Men are notoriously hard to buy for. Not any more! No matter what he's into we've found the perfect gifts for men he most definitely won't be donating to Oxfam!
It's no urban myth that we tend to dread looking for that perfect present for the men in our lives, so we've put together our handy guide to the dos and don'ts to bear in mind when buying gifts for men.
Gifts For Men Dos:
Do try and give him something he wouldn't buy himself
When buying gifts for men experience gifts, or luxurious treats that he might not fork out for himself are always a good idea. Let's face it, it'll hardly be on top of his list to run out and book helicopter flying lessons for himself!.
Do opt for the classic gift option
His favourite book or album in a specialised format (an anniversary edition or vinyl) always make a great gift for him, and he'll appreciate that you put thought and care in giving him something he'll always remember.
Do remember that its okay to play it safe
If you know that he'll love something, don't be afraid to play it safe. If he loves sport, buy him a gift of tickets to see his favourite team; if he's a movie buff get him that box set he keeps meaning to get. Even you're not exactly filled with joy at the thought of spending all day in a field/ watching re-runs of Top Gear, he'll love it so your job is done.
Do keep it simple
We don't mean simple as in buying him a pair of socks- more that you don't have to spend hours making a handmade birthday card to show you care. It's the thought that counts and if you stick to what you know he'll like (you'll most likely have an in depth knowledge of this) chances are he'll be very happy.
Do stay away from gifts for him that you think might be a bad idea
Chances are, your instinct's will be spot on.
Gifts for Men Don'ts:
Don't give him anything with an obvious monetary value
Never, ever give cash!. Not only is it supremely impersonal, it shows a distinct lack of imagination. Plus do you really want him to know the exact monetary worth that you put on him?.
Don't give him anything his Mother would buy him (unless you are his mother!)
For obvious reasons!
Don't get him something you wish he would wear/use
In other words, don't buy him a gift that you think might encourage him to change. It may seem like a bright idea, but there's a good chance it could backfire and you don't want to get a bad rep for what we're sure are your super gift buying skills. The best gifts for him are gifts that he (rather than you!) likes.
Don't over think it
If you're feeling super stressed about it, trust your instincts and go with what you know he'll enjoy. Choosing a gift for him should be a pleasure, not a chore.
This retro-style thermal flask will keep cricket fan's drinks hot or cold. A lovely practical (and nostalgia inducing) gift for little boys of a certain age.
Price: £14.95 From Bloomsbury StoreKeep cool and dry on the campsite with this lightweight pac-a-parka. In a dark khaki with metal trim detailing, the garment is stylish and functional and it even folds away...
Price: Was £30.00 Now £6.00 From TopmanA book full of ideas and advice that no gardener will want to be without. Your green-fingered loved one will enjoy these traditional ’recipes’ and trusted hints.
Price: £4.50 From Copper Beech PublishingThe innovative Kitchen Sink is a super-lightweight camping bowl that’s just made to make braving it outdoors a doddle. Designed to pop up when filled with water, the sink...
Price: £17.00 From Bell Tent UKThis dutch oven tripod is just what you need to cook up a storm on the campsite. Crafted from rolled steel, each of the three legs are 43.5" long and join at...
Price: £30.00 From Bell Tent UKHelp the homeless when you buy this cardboard box print duvet. Sleep under a cardboard box while the profits go to UK homeless.
Price: £33.95 From Dutch By DesignMake sure the coffee lover in your life is au fait with the correct coffee drinking etiquette with this charming book. The perfect accompaniment to a steaming hot cup of java.
Price: £4.50 From Copper Beech PublishingTurn it up to eleven and dish up some rock 'n' roll with this six-stringed spatula from Gama-Go. A great gift for music lovers to help them feel more at home in the kitchen!
Price: £7.00 From ArtransmitteSleek and stylish laptop sleeve to keep your laptop safe inside it's sheepskin interior and beige leather exterior. Made for Macbook Air, Macbook Pro and all netbooks and laptops.
Price: €180.00-€200.00 (approx. £159.46-£177.18) From Aviation LuggageIf you find it hard to communicate before your morning coffee, then let this nifty ransom mug do the talking while you sit back and soak up the caffeine. The polymer stickers...
Price: £13.00 From The LetteroomWellies on feet? Check. Flowers in hair? Check. Beer in hand? Check. Smile on Face? Check. Festival fans will love this delicious Festival going iced gingerbread man. Almost too...
Price: £6.00 From BiscuiteersThe perfect gift for beans and chips addicts, this Damien Hirst designed t-shirt is based on his iconic 'The Last Supper' prints. The perfect prescription for the birthday boy...
Price: £46.00 From Other CriteriaUnless your his mother you should never buy him real pants as a present and that's why this Jocks and Socks tin from Biscuiteers is so perfect. Let's face it no one really wants...
Price: £37.50 From BiscuiteersHang this beautifully detailed street-level map at home or work. Cycling routes, quieter routes, greenways through parks, alternatives to busy roads and more are highlighted as...
Price: £36.00 From The Future Mapping CompanySophie Conran brings some style to the campsite with this nifty camping kit. The handy kit features the essential luxuries that you need to survive the outdoors including an...
Price: £31.99 From FireboxWith an awesome output capacity of 85 decibels, this portable wireless speaker in black diamond is quite extraordinary for it’s compact size. Delivering crystal clear...
Price: £117.61 From AmazonMen may be notoriously difficult to shop for, but our guide to special gifts for men makes it easy.
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