Books, Music & Media

Magazines & newspapers

1 kinds worth knowing, 6 picks, and what to check before you buy.

Representative photo-style image of magazines & newspapers — generated, not a specific product
Representative image, generated

Magazines and newspapers suit people who read a little every day or a lot on a slow Sunday: a dad who reads the paper cover to cover, a grandparent who saves back issues, a student who likes a long read between classes. The subscriptions that get read tie into an interest the person already has. That could be a science magazine for someone who follows new discoveries, or a cooking or gardening title for someone who spends weekends in the kitchen or the yard. Think of it as a gift that keeps arriving all year. Before you choose, find out whether they'd rather read on paper or on a screen, and whether a new issue every month would feel like a treat or a chore.

Kind 1 of 1

Science magazines for curious minds

A science magazine covers new research in space, medicine, the environment, technology and the human body, written for readers who aren't scientists. It suits the person who shares odd facts at dinner, watches documentaries or is studying a science subject at school. Before you buy, look at a recent issue to see how technical it is. Some titles are light and full of photos, and others run long, detailed features. Check how often it comes out, whether a digital version is included and whether it can be mailed to a Canadian address. If they already read about one field, such as astronomy, a broad science title may add to what they read rather than repeat it.

  • Representative photo-style image of scientific discovery magazine — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Scientific discovery magazine

    Perfect for curious minds, offering insights into scientific breakthroughs, technological advancements, and the wonders of the natural world.

  • Representative photo-style image of culinary arts magazine subscription — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Culinary arts magazine subscription

    This gift delights home chefs and foodies with new recipes, techniques, and culinary inspiration delivered regularly.

  • Representative photo-style image of green thumb gardening magazine — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Green thumb gardening magazine

    Ideal for plant lovers and aspiring gardeners, offering seasonal tips, plant care guides, and landscape design ideas.

  • Representative photo-style image of premium digital news access — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $50–$100

    Premium digital news access

    Provides unlimited access to in-depth articles, investigative journalism, and breaking news from a reputable source.

  • Representative photo-style image of vintage automobile collector magazine — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Vintage automobile collector magazine

    A cherished gift for classic car aficionados, featuring historical articles, restoration tips, and profiles of iconic vehicles.

  • Representative photo-style image of world explorer photography magazine — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    World explorer photography magazine

    Captivates adventurers and photography enthusiasts with stunning visuals, destination guides, and tips for capturing memorable travel moments.

How to choose magazines & newspapers as a gift

  • Match the magazine to a hobby they already spend time on, not one you hope they'll pick up.
  • Ask, or quietly find out, whether they prefer print copies or reading on a tablet or phone.
  • Make sure they don't already subscribe, since a duplicate subscription is awkward to undo.
  • Choose a full year so they get something all year, not just a few issues.
  • The first issue can take weeks to arrive, so wrap a card or a single copy to open on Christmas morning.

Usually safe to skip

  • Titles on topics they have no interest in, because they tend to stack up unread and feel like clutter.
  • Daily news subscriptions for people who already follow the news online, since they often go unopened.
  • Heavy academic journals for casual readers, because the dense writing can make reading feel like homework.

Questions people ask about magazines & newspapers

Is a magazine subscription a good Christmas gift?
Yes, if it matches something they already care about. A subscription keeps arriving all year, so it reminds them of you long after the holidays. It works well for people who are hard to buy for or who don't want more things.
How do I give a magazine subscription as a wrapped gift?
Print the subscription details on a card and wrap it with a single issue, a bookmark or a mug. That way they have something to open on the day, even if the first mailed issue hasn't arrived yet.
Should I choose a print or digital magazine subscription?
Print suits people who like to read away from screens, keep issues or pass them along. Digital suits students, frequent travellers and anyone short on shelf space. Many publishers offer both together, so check what's included before you choose.

Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.

Everything else

All magazines & newspapers picks

Show:AllSpecific productsGift ideasBudget:AnyUnder $15$15–$25$25–$50$50–$100Over $100

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