dad Jokes
In case Dad is running out of his own jokes and needs some new material, you can swoop in and save the day with this dad joke book.
Key Features:
- Kindle and paperback formats
- 52 pages
- Personalized “From” on cover
Cost: $5
Humorous Retirement Coffee Mug
This funny retirement mug for dad is dishwasher and microwave safe so using and cleaning it will be as easy as his new schedule.
Key Features:
- 2 styles available
- 3 packaging options
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed
Cost: $15
Potty Putter Toilet Golf (Original Version)
This is an absolutely ridiculous gift that will be sure to get good laughs – even if he absolutely still unpacks and uses it that night.
Key Features:
- Includes putting green, cup with flag, two golf balls, putter and “Do Not Disturb” door hanger
- 25.5″ putter
- Easy and fast set up
Cost: $15
The Don’t Laugh Challenge – Dad vs. Kid Edition
This is a wonderful gift for a kid (of most any age) to give a dad to test who’s best at holding back the laughter.
Key Features:
- 122 pages
- Paperback edition
- For 2 players
Cost: $10
To Dad From the Reasons You Drink Funny Dad Beer Glass
This may be best for siblings to give to dad, but we don’t know you; maybe you have given Dad many, many reasons to drink all on your own.
Key Features:
- 3 style options
- 16 oz capacity
- 100% money back guarantee
Practical Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad
8 in 1 Free Beard Shampoo/ Wash Beard Care Growth Grooming Kit
If Dad has a beard, then you can spoil him with this set. (Or you can drop a not-so-subtle hint that it needs some serious attention.)
Key Features:
- Made with 100% natural and organic ingredients
- Includes beard shampoo, oil, balm, brush, comb, Scissors, and storage bag
- Bonus e-Book
Cost: $15
Cooking BBQ Smoker Wood Chip Grill Set
Whether dad wants to try to experiment with his grill or use these in an honest to goodness smoker, this will take his outdoor cooking to a new level.
Key Features:
- 6 piece grill smoking set
- Hickory, apple, and cherry wood chips
- 100% natural wood chips
Cost: $60
Gifts for Dad –Dad’s Ice Cream Bowl and Engraved Spoon Dad’s Ice Cream Shovel
Is there a better way to Dad’s heart than a good bowl of ice cream, with maybe a little sliced banana and chopped nuts with hot fudge?
Key Features:
- Gift box included
- 30 oz capacity
- Spoon engraved with “Dad’s Ice Cream Shovel”
Cost: $40
KI Store Garden Kneeling Pad Extra Thick Large Bath Pads
While we can’t help him get back up after he’s on the ground, you can make sure he’s not damaging his knees while he’s down there.
Key Features:
- Double water resistant layers
- Memory foam
- Cover detachable and machine washable
Cost: $35
KRUPS F203 Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder
If he’s been drinking coffee for years, it’s about time the man had a freshly ground cup, isn’t it?
Key Features:
- Grinds in 10 seconds
- 3 oz capacity
- Stainless steel blades
Cost: $20
VIKTOR JURGEN Neck Massage Pillow
You may not be able to get Dad to a spa for a massage, but you can bring him the same kind of comfort at home with this massager.
Key Features:
- Built-in heater
- Deep rotating node to mimic shiatsu style massage
- 3-year warranty
Cost: $40
If he’s a dad, the time has come to start incorporating some vegetables in his grill game and this basket will let him do that easily.
Key Features:
- 13.8 x 11.8 x 2.5 in
- Stainless steel construction
- 2-year warranty
Sentimental Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad
“Thank You for Helping Me Build My Life” DIY Gift Engraved Wood Handle Steel Hammer
While the point of this gift may be the passage along the handle, the hammer is still 100% functional so it will serve as a constant reminder while Dad’s working.
Key Features:
- 13 x 5.5 x 1 inches
- Polished steel head
- Smooth, hardwood hammer
Cost: $40
Dad I Wrote A Book About You: Fill In The Blank Book With Prompts About What I Love About Dad
If you’d like to give your dad a book telling him how much you think of him, this is a good way to do that; and it’d be even cuter for the mom of a small child to dictate the answers from child to dad.
Key Features:
- Paperback format
- 61 pages
- 30 unique prompts
Cost: $10
Dad, I Want to Hear Your Story: A Father’s Guided Journal To Share His Life & His Love
If your dad would be game to retell some of his life stories, this is a perfect way to get them out of him.
Key Features:
- Paperback format
- 52 pages
- Questions give Dad prompts
Cost: $10
LParkin Father’s Day Keychain – I’ll Always Be Your Little Girl
This key chain is the perfect reminder from a daughter that her dad will always be a hero to her.
Key Features:
- Stamped letters
- Packaged in gift box
- Made of stainless steel
Tool Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad
EDC Emergency Tools and Everyday Carry Gear, Official Survival Kit
This box contains nine separate tools, many of which have multiple uses, making this the ultimate survival mini box.
Key Features:
- 3 kit versions available
- Gear box 4.1 x 1.8 x 6.3 inches
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
Cost: $30
Dad won’t ever have to worry about losing the one socket he needs for a project if he has a universal grip, just in case.
Key Features:
- Universal and self adjusting
- Socket only or set available
- Stainless steel construction
Cost: $15
Telescoping Magnetic Pick-Up Tool
Just because he’s still strong enough to move the refrigerator should something roll under it, does not mean he wants to and with this gadget, it won’t be necessary.
Key Features:
- Magnet pulls up to 15 lbs
- Extends to 30″
- Buy 2 and save
Cost: $10
ThxToms LED Flashlights Gloves
No matter what Dad’s getting into, he’ll have the way lit for what he’s working on with these gloves.
Key Features:
- 2 LED lights in each glove
- Lightweight and flexible fabric
- One size fits most
Cost: $15
