Shopping

52 Gifts For Dads Who Say They Don't Want Anything

Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Amazon

When the clock is ticking, it's tempting to default to the same standard present year after year. That said, a good gift is often a unique, practical gift — especially when you're strapped for ideas, and especially when the recipient isn't much help. In order to find a genius gift for the man who says they don't want anything, it helps to first think about his daily routine; then think about the ways in which it can be improved.

Ultimately, the best gift you can give (to anyone, but especially a parent) is something that genuinely makes life easier. Yes, he may appreciate yet another "Number-One Dad" plaque, but will it actually improve his efficiency, his mood, or his habits? Instead, consider something that he can use day in and day out to boost his well-being or productivity.

Does your dad work out often and try to stay active? Gift him a genius fitness product that streamlines his routine. Is he particularly into tech products? Get him a gadget that helps to make his go-to device even more accessible. Does he love home-improvement projects or cooking? The newest, most versatile tool can make his favorite hobby even more enjoyable.

Whatever it is that brings him joy, ensure that your gift is something that amplifies that, so he'll reach for it on a regular basis — and think of you every time he does. This year, retire the tie-tradition and instead opt for a practical gift he'll use and love, because "I don't want anything" really just translates to "you know me, and I trust you to find something I'll love."

1. A Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard For Typing On A Phone Or Tablet

For the dad who prefers physical keys over a touch-screen, there's the iClever keyboard. Its Bluetooth capability syncs up to virtually any phone or tablet in seconds — and its foldable, lightweight design means he can store it in his briefcase, glove compartment, or pocket. Since it's rechargeable, he doesn't even have to worry about batteries.

2. This Four-In-One Travel Bottle For Shakes, Snacks, And Supplements

Whether he's a commuter or basically a tenant of his gym, the BlenderBottle ProStak ensures that he's got all his nourishment in one place. The interlocking bottom compartments hold snacks, protein powders, and supplements, while the main bottle area comes with a stainless-steel whisk ball that's strong enough to blend peanut butter and break up powders. It's even BPA-free and dishwasher-safe.

3. This Rechargeable Speaker And Sound Machine That Fits In Your Palm

Because the Lectrofan Micro2 fits in the palm of your hand, it's easy to tuck away in a backpack or a briefcase. That said, don't be fooled; this tiny machine packs a serious punch. It connects to your device via Bluetooth for up to 40 hours of clear, continuous, surprisingly-loud music — or you can choose between 11 pre-programmed, non-looping white noise sounds for sleep, concentration, or relaxation. The speaker even swivels upward to direct the sound any which way, and it has a built-in microphone for calls.

4. A Brilliant Outlet That Smartifies Any Electronic

Rather than investing in smart bulbs or phone-controlled appliances, the Kasa plug acts as an affordable middle-man that smartifies virtually any electronic. Simply slip it between the plug and the outlet, and you'll be able to set schedules, turn off appliances and lights from your phone, and even control things with your voice using Alexa.

5. A Café-Quality Cappuccino Right In His Kitchen

The Espressotoria Caprista has entirely changed how I consume my coffee — and has saved me ample time and money that would otherwise be spent at a Starbucks. This surprisingly-affordable machine makes bold, smooth espresso using tiny cups (not unlike the Keurig), but is streamlined and optimized so it fits effortlessly on your counter. You can even opt to purchase the automatic milk frother, which attaches to the side of the machine and completes any latte or cappuccino with the touch of a button.

6. A Flavor-Boosting Meat Injector Made From Stainless Steel

"Used on our Turkey and many thick steaks for delicious results," says one of many thrilled reviewers. Unlike cheaper options, the JY COOKMENT meat syringe is made from durable, food-grade stainless steel and sanitary silicone, so you can quickly and easily infuse your meat with flavor. This set comes with three interchangeable tips and two cleaning brushes.

7. This Magnetic Clip So His Glasses Are Always Within Reach

If he utters the phrase "Where did I put my glasses?" roughly a dozen times a day, the ReadeREST makes for a practical and life-changing gift. Using high-strength neodymium magnets, these clips attach to any shirt without damage; they then provide a sturdy, secure place for him to hang his reading glasses, so they're always within reach.

8. A Softening Beard Oil For Sensitive Skin And Noses

Since it's made using argan and jojoba oils, Viking Revolution beard oil softens hair, encourages growth, and moisturizes skin — all while remaining non-greasy. Most importantly, it's made without fragrances or common irritants, so those with sensitive faces (or noses) say, "the all-natural, organic, unscented product fit the bill."

9. This Trigger-Point Foam Roller That "Feels Like A Deep Tissue Massage"

The TriggerPoint GRID foam roller is designed for athletes who need a portable, effective way to stimulate pressure points and stretch out tight muscles after a workout. That said, those with sore backs or physical therapists have also sung its praises, saying that it "feels like a deep-tissue massage" thanks to the multi-density foam and textured-grid design.

10. This Cooling Laptop Pad & Ergonomic Stand

If dad is complaining that his laptop is slow or too hot when he sets it on his lap, upgrade his computing rig with this cooling laptop stand. Six fans will cool his machine while the stand angles the screen to a position that's much healthier for his neck and back. It uses a USB port on the laptop for power but put another USB port within easy reach.

11. This Dual-LED Light That He Can Wear Around His Neck

While the LuminoLite is marketed as a convenient, hands-free reading lamp, it's also ideal for camping, crafting, nighttime walks, and fix-it projects. That's because its flexible gooseneck arms wrap around your neck to direct illumination in whichever direction you face — and its dual LEDs are rechargeable and feature three brightness levels each.

12. An Affordable Fitness Watch With All The Best Features

Even though it costs a fraction of the price, the L8star fitness tracker has virtually all the same features as the name-brand options. It's waterproof and Bluetooth-enabled while tracking steps, heart rate, sleep quality, calories, and distance — and it syncs all of the aforementioned to a smart phone while alerting you to texts and calls.

13. A Convenient Iron For Office-Use Or Travel

Thanks to its clamp design and handheld usage, the Sunbeam Touch Up and Go kit doesn't require an ironing board. Instead, it fits in the palm of your hand to remove wrinkles with a gentle pinch. It works on virtually all fabrics, fits effortlessly in a suitcase or desk drawer, and comes with a spray bottle, two lint rollers, and temperature-resistant storage case.

14. An Auto-Adjusting Socket That Adapts To All Fasteners

Whether he builds Ikea furniture or entire houses, the Moongo universal socket is a life-changing addition to his tool collection. The 54 individual steel springs automatically adjust to grip various-sized nuts, bolts, hooks, and other fasteners. It even comes with a power-drill adapter. "Bought this for my dad for Father's Day," one reviewer says. "He is a man that has every tool, yet he was impressed and said it really worked well."

15. The Most Practical Gift To Ever Exist

There's arguably nothing more practical than a high-quality, comfortable shirt — except maybe two of them. Amazon Essentials crew T-shirts come in six sizes and 15 colors, from classic black to bright orange. They're highly-rated due to their loose, comfortable fit and 100-percent cotton construction. According to reviewers, "This is an outrageously low price for a good shirt that keeps its form, feels durable after washing, and looks great." Available Sizes: XS — XXL

16. An Organizer For The Back Seat With 9 Storage Pockets

Upgrade the back seats in his car with these two backseat organizers with lots of pockets so passengers have a place to put their gear, including water bottles, notebooks, and other sundries. It even has a tablet mount to keep the kids entertained. Any dad carting the kids around will appreciate a quiet and distraction free ride as the little ones watch their favorite shows and have easy access to snacks and drinks.

17. An Organizer For His Desk That Keeps Essentials At Hand

Give his desk some order and a place to set a few decorations, books that inspire him, tools he uses often, and the other essentials he likes to keep at hand. This desktop organizer shelf has a variety of shelves and comes in four finishes so you can match it to his space. "It...holds all of my little things that had no place on my desk before, and looks great," said one reviewer.

18. An Easy-To-Fly Drone That Fully-Grown Men Love

"I bought one as a gift for my dad who is 72 and he loves flying it," one reviewer says, while another raves, "Best gift for my 4 year old and husband loves it too." It seems the Potensic mini drone is loved by all ages, thanks to its easy controls, hovering capabilities, and quick charging times. Get it in five different colors, including an American flag pattern.

19. These Freezer Sticks That Chill Warm Beer From The Inside-Out

The next time he forgets to refrigerate a six-pack, these LETIT.BEER sticks will fix the issue in minutes. They're coated in stainless steel, but filled with a proprietary gel that absorbs cold from the freezer and chills the bottle from the inside out. Reviewers say their "beers stayed ice cold to the very last drop," and they love that it comes with a free bottle opener.

20. These Compression Socks To Prevent Achy, Tired Feet

According to buyers, these are some of the most versatile socks on the market. They're made from comfortable, breathable fabric, but the best part comes in the form of graduated compression technology, which offers improved support, boosted circulation, and lessened inflammation. Whether he's traveling, running, or doing physical labor all day, his feet and legs will feel infinitely less achy and swollen. Available Sizes: XS — XXL

21. A Rechargeable Wine Opener That Removes The Cork In Seconds

For the novice sommelier, there's the Flasnake electric bottle opener, which uses an automatic screw to remove the cork at the press of a button. Its 700mAh battery opens up to 80 bottles on a single charge, and its classy copper finish looks great on any countertop.

22. This Two-In-One Caddy For His Favorite Arm Chair

This brilliant invention turns almost any armrest into a shelf and a caddy simultaneously. Its detachable tray holds cups, snacks, and books, while the four pockets are great for remotes, glasses, phones, and tablets. Since it's made from faux-leather and wood, it's both stylish and easy to wipe clean.

23. These Protective Gloves That Are Reviewers' "Go-To" For Every Job

Thanks to the breathable bamboo fabric and protective rubber coating, these Pine Tree Tools working gloves keep your hands free from sweat, splinters, and injury. They're great for yard work and gardening, but their easy-grip palms and form-fitting design also mean they're ideal for changing hooks, gutting fish, building furniture, and working on cars. Available Sizes: S — XXL

24. A Stool That's The Same Size As A Travel Umbrella

When folded up, the ALPS Mountaineering tri-leg stool is roughly the same size and weight as a travel umbrella. That said, its powder-coated steel frame and polyester seat can support up to 250 pounds when extended. For that reason, it's extremely convenient to carry and store, but provides a comfortable seat when he reaches his destination — whether that's a sporting event, concert, or the top of a mountain.

25. These Special Earplugs So He Can Hear Clearly Without Damaging His Eardrums

Whether he's a musician, motorcyclist, lover of concerts, or user of loud machinery, Eargasm earplugs protect his hearing with their special sound filters. Instead of muffling noises, these high-fidelity plugs decrease the overall volume, so he can still hear music or surroundings clearly, but won't damage his eardrums. Each set comes with two comfort-fitting pairs and a storage case.

26. These Magnets That Turn Any Light Switch Into A Key Rack

Replace the screws in any switch-plate with these Savvy Home magnets, and your light switch instantly becomes a key rack. They install in less than a minute and can hold up to 3 pounds each. Best of all, you'll always know where your keys are, and it's a great reminder to switch off the lights as you're walking out the door.

27. This Pine Tar Soap To Soothe Extra-Sensitive Skin

Surprisingly, pine tar is an effective ingredient for soothing various skin woes, including eczema, dandruff, rashes, and dry patches. Dr. Squatch is made with woodsy-smelling pine as well as coconut oil and sand, so even though it genuinely cleans, it leaves skin feeling exfoliated and moisturized. Some even say it's so gentle and lathering, they use it so shave.

28. Some Adhesive Cable Organizers For A Tangle-Free Work Space

If your dad is anything like my dad, he is forever untangling wires and grumbling under his breath about it. Whellen cable clips adhere to any surface and effectively organize wires so they stay tangle-free and ready to use. Thanks to the flexible tabs, they hold chargers and cables in place, but they also allow for easy removal when you need them elsewhere.

29. A Burger Press That Stuffs The Patties With Cheese — Or Anything Else

For a barbecue enthusiast, a burger press is a great tool to have because it makes uniform, easy-to-cook patties — but this one takes it a step further. The Cuisinart press stuffs the patties with cheese, crumbled bacon, onions, or any of his favorite ingredients, so every bite is bursting with flavor. It even has a smaller insert to make sliders.

30. This All-In-One Kit So He Can Brew His Own Beer

The Craft A Brew kit comes with everything he'll need to start brewing his own craft beer at home. Choose between 11 different options, including American pale ale, hard cider, oak aged IPA, or chocolate milk stout. Each kit is hand-crafted using quality ingredients and safe materials, and reviewers say the result "tasted great."

31. These Are The Droids He's Looking For

If he's a fan of Star Wars, these droid salt and pepper shakers make for a fun gift that still retains its usefulness. They're made from molded ceramic and feature easy-to-remove plugs for hassle-free refills. Those who have purchased them as a Father's Day gift in the past say that the quality is nice and the paint holds up well after prolonged use.

32. This Wallet That Provides The Right Card At The Touch Of A Button

Retrieving a single credit card from a packed wallet is no easy task. The ACM card holder, however, provides the exact card you need at the touch of a button — all while protecting against scratching and static. Simply organize up to five cards using the 18 included icon pads; then, when you slide that button upwards, the correct card pops out.

33. An 18-In-One Tool That's The Size Of A Credit Card

The Wallet Ninja is the same size as a standard credit card, but this heat-treated steel tool gives you 18 different essentials in one. It can measure objects, tighten screws and bolts, open beers and cans, cut boxes, fix eyeglasses, and even hold your phone upright. "I bought it for my Dad for Father's Day, and he thought it was really cool," one reviewer says. "It was an easy gift, especially for a hard to buy for person."

34. This Multi-Tasking Power Strip With A Genius Design

If he appreciates smart designs and versatility, the TESSAN multi-plug outlet makes for a great, practical gift. It covers only one plug, but provides three new AC outlets, two new USB ports, and a stand for a charging phone or tablet. Last but not least, it even functions as a dusk-to-dawn night light.

35. A Warm Flannel Shirt With A Built-In Hoodie

What's not to love about a warm and cozy flannel shirt he can wear over his favorite tees? This flannel shirt has a quilted lining for insulation, side pockets, and a hood and will take him into cool weather in style. There are 10 colors to choose from. "I bought this for my husband...and he really loves it!" said one reviewer. "It fits well, is lightly quilted, and is perfect for chilly fall/winter days."

36. The Slippers That Are Also An Acupressure Massage

Help him relax, banish foot pain, and enjoy an acupressure foot massage whenever he is padding around the house with these foot massage slippers. The insole is covered in massage knobs that stretch the plantar muscles. At first this hurts but, after some time, everything starts to relax. "As a runner, my feet take a pounding and these provide just the right amount displacement pressure around my foot pad to drive away the running pain," reports one reviewer. "[They] hurt for the first few times you wear...Soon you'll be craving them."

37. This Magnetic Wristband That Keeps Nails And Bits Handy

The Danslesbls magnetic wristband is a ridiculously simple idea, but according to reviewers, it's a "life saver" when you're on a ladder or in the thick of a project. It keeps nails, screws, and small tools handy while you work, and it prevents them from getting lost.

38. This Powerful Car Vacuum That Plugs Into The DC Port

If his car is his prized possession, help him keep it that way with the HOTOR car vacuum. This handheld unit plugs into the DC port and uses a high-powered motor and HEPA filter to suck up dust, crumbs, and dirt. It even has a built-in LED light and three interchangeable nozzles to clean upholstery and reach into tight spots.

39. This Cast Iron Pan That Even Professional Chefs Love

Encourage the novice chef or impress the master one with the Lodge cast iron skillet. Despite its reasonable price tag, this rugged, pre-seasoned pan heats up evenly and locks in the flavor to bring all kinds of meals to the next level. It's available in tons of different sizes (with or without lids), and even professional chefs say "you can't go wrong" with Lodge.

40. This Rope Light For All The Outdoor Activities

If he loves the outdoors, he will love this five-foot rope light that illuminates whatever he likes to do out there. It comes with noodle ties, magnets, and a loop to attach it to things. Or just put it in the included carry bag and turn it on to use it as a lantern. Wear them, hang them in the tent or from trees, or wrap them around the car or furniture to light all your activities. "These lights provide a ton of light for nighttime camping," said one reviewer.

41. A Belt That Holds His Phone While He Runs

Looking for a gift he will use often and always think of you when he does? This running belt is the hands-free solution to carrying a phone while doing any sort of exercise. There is a port to run headphone cables through, it adjusts to fit, and it has pockets for a phone and some cash and cards. It also has loops he can use to attach a water bottle or snack. "Its light and is perfect for running, walking the dogs, hiking, even just wearing around the house cleaning and listening to music," said one reviewer.

42. The Perfect, Most Versatile Gift For The Gamer Dad

The Nintendo Switch has thousands upon thousands of rave reviews, and if it's within your budget, it's the "perfect gift for the gamer dad." Thanks to its hybrid handheld design, it can be played solo, with friends or kids, at home, or on the go; this bundle comes with everything he needs to game on the train or during lunch breaks, including joy-stick controllers and a screen — but it can also be hooked up to the TV to get more people in on the fun.

43. An Inflatable Lounger He Can Set Up Anywhere

It's hard to believe that this comfortable lounger is the size of a couch when inflated, but shrinks down into a tiny backpack once you let the air out. It's also extremely durable and doesn't require any pumps for inflation, so you can take it to sporting events, the beach, or campsites. Get it in eight different colors and patterns, each with a convenient side pocket and head rest.

44. This Insulated Cooler That's Perfect For Lunches

With two roomy compartments so he can pack along his lunch, an afternoon snack, and enough beverages to get him through the day, this insulated lunch cooler is the perfect workday or fishing day upgrade. An outside pocket holds his utensils and napkin and the exterior is water repellent so his sandwich doesn't get soggy. It comes in five colors and has a shoulder strap and a top handle to make carrying it easy.

45. An Umbrella That Won't Dump Water On You

This reverse umbrella is so much easier to use than a traditional one because when you close it, the wet side folds inward so it doesn't rump water on you. The C-shaped handle then hooks over your wrist or a wall hook and lets the water that's inside the folded fabric drip out. It offers great coverage in the rain and there are eight colors and some of them have surprise patterns on the inside to brighten a rainy day.

46. This Projector That Turns A Blank Wall Into A 14-Foot Screen

Whether he loves football games or hosting movie nights, the DBPOWER projector turns any blank wall into a screen and any room into a home theater. It projects a clear, bright image up to 14 feet large, and it can connect to laptops, phones, DVD players, Xboxes, or Firesticks. It even has hi-fi stereo sound and is portable enough for use outdoors.

47. These Silk Neckties That Are Easy To Tie

A silk necktie can often be an expensive investment but this one is so affordable, you could give him a small collection of them. Made from silk, lined, with a loop on the inside to hold the back piece, the solid colors are easy to pair with a shirt and will give him a muted and stylish option for dressing up. "This is probably now my favorite tie," said one reviewer. "The red really looks great against a white shirt. Buying another as a gift for a coworker to congratulate him on a promotion."

48. This Battery Organizer With A Handy Tester

Take one frustrating experience out of his life completely by giving him this battery organizer case with a built-in battery tester. It holds 93 batteries of various sizes so he can his entire inventory at once and has a built-in battery tester so he never installs a dead battery again. "This organizer has made my life a lot less stressful," said one reviewer. "It holds a ton of batteries, keeps them neat and in one place, and I love that I never have to look around for a battery tester. The wall mounting option is a nice touch as well."

49. These Under Cabinet Lights That Are Easy To Install

Make everything about his life at home easier with these four wireless LED lights he can stick to the ceiling of the closet, under the kitchen cabinets, or in any dark corner of the house to instantly provide targeted lighting. They come with a remote to make turning them on and off, setting the duration before they turn themselves off, and altering the brightness super easy. Or turn them on and off by tapping the lens. It's amazing how easy it is to fix all the lighting problems with the right tool.

50. The Straw That Could Save Your Life In An Emergency

If you get lost in the wilderness, live through a hurricane, or otherwise find yourself in an event where fresh water is hard to find, this water filter in the shape of a straw will be a lifesaver. Just put one end into any water and sip through the mouthpiece. It removes E. Coli, Salmonella, giardia, waterborne parasites, and much more so that even seemingly fouled water becomes drinkable. "I got stranded in the back woods of the Adirondack Mountains," reports one reviewer. "I had ran out of water earlier on the first day and used this until I was rescued on the morning of day three. THIS WORKS, this helped save my life."

51. The Pillow With A Pocket For Your Phone

Help him use his phone in comfort without losing it in the couch cushions with this pocket pillow. It has a clear pocket on the side that's the perfect place to tuck the phone, or even the remote, so it's easy to see and easy to find. You can use the screen or remote buttons right through the plastic cover. "No more lost remotes, eyeglasses or looking for my phone," said one reviewer.

52. These Durable Brushes That Turn Your Drill Into A Cleaning Machine

Slap these Drillbrush attachments onto nearly any cordless electric drill, and you've got a powerful cleaning machine that goes anywhere with you. The three varying shapes and durable bristles work to remove grill build-up, buff away rust stains, and polish fixtures and car parts without scratching them. Mic may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Mic's editorial and sales departments.

152