You don’t “owe” anyone a present on a first date. There’s no secret etiquette rule you missed. But a small, thoughtful gift can be a sweet surprise—and a great first impression—so long as you keep it light, personal, and not over the top.
TL;DR
- Let the gift spark conversation, not obligation.
- First-date gifts aren’t required; if you bring one, keep it small, inexpensive, and personal.
- 2025 trend: “micro-gestures” like playlists, memes, or tiny tokens feel authentic and are preferred.
- Budget matters—aim for under $50 or less if you’re students.
- Avoid anything too intimate, too expensive, or that creates pressure.
Dude Hack Exclusive Offers
Should You Give A Gift On A First Date?
Of course, gifts for first dates can be tricky because you often don’t know your date very well. In fact, if you connected on a dating app this is almost certainly the first time the two of you are actually meeting IRL! Not only is it hard to choose a gift for a practical stranger, but it’s also very easy to swing and miss. And the bigger the swing, the more embarrassing the miss! That’s one of the reasons it’s a good idea to keep first date gifts small, light, and low-cost—this lines up with modern etiquette and the 2025 vibe of low-pressure, authentic dates. The other reason? It’s a lot to give someone jewelry or a super expensive bouquet on a first date. It can feel like too much, too soon. So, we’ll stick to little gifts for her, little gifts for him, and little gifts for them in this article. You can go bigger if you like, but I really cannot imagine it working out well!
The other reason? It’s a lot to give someone jewelry or a super expensive bouquet or whatever on a first date. Like, it’s kind of creepy. It reeks of …I don’t know …” this is the first date I’ve ever been on”, or “the only thing impressive about me is my money.”
Neither of which is the impression you want to make on a first date. Or a second date. Or ever, actually.
So, we’ll stick to little gifts for her, little gifts for him, and little gifts for them in this article. You can go bigger if you like, but I really cannot imagine it working out well!
First Date Gifts Besides Flowers
Here are a few date gift ideas that should be suitable for guys, gals, and anyone in between. The key to a first dating gift is to be thoughtful or fun without spending a scary amount of money or being creepily romantic! These gift ideas are guaranteed to impress rather than intimidate, which is definitely what you want to achieve.
A Book
It’s always nice to give books as gifts – both to friends and dates. Maybe you have a favorite book that you would love your date to read so you can discuss it, or perhaps they mentioned a dream of going to Istanbul while you were chatting online and it reminded you of Orhan Pamuk’s Museum of Innocence so you grabbed them a copy! A book is thoughtful and inexpensive—just don’t go too dense or serious.
Music They’ll Actually Play
If you know your date has a record player or an old car with a tape deck, and that they’re into music, giving them a record or tape can be a great first date gift. Or lean into 2025’s “micro-gesture” trend and share a short, curated playlist or QR card with a note about why you chose each track. Whatever the music is, sharing it with your date should bring you closer together.
Fancy Candy Or Chocolate
Everyone likes sweets! Fancy chocolates or artisan candy elevate things. If you’re unsure about allergies or dietary preferences, pick individually wrapped pieces or a small box with clear labels. Bonus points for supporting a local chocolatier.
Wine (Or Other Booze)
Find out if your date likes red or white, and bring a bottle they’ll love. Or take them a bottle of whisky, gin, vodka, or fancy craft beers. Hopefully, you’ll end up sharing them. [COMMENT: If your audience includes sober readers, consider adding a non-alcoholic alternative.]
Something They Mentioned Liking
Listen to your date before you meet. If they say they like fun socks, get them a pair. If they’re always cooking Mexican food, bring them a pack of interesting dried chilies. It’s small, personal, and shows you were paying attention.
A Game
A small card game or board game for two is a great idea—perfect for a picnic, coffee, or bar date. You can play it right away to break the ice and have fun.
A Dog Toy
If your date has a dog (or cat), a toy is a sweet idea that acknowledges what they love most. Pick something good quality and durable. Pet lovers always appreciate gifts for their furry friends.
A Plant
A small, hardy plant like a succulent or cactus makes a great non-romantic, long-lasting gift. Plants are thoughtful, easy to care for, and not as intense as flowers.
Tickets To Something
Concert tickets, movie tickets, or local event passes are great if they’re affordable. Give one to your date at the end of the evening—it’s an easy, natural way to suggest a second date.
Tickets To Somewhere
Get a sightseeing pass or local attraction tickets for a fun “tourist in our city” date. It’s an enjoyable shared experience that isn’t overly expensive.
First Date Gifts For Her
If you’re wondering what gifts to get a girl, focus on what she likes, not what women in general like. You’ve chatted, you’ve seen her pictures—think about her personality and interests.
Flowers
Skip the dramatic roses or pricey bouquets. Go for a small, simple bunch or a single stem. You can also send flowers afterward with a note saying how much fun you had.
Simple Or Vintage Jewellery
Affordable everyday jewelry or quirky vintage pieces can be nice, but only if you’re confident she’ll like the style. Avoid anything expensive or too romantic
A Cute Card (Handmade If You’re Crafty!)
Pair a cute or silly card with another small gift. Make sure the message is lighthearted—funny and cute, not overly sentimental.
A Flash Drive Full Of Faves (Or Shared Folder)
A curated flash drive—or in 2025, a shared cloud folder or playlist—filled with your favorite shows, albums, or movies is a personal, creative idea. It also gives you both something to talk about later.
Bath Bombs
A small set of fancy bath bombs or handmade soaps makes a great low-cost gift. Everyone loves a little self-care.
A Journal Or Notebook
If she’s into writing or sketching, a cute notebook or journal is a thoughtful pick. Add a short message on the first page if you’re feeling bold.
First Date Gifts For Him
Men can be harder to shop for, especially when you don’t know them well. These first date gifts are simple, fun, and personal without being over the top.
A Print
If you’ve seen his space or know what art he likes, a small print or poster from a local artist is thoughtful and stylish.
A Keyring Or Magnet
Tiny, funny, or kitschy gifts like a keyring or magnet are low-stakes but memorable. They become sentimental keepsakes if things go well.
A Mix CD (Or Playlist)
A playlist is the new mix CD. Curate a few tracks that reflect your vibe or shared tastes. It’s classic, creative, and in tune with today’s dating culture.
A Scented Candle
Guys like candles too. Choose a clean, cozy scent like cedar, citrus, or vanilla. It’s simple and universally liked.
Hot Sauce
If he loves spicy food, get him a bottle of artisanal hot sauce or a DIY hot sauce kit. It’s a great conversation starter—and something you can try together.
Home Baking
Bake cookies, brownies, or pie—homemade treats always go over well. It shows effort and gives you something to enjoy together.
Fun Conversation Starters
Card decks with prompts for fun or meaningful chats are great icebreakers, especially if you’re nervous. They make the date relaxed and engaging.
What Should You Not Bring On A First Date?
Avoid gifts that are too big, too expensive, or too intimate. Flowers are fine, roses aren’t. A silly card works, a heart-covered one doesn’t. Stay away from hearts, diamonds, and anything overly romantic. Don’t over-personalize based on old social posts—it can feel intrusive. Keep your budget under $50 and skip gifts like lingerie or sex toys until you’re well into the relationship. The goal is to make a connection, not a declaration.
You should be careful about how much you spend on a first date present. Think the opposite of Oprah – don’t give away cars or beach holidays! In fact, keep it under about fifty bucks as a general rule.
The exact amount will differ of course, depending on your finances and your dates. I’m sure Elon Musk gave Grimes some very very expensive gifts early on in their relationship, but it’s different if you’re both million or billionaires, isn’t it?
Finally, nothing too intimate! Sex toys and frilly underwear are great gifts once you’re comfortable in bed together but they are – I cannot stress this enough – a downright scary thing to give to someone you have just met! This holds true in almost all cases, including if you’ve got a little risque online already.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re going ice skating or on a beach date, a small, thoughtful gift can show enthusiasm and spark conversation. Keep it simple, appropriate, and personal. You don’t have to bring a gift at all—just bring your best self. Or a plant. A plant is always a nice gift.
FAQ
Should I bring a gift at all, or is it weird?
It’s totally optional. If you do bring something, keep it small, personal, and low-pressure—it should feel like a sweet gesture, not a statement.
How much should I spend?
Under $50 is a safe limit. In 2025, people are dating on tighter budgets, and modest gifts feel more genuine.
Are flowers okay on a first date?
Yes, but keep them simple. A small bouquet or single stem is thoughtful and charming without being too intense.
What about digital gifts like a playlist or shared folder?
Perfect for 2025. Short playlists, a few favorite songs, or a curated meme pack are fun, modern ways to show interest.
Is alcohol a good first-date gift?
Only if you’re sure your date drinks. If not, bring a non-alcoholic option like fancy tea, soda, or chocolate.
How do I make sure my gift doesn’t feel creepy?
Avoid expensive or intimate gifts, don’t over-research, and pick something that sparks conversation naturally. Keep it light, fun, and genuine.
