Christmas Gift Ideas for Him: Simplify Shopping with Holiday Gifts Just for Him

When it comes to buying holiday gifts, it's not uncommon to get stumped on Christmas shopping ideas for a special guy. Conventional wisdom tells you to search for a nice tie or a barbecue set, but these gifts feel distinctly unimaginative and lack meaning. This year, focus on his interests, and surprise him with something that comes straight from the heart. With these Christmas gift ideas for him, you no longer need to stress over holiday shopping.

DIY Meat Seasonings

Is he an avid griller or the guy who takes charge of preparing the meat for every meal? Make cooking a little easier for him with some homemade barbecue rubs and meat seasonings. Collect several small jars, and put together rubs using recipes for creative sweet or savory blends. Add the finishing touch by creating fun labels to make identification easy — and the gift very personal.

Flying Lessons

For a truly special experience, give the man who isn't afraid of anything a chance to get behind the controls of an airplane. Many flight schools offer introductory lessons to let newcomers see what it really feels like from the cockpit. If you're looking for a Christmas gift he'll never forget, this is one experience that fits the bill.

Framed Photo

We all know the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Find a photo of a fond memory or something that makes him laugh and put it in a frame such as this frame made of reclaimed wood. There’s also the perfect frame for a picture of him and his buddies.

Memory Jar

If you've known each other for a long time, you've undoubtedly made some great memories together. Write down your favorite memories on slips of paper, fold them up, and place them in a memory jar. This is also something kids can do for their dad. He ends up with a compilation of happy times that puts a smile on his face in that moment and anytime he's feeling down.

Breakfast To-go

Early mornings, long commutes, and hectic work schedules leave many guys scrambling to get out the door each day. This Christmas, give the gift of a good breakfast by making and freezing a big batch of breakfast burritos. All he has to do is grab one on his way out the door in the morning, and he's eating his way to a good start to the day.

Family Trivia Game

If he's a board game lover or a trivia buff, he won't be able to get enough of his very own family trivia game. Get the kids involved, and ask everyone to contribute their own family trivia questions. Create a box of questions to use with your favorite trivia game, or design and build your own custom playing board.

DIY Beard Balm

Shaving kits and grooming products are popular gift choices for men, but you can take this idea to the next level with a little innovation. If he sports facial hair, help him keep it tamed with a custom beard balm made from shea butter, beeswax, and essential oils.

A Day Off

With busy work schedules and crazy weekends spent juggling chores and kids' activities, many guys really crave some rest. Recognize his hard work by giving him the gift of one day off a month. For an extra special touch, write these dates on a themed calendar that focuses on his favorite hobby. He will love seeing "Dad's Day Off" boldly emblazoned on days throughout the year.

Personalized Grilling Apron

If your grill master tends to end up looking a little rough around the edges, give him an apron to make sure his clothes stay clean while he's working his barbecue magic. Personalize it with his name or a funny saying for a nice extra touch.

On the Road Fun

If traveling for work is common, he may fall into a predictable routine of work, eat, and sleep on the road. If he has an upcoming trip planned, find an attraction you know he would enjoy, and buy him a ticket he can use during his downtime.

Satellite Radio Subscription

If he spends a lot of time in his car traveling or has a long commute, give him a satellite radio subscription. With a broad range of stations with very specific focuses — politics, comedy, specific types of music, etc. — satellite radio can make the time spent behind the wheel a little more pleasant.

Make a Donation

If you know he's passionate about a certain cause, donate to his favorite charity in his name. Send him a nice, heartfelt ecard on Christmas, and write a note inside letting him know the donation was made.

Rendering of His First Car

Many guys have a special bond with their first set of wheels. Let him relive the memories he spent driving the car with a framed, hand-drawn rendering of his first vehicle.

Digital Gift

Shopping at the last minute doesn't mean you have to settle for the rejected items left on store shelves. Select a digital gift or a gift card for your guy, and then send it to him in a fun Christmas ecard. He receives notification of the gift and can choose to accept it or swap it for a different gift — a win-win.

Christmas gifts for him are always better accompanied by a card that shows just how much you care. With the right gift, card, and thoughtful message, you can guarantee some happy memories this Christmas season.