5 Gifts That Are Really, Truly Funny

In this edition of The Gift, we’re making the case for genuinely funny (not junky) gag gifts. Plus, some under-$25 delights and a swanky leather fly swatter.

Although I am against junk and clutter and all things future landfill, I am very much pro just-because little gifts—especially those designed to make someone laugh. Yes, usefulness and thoughtfulness are part of my gift-giving mantra, but so is delight. And what’s more delightful than genuine laughter? Especially of the shared variety?

I recently put together our brand-new guide to gag gifts just in time for April Fools’ Day, and I stand behind each knee-slapper on the list, especially the Banana Phone, which is funnier than it should be, and this planter that looks like Danny DeVito, because it’s so bizarre but also oddly design-y and cool.

And while April 1 is by no means a big gift-giving day, it can be a welcome reminder to inject a little humor into our daily lives. I like to treat it as a sort of annual appointment with myself to stock up on a few funny—but also useful—gifts. You can do so either with a specific recipient in mind or just trust the right person with the right sense of humor will reveal themselves when the time comes. Here’s what I’m eyeing this year: