The 41 Best Son-in-Law Gifts for Any Occasion—Holidays and Birthdays Included
Finding a gift for your son-in-law or daughter-in-law suddenly makes shopping for your own child feel like a breeze, right? You want to purchase something that strikes the balance between personal but not intimate, useful but not boring, and thoughtful but not overly expensive. So, exactly what makes a good present for your child's significant other?
We've rounded up the best gift ideas for your son-in-law—whether he's future, new or long-established—to help you shop. Whatever his personality, interests or the gift-giving occasion, we're here to guide you toward that perfect present. Browse our top son-in-law gift ideas for the grill master, sports fan, avid hiker, coffee connoisseur and more, as well as meaningful presents to help you officially welcome him into the family, whether it's his wedding day or he's joining family Christmas plans.
1. A Push Pin Travel Map
If your son-in-law and his spouse are always jetting off to new places, this personalized travel map makes for a great holiday or birthday gift. It comes with a set of push pins, so he can easily mark the countries he's already visited (and the ones still on his bucket list). It can also be customized with names or a personal message for a thoughtful touch. The display-ready canvas is available in four different sizes, so you can easily find one to suit his home office or man cave.
2. Whiskey Samples from Vermont to Australia
Imagine this: It's a white Christmas and you're enjoying a cracking fire with family. Your son-in-law opens a sleek box emblazoned with his name to find not just one, but three small bottles of the worlds finest whiskeys inside. Each sip will keep him (and you, if he shares) blanketed in warmth, as rich flavors and smooth notes unfold on the tongue. He'll feel like a true connoisseur sampling each unique flavor, and thanks to the tasting notes and insider info, he'll have fun learning how to distinguish a barley whiskey from Melbourne from a Japanese malt.
3. Double-Walled Lowball Glasses
Old-fashioned drinkers like yourself know that nothing spoils a good cocktail faster than warming it up in your hands. So why not pass down some know-how (with a touch of style) to your son-in-law with these snazzy whiskey classes. They're double-walled to help keep his drink chill and scientifically designed to aerate the liquor for optimal aroma release. It's a son-in-law gift that's both functional and ever-so-slightly indulgent… just what a whiskey lover deserves.
4. His Own Signature Hot Sauce
This tasty gift is perfect for the son-in-law who spices up every meal—literally. This hot sauce kit has all the necessities (flavorful ingredients, six glass bottles and labels for creative sauce names) so he can mix up his own fiery condiments. While the kit comes with instructions, you can take it up a notch and pair it with a virtual live class so he can learn the art of chili sauce from an expert. Fair warning: he'll probably insist you be the first to taste his hot sauce masterpiece as a thank-you.
5. Hop Head Beer Brewing Kit
If you're not too keen on trying his hot sauce, how about sampling his homemade IPA? Brooklyn Brew Shop's beer making kits come with everything he needs to turn his kitchen into a craft brewery, from a glass fermentation jug to hops and yeast. He'll have a blast learning the brewing process, experimenting with flavors and, of course, sharing his creations.
6. A Gadget to Keep His Beer Cold
Upgrade your son-in-law's side table with this clever device. Not only is it a wireless charger, but it's also a temperature-regulating coaster that'll keep his drink hot or cool. Now he can kick back after work with a cold beer and his phone conveniently right next to him. Or he can keep it on his desk so his coffee is always warm—in fact, the gadget comes with a special mug for just that purpose.
7. Sleek and Smart Leather Wallet
How about something practical he can use when he's out and about? This premium leather wallet fits all the essentials while still maintaining a low profile. It's slim enough to fit in his pocket, durable enough for daily use, and handsome enough for spousal approval. Best of all, it has quick card access and will fan out his cards at the touch of a button and protects them all against RFID skimming. Bonus: It even has room for an optional tracking device to ensure he never loses his new favorite gift (or his license).
8. A Personalized Catchall Tray
If you're looking for a small gift for your new son-in-law on the wedding day, snag this small leather tray personalized with his initials. It's a great place to keep the rings before the ceremony; plus, he can continue using it at home after the wedding reception for easy storage of his wedding band, watch or keys.
9. Bluetooth Trackers for His Daily Essentials
If your son-in-law frequently asks, "Where did I put my keys?" (and you know this because your child often mentions it), then Tile's Bluetooth trackers are the perfect gift he didn't know he needed. He can attach one to his keys, slip it in his wallet or even stick it to the TV remote, ensuring he never misplaces his essentials again. With the Tile app on his phone, he can easily make his items ring when they go missing. If something is out of Bluetooth range, he can also view its last known location on a map.
10. Insulated Camp Mug for Coffee (or Ice Cream)
For the SIL who values a hot (or ice-cold) drink that actually stays that way, a YETI Rambler Mug is about to become his go-to. Whether he's taking his morning coffee to the job site (which could just be his office in the room over from the kitchen) or packing for a camping trip, this mug's double-wall vacuum insulation means his drink of choice stays at the perfect temperature. It's super durable too thanks to the stainless steel build, wide handles and splash-resistant lid.
11. A Coffee Set for Early Mornings
Searching for a holiday or birthday gift for your son-in-law? If he starts every day with a cup of coffee (or two, depending on his work schedule), you can't go wrong with this coffee gift set from Grounds & Hounds. Not only does it include three blends of organic coffee, but it also comes with a funky mug and a branded reusable grocery bag. Bonus: A percentage from every sale goes toward an animal welfare charity.
12. Pizza Maker For His Grill
Whether he's a seasoned chef or just a pizza enthusiast, this grill-friendly pizza maker makes delivery a thing of the past. He'll simply add toppings to a crust, place it all into the mini cast iron oven with the lid on, then pop it on the grill. In less than 10 minutes he'll have personal-size brick-oven style pizzas. Dinner party at his place soon, right?
13. Speciality Pizza Toppings
Step aside parmesan, red pepper flakes and ranch, there's a new pizza condiment in town. Brightland's Pizza Oil is a hot and herbaceous jalapeño and herb flavored olive oil that delivers an extra flavorful experience whether he's eating homemade 'za or delivery. As far as birthday or Christmas present ideas for a son-in-law go, this one will be requested again next year. (Psst: Especially if he cooks frequently for his in-laws.)
14. An Indoor Herb Garden
If your son-in-law loves cooking with fresh ingredients, consider this smart indoor garden for your next gifting occasion. The creative present lets him grow herbs, veggies, fruits and even flowers—like basil or chili peppers—at home by automating plant care (from light to water) so he barely has to lift a finger. It'll help him save money on groceries, plus it's just plain fun to watch in action.
15. A Personalized Wine Accessory Set
Here's a gift idea for the son-in-law who doubles as the family bartender: A wine accessory set shaped like an actual bottle of vino. This clever and fun present hides five essential pieces (a corkscrew, wine collar, pourer, foil cutter and bottle stopper) and can be printed with two lines of text for a personalized touch. Pair it with a bottle of bubbly for a practical holiday, wedding-day or birthday gift idea for your son-in-law that really pops.
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16. Speakers Designed for the Shower
Has your daughter, son or child ever remarked on how long their husband spends in the shower? Make his happy place an even better escape by gifting him a set of Bluetooth speakers designed to be used in water. This set of two waterproof speakers will provide a surround-sound experience, with built-in suction cups that easily stick to the wall (but can still be removed whenever he needs to recharge them) and controls to skip, pause and reverse songs when required. Plus, the LED lights will really help to set the scene for some uninterrupted R&R.
17. Shaving Essentials Kit
Encourage your son-in-law to get his self-care on with this gift set of skincare and shaving essentials, including a glycolic facial cleanser, a creamy shave lather and a hydrating moisturizer with built-in SPF. It's a winning Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or Christmas gift for your son-in-law that'll allow him to start the new year feeling as fresh as a daisy. Bonus points for the affordable price tag.
18. Soothing Neck and Back Massager
Being married to your kid and perhaps being the father to your grandchildren is no easy job. Help your son-in-law relax with a neck massager. Between the eight deep-kneading massage nodes with three strength levels and the built-in infrared advanced soothing heat function, alleviating stiff muscle and neck pain has never been easier. Whether you buy it as a birthday, holiday or Father's Day gift for your son-in-law, it's going to see lots of use.
19. A Cozy Loungewear Set
Does your family wear matching Christmas pajamas each year? Don't let your son-in-law miss out on the fun! This stylish loungewear set is made from luxuriously soft and eco-friendly modal fabric and comes in festive shades of red and forest green, as well as holiday patterns. The button-down top and relaxed jogger-style pants are super comfy (and stylish) and will look perfectly in-place in family photos.
20. A Historic Recipes Subscription
If your SIL is passionate about cooking, here's an idea that's a bit more creative than a new recipe book. This unique subscription will allow him to switch up his menu options and dive into history at the same time. Every month, he'll receive a cool replica of a handwritten recipe made by a well-known historical figure, like George Washington or Emily Dickinson. Choose a subscription length (six months or a full year) for a unique gift for your son-in-law's birthday or Christmas.
21. A Personalized Cast Iron Pan
Consider this personalized cast iron skillet if you're looking for an extra-special holiday, birthday or wedding gift for a future son-in-law who loves to cook. The bronzed base of the pan features a tree of life motif, along with two lines of text, such as his name, his birthday or wedding details. Ironware is already made to last (just like his love for your daughter, son or child), but the emblem makes it really heirloom-worthy. Pair it with a secret family recipe passed down from generation to generation for a gift that truly welcomes him to your crew.
22. Personalized Hardwood Cutting Board
A personalized cutting board is a tried-and-true gift idea, regardless of the occasion or recipient. Shop this one if you're stumped on what to get your son-in-law for Christmas, his birthday or another celebration. Whether he's the family grill master (check out the juice wells and grip handles) or enjoys entertaining (everyone will know who brought the beautiful charcuterie spread thanks to the two lines of custom text), this North American hardwood board will serve him well.
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23. Hockey Stick Grilling Utensils
Each of these grilling utensils has a one-of-a-kind handle: It's made from a repurposed hockey stick! The set includes a spatula fork, a bottle opener and a pair of tongs—basically everything your SIL needs to get his grill on at the next family gathering. Everyone will be really impressed with this cool gift for your son-in-law, whether you give it to him for Christmas, his birthday or another special occasion.
24. A Stylish BBQ Apron
If your son-in-law takes cooking or grilling seriously, this is the ultimate gift for his birthday, Christmas or Father's Day. This trendy apron is made from heavy waxed canvas and boasts premium vegan leather pockets for all his kitchen tools, making it a stylish (and practical) present he'll use a lot. Have it personalized with his name or initials for an extra thoughtful touch.
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25. A Personalized Golf Cooler
When it comes to picking out presents for your son-in-law, his favorite hobby or sport is a great place to start. If he's a regular on the golf course, this personalized cooler bag is something he'll use every time he hits the green. Fill it with his favorite sips and snacks and have the outside embroidered with his name for an especially thoughtful birthday or Christmas gift idea for your son-in-law.
26. Personalized Sports Towel
If he works up a sweat playing racquetball with you, then this towel is an essential addition to his sports bag. The microfiber towel includes a metal grommet and clip for attaching to his gear and can be embroidered with his name. After all, you don't want to mix up what you use to wipe off your face. It also works great for cleaning dirt off equipment. Now that's a sporty son-in-law gift idea.
27. Speciality Golf Polo
This polo is both a practical and funny gift for your son-in-law. It's made from buttery-soft, eco-friendly fabric that offers comfort while being anti-odor, moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant and providing UPF 50 (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) sun protection. The standout feature? A special pocket designed just for carrying a golf tee. Plus, it has a fun two-toned desert design.
28. A Self-Cleaning Water Bottle
If unique son-in-law gifts are what you're after, look no further than this clever reusable water bottle. It's insulated to keep his drink cold or hot all day and has a built-in LED light that acts as a water purifier and bottle cleaner, keeping every sip as fresh as the last. To top it all off, a percentage of all sales goes to nonprofit organizations dedicated to protecting the environment and providing safe drinking water to people worldwide.
29. A Versatile Overnight Backpack
This stylish backpack is designed to hold all your SIL's necessities, whether he's commuting to work or hopping on a plane to visit his favorite in-laws. There are two zippered compartments to separate his laptop and tech stuff from other valuables, along with internal pockets for his wallet, keys, water bottle and more. If that's not enough to convince you, it has padded back panels with lumbar support and contoured, rolled-edge shoulder straps for all-day comfort. If you're feeling extra generous, you can even fill it with his favorite snacks or a new notebook for the office. We'd argue it's one of the best gifts for your son-in-law who wishes he had a remote job.
30. The Chance to Learn a New Skill
If you're shopping for a son-in-law who has everything, experiential gifts are an excellent idea. Uncommon Experiences has dozens of virtual classes, from mixology and cooking to painting lessons and magic tricks, so you're sure to find an option that appeals to his interests. It'll be unlike any gift he's received before, and he might even let you sit in on the class with him for some in-law bonding.
31. A Cool Stadium Model
Are you shopping for a sports fanatic? Whether he loves football, baseball or basketball, FOCO has sets to build almost any arena out of LEGO. These building blocks aren't just for children, though—with over 900 pieces, this replica of Arrowhead Stadium (home to the Kansas City Chiefs) is a puzzle he can spend hours putting together. Simply choose his favorite team's home stadium for a great holiday or birthday present for your son-in-law.
32. Cards Inspired by His Favorite Film
Need a stocking stuffer for your son-in-law? These stunning playing cards are inspired by the iconic Star Wars franchise and come in two different editions: Light Side and Dark Side. The blue Light Side deck features Luke Skywalker's lightsaber, R2-D2 and fighters from the Rebel Fleet, while the black-colored Dark Side deck has Darth Vader's lightsaber, the Death Star and the Empire's fleet of starships. Everything about this unique son-in-law birthday or holiday gift is made for showing off, from the stunning foil packaging to the character-adorned cards.
33. Smartphone-Controlled Paper Airplane
This may be a surprise, but toys often make the best gifts for a son-in-law from his mother-in-law or father-in-law, especially if you're treating his kids to some super-cool playthings. (He wants to get in on the fun, too.) This smartphone-controlled "paper" airplane made from crash-proof carbon fiber, is a Bluetooth-enabled device, so he'll just need to download the app to commence takeoff.
34. An Indoor Mini Fireplace
If you're looking specifically for gift ideas for your son-in-law for Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, how about a gift that brings the ambiance of the holidays right into his home? This personal-sized concrete fireplace can be used indoors or outside to create a warm flame with just rubbing alcohol and a match. It's also food-safe, meaning he (and his spouse) can make s'mores anywhere.
35. A Multi-Purpose Tool
Whether your son-in-law is an avid backpacker or the neighborhood handyman, this stainless steel multi-tool will ensure he's equipped for almost any scenario—even if it's just opening a bottle. Available in six colors, it hides seven tools, including pliers, wire cutters, a combo knife, a carabiner and a large bit driver. You can even customize the knife blade with an image, text or a fun pattern for a practical and personalized son-in-law present.
36. An Upgraded Apple Watch Strap
Any SIL who wears an Apple watch will appreciate one of these sleek stainless steel straps. While it looks luxe, it's water- and scratch-resistant, so even if he wears it every day, everywhere (which you know he does), it'll hold up beautifully. It's available in four versatile colorways and even comes with a link removal tool so he can adjust it to his wrist for a perfect fit. He'll be making the swap right away.
37. Beer History Pint Glasses
If the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of your son-in-law's favorite things is beer, these unique pint glasses will be a fitting gift. They can be purchased individually or as a set of four, with each featuring facts on popular beer styles, including IPAs, pale ales, pilsners and lagers. Every beer shared will now also be a trivia lesson.
38. A Craft Beer Subscription
How about a beer subscription for your zythophile son-in-law? Original Craft Beer Club will send him a monthly or quarterly delivery of delicious brews from the country's best independent brewers. Each box includes 12 or 24 beers from different regions in the US, along with background info about the breweries, tasting notes and pairing recipes. It's a refreshing holiday or birthday gift for a son-in-law that'll help get the party started.
39. A Personalized Whiskey Dispenser
This thoughtful son-in-law wedding gift will certainly make him feel special, especially if he likes toasting big moments with a glass of whiskey. The wooden drink dispenser can be personalized with any detail, such as his name (and your child's), their wedding date or a funny message. It's also a practical present that'll elevate his home bar to the next level. Want to really impress him? Pair it with a bottle of bourbon you can sip together on the big day to welcome him into the family.
40. Smart Car Diffuser
This isn't your average car air freshener; it's a sleek, app-controlled diffuser that allows him to choose from high-quality luxury scents and adjust the fragrance strength and diffuser timing to suit his preferences. Whether he's commuting, driving the kids around or going on a road trip, this gift for your son-in-law will elevate every drive.
41. Smart Bird Feeder
Ahh, spring. With blooming flowers and chirping birds arriving in time for your son-in-law's birthday, it's the perfect time to celebrate. Give him a front-row seat to the season with a bird feeder equipped with a camera. It can capture photos of the feathered visitors, allowing him to see who's stopping by his garden at any time and learn more about them through the app. Of course, he'll receive real-time alerts whenever a guest arrives—even if it's just a squirrel! This is a special birthday gift idea for the guy who loves nature and gadgets, and proudly considers himself a birder.