As a rule, men are notoriously hard to buy for.  It seems that the few things they know they want are generally pricey electronics.  (And sometimes they’re particular about features, so we’re not even sure how to buy the right thing.)  And because they don’t “share” as much about themselves as most women, it’s harder to know what they really like.  But they aren’t impossible (!), so here are some ideas beyond the boring ties and socks.

• toys!-  Most of the men we know love toys.  This is especially true of things that either shoot or require batteries. 🙂  (We women really need to learn to take ourselves less seriously!)
• practical needs- Buying a woman a blender may be a major faux pas, but this sort of thing is generally not the case for men.  If they can use it, they will typically appreciate it.  This is especially the case if it will save them having to buy it.
• food-  What is his favorite candy or snack?  Is he a “foodie”?  Does he drink coffee, or would he appreciate some gourmet jerky?
• reading material-  If you know his interests, you can get him a book (if he’s a reader) or a magazine subscription.  (Most men who “don’t read” will still read a magazine, because it’s in small, less time-consuming chunks.)
• tools-  Yes, it’s cliché.  But, yes, it’s also usually a winner.  (Unless this is a hint.  Then it might fall into the same category as buying a woman a blender.)
• flashlight-  In our house, we never seem to have enough of these.  And they are always popular – especially the pocket variety, or anything bendy.
• lingerie-  Obviously, this one only works if it is your man you’re buying the gift for!  But most men will appreciate it if you buy some undies for you to wear. 🙂
• shaving kit or electric razor/trimmer
• accessories for their electronics- (Think iPod cozies, laptop cases, etc.)
• games-  Computer games are the preference around here, because they tend to go with “me time.” But family games are appreciated, as well.
• movies and music-  If you know his preferred genres, artists, or actors, this is a fun option, too.

When shopping retail online, remember to go through a site like Cashbaq, Big Crumbs, ShopatHome, Ebates, or Mr. Rebates, so you can get a percentage back! Especially if you’re buying a lot of gifts, this can really add up at this time of year. (If you have the time, compare them. Different ones have different retailers, and some that overlap have varying cash back amounts for the same one.)

See the other posts in this series:

• Gifts that Give Back
• Gifts to Make