If holiday shopping for your dad has you scratching your head this year, you're not alone. Dads can be particularly tricky to shop for as it is, and without the ability to leisurely browse your favorite stores this year, things are a little more complicated than usual. Luckily, there are tons of great gift options still available, whether your dad is a grill master, a home repair guru, or an avid guitarist. If you're in search of a top notch stocking stuffer, or you just need to find a thoughtful present that won't have him scolding you for overspending, we've got you covered with a list of 25 thoughtful gifts for your dad under $25. And for more great gifts they're sure to love, check out these 25 Subscription Boxes That Make Amazing Holiday Gifts.
Best Life's editors have scoured the internet to bring you the best products out there, and we're hoping you'll love them as much as we do. Full disclosure: we may earn a commission for anything you purchase through links on this page, but that doesn't mean you'll pay more for them (we'd never do that to you!). Pricing and availability are accurate as of the piece's initial publication date, but it's the internet and we can't guarantee that these sweet, sweet deals will last forever, so scoop them up before someone else does!
1 | This electric wine opener
AmazonThis high-tech automatic corkscrew will have your dad feeling like a bonafide sommelier. It comes with a foil cutter, is battery-powered, and promises to put an end to those pesky broken corks once and for all. And for more perfect presents for everyone on your list, check out these 20 Personalized Gifts You Can Get on Amazon.
2 | This pagoda lantern
EtsyIf your dad loves puzzles, this wooden lantern inspired by East Asian architecture could be a perfect pick. It comes flat-packed and ready for careful assembly and is sure to keep him happily occupied for hours.
3 | This book about burgers
AmazonIf your dad is an unabashed Shake Shack stan, this combination cookbook and overview of the burgeoning burger empire is a surefire hit. With recipes for Shake Shack's signature burgers, shakes, and fries, this book could be the beginning of your dad's newfound passion for perfecting his burger. And for more great gift ideas delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.
4 | This extremely handy wristband
AmazonAs basically all dads can attest, almost nothing is as annoying as dropping a little piece of hardware when you're in the middle of a home improvement project. This wristband's magnets are strong enough to hold almost any nail, screw or drill bit in place, so that your dad will never have this pesky problem again.
5 | This wireless phone charger
AmazonSure, the technology has been out for a while, but there's still something magical about charging your phone without having to plug it in. If your dad is still using the cord that came with his phone, upgrade his tech setup with this genius wireless charger. And for more thoughtful presents sure to make their holiday special, check out these 50 Amazing Gifts for People Who Have Everything.
6 | This state-shaped steel bottle opener
EtsyThese steel bottle openers come in the shape of whatever state your dad hails from, and you can select from dozens of different colors. There are two handy versions to choose from: a fridge magnet and a keychain, meaning he can easily crack a cold one wherever he goes.
7 | This barbecue bible
AmazonWhether your dad is already a pitmaster or just enjoys the occasional smoked meat, this guide to mind-blowing barbecue from one of the most celebrated barbecue masters in America will open his eyes to the almost infinite possibilities of combining meat and fire. And if you want to ensure your presents get there on time, If You Don't Ship Your Gifts by This Date, They Won't Arrive by Christmas.
8 | This clever owl eyeglasses holder
Uncommon GoodsCarved by fair trade artisans in India, this wise little guy will watch over your dad's reading glasses, bifocals, or whatever specs he wears these days. It's perfect for a desk, bedside table, or a choice perch by his front door—and if he doesn't think this one's a hoot, there are several other animals to choose from, too.
9 | This ticket stub diary
Uncommon GoodsIf your dad has seen Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band 57 times since 1979, what better way for him to keep track of his ticket stubs than this sweet little diary? And it works just as well if he's a football fanatic, or if he can't get enough curling. You get the idea.
11 | These kabob grilling baskets
Uncommon GoodsNo skewers? No problem! These grilling baskets cut down on waste without cutting down on delicious, smoky flavor, and make getting an even char on everything from mushrooms to meat much easier by taking tongs out of the picture.
12 | These versatile pen multi-tool
Uncommon GoodsWith a ruler, a smartphone stylus, a level, and a screwdriver, this sturdy aluminum pen takes the meaning of "handy" to a whole new...level. Maybe it won't eliminate the junk drawer in the kitchen entirely, but your dad will spend a lot less time looking for tools with one of these in his pocket.
13 | This climate action jigsaw puzzle
Uncommon GoodsDoes your dad love jigsaw puzzles and hate climate change? This 500-piece puzzle, with an illustration by Petra Braun, is printed on 90 percent recycled cardboard, and $2 from every sale goes to support the American Forests nonprofit conservation organization.
14 | This national park map mug
Uncommon GoodsThis interactive mug comes with a porcelain brush pen so that your dad can keep track of which national parks he has visited, and which ones are next on his list, from Acadia to Zion. The map includes a legend with all 62 national parks included, giving him plenty of inspiration for his next trip.
15 | This set of two taco toasters
Uncommon GoodsIf your dad is in constant pursuit of tortilla perfection, this pair of ingenious taco toasters might be right up his alley. Since they allow you to crisp up a tortilla without using any oil, they lead to a healthier taco.
16 | These matching dog and owner outfits
AmazonIf your dad went from, "We're not getting a puppy" to "You can't sit there, that's the dog's sofa," he's sure to love this adorable matching outfit for him and his favorite pooch. In classic dad style, it's the perfect mix of slightly embarrassing and overwhelmingly endearing.
17 | This set of mesh grill bags
Uncommon GoodsThe vast world of grill and barbecue accessories has finally perfected the elusive grill bag. Unlike your run-of-the-mill grill basket, this set of two mesh grill bags are easy to flip, and keep those little mushroom bits from falling into the void. Your dad—and his BBQ buddies—will thank you.
18 | This etched urban map glass
Uncommon GoodsFor the dad who loves a specific American city almost as much as he enjoys fine spirits, there's this laser-etched urban map glass from designer Brian Johnson, which comes in 31 unique designs, designed by Boston-based designer Brian Johnson. Team up with a family member to get him a bottle of his favorite drink for a super-thoughtful gift he's sure to love.
19 | This snow brush made from a hockey stick
Uncommon GoodsWith this window scraper/snow brush made from a recycled hockey stick, your dad can relive his favorite Stanley Cup moments as he unearths his windshield from the latest nor'easter. Each brush is handmade in California from a different hockey stick, making every piece unique.
21 | This path to whiskey perfection
Uncommon GoodsWouldn't you know it, the cocktail scientists are at it again, with this custom-molded silicone wedge and glass combo. This will keep your dad's fancy whiskey nice and cold, while minimizing the dilution from melted ice.
22 | These soothing shower steamers
Uncommon GoodsWhether he's unwinding after a long day or getting amped for an energetic morning, your dad will appreciate a selection of these aromatherapeutic shower steamers. They're handmade in Washington State, and come in refreshing scents like citrus, eucalyptus, lavender, and lemongrass.
23 | This bag of bourbon-infused coffee
Uncommon GoodsThese Tennessee-roasted 100 percent Arabica beans are infused with a touch of Kentucky Bourbon, which makes them perfect for an extra kick of flavor in the morning, or as a comforting after-dinner ritual. While they are caffeinated, they don't contain any alcohol—just that distinctive bourbon flavor.
24 | This futuristic pan stirrer
Uncommon GoodsIt may look like something out of The Jetsons, but this automatic pan stirrer is already available to make your dad's cooking agenda a little simpler and less stressful. It will help with those pesky but delicious sauces that require constant attention. Just set the timer and the stirrer does the rest.
25 | These birth stone guitar picks
Uncommon GoodsHandmade in Nashville, these smooth and beautiful guitar picks are one of a kind. Get your guitarist dad one from his birth month, and he'll be sure to keep it close to his favorite axe. And if you're looking for more presents they're sure to love, This Is the One Gift Everyone Wants in Your State.