To say that retirement is a big deal in a man’s life would be an enormous understatement.
Think about it: After devoting the better part of his time on earth to the working world, he can finally just kick back, relax, and enjoy his favorite hobbies.
[Image: Lucas Alexander/Unsplash]
No more 9 to 5; no more daily grind.
Retirement is more than a special occasion; it’s a major milestone!
And as such, it deserves to be not just recognized, but celebrated — and the perfect way to celebrate a guy who’s hanging it up is with presents. Good ones.
Of course, therein lies the problem, because what do you get the guy who seemingly has everything?
(No, the answer is not “a gift card”.)
Fortunately for you (and retiring guys everywhere), I’ve put together a list of the most thoughtful, practical, and unique gifts you can give a man who’s saying “later, sucker!” to working life.
And to make things even easier, it’s organized by budget, from cheap and cheerful to big-ticket items.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect retirement gift for your boss of 10 years, or a funny gag gift for your uncle with the weird sense of humor, this list has something for everyone.
More good news? There’s not a single fountain pen in the bunch.
The Best Retirement Gift Ideas for Men
Rounding up the best retirement gifts for men who have everything
The Best Cheap Retirement Gifts
For $25 or less!
Commemorative Whiskey Glass
It’s a safe bet that a whiskey drinker is likely going to imbibe a bit more frequently once he’s retired, so a commemorative glass isn’t just a thoughtful gift, it’s practical, too.
This 10 oz glass with fade-resistant gold writing comes with an engraved wooden coaster and in an elegant gift box.
If you want to go the extra mile, pair it with a set of whiskey stones for the complete package.
Travel Journal
For the guy whose retirement plans include travel, a leather-bound travel journal is a special gift that won’t break the bank.
This one has an elegant embossed cover and pendant bookmark that give it an old-world quality.
Once it’s full, the pages pop out and can be replaced with blank ones, ready for new adventures.
Travel Tech Organizer
Another great gift idea for travelers, a tech organizer is a handy way to keep all their tech accessories in one place.
With spaces for earbuds, adapters, cables, hard drives and more, he can focus less on hunting for a charger when he needs it, and more on snagging a lounger at the hotel pool.
Travel Document Organizer
A travel wallet is another great gift idea if you’re on a budget because it’s so practical.
This one is stylish and durable with pockets for multiple passports, airline tickets, cards, and cash, so everything is in one safe place.
Engraved Bookmark
Is your favorite retiree an avid reader?
This engraved bookmark is the perfect affordable gift as he embarks on a new chapter, both literally and figuratively.
(And it looks more expensive than it is, but we won’t tell.)
Book of Puzzles
It may be cheap, but a book of puzzles is a surprisingly useful gift for a retiree who likes brain teasers.
With over 90 puzzles, including word searches, trivia, and sudokus, it’s a great way to keep his mind busy (and sharp) in his spare time.
Book of 1001 Fun Things to Do in Retirement
If he has no idea what to do in his golden years, then a book of 1001 ideas makes a great gift.
Packed with fun activities, from exploring national parks to picking up a new hobby, he’ll have no problem making the most out of his newfound extra time.
Hooded Robe
A luxurious bathrobe is a classic gift for a guy heading into his retirement years, and likely something he wouldn’t buy for himself.
This supersoft fleece robe comes in a variety of patterns and colors, and it has a hood for staying warm and cozy out of the shower.
Grooming Set
He likely can’t go to the barber everyday, but a good shaving brush is the next best thing.
Made from pure badger hair, this shaving brush comes with goat milk shaving soap and a stainless steel bowl and stand for working up a good lather.
Hawaiian Shirt
Whether he’s planning on traveling to the tropics or just relaxing by his pool, nothing says “retired” like a good Hawaiian shirt.
Gifts Under $50
Cocktail Smoker
Artisanal cocktails are all the rage these days, so if your friend considers himself a bar chef, this is the perfect gift.
With wood chips in six different flavors for infusing whiskey and bourbon, he can get creative making handcrafted cocktails that are sure to impress the hell out of his friends.
Tolkien Box Set
For the guy who swears he’s going to read the entire Middle-earth saga when he has time (we all know one), this elegant box makes a great retirement gift.
Beautifully bound in leatherette, this literary collection is the perfect addition to any office, library, or man cave.
Garden Tools
If your guy’s a green thumb in his spare time, then gardening is no doubt on his list of things to do in retirement.
This set of sturdy steel tools includes everything he needs for keeping his plants looking beautiful, including gloves, pruning shears, and trowel, all in a handy carrying caddy.
Travel Sleep Set
Anyone planning to embark on long flights will appreciate a good travel pillow.
This travel sleep set comes with a memory foam neck pillow that supports his head while he dozes off (preventing the awkwardness of passing out on his neighbor’s shoulder).
It also includes an eye mask and earplugs for the perfect sleep at 36,000 feet.
Golf Bag Beer Sleeve
Golf accessories always make great retirement gifts, and this insulated beer can sleeve is no exception.
Not only does it hold up to seven beer cans and keeps them cold, but it fits discreetly inside your golf bag.
(Disclaimer: Irreverent Gent does not condone sneaking beers onto the golf course.)
Fishing Tackle Backpack
An avid angler can never have enough fishing equipment, and this multi-functional tackle backpack is a great way to keep it all organized.
Made of durable, high-quality nylon, it has compartments for tackle boxes, poles, mobile devices, and even a beverage.
The best part is it can convert into a crossbody bag, chest bag, or handbag.
Bathtub Caddy
Since retirement is the perfect time to #treatyourself, a bathtub caddy is a thoughtful and cute gift.
Made from natural bamboo and rust-proof materials, this caddy has an adjustable stand for his book or tablet (if you’ve never watched a movie in the tub, I highly recommend it).
It also has compartments for his bath accessories, phone, and even his favorite drink.
Wine Rack
Every wine lover needs a wine rack.
Not just a great way to show off his favorite vintages, it also helps keep clutter out of cabinets and cupboards.
Gifts Under $100
Golf Practice Net
Retirement is the perfect opportunity to hone his golf game or learn new skills, which is why an at-home practice net makes a good retirement gift for any golf fanatic.
With quick and easy assembly, this indoor/outdoor net brings the driving range to your home, with one large target, and three smaller targets for chipping practice.
Plus, it folds neatly into a carrying case for taking to the cottage, park, or parties.
Compact Binoculars
A good pair of high-powered binoculars makes an excellent retirement gift, and not just for birders.
Perfect for the cottage, boating, hiking, traveling, and sporting events, this pair is lightweight and compact enough to fit in your pocket, but still powerful.
Hydroponic Indoor Garden
Whether he’s a home chef or a gardening enthusiast, he’ll appreciate this indoor garden as a retirement gift.
Plants grow 20% faster than in soil thanks to a hydroponic growing system and a timed fan that simulates an outdoor breeze.
He can grow herbs, vegetables, and flowers year round without having to worry about pesky animals and insects.
Movie Projector
An ideal gift for film buffs, a movie projector lets him set up his home theater so he can watch sports on the big screen or his favorite movies on repeat (Die Hard fans, we’re looking at you).
It has Bluetooth capability for connecting to multiple devices, plus it’s portable, so he can screen movies in the living room, rec room, or even the backyard.
3D Puzzle of the Titanic
The perfect gift for a history nerd, this huge 3D puzzle of the unsinkable ship is sure to keep him busy in his free time.
With 266 pieces and realistic LED lights, the final product is an impressive Titanic replica he can show off to his friends and family.
Dart Board
I’m pretty sure it’s a law of nature that good times are guaranteed when a dart board is around.
Perfect for his games room, garage, or man cave, this high quality dart board set comes with scoreboards and darts, plus cabinet doors for hiding it when it’s not in use.
More Great Gifts Under $100 ↓
Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Noise Canceling Headphones
Portable Chess Board
Hammock
Pool Lounger
Corn Hole Set
Foot Spa
Weighted Blanket
Gourmet Pizza Set
Cologne
Weekender Canvas Bag
Travel Carry-On Bag
Gifts Under $200
Drone
When it comes to toys for grown-ups, you can’t go wrong with a drone.
Perfect for beginners, it can capture aerial views of nature, the beach, (or even his retirement party) thanks to this 1080P HD auto-adjustable camera.
It’s easy to set up, has user-friendly features, and automatically downloads video to his phone using the app.
Instant Language Translator
A digital language translator is a practical gift for that retiree who plans on spending time traveling.
Offering 98% translation accuracy for over 100 languages, this instant translator makes it easy to communicate while traveling abroad.
It’s also compact in size and has a long battery life.
Golf Bag Push Cart
A good push cart is the best golf gift you can give a guy who likes to walk the course.
(If you’ve ever used one of the rusty rental carts from the course, then you know this is true.)
This ultra-lightweight foldable cart has an adjustable handle to accommodate different heights and holds almost any set of golf clubs.
Plus it has my favorite feature: A place to put your scorecard, balls, and beer beverage.
Vinyl Player
A cool new turntable is the best gift you could give a guy who finally has time to listen to his old vinyl collection.
The powerful speakers detach for easy set-up, plus it has bluetooth capability so he can play music from his phone if desired.
Inflatable Kayak
For the adventurer and outdoorsy type, an inflatable kayak makes a unique gift he’s sure to put to good use.
Perfect for lake use and small bodies of water, this two-seater kayak comes with an air pump, two paddles, and handy carrying case.
Silk PJs
OK, so maybe it’s not the kind of gift you’d give your boss.
But if the retiring man in question is your husband or father, a set of silk jammies is a great way to say “treat yourself”.
Made from 100% mulberry silk, this luxurious sleep set is available in a variety of different colors, has an adjustable waistband for a comfortable fit, and goes up to size 5X.
Temperature Control Smart Mug
Smart mugs make great gifts for coffee lovers because you know they’ll use it in everyday life.
The battery operated mug and charging coaster keeps liquid hot for a long time and can even be controlled using an app on his phone.
More Great Gifts Under $200 ↓
Curved Gaming Monitor
Kindle E-Reader
Karaoke Machine
Globe
Zero Gravity Lounge Chair
Inflatable Paddle Board
Tent
Table Tennis Set
Bar Cart
Allbirds Wool Runners
Ugg Ascot Slippers
Motorcycle Jacket
Car Detailing Kit
Luxury & Executive Retirement Gifts
Going in on a group gift (or just spending company money)? Here are some unique retirement gifts starting at $200.
Electronic Watch Winder
Not many companies give men a watch upon retirement anymore (unfortunately), but this is a great gift for retirees who have amassed a handsome watch collection.
It’s got six individual watch rotators that keep automatic watches rotating when not in use, so they can continue to keep time.
And almost as importantly, it’s both gorgeous and well made.
The exterior features noble ebony macassar wood, while the interior boasts premium microfiber leather.
The result is basically the Rolls Royce of watch boxes, and a handsome gift for any retiree.
Premium Steaks Gift Package
Nothing says “good wishes” like a gift box of high quality steaks.
With premium cuts like filet mignon, NY strips, and ribeyes, this set from Nebraska Star steaks is the perfect send off for your retired coworker or family member.
(Unless he’s vegetarian. Then I can’t help you.)
Charcoal Grill & Smoker
A charcoal grill and smoker will be a welcome addition to his backyard set up, especially if he enjoys entertaining.
The large grill surface lets him cook plenty of meats, seafood, and veggies at once, while simultaneously smoking ribs or chicken in the attached smoker.
Wine Fridge
Whether he’s a wine connoisseur or a casual collector, a wine fridge is a wonderful way to store and display his favorite vintages.
This temperature-controlled unit holds up to 12 bottles and has double-paned glass to protect wines from harmful UV light, plus a built-in LED light to show off the collection.
Bird Feeder with Camera
If he’s an avid birder or just a nature lover, you can’t go wrong with this smart bird feeder.
It has a built-in camera that sends automatic notifications to his phone, takes snapshots and videos, and can even identify over 1000 species of birds.
Plus, it has a two-way voice option that lets him scare off squirrels and other pesky intruders.
MVMT Watch
Watches always make wonderful retirement gifts because they’re personal, elegant, and practical.
But they can also cost a fortune.
The nice thing about a MVMT timepiece is that it’s high quality, modern, and stylish, but without costing a month’s salary.
Luggage
When it comes to useful retirement gifts for avid travelers, a great set of luggage is a no-brainer.
Lightweight yet durable, this four-piece-set has spacious interiors, as well retractable handles and wheels for easy transportation around hotels and airports.
Garmin Instinct Hybrid GPS Smartwatch
If his retirement goals include adventuring or getting in shape, this GPS Smartwatch with built-in fitness tracker will help him in his pursuits.
This rugged watch has a solar charging battery, and tracks his heart rate, sleep quality, pulse, and more.
Plus, it pairs with his smartphone so he can receive texts and notifications wherever he is.
Rowing Machine
Help him stay fit and healthy throughout retirement with his own rowing machine.
A full-body workout in one machine, a rower is great for building strength and improving cardiovascular health, while being easy on the joints.
More Great Luxury Gifts for $200 and Up ↓
Adjustable Dumbbells
Home Espresso Bar
Portable BBQ
Yeti Cooler
Smokeless Fire Pit
Leather Jacket
Power Tools
Le Creuset Cookware
Recliner
Rolex
Personalized Retirement Gifts
Whiskey Decanter
If your retiree friend is a whiskey man, then a personalized whiskey decanter makes a wonderful gift.
You can customize it to include his initials, company name, years of employment, or even a special message to make him feel appreciated every time he pours his favorite beverage.
Humidor Cigar Box
And for the guy that enjoys a cigar with his whiskey, an engraved cigar case is truly the perfect gift.
This handmade cigar box comes with a hydrometer, humidifier, and divider to keep cigars fresh as well as organized.
Digital Photo Frame
Another thoughtful retirement gift, a digital photo frame is an amazing way to store and display years of memories.
This high resolution touch screen frame holds hundreds of images, so you can load it up with pictures from his years of employment for him to enjoy at home.
Cheese Board
Charcuterie and cheese boards are all the rage these days, so if you’re looking for a cool personalized gift, this is an excellent choice.
Made of sturdy hardwood with a beautiful natural finish, it’s perfect for entertaining guests or celebrating happy hour at home.
Monogrammed Golf Club Head Covers
While you can’t help improve his handicap, you can help him play in style with personalized driver head covers.
With a luxury look that will make his golf buddies jealous, these make classy gifts any avid golfer will love.
Crystal Desk Ornament
What better way to commemorate his retirement day than with an engraved crystal keepsake?
Made-to-order with your personalized message, it’s an elegant way to show your appreciation for his years of hard work.
More Great Personalized Gift Ideas ↓
Personalized Mug
Flask
Pocket Knife
Poker Set
Personalized Travel Bag
Funny Retirement Gifts
Humorous gifts for the big quitter special guy
(Psst.. these make great last minute gifts, too)
T-Shirt
Apron
Fishing Hat
Socks
Wine Glasses
Beer Glasses
Beer Koozies
Golf Balls
Ball Hat
Tumbler
More Great Gift Ideas from Irreverent Gent:
- The Best Secret Santa Gifts for Men at Every Budget
- The (Absolute) Best Outdoor Gifts for Guys
- The 53 Best Gifts for Older Men
- 55 of the Best Last-Minute Anniversary Gifts for Him
- 85 Meaningful, Unique, and Fun Anniversary Gifts for Men
- The (Absolute) Best Gifts for Men Turning 60
- The 45 Best 40th Birthday Gifts for Him
- 49 Ridiculously Funny Gag Gifts for Men
- The Best House Warming Gifts for Men
- The Best Stocking Stuffers for Guys
- The Best Gifts for Expecting Dads
- 42 Cool & Wildly Fun Toys for Adults
- The Best Men’s Shoes to Wear with Jeans
- The (Absolute) Best Athletic Fit Dress Shirts for Muscular Guys
- The 9 Best Boot Styles for Men
- The Best Red Wing Boots for Men to Wear Daily
- The (Absolute) Best Cap Toe Oxford Dress Shoes for Men
- 17 of the Best Men’s Chukka Boots
- The Most Stylish Men’s Casual Boots to Wear with Jeans
- 9 Stylish & Comfortable Dress Shoes That Feel Like Sneakers
More Alphabetically Themed Gift Ideas:
- The Best Gifts that Start with M
- The Best Gifts That Start with R
- The Best Gifts That Start with A
- The Best Gifts That Start with D
- The Best Gifts that Start with the Letter E
- The Best Gifts That Start with T
- The Best Gifts That Start with S
- Great Gift Ideas That Start with K
Kirstyn Brown
Kirstyn describes herself as a “coffee lover and cat lady,” but don’t let her humility fool you:
As the co-creator and former Editor-in-Chief of Strong Fitness Magazine, she’s a highly respected writer and editor with more than a decade of experience, whose work has appeared in top publications like Strong, Oxygen, Clean Eating, Girls Gone Strong and more.
Banner image: Prostock-studio on Unsplash