That kind of dad is surprisingly common—and it changes the goal. Instead of finding something he can't buy, it's often more successful to give him something he wouldn't think to buy for himself or something that's personal.
A few categories tend to work well:
Upgrade something he uses every day
If he buys what he wants, he may not bother replacing things until they're worn out.
- Premium leather wallet
- High-end pocket knife (if he enjoys carrying one)
- Luxury bathrobe or slippers
- Nice travel mug or insulated bottle
- Quality flashlight
- Mechanical keyboard or ergonomic mouse (if he works at a computer)
- Cashmere scarf or merino sweater
Experiences
These are hard to impulse-buy and create memories.
- Tickets to a concert or sporting event
- Golf lesson with a pro
- Brewery or whiskey tasting
- Cooking class
- Race car driving experience
- Fishing charter
- Weekend getaway
- A reservation at a restaurant he's always wanted to try
Personalized without being cheesy
- Custom map of his hometown or favorite vacation spot
- Framed family photo that's actually well printed and framed
- Personalized leather valet tray
- Custom cutting board (if he cooks)
- Engraved watch box or tool organizer
- A professionally made photo book of family trips
Hobby "splurges"
Instead of buying the hobby itself, buy a premium accessory.
- For grilling: high-end thermometer, knife, or custom apron
- For coffee: specialty beans subscription or grinder
- For woodworking: beautiful marking tools
- For golf: premium rangefinder or personalized balls
- For gardening: Japanese pruning shears
- For photography: camera bag or photo printing credit
Consumables he'll actually enjoy
- Steak or seafood delivery
- Fancy olive oil and balsamic set
- Craft hot sauces
- Rare coffee or tea subscription
- Monthly snack box
- Wine or bourbon tasting set (if he drinks)
Nostalgic gifts
- Vinyl records from his favorite era
- A restored version of a childhood toy or collectible
- A coffee-table book about his favorite cars, bands, or sports team
- A framed newspaper from an important date in his life
If he truly has everything...
Some of the best gifts become:
- Spend a day together doing something he enjoys.
- Plan a surprise family dinner.
- Make him a book of letters from family members.
- Donate to a cause he cares about in his name.
- Create a "coupon" for an experience you'll do together (golf, fishing, hiking, road trip, baseball game, etc.).
A few questions can narrow this down dramatically:
- Roughly how old is your dad?
- What's your budget (around $50, $100, $250, or more)?
- What are his hobbies (golf, grilling, cars, technology, woodworking, outdoors, sports, etc.)?
- Is he the practical type, sentimental type, or someone who appreciates luxury?
