Searching for the Best Retirement Gifts in 2026? Discover Our Thoughtful Picks
Our team found 12 unique gifts for retirees. Help your friend, family member, or colleague celebrate this next chapter in life.
- Our team found 12 unique and thoughtful gifts for retirees, including options for travelers, homebodies, and fitness enthusiasts.
- The gifts in our guide range from $25–$200, making them suitable for both solo and group gifts.
- The gifts we selected work well for active lifestyles and lifelong learners.
- Keep reading to find our top retirement gifts for celebrating someone stepping into this next chapter of life.
The best retirement gifts of 2026
- MGMove Smartwatch
- Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat
- Mark & Graham Personalized Golf Set
- Layla Kapok Pillow
- Hooga Red Light Therapy Mask
- Jackfir Northern Pine Candle
- Atlas Coffee Club Subscription
- Yeti M15 Tote Soft Cooler
- Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage
- Moleskine Passion Journals: Travel
- Rosetta Stone Subscription
- New York Times Cooking Subscription
Best retirement gifts for active living
The items in this section of our guide make the best retirement gifts for people who want to stay active. Whether it’s daily walks, fitness classes, outdoor adventures, or trying a new hobby, an active lifestyle supports both physical health and mental well-being. These gifts can help create meaningful opportunities to connect with others and enjoy each day with energy and purpose.
MGMove Smartwatch
The MGMove by Medical Guardian is just like a regular smartwatch, offering step tracking and calendar reminders. But it also includes built-in emergency response services and GPS tracking, offering peace of mind for family, friends, and the watch wearer.
MGMove Smartwatch
Who we recommend this for
Retirees who live alone or are very active and would appreciate the extra peace of mind provided by a medical alert smartwatch
- Price: $199 for watch; Monitoring plans starting at $40
- Includes: GPS tracking, heart-rate monitor, and two-way communication with Medical Guardian operators
- Average Response Time: 29 seconds
- Battery Life: 24 hours
Pros
- Discreet design looks like a modern smartwatch
- Combines safety features with fitness support
- Optional fall detection
Cons
- Ongoing monthly fee increases the overall price
- Fixed watch band limits style options
Our take on the MGMove Smartwatch
This smartwatch, our pick for the best medical alert watch, stands out for blending safety with fitness support and everyday wearability. The MGMove looks like a modern watch rather than a medical device. But it offers fast emergency response along with helpful features like heart-rate and activity tracking, weather updates, and optional fall detection. It’s a practical, reassuring gift for retirees who want to stay independent while giving themselves and their loved ones greater peace of mind.
Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat
The Manduka PROlite mat is thick enough to protect joints and provide comfort, but light enough to carry with you to and from the yoga studio. This is a great yoga mat for retirees who want to add mindful movement to their weekly routine.
Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat
Who we recommend this for
Any retiree who wants a comfy place for their mindful movement or meditation practice
- Price: $112
- Shipping/Delivery: Free shipping on orders over $125
- Dimensions: 4.7mm dense cushioning; 71” (standard) or 79” (long)
Pros
- Dense cushioning to protect joints
- Grippy bottom to prevent slipping
- Available in twelve colors
Cons
- People with sensitive joints may prefer an even thicker mat
- May not be grippy enough for people with sweaty palms
Our take on the Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat
This is Manduka’s number one teacher-recommended mat. We like its dense cushioning, grippy surface, and closed-cell construction, which seals out sweat and keeps the mat fresh. For sweaty hands or heated yoga sessions, consider adding Manduka’s moisture-activated Yogitoes mat towel for extra grip. This mat comes in two lengths (standard and long) and 12 unique colors.
Mark & Graham Personalized Golf Set
For the golfer always wishing for more time on the course, this golf set says, “Now’s the time!” In addition to personalized balls and tees in an attractive wooden box, the set includes a monogrammed golf towel and golf bag tag. It's high-class style with a personal touch.
Mark & Graham Golf Set
Who we recommend this for
Golf enthusiasts who plan to spend more time on the course during retirement and/or who would appreciate a keepsake item from work colleagues or golfing friends
- Price: $159
- Returns: All sales are final for monogrammed items
- Includes: 12 personalized golf balls, 12 golf tees, 12 golf pencils, 1 personalized golf towel, 1 personalized golf bag tag, and tee holder
Pros
- Monogrammed items make it personal
- Practical and useful gift for golfers
- Attractive presentation
Cons
- Custom engraving may take extra time, affecting delivery for last-minute gifting
Our take on the Mark & Graham Personalized Golf Gift Set
This is a thoughtful retirement gift for anyone who enjoys spending time on the course. We like that it combines practical essentials—like a golf towel, balls, and a tee holder—with meaningful customization, from the retiree’s name on the towel and balls to a personalized message on the polished wooden gift box. The overall presentation feels special without being over-the-top, making it well-suited for retirement celebrations or group gifts.
Best retirement gifts for homebodies
In this section of our guide, we’ve curated gifts for retirees who can’t wait to spend more time at home. Whether they’re getting cozy on the couch, catching up on their beauty sleep, or making coffee for friends, these gifts celebrate the joys of slowing down, settling in, and savoring everyday comforts at home.
Layla Kapok Pillow
For retirees looking to improve their sleep, the Layla Kapok Pillow offers adjustable comfort that fits varying needs. Its blend of airy kapok fibers and moldable memory foam allows for customizable loft, cooling airflow, and supportive comfort in any sleep position.
Layla Kapok Pillow
Who we recommend this for
People who plan to improve their sleep hygiene and the quality of their sleep in retirement
- Price: $164
- Shipping: Free
- Trial: 30 days
- Contains: Kapok (natural plant fibers) and memory foam
Pros
- 30-night trial and 5-year warranty
- Adjustable loft for all types of sleepers
- Soft, plush outer fabric
Cons
- May not be firm enough for some sleepers
- Customizing the fill/loft may require some trial and error
Our take on the Layla Kapok Pillow
The Layla Kapok Pillow, our top pick for the best pillows for back pain, gets high marks for its balance of plush comfort and support. The adjustable fill allows you to fine-tune the loft for back, side, or stomach sleeping, which can help support spinal alignment and ease everyday aches. Thoughtful, practical, and focused on better rest, it’s a retirement gift that feels both caring and genuinely useful. Pair it with a soft robe for a luxurious gift that promotes self-care.
Hooga Red Light Therapy Mask
This mask may look space-age, but it claims to have very down-to-earth benefits, including relaxation and improved blood flow. The mask can be worn for 5 to 10 minutes at a time, 3 to 5 times per week.
Hooga Red Light Therapy Mask
Who we recommend this for
Retirees who want to explore this emerging treatment for common skin conditions as part of their wind-down routine
- Price: $199
- Strength: Clinically tested wavelengths: 630nm, 660nm & 850nm
- Includes: Adjustable timer, adjustable brightness, rechargeable battery
Pros
- Promotes relaxation
- Supports skin health
- Easy to use at home
Cons
- Results vary by user
- Not a replacement for medical treatment
Our take on the Hooga Red Light Therapy Mask
Reviews of the Hooga Red Light Therapy Mask often highlight improvements in skin radiance, reduced inflammation, and a general sense of relaxation after regular use. Made from soft, medical-grade silicone, the mask is lightweight, comfortable, and easy to use at home or on the go, with simple USB charging for added convenience. As part of a retiree’s wind-down routine, red light therapy can be a calming, low-effort way to support self-care and relaxation at the end of the day.
JackFir Northern Pine Candle
Jackfir, a men’s skincare brand, partnered with Fontana Candle Co. to create a candle inspired by the earthy scents of the forest. We love that it's free of paraffin and synthetic fragrances.
JackFir Northern Pine Candle
Who we recommend this for
People who enjoy woodsy scents, appreciate all-natural ingredients, and enjoy creating cozy ambience in their home
- Price: $27
- Burn time: 35-40 hours
- Ingredients: Beeswax, coconut oil, essential oils
Pros
- All natural ingredients
- Long burn time
- Affordable gift option
Cons
- Scent preferences vary
- Some people may be sensitive to strong scents
Our take on the Jackfir Northern Pine Candle
With notes of Siberian Fir, Himalayan Cedarwood, and Black Pine, this candle’s scent is both bright and woodsy, evoking the sun and time spent outdoors. Made with a base of beeswax, coconut oil, and essential oils, it’s rooted in nature and safe to burn for your home. It's great for creating an instant cozy ambience.
Atlas Coffee Club Subscription
For those who want to learn about the world from the comfort of home while sipping their coffee, the Atlas Coffee Club subscription delivers a monthly or bi-monthly curation of high-quality coffee. The package includes tasting notes and a postcard from the coffee’s country of origin.
Atlas Coffee Club
Who we recommend this for
Coffee lovers who appreciate single-origin brew and want to learn about the countries their coffee comes from
- Price: $11-$32 per month, depending on frequency of delivery
- Countries of origin: Costa Rica, Myanmar, India, and more
- Subscription: Pause, skip, or cancel anytime
Pros
- Single-origin beans (sourced from one geographic location)
- Roasted to your preference
- Pause, skip, or cancel subscription any time
Cons
- Monthly or bi-monthly commitment required
- Some coffee drinkers may prefer blends to single-origin coffee
Our take on the Atlas Coffee Club Subscription
For retirees who treasure their morning cup of brew, this coffee subscription is a monthly delight. You can choose to have a new single-origin coffee delivered every two or four weeks, and you can also choose from whole bean or ground, grind type, and roast preference. Subscribers can pause, skip, or adjust the frequency of their deliveries at any time.
Best retirement gifts for travelers
The items in this section of our guide make the best retirement gifts for travelers who are eager to explore new places and experiences. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a long-awaited adventure abroad, travel creates opportunities to connect with loved ones, discover new cultures, and enjoy life at an unhurried pace.
YETI M15 Tote Soft Cooler
We’re fans of YETI for durability and quality in coolers and drinkware. This cooler pack is sturdy but soft, and is large enough to hold a complete picnic, including a bottle of wine. It's great for fishing trips or camping.
YETI M15 Tote Soft Cooler
Who we recommend this for
Outdoor enthusiasts who want to bring all their favorite treats with them on adventures
- Price: $199
- Shipping/Delivery: Free shipping for account holders
- Dimensions: 20.3” W x 16” H x 9.2” D; weighs 5 lbs when empty
Pros
- Large enough to hold 32 cans
- Durable magnets make it easy to open and close
- Closed-cell foam insulation keeps items cold for hours
Cons
- More expensive than other coolers
- Could be bulky to carry long distances
Our take on the YETI M15 Tote Soft Cooler
For retirees who love to spend time fishing, camping, or lounging on the beach, this insulated carry-all from YETI has it all. It can hold a full picnic, several cans, and a bottle of wine. Sturdy handles and a shoulder strap make it a cinch to tote from point A to point B.
Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage
The Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On is compact enough to fit underneath most airline seats. But it’s also spacious enough for everything you’ll need for the flight, plus toiletries and a change of clothes.
Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage
Who we recommend this for
Retirees who plan to travel to see family or visit bucket-list destinations
- Price: Between $185 and $295
- Shipping/Delivery: Free shipping
- Options: Available in 13 colors
Pros
- Durable outer shell
- Roomy interior
- Fits beneath airline seats
Cons
- More expensive than other carry-on options
- Modern style may not suit all tastes
Our take on the Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On
This is a smart, well-designed carry-on to make travel feel easier and more enjoyable, whether it’s a weekend jaunt or a long trip abroad. The outer shell is durable with smooth-rolling wheels. The interior offers thoughtful organization. And it fits under most airline seats. It's great for retirees who enjoy light, flexible travel—and it feels like an invitation to seek adventure!
Moleskine Passion Journal: Travel
Moleskine journals, made of premium, acid-free paper, offer a luxurious writing experience. This Traveller’s Journal has 400 pages, an expandable inner pocket for photos and momentos, and a beautiful hardback cover. It's a handy companion for wherever your travels take you.
Moleskine Passion Journal: Travel
Who we recommend this for
Retirees who love to travel and want to record their experiences in writing
- Price: $37
- Shipping/Delivery: Free shipping on orders over $65
- Dimensions: 5” x 8.25”
Pros
- An affordable but high-quality gift option
- Smooth, acid-free paper
- Built-in ribbon bookmarks and elastic enclosure
Cons
- Some people may prefer a non-themed journal
- Only available in one color
Our take on the Moleskine Traveller’s Journal
For the retiree who plans to travel and also loves to write, this is a beautiful and timeless gift. A favorite among seasoned writers, Moleskine journals are high-quality and rich in thoughtful details, like rounded corners, an elastic closure, and ribbon bookmarks. This one even includes themed stickers to help customize each entry.
Best retirement gifts for lifelong learners
The gifts in this section of the guide are for retirees who are always excited about their next intellectual adventure. These picks help satisfy curiosity, encourage exploration, and make learning a rewarding part of everyday life.
Rosetta Stone Subscription
Rosetta Stone is a language learning platform offering bite-sized lessons in dozens of languages, from French and Spanish to Hebrew and Japanese. Lessons are immersive and designed to help you learn a new language quickly and with ease.
Rosetta Stone
Who we recommend this for
Retirees who plan to travel internationally or are just curious about learning new languages
- Price: $14.95 per month for three months, $10.95 per month for 12 months, or $199 for a lifetime subscription
- Includes: Immersive, bite-sized lessons, TruAccent speech recognition for pronunciation, offline learning via AudioCompanion, and more
- Trial: 30-day user satisfaction money-back guarantee
Pros
- Structured and immersive learning model
- Flexible and convenient, with offline options
- Several languages to choose from
Cons
- Requires ongoing monthly fees
- Best suited for beginners, not advanced learners
Our take on the Rosetta Stone Subscription
Rosetta Stone, named for the 2,000-year-old piece of inscribed granite that provided the key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphics, can help demystify the process of learning a new language. Lessons can be taken online through the Rosetta Stone app or downloaded for use on the go. Its “Dynamic Immersion” method mimics how children learn, building proficiency through context, repetition, and visual association. It’s a thoughtful gift for a retiree who’s planning an international trip and wants to bring a little of the language with them.
New York Times Cooking Subscription
The New York Times Cooking app has a huge library of carefully selected, tested recipes, including built-in grocery lists, instructional videos, and a personalized recipe box where you can create folders of your favorite recipes by type, occasion, or ingredient.
New York Times Cooking
Who we recommend this for
Retirees who love to cook and want to try new recipes at home
- Price: $5.99 per month, or $49.99 for the year
- Includes: Thousands of recipes, searchable by ingredient; cooking videos; personalized recipe box
- Platforms: iOS, Android, and web
Pros
- 20,000+ recipes to choose from
- Search recipes by ingredient, type of cuisine, and more
- Personalize your recipe box with favorites
Cons
- Requires ongoing monthly fees
- Some of the recipes are complex, with several steps and ingredients
Our take on the New York Times Cooking Subscription
The New York Times Cooking Subscription will help get any home chef out of a cooking rut. It also helps to take the guesswork out of everyday cooking, with ready-made grocery lists and easy-to-follow instructions (including a “cooking mode” that keeps the screen from going dark). The subscription includes thousands of well-tested recipes, step-by-step guidance, and helpful videos accessible online or through the app, which makes learning in the kitchen feel approachable and enjoyable. It’s a great fit for lifelong learners—and an especially thoughtful gift for retirees who have more time to cook, entertain, and explore new cuisines at home.
Other gift ideas for retirees
While physical gifts are meaningful expressions of your respect and appreciation, they don’t replace the impact of shared experiences. If the retiree is a close friend or family member, consider the gift of a shared travel experience or planned outing with mutual friends. Experience-based gifts don’t necessarily need to replace a physical gift (for example, you could host a party where a physical gift is presented to the retiree). But keep in mind that memories usually carry more meaning than material items.
Here are a few ideas for gifts that emphasize connection and lived experience:
- Sign up for a class together (painting, photography, gardening)
- Volunteer together at an organization that’s meaningful to both of you
- Enjoy a physical activity together, like a nature hike, yoga class, or bike ride
How to choose the best retirement gift
Retirement is a unique time in a person’s life. It's both an opportunity to look back at what’s been accomplished and a time to look ahead to new adventures. Choosing the right retirement gift requires an understanding of this special time of life, as well as of the retiree’s personality, retirement plans, and lifestyle. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a retirement gift:
- The retiree’s interests: Consider what they love—travel, yoga, cooking, nature—and tailor your gift to their interests and hobbies.
- Their retirement goals: Do they plan to travel? Home in on a particular hobby? Spend more time with family? Find gifts to support these goals.
- Your relationship to the retiree: A gift for a family member or close friend may be more personal and sentimental than a gift for a colleague or acquaintance.
- Your budget: If you want to purchase a more expensive item, consider going in on the gift with mutual friends. If you’re the sole gifter and you’re on a budget, there are several items on this list below $50.
Why retirement gifts matter
For many people, retirement is a major career milestone marking the beginning of a new chapter in life. Thoughtful retirement gifts signal to friends or family members that you’re rooting for them during this transition. Receiving a meaningful gift from colleagues or family members can help a retiree find emotional closure, appreciate the strength of personal connections, and feel a sense of excitement about what’s to come.
Retirement is a meaningful life transition, and choosing the right gift can help mark the transition with warmth, intention, and excitement for what’s ahead. The 12 gifts in this guide range from about $25 to $200, making it easier to find something thoughtful, whether you’re shopping solo or contributing to a group gift. From travel-ready essentials and active-lifestyle gear to cozy home comforts and subscriptions that inspire lifelong learning, each pick supports how retirees might want to spend their time. When choosing a retirement gift, focus on what feels useful, personal, or memorable—and let it reflect the new chapter they’re about to begin.
FAQ
What is a good gift for someone who is retiring?
Good gifts for retirees include experiences or physical gifts that take into consideration the retiree’s personality, retirement goals, and hobbies or interests. Consider a nice piece of luggage for a retiree who plans to travel, or a yoga mat for someone who wants to get active.
What should I avoid when gifting a retiree?
Avoid gifts that are overly expensive or elaborate, especially if the person is an acquaintance or colleague and not a close friend. Also, avoid ageist gifts with “over the hill” themes.
When is retirement age?
There is no set age for retirement. Full Social Security benefits are available at age 67, though some people may prefer to draw retirement benefits earlier with reduced benefits.
What should I write in a retirement card?
What you write in a retirement card depends on your relationship with the retiree. Save sentimental messages for close friends or family members. For colleagues, thank them for their years of service and wish them well in their next chapter of life.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.