Life

21 Cheap Gifts For Dad That Cost Less Than $25 And Are Actually Cool

Dads are pretty much, hands down, the best. Shopping for dads? Easily the worst. The thing about dads is that they usually seem to already have everything they need. And as for things dads want? I've spent too many years being totally clueless. Too many years buying slippers and ties. Too many years aimlessly wandering the aisles of Home Depot picking up random tool things and then setting them back down, disheartened by my inability to be more creative.

The thing about dads, I've learned, is that no matter what they will love what you get them, because no matter what they love you. Seriously, you can't go wrong — I think my dad STILL has a few macaroni ties I made him way back in the day. This year, don't overthink it. We've rounded up 21 awesome, dad-approved gifts — from the practical to the insanely cool — to help you out. And the best part? Everything is under $25. Isn't shopping fun?

by Kathryn Kattalia

Dec. 1, 2014

Death Star Ice Ball Maker

So dad’s a little bit of a geek, huh? Give him the power to make Death Star ice balls, and win brownie points forever.

Death Star Ice Ball Maker, $10, Amazon

Carry-On Cocktail Kit

Traveling can be tough. Help dad take the edge off with this cocktail kit specially made to live in his carry-on.

Carry-On Cocktail Kit, $20, Amazon

'The Geek Dad Book For Aspiring Mad Scientists'

Actually, I kind of want this for myself. Packed full of cool experiments, this book is something your entire family can enjoy.

The Geek Dad Book For Aspiring Mad Scientists, $12, Amazon

'West Coast Seattle Boy: The Jimi Hendrix Anthology'

This CD-DVD combo will keep dad grooving for days.

West Coast Seattle Boy: The Jimi Hendrix Anthology, $12, Amazon

Recycled Golf Balls — 48 Pack

If your dad is anything like mine, he can never have too many golf balls. This is one gift that’s sure to be a hit.

Recycled Golf Balls — 48 pack, $22, Amazon

Mobile Phone Bike Mount

A mobile phone bike mount is perfectly up to speed for active dads on the go.

Mobile Phone Bike Mount, $10, Amazon

Beer Opening Glass

Dad can have his beer and drink it, too, with this clever bottle-opening pint glass.

Beer Opening Glass, $17, Amazon

Snowflake Mitten Ice Scraper

For those cold nights when there’s no avoiding the snow, dad’s going to be thankful he found this sitting under the Christmas tree.

Snowflake Mitten Ice Scraper, $15, Amazon

Gentleman's Deck

Designed with the most sophisticated card shark in mind, this deck doesn’t contain any of your regular suits. Instead, it’s packed with tips on how to tie knots, drink whiskey, and more.

Gentleman’s Deck of Cards, $20, Amazon

Blue Beard Revenge Shaving Brush

For the dad who takes grooming very seriously.

Blue Beard Revenge Shaving Brush , $9, Amazon

Gorillapod

For the photography-enthusiast, this bendable tripod makes blurry photos a thing of the past.

Gorillapod , $15, Amazon

Bacon Ornament

Bacon makes everything better, including Christmas trees. Dad has spent years putting up with your handmade holiday baubles. This season, give him a branch to call his own.

Bacon Ornament, $20, Amazon

Pirate Corkscrew

He’s the captain of the ship, and he deserves a drink. This pirate-themed corkscrew + bottle opener is kind of freaking hilarious, don’t you think?

Pirate Corkscrew, $12, Amazon

Harvard Tie Toiletry Bag

For the dad who always travels, but keeps his toiletries in a plastic bag. And c’mon. Who doesn’t love a good tie print?

Harvard Tie Toiletry Bag , $19, Gent Supply Co

Nice Parking Cards

OK yes, these are a little passive aggressive, but leave them in the windshield of a car taking up two parking spaces, and you’re gonna feel a little better. I promise.

Nice Parking Cards , $3, Etsy

Selfie Remote

Everyone loves a good selfie — even dad. Make life a little easier for him with this selfie remote, which lets you snap the perfect pic hands-free. Prepare yourself for a whole lot of family photos.

Selfie Remote, $11, Gent Supply Co