How to Make a “Man [Gift] Basket”

“Men will spend 2 dollars on a 1 dollar item that they desperately need. Women will spend 1 dollar on a 2 dollar item that they don’t need at all.” –Author unknown

How to make a “Man Basket,” or a gift basket for the men in your life.  I’m always racking my brain to come up with ideas for gifts for the men in my family. It seems like there is always  Christmas,  Father’s Day, or a Birthday coming up. I love to make themed baskets but tend to get more enjoyment out of creating a more girly basket. I made the above basket for a Bridal Shower giveaway but thought it would also make a  great “Man Basket.” It can sometimes be a challenge to get a nice, thoughtful gift, but I came up with a few ideas.  I also keep in mind most men don’t feel the need to have lots of stuff for the sake of “having stuff.” In most cases they would much rather have an item, for instance a tool, that will last a lifetime and cost more then having multiple cheap items that make the basket look good but are of poor quality.

So what do you put in a gift basket for a man?  Here are 8 man friendly starting items:

1. Food
2. Tools
3. Booze
4. Lotto/Cash
5. Sports
6. Hobby Items
7. Tickets to an Event
8. Video Games or Accessories

I would then tailor these items to be more specific. What kind of sports or sports teams is he into? What are his favorite snacks or drinks (alcoholic or nonalcoholic?) Is there a hobby he is big on? Once you narrow down his likes you can start pinpointing specific items to make a themed basket.

For instance..a man that’s…

…Into Saving: Man products like shampoo, razors, deodorant; Items that are useful that he would appreciate not spending his money on.

…Into Hobby’s: Get a top of the line item for his hobby. If you have the option, spend more to get the better product—quality over quantity.

…Into Food: Get very specific items, like different types of nuts and jerky, or candy, check out a gourmet grocery store to get inspired.

…Into Sports… Pick up sports tickets, trinkets, memorabilia, glasses or mugs, a Jersey, etc.

… If your not sure what items are quality or in hot demand just ask! Most stores have sales people that are happy to help. Let them know your looking for a gift and what your price range is. I always ask lots of questions on items I know nothing about.

I personally love making a practical gift basket. I love doing food items and snacks with one or two large ticket items.  I will put them in a basket or crate. The thrift shop is a good place to find an assortment of baskets at rock bottom prices. Sometimes I find them at local craft stores at a discount. Make sure you check your savings apps on your phone! I recently scored 60% off a crate at a local craft store using the App “Retail Me Not.”   Just remember as long as you keep the person your buying for in mind,  you will never go wrong if you keep it practical, simple and genuine!

What are your favorite gift basket ideas for men?