Ask your dad what he wants for Christmas and you'll get one of three answers.
"Nothing."
"I don't need anything."
"Just spend time with the family." (Which is sweet, and also not a gift.)
Meanwhile, he's been using the same coffee mug since 2014 and wearing a shirt that's seen things. So here's a guide to funny, personal, and actually useful Christmas gifts for dad, for anyone shopping for their own dad, their husband, their stepdad, or the new dad who hasn't slept since August.
Quick answer: what to get dad for Christmas
- For the dad with a sense of humor: a funny dad tee that says what he's already thinking.
- For the dad who "can fix it": a shirt that celebrates his confidence (and your family's patience).
- For the dad who has everything: something personal, with a photo or a message only you could write.
- For the dad who loves his morning coffee: a personalized mug he'll use every day.
- For the dad who likes to unwind: a personalized whiskey glass.
- For the dad who says he wants nothing: a small gift, plus something that gives him time back.
Details below.
Funny Christmas gifts for dad
Dad gifts have a reputation for being a tie, a gift card, or another pair of socks. A funny shirt with some personality is a nice change.
If you're looking for the best dad t-shirt for someone who'd actually wear it, these are great Christmas gifts for dad, with something for every sense of humor.
For the dad who's still cool (mostly): the "Cool Dad Club" tee
The Cool Dad Club T-Shirt is a retro-inspired graphic tee with a playful vintage-style design, cool dad characters, and the phrase "Still Cool, Just Sleep Deprived." It's for dads who can laugh through the chaos of fatherhood and still consider themselves pretty cool.
It comes in seven colors (Black, White, Chambray, Graphite, Ivory, Moss, and Pepper) and sizes S to 4XL, so there's a good chance you'll find one that fits his style.
For the dad who can fix anything: the "I'm a Dad... Of Course I Can Fix It" tee
Every family has one: the dad who confidently says "I can fix it" before looking at the problem. The I'm a Dad... Of Course I Can Fix It T-Shirt is made for the dads who are always ready to repair, build, or troubleshoot.
It comes in White and Black, with sizes from S to 5XL.
For the dad who deserves some recognition: the "Best Dad Ever" tee
Sometimes the simplest message is the right one. The Best Dad Ever Shirt has a bold "BEST DAD EVER" graphic with a playful "CURRENTLY PARENTING" detail. It's an easy pick for new dads and experienced ones, and it pairs with jeans, shorts, or joggers.
It comes in Black and White, sizes S to 4XL.
Presents to get your dad: personal gifts he'll keep
Funny is great, but sometimes a gift lands because it's personal. These are for the dad who "doesn't want anything" but would be quietly thrilled to get one of these.
For the coffee dad: the personalized "Best Dad Ever" mug with photo
The Personalized Best Dad Ever Mug with Photo lets you add a favorite family photo and your own message, name, nickname, or special phrase. It's an 11oz mug for coffee, tea, or whatever gets him through the morning, and it's also a good fit for stepdads, grandpas, and father figures.
It's the kind of gift he'll see every day, which is more than you can say for most Christmas presents.
For the dad who likes to unwind: the personalized whiskey glass
The Personalized Whiskey Glass is a 10oz classic whiskey tumbler you can customize with a photo and your own text. It's a good pick for dads who enjoy whiskey, bourbon, or another favorite drink at the end of the day, and it works for husbands, grandpas, and stepdads too.
One thing to know: personalized items are made to order, so it's best to order early for Christmas. Check the product page for the latest details.
The gifts that aren't things
Here's what most gift guides skip: some of the best gifts for dad don't come in a box.
- A real nap. One he doesn't have to apologize for.
- An afternoon to himself. No errands, no questions, no "quick favors."
- Taking over his least favorite chore. For a month, without being asked.
- One-on-one time. A game, a drive, or a lunch, with no phones.
- A project done for him. The thing on his list that's been waiting since last spring.
Pair one of these with a gift he can open, and you've covered both "he'll laugh" and "he'll feel appreciated."
How to choose: a quick guide
- If you're not sure of his style, start with a classic color, like black or white, and a design he'd smile at.
- If he loves a joke, go with the "Cool Dad Club" or "I Can Fix It" tee.
- If he's a new dad, a funny tee or a personalized mug with a photo of the baby is a good choice.
- If he's the "don't get me anything" type, a personalized mug or glass is hard to say no to.
- If you're shopping for a husband, stepdad, or grandpa, the personalized gifts work for all of them.
- If you're buying a few gifts at once, free shipping applies to orders over $75.
Questions people ask
What do you get a dad who says he wants nothing?
Usually, he means "don't spend a lot." A small, funny, or personal gift, plus some of your time, tends to be the right answer.
What are good Christmas gifts for dad from kids?
A personalized mug with a family photo is an easy one. A funny tee also works well, and it's something he'll actually wear.
Are personalized gifts a good idea for dad?
They can be, especially for dads who have everything. Just order early so they arrive in time.
Ready to shop?
If you're still looking, browse our dad apparel, the mugs collection, or the Christmas apparel collection. And if you're shopping for mom too, here's our guide to Christmas gifts for mom.
Because sometimes the best gift for dad is proof that someone noticed everything he does. And maybe a nap.