I tend to be an early shopper when it comes to gifts and I love searching for the perfect present whether it's a beautiful coffee table books or something more utilitarian like a great T-shirt or tool. As someone who’s known to have all her Christmas shopping done in October, it’s no surprise that I’m pretty punctual with other holidays, too, especially when it comes to the biggies like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
I realize that not everyone has the same chip I have in my brain that tells me I need to start shopping for my dad like, right now. But given shipping delays due to the pandemic, one month doesn't feel like a long time at all. So whether it’s a busy schedule or you're just overwhelmed with too many options, we've got the best last-minute gift ideas for your dad, grandad, or any father figure right here.
1. Invigorate Shower Steamers Gift Set, $28
Perhaps your dad enjoys a bit of aromatherapy at the end of a long day. In this case, these shower steamers in scents like cedar, orange, and pine are just the ticket. Plus, it’s a small gift you can wrap up in a flash.
2. The Sill Pet Friendly Plant Subscription, $55+/month
If it’s so last-minute that there’s not enough time to visit with a gift in hand, why not give your dad a monthly plant subscription that’ll start shortly thereafter? The Sill has two subscriptions and we're partial to the pet-friendly version that's perfect for the plant-doting dad who also has a dog or cat in tow. It ships out a small or medium non-toxic plant in a ceramic pot each month.
3. Newgate Wideboy Analog Alarm Clock, $49
Instead of traipsing through five antique stores searching for the perfect vintage clock, turn to this new-ish version, which will be a lot more efficient on your end. It looks exactly like the real deal for dads who just aren’t into digital.
4. 'There is No Substitute for Hard Work' Pennant, $26
For something that feels like it took weeks to make, but will ship a lot sooner than that, consider this old-school find from Oxford Pennant that's ideal for a home office.
5. Mapiful Customizable Zodiac Print, $39+
Give a personalized touch with a zodiac print that ships surprisingly quickly. You can customize the print however you want with your sign or his, or go wild with an inside joke.
6. Crate & Barrel Wood-Handled 9-Piece Barbecue Tool Set, $79.95
If his barbecues tools are looking worse for wear, look to this exquisite wood-handled nine-piece set, which can be picked up curbside for a really last-minute gift.
7. Barebones Living Vintage-Inspired Rechargeable Flashlight, $25+
You could scour Facebook Marketplace for a vintage flashlight for your outdoorsy dad and hope it still works. Or you could save yourself the time with a vintage-inspired rechargeable pick from Barebones, a perfect balance of form and function.
8. Mini Basketball Hoop, $60
Have favorite childhood memories of shooting hoops with your dad? Relive those fun moments with a mini basketball hoop that also happens to more grown-up than the one you two played with years ago. If it’s the very, very last minute, you can always expedite shipping.
9. Uncommon Goods Homemade Gin Kit, $50
If he's all about spending quality time together, try your hands at some homemade gin. The kit ships out in 24 hours, which gives you enough time to stop by the local liquor store for some vodka since it’s not included.
10. Anthropologie Levi Mugs, $48
If he's been drinking out of the same mugs since the early ‘80s, it’s time to refresh his collection with a new set. You can shop it online or pick up curbside from your local Anthropologie.
11. Crate & Barrel Infinity Round Picture Frames, $25+
For a thoughtful last-minute gift, grab a set of these oh-so-modern picture frames and then print pics from your home printer for a sweet display. Grandkids? Pets? Just you? Your dad will adore them all.
12. Kaffe Society: Scandinavian Baking Class, $61
For a fun gift that’ll be instantly delivered, how about a virtual cooking class? Uncommon Experiences has a wide selection of classes to choose from, including this one on Scandinavian baking. If he's more into drinks, hot sauce, or even stitching, there's a whole slew of classes over here.
13. Teakwood & Tobacco Soy Candle, $24
For dads who like to unwind by lighting a candle and sinking into a favorite chair, introduce him to the 100 percent soy candles handcrafted by P.F. Candle Co. This one carries woody aromas of teakwood and tobacco, and ships within two to three business days.
14. Loa Lava Stone Coasters, $19.95
Whether it’s his office, den, or just in the living room, your dad never seems to have a coaster handy. Remedy that with a set of coasters rendered in organic mountain lava, making them stylish and practical. Each one is unique, and they’ll ship quickly, too.
15. Bookstores, Stuart Husband and Horst A. Friedrichs, $29.60
A coffee table book is always a great last-minute gift idea, and this one is no exception. If your dad continually peruses bookstores, this one will be right up his alley.
16. Parachute Waffle Robe, $129
Soft and comforting, a bathrobe is an excellent last-minute gift that also happens to be incredibly thoughtful. This luxe one from Parachute is made of sumptuous 100 percent Turkish cotton, and is available for shipping or free curbside pick-up in major cities.
17. Apple TV+ Subscription, $4.99/month
While there's no physical gift, an Apple TV+ subscription is still just as thoughtful and practical—two of our biggest shopping parameters to check off. There’s so much good stuff on the streaming platform right now (like Ted Lasso and CODA, which just won Best Picture), so he can catch up on all the popular shows and movies. It's also just $4.99 a month after a free seven-day trial, making it a great budget-friendly gift that everyone can enjoy.
Written by: Shelby Deering
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