What does dad want for the holidays? It can be hard to know. He might say “it’s the thought that counts,” and while that may be true, everyone still appreciates a small gift. So, we set out to find the best gifts for every type of dad; thoughtful and special gifts that won’t break your holiday budget. We combed through the many pages of deals on Jet to find the best options — and all for under $50. Spend more than $35, and you get free shipping, too. That leaves you plenty(ish) time if you shop now. Don’t miss all of the Strategist’s holiday gift coverage right here, too.
For the dad who likes a nice clean shave, this Braun is a (cheaper) cousin to the one tested and liked by deputy editor Jason Chen.
And we have not forgotten about the bearded dads out there. This 3-piece kit is well-priced and includes a boars hair brush, wash, and conditioner. Plus, Billy Jealousy has a great reputation in the beard grooming world.
Okay, so this is just a bit pricier than $50, but it’s a small price to pay for the cultiest of culty fragrances — introduced in 2006, it supposedly contains a molecule that smells different on each individual wearer. He can be the judge.
It’s true: You can get a Sonicare for under $50. It’s not top-of-the-line, but this electric toothbrush will eliminate three times more plaque than a manual toothbrush.
A bathtub caddy for the dad who could use a spa day at home, but not without his iPad. Also includes a dad-friendly wine glass holder.
And a shower curtain for the dad who loves the great outdoors, but also appreciates the comforts of home.
This coffee and mint exfoliating scrub will definitely add a nice kick to his morning shower.
Does he like making breakfast? This waffle maker will help him crisp up some fine ones.
Or maybe he’s more of a toast dad. This thing is heavy-duty: it can toast four bagel-halves simultaneously, and each pair of burners has its own setting.
Strategist newsletter editor Mia Leimkuhler and her husband love this Lodge cast-iron combo set for baking bread and more. Leimkuhler writes, “We’ve used it for levain loaves, thick-crust pan pizza, and even Chinese-style scallion pancakes.”
Bodum’s classic French press makes some of the best coffee, and the copper accents on this model give it a special touch.
And he will need a coffee grinder, of course. Freshly ground beans are a must.
Is he “getting into bitters?” A fully-stocked cocktail set like this will speak to his inner mixologist.
If he’s a beer fan with a DIY streak, he will love this beer-brewing kit. It includes everything required to brew up an Oktoberfest-style ale (lederhosen not included).
If pops is a weekend warrior who needs help loosening those muscles, try this trainer-approved foam roller.
And maybe he could store them on this nice minimalist shoe rack (from one of our favorite brands).
“It transformed my sleep habits,” says Strategist writer Lauren Levy, who relies on this minimalist alarm clock every morning. The voice-controlled snooze function works as a “fail-safe.”
Or, if he is always looking for an excuse to get out of the house, consider these waterproof binoculars. Perfect for bird-watching, sports events, sightseeing, or even just spying on the neighbors. Bushnell is one of the most trusted names in binoculars, too.
Another gift idea for an outdoorsy dad. The vacuum-insulated Yeti Rambler is famous for its durability, temperature retention, and large capacity.
For the techie dad who is “curious about this whole smart home thing.” The Google Smart TV Kit includes a Google Home Mini and a Chromecast: everything he needs to get up and running.
The Roku Streaming Stick+ 4K is another smart TV option. A good choice if he might prefer a dedicated remote control (unlike the Chromecast, the Roku does not require a connected device such as a tablet or smartphone).
And why stop at smart homes? Notebooks can be “smart” now, too. The Rocketbook scans every note you write onto it into a PDF that your dad can then email to himself. It’s made for people who want a better way to merge handwritten notes with the digital work ecosystem. Once you’re done writing on it, just erase with a damp paper towel and start all over again.
Or, if he prefers to write on paper, the LAMY Safari is a fun, stylish, and affordable fountain pen.
Okay, this Coca-Cola-branded hot dog roller might only appeal to a very specific type of dad, but if he’s into it, we bet he’ll be really into it. The perfect accompaniment to baseball on the “smart TV.”
This portable grill folds flat for easy transport and storage.
Made in Portland, Oregon, this habanero hot sauce has a cult-like following.
Gourmet sardines packed in olive oil, for the foodie dad.
For the dad who is really trying to make family game night a thing.
Or, if you think he might enjoy a little solo time, this nostalgic pinball-style tabletop game is unique and a lot of fun. (And it can easily be played with more than one person, too, if he wants company).
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best women’s jeans, rolling luggage, bed sheets, coffee makers, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
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