So your old man’s birthday is coming up soon. For some reason, it seems like dads are the hardest people to shop for. Either they have particular tastes, or they claim they don’t need anything. But that doesn’t mean it has to be impossible to come up with the right birthday present for your dad. Keep reading for eight budget-friendly gift ideas for every kind of dad out there.
Something to Wear
Who says clothes aren’t a good gift? OK, maybe they’re not for children, but many adults are thrilled to receive some type of clothing as a present. So why not give him something practical that also says you care about his comfort?
1. Workwear
Even if your pops isn’t in the business of manual labor, workwear is incredibly comfy and a popular dad fashion. From jeans to jackets to hats, workwear brands have it all. Plus, these manufacturers are well known for their high quality and durability. While buying from company websites could get pricey, there are other ways to get name-brand workwear styles within your budget. If your dad’s not fussed about some cosmetic imperfections, you can even score a discount Carhartt from a factory seconds source.
2. Loungewear
After working all day, there’s something irresistible about changing into comfy clothes and putting one’s feet up. Your dad will most definitely enjoy the gift of lounging more comfortably. A plush robe, flannel pajamas, or memory foam slippers will do the trick. Your dad deserves better than stretched-out sweatpants for his relaxation time. Give him the gift of comfort for his birthday this year.
Something to Engage His Mind
Is your dad not the type to park himself in front of the TV when he gets home? If he’d rather engage his brain than turn it off, give him some grist for his mental mill. There are plenty of things to do that will satisfy his urge for mental activity.
3. Brain Games
One of the best ways to make sure one’s brain stays sharp is by playing with brain teasers. These come in a variety of forms, including crossword puzzles, word searches, anagrams, and sudoku. You can find assortment booklets or those that just have a particular type of game, like only crosswords. Mind puzzles are super fun and will help your dad to keep his mental agility up as he gets older.
4. A Good Book
Books are timeless and can take a reader on many adventures. Whether your dad’s interested in fiction, politics, biographies, or poetry, there’s sure to be something out there he’ll like. Pick up a book written by his favorite celebrity or politician. Or give him a work by a classic author he’s been meaning to read, like Edgar Allan Poe or Charles Dickens. Just make sure it’s a topic or writer that interests him.
Something to Eat
You’ve probably heard the saying “The quickest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” While this isn’t true for every dad out there, it definitely is true for many men. So why not give your father the gift of delicious food?
5. Snack Basket
Get crafty by putting together a personalized gift basket full of your dad’s favorite snacks. Select a variety of flavors, from sweet to salty to savory. Pretzels, smoked sausages, nuts, and chocolate are all popular choices. Plus, making a homemade gift shows effort and that you care about him. Just make sure you’re catering to his particular tastes.
6. Dinner for Two
Is Dad not much of a snacker? Then give him the gift of a delicious meal at one of his favorite restaurants. You can take him out on a father-son/daughter date, where the two of you can enjoy some one-on-one time. Or give him a gift card that will cover the bill for both him and his main squeeze. Rest assured that this doesn’t have to be for a Michelin-starred restaurant, either. Many dads are happy with the excuse to go out, whatever the venue.
Somewhere to Go
The gift of an experience can be more valuable to some people than acquiring more stuff. If your dad fits into this category, why not support his interests?
7. Take Him Out to the Ballgame
Baseball is a crowd favorite, yet it also falls on the less expensive end of major spectator sports. That’s especially true if your town has a minor league team. Such games cost still less and can be even more fun to attend. Make sure to get some yummy snacks while you’re there. If he’s not into peanuts and Cracker Jack, a hotdog or ice-cold beer will probably do.
8. Travel Back in Time at the Arcade
Is your dad a fan of classic gaming? He may have grown up on Frogger, Pac-Man, Galaga, or Donkey Kong. While not as ubiquitous as they were in the 1980s, arcades still exist. Treat your father to a night of nostalgic fun. Get some rolls of quarters, flex your joystick hands, then have at it!
It’s the Thoughtfulness That Counts
It’s important to remember that the price of a gift should not matter. The point of giving gifts is to show you care about someone. So don’t worry if you’re going through a rough financial patch. Your dad will appreciate whatever thought you put into celebrating him, even if it’s just your time.
Last Updated on by Icy Tales Team
