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Updated Mar 06, 202540 Holiday and Birthday Gifts for Your Brother-in-Law That He Hasn't Seen Before
There's more on our list than just whiskey stones.
Photos, clockwise: Amazon, Uncommon Goods, BlendJet, '47 Brand
Picture this: Your brother-in-law is coming over for Christmas and your spouse could not be more excited. You're happy too, but there's even more holiday planning to think about now. First off, you'll need to double all your recipes. Next, you'll need a gift for your brother-in-law, and some stocking stuffers. Which might remind you that he'll need a stocking and a special ornament for the tree. [Take a deep breath in.] Buying a gift for your brother-in-law can feel a little intimidating no matter what occasion you're shopping for. Thankfully, we're here to help. Here's what to get your brother-in-law for Christmas, Hanukkah, his birthday or just because he's the coolest.
When it comes to finding gifts for your in-laws, we recommend you consider their style, hobbies and interests while shopping. A gift that reflects your brother-in-law's personality shows how well you listen and care about him and his pursuits. Of course, that doesn't necessarily mean cliché guy gifts. If he likes an old-fashioned, swap traditional whiskey stones for a monthly liquor subscription. After all, edible gifts are always a hit. Whether he's tech-obsessed, loves the outdoors or is an avid sports fan, there's a unique gift for your brother-in-law on our list that you—and he—haven't seen before. We've even thought of gift ideas for the brother-in-law who has everything, so you know you're pretty much guaranteed to find a fitting present for the holidays, his birthday and beyond.
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Our 10 Favorite Brother-in-Law Gifts
All year long, The Knot Editors research and review products to give you the best advice on what to get your brother-in-law for Christmas, Hanukkah, his birthday or another celebration. So, here are our top gift suggestions for a brother-in-law that'll make him feel appreciated and special, no matter the occasion.
- Holiday: Cozy Earth Men's Ultra-Soft Bamboo Hoodie, $160
- Birthday: Mark & Graham BattleChip Golf Game Set, from $169
- Future BIL: Grounds & Hounds Three Blend Starter Kit, $33
- New BIL: Wonderbly How to Make a Name-tini, $30
- Funny: SEmbroideredBoutique The Fun Uncle Embroidered Sweatshirt, from $32
- Unique: Uncommon Goods Around the World Brainteasers, $20
- Cool: Uncommon Goods Smartphone-Controlled Paper Airplane, from $60
- Luxury: Flaviar Monthly Whiskey Subscription, from $190
- BIL Who Has Everything: Tinggly Adventure Awaits Gift Voucher, $69
- Last-Minute: ClassPass Gift Card, from $10
The Best Gifts for a Brother-in-Law
You don't just have a brother-in-law; you have an awesome one. If the options above aren't quite hitting the mark, don't worry at all. We have plenty of fantastic gift ideas for your brother-in-law, waiting for you below.
1. Paper Airplane for Adults
Photo: Uncommon Goods
No matter their age, everyone enjoys unwrapping a toy—especially your fun-loving brother-in-law. This smartphone-controlled paper airplane won't just entertain him, it'll also inspire some quality time with his nieces and nephews. Just fold the "paper" (aka crash-proof carbon fiber), attach the Bluetooth-enabled device, download the app then commence takeoff. He can control every move and trick at up to 25 mph. It'll be the best gift of the year.
2. The New York Times Mini Crossword Page-A-Day Calendar
Photo: Amazon
Does he share his Mini Crossword (and Wordle and Connections) results in the family group chat before you're even dressed for the day? Then this calendar is a good gift for your brother-in-law. Every day of the new year, he'll get a second mini crossword to test his knowledge—while keeping track of the date.
3. Hot Sauce-Making Experience
Photo: Uncommon Goods
Bring the heat to the party with this hot sauce-making kit. If your brother-in-law is constantly pushing the Scoville scale, he'll love the chance to make his own hot sauce and really get creative with the pungency. It includes fiery ingredients for flavor, six bottles for serving, labels for creative sauce names and instructions. Take it up a notch and pair it with a live virtual class so he can learn the art of chili sauce from an expert.
4. Boozy Jerky Snack Sticks
Photo: Booze Dogs
Whether he needs an energy boost on a hiking adventure or a tasty treat to share at an NFL watch party, this gift set is perfect for your foodie brother-in-law. With 30 servings of bourbon, gin and rum-infused jerky-style steak strips and sticks, it delivers a bold punch to his taste buds. Plus, with two-day express shipping available to all 50 states, it's even an awesome gift for your brother-in-law at the last-minute.
5. Wooden Tumbler That Make Whiskey Taste Even Better
Photo: SipDark
This ultra-unique tumbler makes a thoughtful present for the brother-in-law who prides himself on his whiskey collection. Made from carefully aged solid wood, this one-of-a-kind cup has a wide base to let aromas expand and is lined with honey beeswax to bring out the complex flavors of his favorite liquor. It's the best way to sip a nightcap.
6. Whiskey Subscription
Photo: Mash & Grape
This whiskey subscription is sure to help stock his bar cart. They source from world-class small distillers and independent bottlers to find the most exceptional, exclusive and sometimes rare spirits. Every three months, he'll receive a shipment of an expertly selected full-sized bottle as well as a smaller tasting box with three mini samples of new types of whiskey, so he can sip, savor and learn.
7. Globally-Inspired Brainteasers
Photo: Uncommon Goods
Provide hours of entertainment—or frustration—with this holiday or birthday gift for your brother-in-law. The set of five wooden puzzles will challenge him to reverse engineer the Greek water mill, unlock the Roman keys and tackle even more brain teasers inspired by great civilizations. He'll be fidgeting with them all day at work.
8. Ultra-Soft Hoodie
Photo: Cozy Earth
Does your BIL need a new WFH 'fit? Made from breathable, lightweight, stretchy and incredibly soft bamboo viscose, it's the perfect sweatshirt for year-round wear. This slim fit features a drawstring hoodie, kangaroo pocket and wrist cuffs for a cozy yet polished look (even on Zoom) that comes in seven colorways.
Use the code THEKNOT for 30% off. (Excludes their serenity silk apparel collection and all cashmere.)
9. Ballcap for Dog Lovers
Photo: '47 Brand
For the golden retriever uncle, a classic ball cap featuring an embroidered pup detail makes for a delightful gift. It's especially perfect for those mornings when he needs to hide his bed head while taking his dogs out. This particular cap is crafted from distressed charcoal cotton twill, giving it a timeless look, complete with an embroidered German Shepherd. You can explore options for corgis, beagles, chocolate labs and more, ensuring you find the perfect match for his personality and canine companion.
10. Tasty Coffee Sampler
Photo: Grounds & Hounds
Edible gifts are a clever idea for a BIL you don't know super well. This delicious coffee sampler set from Grounds & Hounds features three of the brand's most popular blends: Morning Walk, Paper & Slippers and Alpha Blend. Choose from whole beans, ground coffee or single-serve pods to suit his preferred brewing method. Best of all, Grounds & Hounds donates a portion of every sale to animal rescue organizations that provide safe havens for dogs between homes.
11. Ceramic Bacon Cooker
Photo: FollettePotteryLLC
Wakey, wakey, eggs and bacon! He doesn't have to wait for the weekend when he has a meeting-free morning to cook up his favorite breakfast. This handmade ceramic bacon cooker is microwavable so he can cook up to eight slices of bacon easy-peasy. It even has an integrated tray to catch drippings with a spout so he can pour out the grease while it's still hot.
12. Perfect Accessories for His Bloody Marys
Photo: Uncommon Goods
If he's all about a good Sunday Bloody Mary, he'll smile when he opens this present. The set of stainless steel cocktail branches hold all the fixings for the ultimate beverage—we're talking pickles, peppers and celery. He can whip them out for everything from at-home brunch to a TV sports marathon.
13. Battlechip Golf Game Set
Photo: Mark & Graham
This brother-in-law gift is for the Masters green jacket hopeful who needs to work on his chip shots. "Battlechip" is a game similar to cornhole, in which players aim for a target a few feet away, except instead of tossing bean bags they'll hit (foam) golf balls. It's not just a fun lawn game, it'll also be a beneficial way to practice his golf game.
14. Two-Toned Golf Shirt
Photo: Kenny Flowers
Yes, that's a pocket specifically for a golf tee! This red polo features a striking two-toned tiger pattern, perfect for making a statement on the putting green. Crafted from buttery-soft, eco-friendly fabric, it offers four-way stretch for comfort and flexibility. Plus, it's anti-odor, moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant and provides UPF 50 sun protection.
15. Multipurpose Tool Without Any of the Bulk
Photo: Walmart
No matter where he is, he'll never be unprepared again with the help of this wallet-sized tool. The steel card is actually 18 (yes 18!) things in one, including a ruler, fruit peeler, can opener, phone stand and screwdriver. It slips right into the card pocket of his wallet and it won't rust or bend, even with regular use. How's that for a useful gift idea for your brother-in-law?
16. Truly Versatile Mug
Photo: Fellow
Travel mugs are getting a major facelift thanks to Fellow, an innovative coffee equipment company. This sleek tumbler has a lid that can be opened with the flick of a thumb, which allows him to sip with ease no matter how full his hands are. Don't worry, despite this versatility, it's splash-proof and locks in heat. Talk about a cool present for your brother-in-law, the ultimate multi-tasker.
17. Slim First Aid Kit
Photo: Uncommon Goods
Safety first! Slip this handy little gadget into your brother-in-law's stocking as a practical Christmas gift that'll bring relief to the whole family. The LED flashlight has four modes—high, medium, red and SOS settings—and is hollow to fit storage tins with first aid supplies. Think: a one-liter Whirl-Pak®️ water bag, a compass, a wire saw, reflective trail markers and waterproof matches.
18. Tabletop Firepit
Photo: Amazon
The lightweight, compact fire pit ignites effortlessly with just a match or lighter, producing minimal ash and smoke for easy cleanup. To extinguish the fire, he simply covers it back up. Made from nontoxic soy wax, it's safe for food preparation—perfect for roasting marshmallows. Whether used for heat and cooking on a camping trip or creating a cozy ambiance at home, this versatile fire pit makes a great birthday, Hanukkah or Christmas gift for your brother-in-law.
19. Nick Offerman Memoir
Photo: Amazon
Looking for a brother-in-law gift that sparks curiosity and laughter? Check out "Where the Deer and the Antelope Play" by American actor, writer, humorist and carpenter Nick Offerman. The book combines personal anecdotes, reflections on nature and social commentary to encourage readers to embrace the wilderness and appreciate simple pleasures. Whether he's a seasoned adventurer or just enjoys a good read, this book is sure to be a hit!
20. Backyard BBQ Entertainment
Photo: Uncommon Goods
Lawn games are all the rage in the summer, but that doesn't mean you can't have some competitive fun with your BIL in the winter. This handy tabletop cornhole game comes with adjustable launchers, eight bean bags and four score pegs so it can be played indoors anywhere you have a flat surface. It's sure to be a hit Hanukkah or Christmas gift idea for your brother-in-law and his friends.
21. Craft Beer Delivered Right to His Door
Photo: Craft Beer Club
Wish your brother-in-law a Merry Christmas and a Hoppy New Year with a subscription to Craft Beer Club. They'll send him a monthly, bimonthly or quarterly delivery of delicious brews to help expand his palette. Each box includes 12 beers from different regions in the US, plus background info about the breweries, tasting notes and pairing recipes. We'll toast to that.
22. Place to Track His (Beer) Travels
Photo: Uncommon Goods
Help him track his state-wide bar crawl for the best breweries and, thus, beer, with this interactive gift for your brother-in-law. The wooden "map" has slots for him to store beer caps from all over a particular state. It's a clever present for a craft beer connoisseur who's always sipping new brews—and you don't personally need to know the difference between ales, lagers and stouts to gift it.
23. Monogrammed Forged Steak Brand
Photo: Williams Sonoma
If your brother-in-law is the family grill master, this monogrammed steak brand is the ultimate stamp of authority. You can choose single, double or triple initials, hand-forged in iron by a Texas cattle rancher, to perfectly sear his steaks and chops. If you're searching for a birthday gift for your brother-in-law in the summer, a backyard BBQ featuring this steak brand—wrapped with a bow—would be a grate idea.
24. Sichuan Flavor Pantry Staples
Photo: Fly By Jing
If you're looking for a hot present for your brother-in-law, look no further than Jing's ultimate Sichuan flavor set. This collection features the very best of Sichuan flavors, guaranteed to brighten and embolden any dish, anytime. Inside, he'll find Sichuan Chili Crisp, Chengdu Crunch, Sweet & Spicy Zhong, Xtra Spicy Chili Crisp, Sichuan Gold and a perfectly balanced Chili Crisp Vinaigrette—all designed to elevate his culinary creations. Plus, it comes with a hand-crafted Salsero Spoon, adding a touch of artistry to his kitchen. Pro tip if you're thinking of this gift idea for your brother-in-law for Christmas, wait to hand it over until after he cooks the big holiday dinner if you're not in the mood for spice.
25. Tinggly Experience Voucher
Photo: Tinggly
One of the coolest parts about your brother-in-law is his adventurous spirit. He always has a new story about his travels to share—and now, that tale will be a direct result of your thoughtful gift. A Tinggly experience voucher will give him access to thousands of one-of-a-kind excursions around the world, like paddleboarding in the Florida Keys, white water rafting in New Zealand and a food tour in Thailand, just to scratch the surface. It never expires, so he can cash it in right away to play tourist in his hometown or hang onto it until his next international trip. Either way, adventure awaits with this cool gift for a brother-in-law.
26. New Favorite Backpack
Photo: The North Face
Looking for a birthday, Hanukkah or Christmas present idea for a brother-in-law who's always out and about? Hikers, frequent beachgoers and all-around adventurers will get tons of use out of this backpack. It has a dedicated laptop pocket if he likes to bring a backpack to work, as well as 360-degree reflectivity if he's out at night. Want even more good news? This backpack is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association and features a padded back and lumbar panel, making it super comfortable for your brother-in-law to use.
27. Wallet for Serious Sports Fans
Photo: Uncommon Goods
If he enjoyed football even before Taylor Swift started dating Travis Kelce, then he'll be obsessed with this awesome wallet. The inside pockets are lined with pieces of a real, game-worn jersey from the team he follows. (Seriously—it's authorized by the NFL.) Meanwhile, the outside comes debossed with the team name. The wallet also has a sticker your BIL can use to look up who wore the jersey and when. Better yet, it's gift-wrapped with an authentication card. (Psst, there are also wallets with NHL and MLB jerseys.) How's that for a seriously great brother-in-law gift?
28. Pickleball Pint Glass Set
Photo: Uncommon Goods
If he's adamant that he spearheaded the pickleball movement, then this is one of the best gifts for your brother-in-law. After a match (or three) of pickleball, he can unwind with his teammate (or competitor) using these funny pint glasses. They feature an illustration of pickles playing pickleball for a bit of wordplay.
29. No More Neck Pain
Photo: Ostrichpillow
Here's a handy gadget that makes a good present for the brother-in-law who spends a lot of time at his desk. This weighted neck pillow can be warmed in the microwave and placed over his shoulders for instant relief. The gentle heat and pressure is designed to reduce tension in the neck and shoulders after a long day of meetings. Ahhh!
30. Reusable Earplugs
Photo: Loop Earplugs
He's thrilled to be an uncle, but let's face it… newborns can be quite loud! That's why earplugs make an incredibly thoughtful gift for your brother-in-law when he stays over. With a variety of ear tip sizes for the perfect fit, these earplugs effectively muffle unwanted noise, helping him achieve deeper focus, enjoy calmer travels and take peaceful naps. Plus, they're reusable for years to come. This is also a great gift to get your brother-in-law who loves concerts and raves, ensuring he can enjoy his hobbies without damaging his hearing.
31. "Fun Uncle" Crewneck
Photo: SEmbroideredBoutique
Get ready for the cutest holiday photos ever! This present for your brother-in-law pairs perfectly with his Christmas pajamas, making it clear to the whole family that he's the coolest one. Available in 10 neutral colors, it features the embroidered phrase "The Fun Uncle" along with the year he earned that title, all in a thread color of your choice.
32. Gift Box of Surprise Goodies
Photo: GQ
Still unsure about what would be a top gift for your brother-in-law might be for the holidays or his birthday? Let the editors at GQ pick for you. Every three months, they select their favorite apparel, grooming and lifestyle essentials to pack and ship straight to his door. Just make sure to add a note with your Christmas or birthday wishes. Plus, he'll get exclusive offers and discounts in addition to discovering fun new products. It's an especially great present for your brother-in-law if he never even knows what he wants himself.
33. Slippers He Won't Be Embarrassed to Wear
Photo: L.L. Bean
Cozy items are a foolproof Hanukkah or Christmas present idea for your brother-in-law. (After all, it's the season for staying warm indoors.) These beloved slippers will help him do just that all winter long (and maybe all spring and all fall…you get the gist). They pair memory foam footbeds with plush shearling lamb fur for footwear that feels like a cloud. These shoes are durable too. The rubber soles can withstand outdoor use, so they're perfect for casual strolls around the neighborhood to walk off some holiday cookies.
34. Hobby-Inspired Cocktail Shaker
Photo: Viski
Combine your brother-in-law's fascination with space and his talent for mixology with this retro-inspired rocket cocktail shaker. Made from stainless steel, it holds 24 ounces of liquid to make a batch of fun and on theme cocktail recipes, like a Cosmo. It also includes a stand, a strainer and a lid.
35. Funny Cutting Board
Photo: Amazon
Complete his bar set with this is funny gift for your brother-in-law: a small cutting board shaped like a ninja perfect for preparing garnishes. It even pairs with a long sword—er, knife. He could also use it as a serving board for sushi!
36. Personalized Cocktail Recipe Book
Photo: Wonderbly
We've found an unbeatable personalized gift for your brother-in-law. This cocktail recipe book isn't just any ordinary collection of drink recipes—his name and a few personality traits are sprinkled throughout the pages, as well as his preferred flavors so every concoction is meant for him. Think: Alex-arita and Joe-Groni. It's an especially clever Christmas present for your brother-in-law if he's in charge of keeping everyone's glasses full. And playing mixologists together can be a great way to bond with your future or new BIL.
Use code KNOT20 for 20% off one book.
37. Tracker for Your Forgetful Brother-in-Law
Photo: Amazon
If your bonus sibling is a little bit forgetful, this is a gift for your bro-in-law he'll really benefit from. Tile Mate makes Bluetooth trackers that can hook onto keys, stick to phone cases or slide into his wallet so he'll never misplace his essentials again—or even if he does, he can find them. We recommend getting your really scatterbrained brother-in-law a set of four. They'll slip easily into his stocking.
38. Travel Tech Organizer
Photo: CALPAK
If your brother-in-law is constantly traveling for work (or coming for a visit), this handy tech organizer will make his life a whole lot easier. Though small, it has some major organizational features, like multiple padded zippered pockets, elastic cord loops and mesh panels designed to keep all his cables, chargers and headphones untangled and easily accessible. Plus, it comes in some seriously fun patterns and colors.
39. His Newest Gym Buddy
Photo: BlendJet
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day—especially for the BIL who starts his day at the gym. This portable blender from BlendJet may be small, but it's got a lot of power to whip up his protein shakes and nutrient-packed smoothies. It's even self-cleaning, so he can easily use it every day. Choose from dozens of colors and patterns, including Disney-themed designs featuring Buzz Lightyear, Ninja Turtles or Olaf for a super-fun brother-in-law gift.
40. ClassPass Gift Card
Photo: ClassPass
The beauty of gift cards lies in their flexibility, allowing recipients to choose how to use them. For the fitness-focused brother-in-law in your life, a ClassPass gift card is an outstanding choice. He can redeem credits at numerous gyms and studios nationwide, making it easy to fit in a workout—even while on vacation. Whether he prefers weight training, cycling or yoga, he has the freedom to explore various fitness routines without being tied to just one. Plus, he can also use the credits for massages, facials, haircuts and other wellness services. It's the perfect way to support his passion for health and well-being! And can be snagged at even the eleventh hour.
