The best gifts for every kind of dad this Christmas

The Best Gifts For Every Kind of Dad

by Anne Lora Scagliusi |
Updated on

Finding the perfect gift for Dad can sometimes feel like solving a riddle, especially if your partner is anything like mine—the kind of guy who shrugs and says, “I don’t need anything!” when you ask for ideas. Sound familiar? Don’t worry, mums—I’ve got you covered!

Whether your husband is a sentimental type, an aspiring chef, a sporty adventurer, or the ultimate homebody, I’ve handpicked the best gifts for every kind of dad in 2024. From practical must-haves he’ll use every day to thoughtful splurges that feel like a treat, these ideas are sure to surprise him and show just how much he’s loved.

And let’s not forget gifts that come from the kids! No matter how impossible he is to shop for, I promise there’s something on this list that will bring a smile to Dad’s face—and maybe even become his new favourite thing.

By the way, you’re not alone in struggling to find the perfect gift. A survey found that 38% of people think dads are the hardest to buy for, which is probably why many end up with socks, or aftershave each year. But don't worry, I’ve got some thoughtful alternatives on this list—so no need to fall back on the usual go-to’s!

This practical new dad parka is a lifesaver during winter. It features a detachable baby pouch that zips over baby carriers or slings, so Dad can enjoy some quality bonding time while keeping your little one warm and cosy.

What I love most about this jacket is that it’s stylish enough for everyday wear. Once the pouch is zipped off, it becomes a sleek and padded parka perfect for solo outings. It’s like giving two gifts in one: a practical parenting essential and a cool new addition to his wardrobe. Bonus points for the gunmetal grey colour and all the handy pockets—it’s a new dad’s dream!

Price: $79

We all know how chaotic mornings can get when you're trying to get everyone out the door—especially when you're juggling breakfast, school bags, and getting yourself ready. The Echo Spot helps Dad streamline his routine. Imagine him waking up to his favourite music or podcast, getting reminders for the day, and even controlling the room's temperature—all before he's even out of bed! It’s like having a personal assistant to help him get organised. And with its sleek, space-saving design, it fits seamlessly into any bedroom. Plus, the added privacy protection ensures he can use it without any worries. It’s the kind of smart tech that makes life just a little bit easier for busy dads.

Review: “I’m absolutely loving the 2024 Echo Spot! It’s more than just a smart alarm clock—it’s a complete home assistant packed into a sleek, stylish design. The vibrant sound is surprisingly rich for its size, making it perfect for waking up with music or checking in on the news. The integration with Alexa is flawless, allowing me to control my smart home, check the weather, and even manage my calendar—all hands-free. The display is sharp, and the clock is easy to read even from across the room. The smart alarms are customisable, and the added screen makes it a big upgrade from standard alarm clocks. If you’re looking to add a smart assistant to your nightstand that looks great and works even better, this is the one!”

If your gifting a dad who is the type to go all out for Christmas, this Men's Festive Friends Fair Isle Pattern Jumper from JoJo Maman Bébé is the perfect way for him to get in the holiday spirit. With a bright red, white, and green colour scheme, this jumper is covered in fun, festive motifs—think reindeer, Christmas trees, stockings, and of course, Santa.

It’s perfect for Christmas morning or any holiday event, this jumper is not only stylish but super comfy with ribbed neck, cuffs, and hem. The addition of soft cashmere ensures he stays warm while spreading festive cheer. We love a festive dad around the house!

Price: $8.72

For the dad who’s always on the hunt for great reads, The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read is a must-have. Written by renowned psychotherapist Philippa Perry, this #1 Sunday Times bestseller is packed with insightful advice on parenting, relationships, and self-growth.

It’s not just a book—it’s a guide to understanding how our past shapes our parenting and how to build better, stronger relationships with our kids. With practical tips, stories, and a non-judgmental approach, it helps dads navigate parenting with empathy and wisdom. Whether he’s expecting, already a dad, or looking to improve his parenting, this book will provide invaluable advice that he’ll cherish for years to come.

Review: “I was dubious about buying parenting books, however decided to take the plunge as this book was recommended to me. This has really been an eye-opener. Some parts were uncomfortable to read as it makes you reflect back on your childhood and relate your past to how you are acting right now to your own children. I recommend reading this book for parents-to-be, parents or those who deal a lot with kids.”

Élan Vital Eau de Parfum from To The Fairest isn’t just a fragrance—it’s a whole vibe for dads. With earthy vetiver, oakmoss, and patchouli, it’s a scent that’s both calming and bold, perfect for any day. It’s the kind of fragrance that feels just right—grounding and refreshing, without being overpowering.

What I love most is how restorative this fragrance feels—it’s like taking a deep breath in the middle of a toddler tantrum. Perfect for dads who need a moment of zen after chasing kids around all day, this perfume bottle is like a mini vacation. And here’s a fact: patchouli is known for its calming powers, so it’s basically like a dad’s personal stress ball—except it smells way better!

Trust me, it's the gift that keeps on keeping him cool, even when the chaos level is at "full meltdown." The best part? It’s a unisex scent, so you can sneak a spritz too (because who doesn’t love sharing?).

Price: $135 (was 175)

fromourplace.co.uk

Does your partner love spending time in the kitchen ala Master Chef? The Always Pan Pro is the ultimate upgrade for dads who enjoy cooking. Made with groundbreaking NoCo™ technology, it’s the first nonstick pan that’s coating-free and PFAS-free (bye forever chemicals!). Plus, it has got a lifetime guarantee!

This pan isn’t just practical—it’s a workhorse. It’s perfect for everything from frying eggs to whipping up a fancy pasta dinner. Pair it with his favourite recipe book or a gourmet spice set for an even more thoughtful touch. And, who knows? You might just inspire a few more “Dad’s cooking tonight!” evenings.

Box includes Titanium Always Pan® Pro, Modular, steam-release lid and Nesting Beechwood Spatula

Review: "This pan is amazing! It’s super versatile and doesn’t have any of the harmful chemicals you get with coated pans. I love the no-coating nonstick surface—it’s built to last and so easy to use. It feels like a pro-level pan but works perfectly for everyday cooking. The construction is impressive too, with layers of stainless steel, aluminum, and a tough titanium interior that’s super durable and handles crazy high heat (up to 535°C). What I love most is knowing it’s safe and toxin-free, so I can cook for my family with peace of mind. Plus, the 100-day trial is a nice bonus!”

Some dads just love being comfy and warm—especially when they're working from home or lounging on the sofa during those chilly mornings or cold nights. That’s where the Daewoo Heated Hooded Jacket comes in! 

This oversized hoodie has built-in heating pads to keep him nice and toasty. It’s one of those genius products you didn’t know you needed, but once he tries it, he’ll never want to take it off. Plus, it helps save on heating bills! The jacket comes with a detachable corded heat controller, three heat settings, 5VDC power, super-soft fleece material, a USB port for a battery pack (which isn’t included), it’s machine washable at 30°C, has overheat protection, and even comes with a 3-year extended warranty (you just need to register online).

Review: "This heated hooded jacket is amazing! Say goodbye to hot water bottles and try this instead. It’s not just warm, the fleece is super cosy too. The only thing is, you’ve got to have your power bank with you, but honestly, if it means staying toasty, I’m all for it!”

Price: $54.99

If your partner loves cracking open a cold beer, why not let him craft his own? The Craft A Brew O.G. Orange Golden Ale Beer Making Kit turns him from a beer drinker into a beer maker. With everything he needs to brew his own delicious beer at home, this kit is perfect for the dad who loves to experiment and try new things.

The O.G. Golden Ale is a light, flavourful brew that’s easy to make but hard to forget. The kit includes a complete set of supplies, perfect for first-timers and experienced brewers alike. Whether it’s for a fun weekend project or an ongoing hobby, this is a gift that will keep on giving—he’ll love the satisfaction of sipping on a beer he crafted himself!

The kit includes: All the ingredients needed to make the O.G. Golden Ale, Craft A Brew Guide to Craft Brewing, Complete brewing equipment and instructions.

Review: "Super happy with this. Followed the instructions, and my beer turned out perfect. Simple, and pretty well everything you need."

Price: £112 (was £150)

If your husband loves the outdoors, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 is a gift he didn’t know he needed. These hiking shoes are lightweight, durable, and weatherproof, making them perfect for everything from leisurely walks to rugged trails.

What sets these apart is their incredible cushioning and support, which make them ideal for dads who are always on the go. Whether he’s chasing after the kids at the park or tackling a weekend hike, these shoes will keep him comfortable and stylish.

Review: “These boots are a total game-changer! They’re super comfortable no matter the terrain—pavement, grass, or even rugged trails. The waterproofing is amazing, and they handled cold weather like a pro (I’ve tested them down to -1°C). Cleaning off mud was a easy—just a quick wipe, and they looked brand new.”

Price: £14.99

Looking for a gift that’s as heartfelt as it is personal? This "Fist Bump" Personalised Dad Gift Print is a sweet reminder of the bond between dad and his little ones.

I just love how customisable this print is! Whether you want to include the kids’ names, add a paw print for the family pet, or even some angel wings for a lost loved one, it’s a truly unique piece. The ability to adapt the title (like "Our Dad" or "Grandad’s Team") just makes it even more special. It’s the kind of thoughtful gift that will be proudly displayed in any home.

Review: “Ordered for Father’s Day, was better than I expected, brilliant quality, perfect size, would definitely order again and would definitely recommend, makes a beautiful present/keepsake.”

Price: $84

If your partner’s all about staying active and keeping track of his fitness goals, the Google Fitbit Inspire 3 is the perfect gift. It’s not just about tracking steps—it helps Dad stay healthy so he can keep up with the kids for years to come. This sleek and stylish fitness tracker monitors everything from heart rate to sleep quality, making it easy for him to stay on top of his health and wellness.

With features like built-in activity tracking, stress management, and even mindfulness sessions, the Fitbit Inspire 3 will help Dad feel his best no matter what he's doing. This tracker keeps him connected and motivated. Plus, with up to 10 days of battery life, he won’t have to worry about charging it every day—perfect for a dad who's always on the go. It’s like giving him the gift of health, wrapped up in a sleek, wearable package.

Review: “I am very satisfied. It’s helping me stay active, tracking walks and workouts. If I have my phone it tracks the GPS but still gives a rough distance without it. Giving me lots of interesting health insights. Battery life is great. Watch functions are brilliant, smart wake up alarm, countdown timer, I use them all the time. It does everything I want, looks great, and the battery lasts ages.”

Price: $59 (worth 75)

www.spacenk.com

If the dad in your life hasn’t quite jumped on the skincare bandwagon yet—or maybe he begrudgingly asks for moisturiser every now and then (or a pimple mask, like mine)—then this Paula’s Choice gift set is the perfect way to ease him into a simple but effective routine. With 91% of men admitting they have at least one skincare concern, this set is designed to tackle breakouts, redness, and blemishes without overwhelming him with complicated steps.

What’s inside:
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: Deeply exfoliates, unclogs pores, and helps prevent blackheads.
10% Azelaic Acid Booster: Brightens the complexion, fades scars, and evens out skin tone.

Perfect for a dad who might not know where to start with skincare, this set is straightforward to use and delivers noticeable results. It’s an ideal gift for anyone who could use a little help with their skin—whether it's tackling a problem area or just bringing back that healthy glow. Plus, with up to 25% off and a gift with purchase when you spend over £80, it’s a great time to treat Dad to some premium skincare.

For the dad who loves to unwind and enjoy a bit of peace at home, the Atelier Noite Amber Night Candle is exactly what he needs. The warm, rich scent of amber combined with the earthy precious woods is perfect for creating a cosy, relaxing atmosphere. I love how the hint of ylang-ylang adds a touch of sweetness, and the orange peel gives it a refreshing twist.

After a long day, this candle really helps set the tone for a calm evening. Whether he's relaxing with a drink or just enjoying a quiet moment, it fills the room with a comforting fragrance that’s both soothing and sophisticated. It’s the perfect gift for any dad who enjoys creating a calm, inviting space at home.

Looking for a gift that brings the whole family together? “Our Family Saves Christmas” is a fun, personalised storybook that turns your family into the heroes of a Christmas adventure! 

I’m absolutely obsessed with how personal this book is. Not only can you include your family’s names, but the kids also love seeing themselves in the story as the heroes who save Christmas! The festive theme makes it ideal for Christmas, and it’s something dads will cherish year after year. Plus, it’s a gift that can bring everyone together to enjoy a fun, memorable story.

Review: "I absolutely love Wonderbly! The ability to customise the characters to resemble your family—down to the skin tone, hair colour, with our without eyeglasses and more—makes it so special and personal. The stories and illustrations are incredibly creative, and the quality of the colours, pages, and overall design is outstanding and feels deluxe. It's truly a must-have gift, not just for Christmas but for any special occasion. Plus, it doubles as a beautiful keepsake and makes a stunning display piece on Christmas Day.”

Price: £29.25 (was £45)

www.notonthehighstreet.com

If your husband is a coffee aficionado, this gift will take his love for coffee to the next level. The Artisan Coffee Roasting Pan Gift Set from Not On The High Street is perfect for dads who enjoy discovering new hobbies.

This kit comes with a ceramic roasting pan, easy-to-follow guides, and specialty green beans so he can roast his own coffee at home. It’s a fun and creative way for him to experiment with different flavours and brewing techniques. Imagine the rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans filling your home—and the satisfaction of knowing he made it himself!

Review: "My husband is a true espresso lover and incredibly particular about his coffee. Over the years, I’ve gifted him the best coffee machines, grinders, and every gadget imaginable, but when I came across the Artisan Coffee Roasting Pan Gift Set, I knew it would be something truly special. He was absolutely blown away when he opened it! What makes it even better is that it comes with fresh, high-quality Green Coffee Beans sourced from the finest coffee harvesters: Peru’s Gonzilla Estate, Ethiopia’s Sidamo region, and Indonesia’s Batak region. It’s perfect for his discerning taste. Plus, it includes handy tasting cards that let him track and refine his favorite blends. This gift took his coffee experience to a whole new level!"

This is such a stylish and thoughtful gift for dads! To celebrate 120 years, Thermos has created a flask that’s not only practical but also incredibly sleek. It keeps coffee hot for up to 18 hours and water cold for 24, so he’ll always have his drink just right at work, running errands, or out with the kids.

Plus, it can be used to keep water hot for warming baby bottles or making formula on the go. The elegant gift box adds a luxurious touch, making it feel extra special. It’s also a fantastic gift for granddads, too!  

Review: “I’ve always been a fan of Thermos, but this one is definitely the best. The black and gold details give it a classy, modern look. Perfect for keeping coffee hot on the go, for camping trips, or long drives. It’s the perfect gift—stylish and super practical at the same time.”

Price: Starts at 2.99

lookalikey.com

Looking for a unique, laugh-out-loud gift for Dad? Lookalikey has you covered. With their innovative AI technology, you can turn any photo into a hilarious, personalised greeting card in just 30 seconds!

Whether it’s Dad’s face on a superhero’s body, skiing in the Alps, or a funny family moment turned into art, these inexpensive custom cards will bring a smile to his face. Great for the holidays! These Lookalikey cards are the perfect way to make Dad laugh. Prices start from just £2.99.(Bonus: These also make awesome gifts for granddads!)

When it comes to winter wear, the Columbia Landroamer Jacket is hard to beat. This puffer jacket uses NASA-inspired Omni-Heat™ Infinity technology, which reflects and retains body heat, keeping him warm even in freezing temperatures. It’s like wearing a personal heater, but without the bulk—perfect for those chilly mornings or afternoons spent outdoors.
It’s not just practical, though; it’s also stylish. The sleek design makes it suitable for a variety of activities, whether it’s winter walks, attending football games, or heading out on a family trip to frosty destinations.  

And if you’re like me, you’ll appreciate all the thoughtful extras this jacket has to offer. It’s packed with hidden pockets that are perfect for stashing all the dad essentials: snacks for the kids, keys, phone, or warming up feed when you’re out and about.

It’s the kind of jacket that keeps him prepared for anything. Plus, the thoughtful design and functionality make it one of those gifts that proves you’ve been paying attention to what he truly needs.

Review: “This puffer jacket is fantastic. The pockets are super roomy—four on the front and one inside—so there’s plenty of space for all your stuff. The adjustable drawstrings make it fit perfectly, no matter your shape or size. I haven’t tested the Omni-Heat tech in extreme cold yet, but so far, it’s kept me warm and comfy on all my outdoor adventures.”

Price: £13.58 (was £16.99)

When it comes to practical gifts, the BIIB Multi-Tool Hammer is a game-changer. Perfect for dads who love to tinker or need to fix things on the fly.

What is great about this handy tool is its versatility—12 tools in one compact design. It’s a handy tool every dad needs for quick fixes around the house or on camping trips. Plus, the quality is top-notch. Made of stainless steel, this multi-tool is built to last, and it’s super easy to carry around without weighing him down.

Review: "This multi-tool was a huge hit as a birthday gift for my dad! It’s compact and packed with useful tools. The quality is great, and it's incredibly versatile. He loves how easy it is to carry around. Definitely a perfect gift for any man who appreciates a handy gadget."

For dads who travel often—whether for work or family holidays—this suitcase is a total game-changer. The Thule Crossover 2 is built to withstand the roughest baggage handlers and all the bumps and hustle of family travel while keeping everything organised and secure.

With internal compression wings to keep clothes from shifting, a TSA-approved lock to ensure everything stays safe, and a sleek, professional design, it’s perfect for both business trips and family getaways. The best part? It’s sturdy enough to take the hits and still come out looking sharp, so he doesn’t have to worry about his belongings getting damaged. It’s all about giving him peace of mind, so he can focus on what really matters—whether that’s preparing for a meeting or chasing after the kids at the hotel.

If your husband is the type who’s always looking for the softest, cosiest options when it comes to winter wear, the Kathmandu Co-Z High Pile Jacket is a gift he won’t stop wearing. This jacket is perfect for dads who value comfort above all else. Made with ultra-soft fleece, it’s like wrapping yourself in a blanket, but in a more stylish, everyday-wearable form. Whether he’s taking the dog for a morning walk, sipping his coffee on the couch, or just running to the shops, this jacket will keep him warm and comfortable.

It’s versatile enough to layer under a coat for extra warmth or wear solo during those days when the cold feels manageable. A perfect piece for dads who want to feel pampered at home but still look put together when stepping outside.

Review: “This jacket is an everyday essential. The moment I’m out of bed, it’s the first thing I grab to stay warm. From drinking my first coffee, taking out the trash, to running quick errands with my demanding toddler son, it’s on me until it’s time to get back into my PJs.

It’s practical, comfortable, and built for real life. On colder days, I comfortably layer it under a heavier coat, but on decent days, it’s perfect on its own. The subtle colour keeps it understated, and the pockets are a standout feature—two zippered side pockets and a chest pocket for all the essentials. The tall collar adds extra warmth when the air gets sharp. It’s rugged (my style), dependable, and exactly what I need in a jacket.”

Let’s talk about one of the most underappreciated yet essential gifts for dads: underwear. Sure, it may seem like a simple choice, but trust me, it’s one he’ll thank you for. Reebok’s Everyday Comfort Sports Trunks are everything a dad could need in his daily essentials—breathable, moisture-wicking, and designed for both workout and everyday wear.

These sports trunks might not be the most exciting gift on the surface, but they’re one of those little luxuries dads often forget to treat themselves to. Most of the time, they’ll wear the same tired pairs, but when you gift him these, he’ll realise how much better his day can be when he’s comfy in the essentials. Every dad will appreciate having a fresh set of quality undies, especially when they’re as practical and comfy as these.

When it comes to dad comfort, the Chelsea Peers Fleece Aztec Print Sweatshirt & Jogger Co-ord takes lounging to the next level. This set is perfect for dads who deserve nothing less than to feel cosy all day long but who abhors dressing robes like mine.

Made from recycled materials, this co-ord isn't just comfy, it's also sustainable—a win for both comfort and the environment. The soft fleece fabric is ideal for movie nights, Saturday mornings, or just those lazy days where the whole family piles onto the couch. And with the fun, Aztec-inspired print, it adds a bit of personality to his loungewear, keeping him stylish even when he’s at his most relaxed.

Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that come from the heart. This personalised leather bracelet from Not On The High Street is stylish, meaningful and minimalist, making it a perfect choice for sentimental dads. 

You can customise it with your child’s name, a special date, or even a short message. It’s a simple but powerful way to remind him of how much he’s loved every time he wears it. It’s thoughtful, timeless, and guaranteed to bring a smile to his face.

Review: “I surprised my husband with this leather bracelet that has a short engraved message, and he absolutely loved it! His face lit up when he saw it. There’s just something so special about a gift made just for them. It came in a cute little box with a bracelet pouch, all nicely packaged. I’d definitely recommend it—it’s the perfect thoughtful gift! The leather looks durable, has a nice finish, and the snap closure is a huge plus (I’m not a fan of hooks!).”

If your partner loves feeling pampered but isn’t one for over-the-top gifts, the L’Occitane Eau des Baux Collection is a perfect choice. This fragrance set is all about understated luxury, with a warm, spicy scent that’s rich without being overpowering. It’s the kind of fragrance that makes a lasting impression, without being too flashy—ideal for the dad who wants to smell great, but also wants something practical he can use every day.

What I love about this set is that it’s more than just a fragrance—it’s a full grooming experience. The shower gel and deodorant stick pair perfectly with the Eau de Toilette, ensuring that Dad stays smelling fresh from morning to night. Plus, the elegant packaging makes it feel like a real treat, while still being something he’ll actually use.

The set includes: 75ml Eau des Baux Eau de Toilette, 250ml Eau des Baux Shower Gel and 75ml Eau des Baux Deodorant Stick. All neatly packed in a stylish L'Occitane gift box.

It’s the kind of gift that says, “I care about your well-being,” while still being practical enough to make part of his daily routine. Perfect for the dad who deserves a little indulgence.

If the dad in your life has a sweet tooth, then the Festive Celebration Hamper from Love Cocoa is an absolute winner. It’s pure indulgence—the perfect way for him to wind down after a long day, whether that’s with a chocolate bar or a couple of decadent truffles.
This hamper is packed with festive treats that make it feel extra special.

Inside, you’ll find five delicious chocolate bars and truffles with flavors that scream Christmas. Think Gingerbread Dark Chocolate, Candy Cane Peppermint White Chocolate, and Christmas Pudding Milk Chocolate—need I go on? Oh, and don’t forget the Festive Gingerbread Truffles and Salted Caramel Bauble Truffles. It’s impossible not to drool just thinking about it!

What makes this gift even better is its eco-friendly twist. Everything comes in a sturdy, recyclable cardboard hamper box that can be reused as a storage box once the chocolates are gone. Plus, Love Cocoa is a proud member of 1% for the Planet, which means every purchase helps fund global reforestation projects. So, not only are you treating Dad, but you’re also doing something good for the planet.

If you want to impress the chocolate-loving dad in your life, this hamper is guaranteed to make his Christmas day sweeter.

About the author

Anne Lora Scagliusi is a Senior Digital Writer at Mother & Baby. She is a Scotland-based journalist with over a decade of international writing experience, specialising in women’s health, maternal mental health, and wellness. Her work has been featured in Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Glamour and has appeared on several Vogue global editions. She is mum to a one-year-old bambino and lives between Italy and the UK.

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us
How we write our articles and reviews
Mother & Baby is dedicated to ensuring our information is always valuable and trustworthy, which is why we only use reputable resources such as the NHS, reviewed medical papers, or the advice of a credible doctor, GP, midwife, psychotherapist, gynaecologist or other medical professionals. Where possible, our articles are medically reviewed or contain expert advice. Our writers are all kept up to date on the latest safety advice for all the products we recommend and follow strict reporting guidelines to ensure our content comes from credible sources. Remember to always consult a medical professional if you have any worries. Our articles are not intended to replace professional advice from your GP or midwife.