Top 10 Holiday Gifts for Hard-to-Please Guys

I'm definitely not a hard-to-please guy when it comes to holiday gifts. Wrap up a book, stick a bow on it, and I'll be happy for at least the next two days. And even if I already have the book, I can always exchange it for one I haven't read. Easy.

But it isn't always that easy to shop for men. If you're stuck and out of ideas, here are a few suggestions to get you thinking in the right direction.

1. Tools

From simple hammers to power saws, most hard-to-please guys will be happy with tools as holiday gifts. It doesn't matter how many screwdrivers or wrenches a man has in his garage; he will always be pleased with another to add to his collection. Or, if this seems too trite, you can expand on this idea and give him something with which to organize his tools.

2. Magazine Subscription(s)

Even hard-to-please guys have hobbies, and magazines are the perfect supplement to whatever activity occupies your recipient's time. From hunting and fishing, to restoring cars, to fine cuisine, there are periodicals devoted to every pastime you can think of. Need something generic? Go with a consumer magazine or something similar.

3. DVD(s)

There are exceptions (even in my circle of friends and family), but most guys enjoy sitting down to watch a movie. You can't go wrong with action and suspense flicks, though you should make your choice based on the recipient's personality. A couple of DVDs can provide hours of rest and relaxation.

4. Flash Drive(s)
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The best holiday gifts for hard-to-please guys are those that make the recipient's life easier in one way or another. And flash drives are the perfect solution to digital storage issues. From songs, to photographs, to projects for work, just about anything can be stored on a flash drive, and you can find some pretty creative designs if you look hard enough.

5. Camera

If you are willing to spend $100 or more, cameras make great holiday gifts for hard-to-please guys. They are personal because they allow the recipient to record priceless memories, but they're universal because anyone can enjoy them. Or, if the guy is already an avid photographer, consider gifting lenses, memory cards or camera accessories. Just make sure to ask (discreetly) what brands he prefers.

6. Noise-Canceling Headphones

AskMen.com suggests noise-canceling headphones. This is the perfect holiday gift for hard-to-please guys that live in a busy house or tend to travel often.

7. Sports Tickets

Yes, it might be a cliché, but most guys do enjoy watching sports from time to time. Gifting a couple sports tickets will make his day, and he might even invite you to use the second ticket. Just make sure you know which team(s) he favors before you hit the ticket booth.

8. Restaurant Gift Certificate

Even hard-to-please guys have to eat, and restaurant gift certificates are always used. Ask his wife or parents, or someone else close to him, where he loves to dine, then buy a gift card based on how much you want to spend. You might not even have to go to the restaurant to buy it; grocery stores now sell gift cards for numerous restaurants and stores.

9. Fold-Up Chair

These make great holiday gifts because they're portable and can be used anywhere. From tailgate parties to his favorite fishing hole, fold-up chairs give the recipient somewhere to relax in comfort. You can find both simple and elaborate chairs, some of which come with great perks like built-in drink holders and handy carrying sacks.

10. Club/Organization Membership

This is one of those catch-all holiday gifts that never fail to please. If the recipient likes to hunt, buy him a one-year membership to the NRA. If he loves to drive, consider AAA. There are clubs and organizations for every hobby and lifestyle, and you're sure to find an option within your price range.

Holiday gifts are tough when you're shopping for hard-to-please guys, but remember that you aren't shopping in a vacuum. Ask friends and family members for advice, or go directly to the source, if you aren't worry about blowing the surprise.