Most "gifts for him" lists are the same six novelty items. The useful question is narrower: what does he already use every day, and what version of it is he refusing to replace? That is usually the gift.
Prices are approximate and set by the retailer. We shortlist these ourselves.
Everyday carry he will not upgrade himself
- Bellroy Hide & Seek wallet — Melbourne-designed, and the wallet in his pocket is probably five years old.
- Pocket multitool — the gift he will mention six months later.
- Leather key cover — small, cheap, quietly good.
- Rechargeable pocket torch — deeply unglamorous, constantly used.
If he is outdoors, camping or fishing
- Insulated thermos flask — for early starts and long drives.
- Packable rain jacket — the thing he borrows from someone else every trip.
- Rechargeable head torch — for anyone who sets up camp after dark.
- Hard cooler esky — a big gift that gets used every summer for a decade.
If he is in the shed or the garage
- Brushless drill driver kit — the practical big-ticket pick.
- Socket and spanner set — fills the gap in almost every toolbox.
- Stainless BBQ tool set — cheap upgrade to something he does weekly.
If he would rather eat, drink or listen
- Starward Two-Fold Australian whisky — Australian-made and a genuine step up from the usual bottle.
- Craft beer tasting pack — good for someone who likes trying rather than collecting.
- Album on vinyl — pick a record with a story attached to the two of you.
- Plunger and grinder set — for the person still using pre-ground coffee.
If you want him out of the house
- V8 supercar hot laps — for the milestone birthday.
- Brewery tour and tasting — a low-key day out that suits most ages.
- Beginner surf lesson — best given with a date already picked.
Make next year easier
Add him to Get Ahead with his interests and budget and the picks update through the year. Related: gifts for Dad and top retirement experiences.
