It occurs to me that, as a new(ish) father, and someone who reviews products for a living, I am a nightmare to get gifts for. I’m not alone. Most of my friends have no idea what to get their dad, and end up brainstorming in group chats with anyone they can get their hands on.
Fear not, I’m here to make gifting a little easier this year (or at the very least, contribute to the brainstorm). Below are some of the best WIRED-tested gifts for the dad or father figure in your life, including travel gadgets, dad-approved apparel, and best-in-class earbuds. I’ve personally gifted a few of these to my dad, with great results.
Updated September 2026: I completely overhauled this guide with 27 new picks, including tech accessories, headphones, dad-approved apparel, fitness gear, and more.
For the Travel Dad
Anker
Nano Power Bank With Instacord
This is my favorite power bank, full stop. If I am traveling, going abroad, camping, or just headed to work, I take this power bank. It’s the built-in, retractable USB-C cord that does it for me—it’s there when you need it, and out of the way when you don’t. It’s small enough to pack in any bag and light enough that I barely notice it. Plus, it has an extra USB-A and USB-C port built in, so you can charge multiple devices at once if you want.
Apple
AirTag (2nd Generation)
I’ve lost count of how many times my Apple AirTag Bluetooth tracker has saved me from the hassle of looking for something. Keys: located. Luggage: tracked. Backpack: safe and sound. Sure, it’s not the most exciting gift in the world, but it’s the epitome of useful and practical. As long as they use an iPhone, that is.
GoRuck
Huckberry X GoRuck GR1 Slick Backpack (26L)
“If you told me I could only have one bag in my life, the 26L version of the GoRuck GR1 would be my pick,” says WIRED operations manager and outdoor expert Scott Gilbertson (he’s also a dad). It’s absolutely in buy-it-for-life territory, built with ultra-durable, water-resistant 1000D Cordura and tested by US Army Special Forces. It’s technically made for rucking, but it can do basically anything you throw at it, travel included. This Huckberry version omits the exterior MOLLE webbing, giving it a sleeker look. You can read more in Gilbertson’s full GoRuck GR1 review.
Rimowa
Original Cabin
The best aluminum carry-on suitcase. Aluminum luggage is sleek and durable, with a shell that just looks better with little dents and dings (unlike polycarbonate luggage). Aluminum itself is recyclable and repairable, and the clamps that hold the Rimowa together won’t fail or break as easily as your typical zipper. Rimowa is obviously the “it” brand for this type of luggage, but you can get similar options from Away and Level8 for well under half the price.
