It’s that time of year again. That is, it’s time to let your dad know just how you feel about him. Although Father’s Day only comes once a year, it tends to show up when we’re busy entertaining the kids during summer break or trying to make the final preparations for a vacation. So, if your budget is looking pretty tight right now, you may want to check out these ten Father’s Day money saving ideas. Finding the perfect present for dad doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. You may actually be surprised as to how easy it is to make your dad feel loved and appreciated for all that he’s done for you.
1. Car Detailing
If your dad’s like a lot of dads out there, then his car means the world to him. It’s his pride and joy (after you, of course) and he’s always wanting to keep it clean and tidy. So, why not surprise dad with a custom detailing. You have a few options when it comes to this gift. To make life easier, you can take it in and have a professional clean it inside and out. Although this is a bit more convenient, it will also cost you a bit of money. So if you’re worried about the budget then you may want to try to do it yourself. Keeping the car clean shouldn’t take a whole lot of elbow grease on your end. Simply fill up a bucket with soapy water and get to washing. Try to conserve water as much as you can here as it will help you save money and it will also make your gift to dad a bit more ecofriendly. Once the car is washed, work on detailing the inside while it dries. Bring out your handheld vacuum cleaner to take care of debris on the floor and seats. Eliminate the trash from inside, but make sure it’s not something dad may need before you throw it out. Then, wipe down everything with a special car cleaner. You may even be able to figure out how to DIY this cleaning product if you look online. Last but not least, when the car has finished drying, slap on some wax and watch as she shines. You may also want to consider making dad a DIY gift basket filled with supplies to keep his car looking amazing!
2. Sports
Chances are, your dad likes one sport or another. So, let his special day be the perfect occasion to get outside and get some sun with him. You can easily organize a game of golf, tennis or ping pong with your dad, if those are the types of sports he’s into. You may even be able to swing the trip without having to spend a dime, which is even better for your budget. Of course, if dad’s into more team based sports then it may take a bit of planning on your end. However, if you have a lot of family willing to help out on the gift then you can easily organize teams for baseball, soccer, hockey and football. Just make sure to ask around a couple of weeks beforehand. Not all dads are excited to get out in the hot sun and play though. If your dad is more of a bystander than a player, then sit down and watch a game with him. Perhaps, you can buy cheap tickets for a minor league game in your area. If not, then kick back and enjoy a game on the TV with your dad. After all, it is spending time together that counts the most.
3. Yard Work
A lot of dads end up with a “Honey Do-List” that tends to be a mile long. So, why not ease the burden of dad’s chores and help out in the yard. You may want to start with the gutters as these are often long neglected. However, mowing and watering the lawn are usually a huge favor. You may even consider re-seeding, if the lawn is looking a bit sparse. Pulling weeds, trimming shrubs and other common lawn work are also a must. If you have kids then get them in on the action too. Your dad will love watching the effort as he sips some lemonade inside the cool house. If there’s not a lot of work to do then think out of the box. For instance, you can organize the lawn tools to make it easier for dad to get the job done. Also, you may want to consider making dad a gift basket filled with lawn supplies. This will help throughout the year and may even inspire dad to get out and work in the yard a bit more.
4. Brag Book
What dad doesn’t like to brag about his kids and grandkids? If your dad is always talking about how amazing you and your family are then give him the gift of a brag book. These handy books can easily be bought or made, which helps keep them on the frugal side. If you plan to buy your book then make sure to look around for coupons that will help cut the costs. However, you may find making the brag book brings even more meaning to the gift. There’s lots of brag book DIYs and you can even choose to create a portable brag book or one that sits proudly on the coffee table. Once you have your book made or purchased, fill it with pictures of the family. You may even want to add in achievements, such as ribbons or certificates. Of course, you don’t have to part with the awards, simply scan them and print them out!
5. Special Dinner
They always say food is the key to a man’s heart, so why not use this to your favor. On dad’s big day, pop by and whip up one of his favorite meals to please him. If you really want to push the envelope, you can ask around to see if you can find his mom’s or grandmother’s recipe for the dish, so it will be an even bigger surprise when he takes the first bite. Try to shop as frugally as possible when you go to buy the items for the dish though. There should be a lot of coupons out during this time so use as many as you can to cut down on the costs of the meal. Of course, you should also consider making dessert to complete the meal. Dads usually have a sweet tooth, so make sure to ask what they’ve been craving or work towards making their favorite dessert.
6. Coffee
If your dad is one of the many who can’t go without his morning cup of coffee then take him out for a cup of Joe and some good conversation. Dad will love being able to spend the time with you while the two of you catch up. You can even make your coffee outings a weekly thing to give dad a bit more of a gift for his special day. Of course, if you’re nowhere near your dad then a gift certificate for his favorite coffee house may do the trick. This doesn’t have to be inexpensive and will allow dad to go out when the mood arises. You can also plan on meeting him via video conversation apps so you can make good on your coffee promise. If dad isn’t really a coffee house kind of person, then send him a gift basket with his favorite coffee treats. For instance, you can pack a new mug, a couple bags of coffee and some cookies or cakes, to suit his sweet tooth.
7. Dad Date
Sometimes, all dad needs is a little time spent with his children. So, propose a special dad date for the big day. You can even make a coupon book to help make dad feel more special. You don’t have to choose expensive items for each coupon either. For instance, you can write up a coupon to share a hike or a simple walk with your dad. You may also want to write one for a free movie, dinner or game of cards. The options are endless with his gift so use your creativity. There’s also lots of ideas online if you can’t think of anything you think your dad would like. If you have kids then add a freebie grandkids day, or have the grandkids come up with their own surprises for their grandfather.
8. DIY Gifts
Most dads love gifts that let the world know they’re the best dad around. So, channel some creativity and start making dad some cool gifts to show off. One of the most common gifts for dads is a special t-shirt. Try to get some iron on decals or fabric paint to get started. You’ll also need a blank t-shirt in your dad’s size. Then, write or draw anything you like on the shirt. If there’s young children in the house then you might consider adding handprints so dad can always remember how small his kids once were. Another great option is a DIY hat, which follows the same principles as the t-shirt. Many dads love custom mugs or water bottles so they can show them off a work. Mugs are the easier item to customize as you can go to a pottery shop, or simply buy a special paint and a blank mug. There’s also many websites that will allow you to have your design custom printed at a fair price.
9. Have a Game Night
Chances are, growing up you had quite a few game nights with your dad. So, let dad relive the magic by calling a game night of your own. Try to get the whole family involved so it will increase the fun and make dad feel amazing. Simply, let dad pick a board or card game and let the evening roll. You may want to consider snacks and beverages for the event too as some games can go on for hours. Of course, if dad picks a short game you may want to let him play as many rounds as he likes, or move on to the next game of his choosing. If you think about the evening in a good light then there’s a great chance everyone will have the time of their life. You may even want to make game night a regular thing.
10. Shop Sales
If you already have something in mind for dad, then make sure to shop the sales. There should be a lot of great sales going on this month simply because of Father’s Day. For starters, if dad loves tools then now is the time to get him the gift you’ve always hoped you could afford. Most tools will take a huge price reduction, so move in while you still can! The same can be said for lawn supplies. Of course, there’s lots of great items to choose from for the big day, so think out of the box. You may also want to download some sales apps so you can find the best price around without having to drive around all day! Some apps will even let you reserve it, so you won’t miss out on the sale.
Father’s Day is a great time to think back on the happy memories your dad created with you. With these ten gift suggestions, you should be able to find the perfect something to let your father know he means the world to you without having to break away from your budget. With the financial burden of the holiday gone, you’ll love sharing and celebrating the man that brought you up!
