The Best Gifts for New Dads to Suit Any Budget
May 16, 2022
During pregnancy, moms tend to get a lot of attention, including a literal shower of gifts. But new dads deserve the spotlight and some major love too. No doubt, he’ll appreciate a thoughtful gift to celebrate his first foray into fatherhood.
The best gifts for new dads can be practical presents to help him navigate the early days of parenthood, sweet keepsakes to mark this major life event or even luxury gifts that appeals to his unique sense of style. Whether you’re shopping for a first Father’s Day gift, a birthday or holiday present or just want to send him a little something to celebrate the new arrival, there are options to suit every type of event and father-to-be. Unsure of where to begin your search? We’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the best new dad gifts that are sure to hit the right note.
Customized gifts for new dads are extra-special. That’s why we’re besotted with this personalized storybook by Wonderbly. Add up to four names to this precious tale, told from the perspective of a child explaining just how much they love their Daddy. He can read it to baby at bedtime for years to come.
Buy it: $37, Wonderbly.com
Babywearing works wonders for lots of families—it keeps baby close and your arms free. Dads that like to stay cozy while wearing a baby carrier without the added bulk of a jacket will be delighted with this gift. On its own, it’s a sporty men’s hoodie. But add the zip-on pouch, designed to fit comfortably over a carrier, and it’s a way for Dad to keep warm while on the go. First-time dad gifts that help him bond with baby? Yes, please.
Buy it: $99, Seraphine.com
Some of the best new father gifts are ones they won’t want to stop using, and loungewear definitely fits the bill. After all, having a new baby means spending way more time at home. This pair of sleep pants by Tommy John are supremely soft and silky, plus the non-pilling modal fabric will stand the test of time.
Buy it: $68, Nordstrom.com
The best gifts for new dads play to their interests. So if you’re shopping for an outdoorsy dad, why not treat him to a sturdy child carrier so he can share his passion for hiking with his kid? This fold-away style from Osprey is suitable for a range of activities, comes with a built-in UPF 50 sunshade and can be adjusted to suit all body types. Bonus: It weighs 5 lbs., making it one of the lightest structured carriers on the market.
Buy it: $260, Osprey.com
Searching for sentimental gifts for expecting dads? Check out this custom keychain from Etsy. Add your ultrasound image plus a sweet message on the back for a truly heartwarming present he’ll treasure forever.
Buy it: Starting from $17, Etsy.com
Allbirds are known for their super-comfortable shoes, and their latest style is no exception. The Wool Piper sneaker is a classic silhouette made with natural materials in the brand’s signature merino wool fabric. Best of all, the versatile sneakers are machine-washable, which is a major plus when it comes to dad-to-be gifts that’ll be used around baby.
Buy it: $110, Allbirds.com
Getting out of the house with baby in tow is no walk in the park. You need a lot of gear for any unexpected outfit changes or other mishaps that may arise. That’s why the pocket blanket is one of our favorite new dad gifts. It takes up minimal space in a diaper bag—it’s smaller than a smartphone—but expands into a water-repellent blanket that’s perfect for outdoor outings.
Buy it: $30, TheGrommet.com
Now more than ever, it’s important to keep everyday objects clean and sanitized. And while we won’t go into just how many germs are lingering on phones, we’ll simply recommend this innovative and compact smartphone charger as a great gift for new dads. It zaps away 99.99 percent of germs, acts as a charger and also works as an amplifier.
Buy it: $80, PhoneSoap.com
Parachute is known for making some of the softest sheets and linens around, and these luxurious, quick-drying, 100 percent Turkish cotton towels are no exception. It’s the perfect gift for new dads to wrap around themselves after unwinding with a long hot shower.
Buy it: Starting from $14, Parachute.com
Every father needs something to haul baby’s stuff in, making a diaper backpack a great gift for new dads. This cool option has plenty of space to carry the essentials while still traveling light, with a diaper changing pad, reusable food tower and insulated pockets for bottles. The best part? This bag is made from recycled plastic bottles, making it an ideal pick for eco-conscious papas. Plus, with a look this sharp, no one will guess he’s packing baby gear.
Buy it: $80, SkipHop.com
For first-time dad gifts with a sense of humor, you can’t go wrong with a funny matching shirt set. These battery-charged, battery-drained T-shirts say it all. Made of 100 percent cotton, they’ll keep them comfy, even when Dad’s ready for bed and his mini is raring to go.
Buy it: $25, Etsy.com
Get Papa’s caffeine fix delivered straight to his home with Trade Coffee. The subscription service has 400 types of coffee from across the US, and Dad can take a short quiz to figure out his ideal order based on his preferences. And since orders can be adjusted at any time, he can go bold with his coffee picks just in time for baby’s next sleep regression.
Buy it: Starting from $40, TradeCoffee.com
The best dad-to-be gifts help him get excited for baby’s imminent arrival. And Bump Boxes special new father edition does just that. Filled with men’s care products and baby essentials, Daddy will have everything he needs to rock his new role.
Buy it: $65, BumpBoxes.com
Gravity blankets have received a lot of buzz over the last few years for their stress-reducing and sleep-promoting benefits. Less anxiety and more shut-eye? No wonder we think the cozy robe version is one of the best gifts for new dads. The weighted collar is designed to reduce stress and boost calmness—just what first-time dads need.
Buy it: $130, GravityBlankets.com
Coffee is the elixir of life for sleep-deprived new parents, so any new dad gifts that make it easier to enjoy a morning beverage are pure genius. Case in point: This stainless steel, dishwasher-safe travel mug, which uses double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks warm. So even if he gets distracted by baby’s cries, a warm cup of joe will always be waiting for him.
Buy it: $30, Yeti.com
New or expectant dads that enjoy an active lifestyle, but don’t have the time to hit up the gym, will appreciate these cool wrist weights. Designed to be worn while running, hiking or even toting baby around town, these weighted wristbands will take his home workouts to the next level.
Buy it: $49, Bloomingdales.com
The ultimate gift for new dads? An uninterrupted night’s sleep of course. While we can’t guarantee he’ll get a full eight hours of shut-eye, this sleep mask will definitely help matters. It’s made from a cloud-soft bamboo fabric that’s breathable and gentle on skin. Plus, the 360 wraparound design fully blocks out light and reduces ambient noise.
Buy it: $15, InfinityPillow.com
We’re not going to lie and say that life with a newborn can’t be stressful. Thankfully, a total body massage roller can help work out aches and muscle tension. Designed for use on the arms, legs and back, this roller has four spinning massagers and comes with a downloadable exercise guide.
Buy it: $20, Gaiam.com
Artsy parents will adore this unique memory book that can be used to document all of baby’s milestones. The front cover and interior pages feature artwork inspired by a woodblock-printed book from Japan’s Edo period—how cool!
Buy it: $35, Store.MetMuseum.com
Looking up baby’s zodiac sign is kind of fun. Seeing exactly how the sky looked on the day his little one was born? Amazing. A My Sky Moment map displays how the stars were aligned overhead at any location, on any date. It comes custom framed or can be created on canvas for a striking new dad gift.
Buy it: Starting from $50, MySkyMoment.com
Having a baby is a messy business, so anything that makes the cleanup easier is a great new dad gift. Whether he’s prepping a batch of homemade baby food or cooking a family feast, this apron will keep his clothes spic and span. It’s made from 100 percent cotton, comes in five fun colors and even has plenty of pockets for his spatula, binkies, bibs or whatever else he needs close at hand!
Buy it: $25, Nordstrom.com
We’re all guilty of taking photos on our phone that we never do anything with. A printer that can whip out high-quality photos straight from a smartphone is one of the most thoughtful first-time dad gifts.
Buy it: $100, KodakPhotoPlus.com
Help the new dad in your life upgrade his skincare regimen with this hydrating trio for men. The set includes a face wash, a lightweight moisturizer and a luxurious shave cream that’ll revive tired skin.
Buy it: $16, Clinique.com
When you have a little kid, one thing is certain: Anything can happen. Guys who pride themselves on being prepared will love having a Swiss Army Knife on hand. It’s a multi-purpose tool with seven functions, including tweezers, scissors and a screwdriver. And with all the newborn gear to unbox and assemble, it’s a dad-to-be gift that’s sure to get plenty of use.
Buy it: $20, SwissArmy.com
Is Pops a mega football fan? Huddle up and enjoy this sporty gift for new dads. The personalized book is filled with reprinted coverage from The New York Times sports journalism archive, documenting this history of his favorite NFL team.
Buy it: Starting from $80, UncommonGoods.com
It happens to the best of dads: He’s ready to walk out the door, thinking, “we’re going to get to the pediatrician on time for once” and then…he can’t find his keys. (Or phone. Or wallet.) The dilemma is real, but the solution is easy. Clip the Tile Pro to your phone, keys or other objects, and use the Tile app to call and locate what you’re looking for. New dad gifts that help him find his stuff? Priceless!
Buy it: $35, Amazon.com
If Dad bundled up baby and got to the car only to realize he’s still in his slippers, he wouldn’t be the first—which is why outdoor slippers make for classic new dad gifts. This pair by The North Face has a durable ripstop upper and treaded rubber soles, meaning they can be worn indoors and out.
Buy it: Starting from $55, TheNorthFace.com
A new dad is likely using his phone even more these days—as a baby monitor, noise machine, feeding tracker and more—so a strong power bank that fits in his pocket is one of the most practical first-time dad gifts. This one has three ports (two USB and one micro USB), so you can charge multiple devices at once.
Buy it: $40, Amazon.com
As experienced dads can tell you, it’s hard to get uninterrupted “me time” with a newborn on the scene. But with this lightweight portable speaker, he can listen to his favorite tunes wherever baby’s schedule takes him, whether it’s attached to the stroller for a walk, floating in the tub during bathtime (yes, it’s waterproof!) or outside on the porch while baby’s down for a nap. When it comes to new father gifts, this speaker will be a big hit.
Buy it: $100, UltimateEars.com
Help a new dad remember what day—or even month it is—with a calendar that doubles as a picture frame. He’ll never get tired of looking at pictures of baby, and you can order a new refill pack each year.
Buy it: Starting from $30, ArtifactUprising.com
Introducing the best gift for new dads that like to be prepared: The Dad Hoodie. The super-soft sweatshirt has a breathable mesh lining and built-in pockets to hold must-have parenting gear, including baby bottles!
Buy it: $98, TheDadHoodie
Sure, the Apple Watch Series 3 offers daily motivation tips, a heart and stress monitor and even sleep tracking, for that time in the misty future when sleep is part of Dad’s life again. But what makes this smart watch a standout is the fact that it’s water-resistant, so he can wear it on trips to the beach or pool. Plus, he’ll also be able to automatically sync his favorite playlists via Apple Music, meaning he can play the one song that magically lulls baby to sleep, anytime, anywhere.
Buy it: $199, Walmart.com
Searching for funny gifts for new dads? Check out this cheeky “DILF” candle. The hand-poured soy candle comes in a range of scents including: sandalwood rose, vanilla woods and lavender driftwood.
Buy it: Starting from $13, Etsy.com
New dad gifts that make dinner prep a breeze are always a smart choice. The Instant Pot has earned legendary status by making it quicker and more convenient to cook just about anything perfectly. Hot, healthy, economical dinners are back on the menu! Plus, this nifty device can also be used as a sterilizer.
Buy it: $130, Bloomingdales.com
Dad will need his phone more than ever—and protecting it will be harder than ever. (Nothing fascinates an inquisitive baby quite like a phone.) That’s why protective phone cases are great new dad gifts. The Otterbox Defender Series Case protects phones in three ways: with an inner shell, an outer cover and a touch-screen protector. Because babies become mischievous toddlers quicker than he can say, “Honey, have you seen my phone?”
Buy it: $60, Otterbox.com
These dog tags by Isabelle Grace make one of the best gifts for new dads. The handmade sterling silver charm is personalized on the front and back with baby’s name and birthday, and texturized for an edgy, modern look. You can order it on a chain or leather cord.
Buy it: $90, IsabelleGraceJewelry.com
Another great gift for new dads? A craft beer subscription, of course! Each monthly box showcases two breweries from different regions in the US, and includes four types of beer—plus, beer tasting notes and bonus swag.
Buy it: $47 per shipment, CraftBeerClub.com
Chances are night’s out will be replaced with at-home movie marathons for the foreseeable future. So why not treat film-buffs (or folks that can never decide what to watch) to this cool scratch-off poster? It lists 100 essential movies with hand-drawn illustrations. As you watch, scratch off the mini-posters to reveal an iconic scene.
Buy it: $25, Huckberry.com
All parents deserve a little luxury, which is why a cashmere jumper makes one of the best gifts for new dads. This classic crewneck style is soft as newborn skin and comes in five elegant colors.
Buy it: $195, NakedCashmere.com
Help Dad brush up on his parenting-based comedy routine with this bumper box of dad jokes. Yes, they may be cringe-worthy—but puns and one-liners are part of every parent’s playbook.
Buy it: $15, UncommonGoods.com
Encourage Dad to take some “me-time” with a skin-pampering sheet mask. The Bro Mask by Jaxon Lane is specially designed for men, and targets dull skin and fine lines (a common side effect of sleepless nights with a newborn).
Buy it: $7, SaksFifthAvenue.com
This beautiful, linen-bound journal, makes it easy to record your child’s major milestones. It spans their entire childhood (from 0 to 18) and is filled with helpful writing prompts for parents. Talk about a thoughtful new dad gift!
Buy it: $38, Promptly.com
Parents (especially first-timers) just can’t get enough photos of their little ones. One of the most innovative gift ideas for new dads is this pocket-sized phone tripod. The size of a credit card, it can slip right into his wallet and ensure that he’ll get crystal-clear snaps of baby’s first smile or teetering first steps.
Buy it: $30, PocketTripod.com
Kit out the whole family in these coordinated pajamas by Hanna Andersson. The blue-and-red striped style are super-cute but not too cheeky, meaning Dad will actually want to wear them. Better yet, the organic cotton material won’t pill or fade over time.
Buy it: Starting from $40, HannaAndersson.com
Here’s one more sleep-related gift for new dads: The Hatch Restore. This ultra-smart sleep assistant combines a sound machine, meditation app, ambient light and alarm clock into one device. Now the only midnight distraction you’ll have is baby.
Buy it: $130, Hatch.com
One gift first-time dads will thank you for? A subscription to Hello Fresh. This meal delivery service offers pre-portioned, farm-fresh ingredients alongside easy-to-follow recipes. Yum!
Buy it: Starting from $58, HelloFresh.com
New parents with a passion for photography will be delighted with this vintage polaroid camera. The fully refurbished model boasts a simple point and shoot design, that’ll allow him to capture treasured family moments in an instant.
Buy it: $120, Poloroid.com
Okay, so technically this is a present for baby, but a first-time father is sure to well up when he sees his little one wearing this onesie that reads: “I love Dad.” Trust us, sentimental gifts for new or expecting dads don’t get better than this.
Buy it: $22, FinnandEmma.com
Caring for a newborn can be a messy business. That’s where this comical kit—filled with a pair of disposable gloves, hand sanitizer, a face mask, a spare diaper and changing pads—comes in. It’s the perfect fallback plan for folks that like to be prepared. Funny gifts for first-time dads that are practical to boot? Win-win.
Buy it: $27, Amazon.com
In the midst of all the joyous first-time dad moments, there are painful ones too. And we’re not speaking metaphorically. Baby head butts and toddler kicks can all pose risks to the family jewels. So as hilarious as these boxer briefs are, this gift for new dads that’s designed to protect him down there is also super-practical. Each pair of these FridaBalls boxer briefs is made with a reinforced protective pouch to soften the blows.
Buy it: $28, Frida.com
Dad’s weekly night out with the guys may be on hiatus, but that doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy a treat now and then. Our new dad gifts of choice: McCrea’s handmade Single Malt Scotch Caramels. They offer a peaty, rich flavor spiked with smoky scotch—meaning he can enjoy the intoxicating taste without the accompanying hangover.
Buy it: $5, McCreasCandies.com
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