The Best Gifts for New Dads to Suit Any Budget
During pregnancy, moms tend to get a lot of attention, including a literal shower of gifts. But new dads deserve some of the spotlight and 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 appeal to his unique sense of style. Whether you’re shopping for a first Father’s Day gift, a birthday, 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. Below, shop our top picks for every budget.
Can’t decide what to gift the new dad in your life? You can’t go wrong with one of these top-rated picks.
Babywearing hoodie
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.
Personalized book
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.
Indoor-outdoor slippers
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 excellent 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.
Hoodie with plenty of pockets
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!
Acupressure mat and pillow
New or expectant dads that struggle with back pain will thank you for this acupressure set. It includes a memory foam mat and pillow covered in discs that stimulate the body’s pressure points.
Smart watch
Sure, the Apple Watch Series 8 offers daily motivational 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.
The best new dad gifts don’t have to cost a small fortune. Case in point: These affordable presents that ring in under $25.
Dad jokes
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.
Cool sweatshirt
He’s not a regular dad, he’s a cool dad—at least, he will be with this sweatshirt. Made from a soft cotton blend, this sweater boasts a slightly oversized fit and bold, colorful text.
“I love Dad” onesie
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.
Grill cookbook
Ooni pizza ovens are the stuff of legend, but you don’t need fancy equipment to enjoy this cookbook. It’s packed full of inspiration for outdoor cooking over an open fire. From pizza to grilled fish and freshly baked bread, this recipe collection is a new dad gift that’ll make his mouth water.
New dad gameplan
First-time parents have a lot to learn. Fortunately, Super Bowl champion Benjamin Watson is here to help. Written with dads in mind, The New Dad’s Playbook has tips on how to navigate those early days of fatherhood—from pregnancy (pre-season) to birth (competition time) and bringing baby home (post-season). It’s a winner in our book!
Adorable board book
Make sure baby’s first word is “dada” with the help of this cute board book. The sweet story by Tonight Show host and Saturday Night Live alum Jimmy Fallon features adorable illustrations of daddy and baby cows, sheep, ducks, frogs and more.
Organizational travel kit
With this handy travel kit, dad will be able to carry his and baby’s essentials with ease. The durable, water-repellent bag can hold toiletries, everyday necessities and even pacifiers or bottle parts. Plus, it can be easily toted in a diaper bag to keep dad organized while he’s out and about.
Mini utility gadget
Before baby’s arrival, your loved one will probably be putting together a lot of new gear and furniture, which makes this a clever first-time dad gift. The multipurpose tool can be used in several ways, like as a screwdriver, a can opener, a ruler or a protractor. Better yet, the small design easily fits on a keychain, so you can keep it closeby whenever you may need it.
Recreational apparel gift card
Does the new dad in your life live in loungewear? With this gift card, he’ll be able to refresh his wardrobe with ultra-soft pieces, like the Cloud Knit Hoodie and matching sweatpants. Outdoor Voices also offers a great selection of outdoor apparel for activities in the open air.
One-line-a-day journal
Baby’s first year can feel like it’s over in the blink of an eye. That’s where this present comes in handy. The new dad gift will allow your loved one to briefly document memories and milestones each day, so he can look back on it years down the line.
Food delivery service gift card
New parents barely have time to go to the bathroom—let alone cook three meals a day. With that in mind, this food delivery service gift card is a present dad will surely appreciate. It can be used for an array of restaurants in your local area. That way, your loved one can count on having a tasty meal delivered straight to their door.
Treat the new father in your life to a bit of much-needed “me time” with these gifts for expecting dads. From craft beer subscriptions to matching PJs for dad and baby, we’ve covered all the bases when it comes to gifting.
New dad gift box
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.
Beer subscription
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.
Keys finder and item locator
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, uh-oh, 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!
Foam roller
We’re not going to lie and say that life with a newborn won’t be stressful. Thankfully, a massage roller can help work out aches and pains. This two-in-one tool has an internal roller to release tension in your back and an external roller designed to massage your arms and legs.
Sweet, customized story
When it comes to first-time dad gifts, you can’t go wrong with a personalized book. This sweet option allows you to customize the appearance of the story’s characters so they resemble dad and baby. This special present is sure to be a favorite for years to come.
Milestone journal
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!
Daddy-and-me matching PJs
What’s cuter than baby pajamas? Matching PJs for dad and baby, of course! These men’s pajama pants are made from buttery soft, breathable bamboo viscose to keep him comfy all night long (even during early-morning sessions with the little one). The watercolor-inspired moon print also comes in the form of a zippy onesie, a knotted infant gown, a swaddle set and even options for mom.
Water bottle
Parenting is thirsty work, which is why a water bottle makes a great gift for new dads.This pick is big enough to keep him hydrated throughout the day and is dishwasher-safe. The best part? The insulated bottle keeps drinks ice cold for up to 24 hours.
Efficient omelet maker
Time is one thing new parents don’t have a lot of. Luckily, with the help of this easy-to-use, efficient omelet maker, he’ll be able to whip up a hearty meal in less than a minute.
New dad’s survival guide
Written by stand-up comedian Raquel D’Apice, this survival guide for new dads is a refreshingly honest, funny present that’s sure to make your loved one smile. An added bonus? This book can be customized with dad’s name, character and other fun details to make it an extra-special gift. Plus, the handcrafted stoneware dish is aesthetically pleasing to boot.
Super cozy slipper socks
The new dad in your life will be spending a lot more time at home in the early days of parenthood, so why not make him as comfy as can be? Enter: These gripper slippers from Bombas. They have a super cozy inner lining and a cushioned footbed he can count on year-round.
Weighted sleep mask
The ultimate gift for new dads? An uninterrupted night of 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 fleece fabric, and is lightly weighted to alleviate stress and anxiety.
High-quality wooden calendar
Minimalist and sentimental, you can count on this custom photo calendar to be a favorite of dad’s all-year-round. Personalize each detail to create a gift that matches his one-of-a-kind style. Best of all, it comes with 12 premium printed calendar sheets, each complete with a sweet photo of your choosing.
Here, check out the best new dad gifts for under $100. Some of our favorites include an outdoor rocking chair, a premium diaper subscription and a pair of comfy lounge pants, to name a few.
Dad fanny pack
Fanny pack diaper bags aren’t just for moms—dads have a lot to carry too! The solution: This versatile belt bag from Lululemon. Its large design will fit an array of his (and baby’s) essentials, making this a great option for on-the-go parents.
Sports archive book
Is he 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 the history of his favorite NFL team.
Coffee subscription
Get Papa’s caffeine fix delivered straight to his home with Atlas Coffee Club. Each month he’ll receive 12 ounces of freshly-roasted coffee from a micro-lot and a postcard from the country of origin, plus flavor notes and brewing tips.
Lounge pants
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 withstand the test of time.
Babywearing shirt for dads
This unique babywearing shirt was thoughtfully designed with new dads in mind, making it a standout gifting option in our eyes. The t-shirt is equipped with a simple, supportive pouch, so your loved one can go hands-free while carrying their little love. Choose from several colorways, including black, brook and gray.
Premium diaper subscription
At first glance, this may seem like a gift that’s more for baby—but, trust us, dad will appreciate it too. With this subscription, your loved one will receive premium diapers that are moisture-wicking and highly absorbent to reduce the chance of leaks. The result? A better sleep for baby and dad. It’s no wonder these diapers were a Best of The Bump 2023 award winner!
Simple charging station
With everything on a new dad’s mind, some things may slip through the cracks—like remembering to charge his phone. Luckily, this magnetic power bank will ensure he can have a full battery, even if he’s on the go. It also doubles as a clever stand so he can stream or scroll as his device charges.
Everyday sneakers
Level up dad’s daily footwear with these top-rated runners from Allbirds. They’re made from warm, comfortable Merino wool and have a cushioned midsole to offer 24/7 support. The best part? They’re machine-washable—score!
Personalized map glass set
Add a touch of customization to dad’s nightcap with this personalized set. Each glass will be precision-engraved with a map of a US town or city that’s near and dear to his heart. Plus, they’re available in several options, including pint, wine or rocks glasses.
Outdoor rocking chair
A nursery glider is every parent’s new BFF, and now you can keep the good times rolling with this camping chair. It has a sturdy steel frame and gently rocks back and forth, plus it folds flat for easy storage. Trust us, it’ll be happy campers all around with this new dad gift.
Phone case
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?”
Premium hot sauce pack
Variety is the spice of life, which is what makes these premium hot sauces a standout present for new dads. The set comes with three bottles of truffle-infused flavors, all elegantly packaged in a black and gold box. He’ll be putting it on everything in no time!
Portable speaker
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.
Treat the father-to-be in your life to a touch of luxury with one of these splurge-worthy presents. From neoprene diaper bags and a high-quality coffee machine to a top-rated baby carrier and a new gaming console, find something for every dad below.
Luxe robe
Looking for a present that exudes everyday luxury? Then treat your loved one to this high-quality cotton robe. Whether they’re up for a late-night diaper change, enjoying a relaxed weekend breakfast or just lounging on the couch, this robe will have their back. Choose from several cool colors, including dusk, coal, surplus and bone.
Retro instant camera
New parents with a passion for photography will be delighted with this polaroid camera gift set. The vintage-style model boasts a simple point-and-shoot design that’ll allow him to capture treasured family moments in an instant.
Hiking carrier
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 just 5 lbs., making it one of the lightest structured carriers on the market.
Stylish diaper bag
Diaper bags for dads don’t have to be an eyesore. Case in point: This stylish option made from neoprene. Thanks to plenty of pockets, he’ll be able to fit everything he and baby needs in it—and then some. Other standout features include how it clips to strollers, comes with a changing mat and has an extra zipper opening for wipes.
High-quality coffee maker
Chances are the new dad in your life isn’t getting a lot of sleep. While you can’t gift him a good night’s rest, you can ensure he feels a bit more awake throughout the day with the help of this high-quality coffee maker. The versatile machine is perfect for making an array of drinks, from a single cup of joe to a powerful espresso shot.
Premium pillow
When’s the last time your loved one got a new pillow? If the answer is “too long,” they’ll surely appreciate this premium design—especially in the early days of parenthood, when every moment in bed is precious. Designed to encourage more restorative snoozes, this luxury option is made from supportive memory foam and can be easily adjusted to accommodate any sleep preference or position. Choose from standard/queen or king size options.
Baby carrier
Getting out of the house with baby in tow is no walk in the park. Aside from toys, snacks and a spare outfit, he’ll need something to transport baby in. While a stroller is best for longer journeys, a baby carrier is great if you want to travel light (relatively speaking, of course). The BabyTula Explore Carrier can be used from infancy to toddlerhood and offers a perfect fit for all parents. Talk about a practical gift for new dads!
Compact gaming console
This sleek, compact gaming console is perfect for dads in need of a bit of “me time”. It won’t take up much space in the living room—plus, he can seamlessly take it on the go (or around the house), thanks to its clever design.
Luxury sweatpants
What’s better than luxury joggers? These ultra-soft pants are crafted from a premium bamboo-viscose blend, resulting in a breathable, moisture-wicking fabric. Dad will also be a fan of the versatile style, that can be seamlessly worn day or night.
Heated coffee mug
Ensure dad’s coffee stays piping hot by gifting him this innovative mug. From his smartphone, he’ll be able to adjust the temperature to his liking. Then—when the battery runs low—simply place it on the included charging coaster. Choose from several on-trend colorways and two sizes.
Wall art for tech-lovers
If your loved one is a big fan of all things gaming, this unique wall art is a top-notch gift idea for new dads. Inside the frame is a Playstation 4 controller that’s been carefully disassembled, resulting in a too-cool display. Other options available include the Game Boy Advance, the [iPod Touch](https://gridstudio.cc/products/grid%C2%AE-ipod-touch and the Blackberry Curve, to name few.
Stylish travel bag
Last but not least on our roundup of the best new dad gifts is this stylish weekender. The spacious bag is complete with several organizational pockets and is made from durable polyester to streamline any journey you have on the horizon. Whether dad has a work trip, is visiting loved ones or going on a day-long adventure, the roomy design offers plenty of room for his (and baby’s) essentials.
We get it—gifting isn’t always a piece of cake. To help you choose the best gifts for the dad-to-be in your life, we spent time scrolling through online retailers, so you don’t have to. When sourcing presents, we considered several factors, including quality, style and sentimentality, as well as overarching themes like wellness, self-care, relaxation and quality time with loved ones.
We leveraged our familiarity with leading brands to ensure your loved one is only receiving the best of the best. What’s more, we read user reviews to get the lowdown on how these products work for new dads, and didn’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating.
Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.
Plus, more from The Bump:
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