Whether shopping for a birthday or holiday or just looking for a special way to show someone you care, choosing gifts for science fiction fans isn’t always easy. You want to give them an out-of-this-world present that will blow them away, but you don’t want to give the same knick-knacks and fan merch they probably already have cluttering their shelves. And, as much as you’d love to send the sci-fi lover in your life on an all-expenses-paid tour of the galaxy, you need something that’s a bit more practical (and possible).
If you aren’t interested in the sci-fi genre yourself, you may have an even more challenging time finding the perfect thing for someone who is an aficionado. Don’t despair, though! We are here to help. Even if you don’t know the difference between an Ewok and a Wookie and have no idea what a sonic screwdriver is, you can still find an awesome gift for the sci-fi lover in your life. Keep reading to discover a few of our top picks!
1. Star Wars Candle
An awesome gift doesn’t necessarily have to be anything complicated. In fact, scented candles are perfect for just about everyone. You just need to choose the right one. If there is someone in your life who can quote every line of Star Wars and longs to visit a galaxy far, far away, you can’t go wrong with Star Wars candles. You may be unable to help them visit the fictional worlds of Star Wars, but you can indulge them in the fragrances of the Death Star, Tatooine and Endor.
Most Star Wars fans have plenty of merch, but most have never gotten to enjoy this type of sensory experience. With Star Wars-inspired candles, they can experience their favorite fictional universe in a new way. Astrology candles make excellent gifts, too, for sci-fi lovers who aren’t members of the Star Wars fandom.
2. Women of Wonder
Looking for a stellar surprise for a female sci-fi fan? Check out Women of Wonder. This series spans several decades and features the best sci-fi stories from female authors. Some of the authors featured include Connie Willis, Octavia Butler, Angela Carter and Leigh Brackett, the author who wrote the first draft of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back.
Since the sci-fi genre tends to cater more to male audiences, this collection is one of the few options perfect for women. Of course, it also makes a great gift for guys interested in reading more from female writers. Women of Wonder is an excellent way to share female voices with young sci-fi fans too.
3. Mars Dust Globe
This twist on the classic snow globe is a must-have for sci-fi lovers, especially those with an interest in space. Instead of white “snow,” the Mars Dust Globe contains reddish “Mars dust.” Give it a shake, and the adult and inner child astronauts will find themselves engulfed in a Martian dust storm. As the dust clears, you’ll see the planet view of the Red Planet, including the detailed topography of Olympus Mons and Valles Marineris. If you are looking for an interesting present for someone who has everything, this decorative piece is perfect.
4. Sci-Fi Subscription Box
Subscription boxes are a relatively new concept. But in just a few short years the market has grown tremendously, and there are now boxes to suit any interest. For the sci-fi fan in your life, consider one that includes things like sci-fi/fantasy books, graphic novels, fan merchandise, decals, etc. There are several options to choose from, making it easy to find the perfect one for your intended recipient.
The best thing about a subscription box is that it keeps on giving. Depending on which box and options you choose, the recipient will receive monthly or quarterly boxes for as long as you keep paying for the subscription. Plus, today’s sci-fi sub boxes are way cooler than the fruit of the month boxes from decades past.
5. Star Wars Coding Kit
Whether you’re shopping for an adult or a child, a Star Wars-themed coding kit makes an awesome and unforgettable gift. These kits teach users the basics of coding using sensors and lights. Once they have figured out the basics, they can code their own Star Wars adventures. This kit is geared toward kids, but adults can have a lot of fun with it too. It’s great for anyone interested in learning the basics of coding. Plus, it’s a neat collector’s item for the sci-fi fan who has everything.
6. Collector’s Edition Books
Your favorite sci-fi fan has probably already read every book in their favorite fandom. However, they likely don’t own the collector’s editions of their favorite tales. Several publishers offer special editions featuring beautiful, display-worthy cover art. Check out the SF Masterworks or Penguin Galaxy series to see what we’re talking about.
7. Star Wars Face Masks
Firebox’s Star Wars Face Masks are perfect for unwinding and indulging in some much-needed self-care. There are lots of futuristic skin care products out there these days, but masks featuring beloved characters from a galaxy far, far away are out of this world. The Chewbacca mask is infused with coconut oil for maximum hydration, and the honey-packed C3PO mask delivers a nourishing glow. The Force is strong with the Darth Vader mask, which is infused with black tea extract. And the cucumber Yoga mask is cooling and soothing. With the entire collection, your sci-fi fan will be looking (and feeling) Boba Fresh!
Conclusion
Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, event or holiday, or you’re just trying to brighten someone’s day, a unique present is a great way to show just how much the recipient means to you. From candles to coding kits, there are tons of great gifts out there for sci-fi fans — it’s just a matter of taking the time to find them. Put forth a bit of effort when looking for the perfect gift, and you’ll be sure to blow the recipient away. Check out the options above or spend some time perusing Etsy to find one-of-a-kind gifts.