The best genealogy gift guide for the family historian (or yourself) on your Christmas list. Unique gifts to honor your heritage and support research.
The holidays are coming, and that means shopping. Whether you enjoy it or not, many of us need to find thoughtful gifts. This guide collects genealogy gift ideas for the family historian in your life — or for you, if you want to treat yourself.
If you buy something for yourself, your secret is safe with me. 😉
What do you get the genealogy researcher in your family?
While they might jokingly request an old census return or a centuries-old will, practical gifts that make research easier are usually the most appreciated. Below are categories and specific ideas to help you choose.
Grab a pencil and paper and let’s start making your list.
Subscriptions & Software Make Great Genealogy Gifts
- Family Tree Maker – Excellent software for organizing family history data.
- Ancestry.com subscription – A leading resource for online records and family trees.
- FindMyPast subscription – Essential for UK and Ireland research.
- MyHeritage subscription – Another powerful research platform with global records.
- Fold3 subscription – Ideal for researching military records and service details.
- Newspapers.com – Great for finding obituaries, announcements, and local stories.
- Vivid-Pix Restore – User-friendly photo restoration software for old family photos.
Genealogy Gifts for Research On-the-Go
Not all research happens at a desk. Trips to archives, libraries, or relatives’ homes are part of the hobby. These gifts keep research efficient and comfortable on the road.
- Portable charger – Keeps phones and tablets powered during long research days.
- Flash drive or external hard drive – Handy for backups and transferring files after on-site research.
- Business cards – Easy way to share contact details and surnames of interest at conferences or local meetings.
- Genealogy cruise or research trip – Combine travel with education and research opportunities.
- Conference registration – A ticket to a genealogy conference offers learning and networking with fellow researchers.
- Travel to a repository or archive – Sponsor a research trip to a location the genealogist has long wanted to visit.
- Family reunion travel – Help reunite family members and gather oral histories and photographs.
- Roll of quarters – Many libraries still use coin-operated microfilm machines.
Genealogy Books – The Perfect Gift
Genealogists love books. They offer research guides, inspiration, and practical instruction. A curated book can be one of the most valuable gifts.
- NGS Research in the States – State-by-state guides to records and repositories.
- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot – A compelling family history narrative that resonates with many readers.
- The Journey Takers by Leslie Albrecht Huber – A personal exploration of family history and memory.
- The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy (2nd edition) by Blaine Bettinger – A practical guide to DNA testing for genealogists.
- Professional Genealogy: Preparation, Practice & Standards by Elizabeth Shown Mills – A reference for rigorous research methods and standards.
- 100 Questions for Grandma by Lisa Lisson – A prompt book to help gather stories and memories from older relatives.
Genealogy Gifts For The Home Office
A comfortable and organized home office makes research more productive. Consider these practical tools and supplies.
- LED magnifier – Helpful for reading faded documents and small text.
- Digitization services or kits – Services or devices that convert VHS, film, and old media into digital formats preserve memories long-term.
- Archival storage supplies – Acid-free folders, document boxes, and protective sleeves to preserve records and photos.
- External hard drive – Reliable backup for family trees, photos, and document scans.
- Film and slide scanner – Turn negatives and slides into high-quality digital images.
DNA Test Kits Make Great Genealogy Gifts
DNA kits are popular and often discounted during the holidays. They can help break through research brick walls and connect relatives.
- FamilyTree DNA – Offers Y-DNA, mtDNA, and autosomal tests for targeted research.
- AncestryDNA – The most widely used autosomal test with a large matching database.
- MyHeritage DNA – A solid option with international matches and tools.
- 23andMe – Provides ancestry composition and health-related reports alongside matching features.
Unique Family History Gifts
If you want something more personal, these options create tangible family keepsakes.
- Custom family history book – Create a printed book of family stories, photos, and charts to share with relatives.
- Family recipe book – Compile cherished recipes and the stories behind them into a keepsake volume.
- Custom family tree chart – Professionally printed pedigree or descendant charts make attractive, informative gifts.
Stocking Stuffers for Genealogists
Small, useful items make great stocking stuffers and are often the most practical gifts on research days.
- Rolls of quarters – Still useful for microfilm and copier machines at some libraries.
- School supplies – Pens, notebooks, highlighters, and mechanical pencils for note-taking.
- Snacks – Easy-to-eat snacks for long research sessions away from home.
- Gift card for books or subscriptions – Help pick up that next research guide or pay for a subscription.
Frugal genealogy tip: If you shop on major retailers, consider membership programs that include free shipping to save during the holiday season.
Did I miss an idea? Drop your favorite genealogy gift suggestion in the comments below.
Check out MORE Genealogy Gift Guides!
- Gift Guide for Genealogy Book Lovers
- DNA Themed Gift Guide for the Genealogist
- Your Genealogy Easy Gift Guide for the Holidays
- Gift Guide to Genealogy Stocking Stuffer Ideas