Gifts for Dad

Step One: Figure out your budget.

How much are you looking to spend? Most Dads don't care about what a gift costs. Putting a lot of thought and creativity into a gift can be worth more than hundreds of dollars in a gift.

Step Two: Decide what kind of Dad your Dad is

For a very general example of a few kinds of Dad, see the section labeled 'Dad Types'

Step Three: Buy the gift

Whether you buy the complete gift or you are buying a gift and then personalizing it, make sure you allow yourself plenty of time! Most online retailers clearly state their shipping times. Going to the Mall can be useful, but look more into creative ideas. Making a gift from scratch or finding a truly unique gift off the web can mean a lot more.

Step Four: Wrap and Present

Depending on the type of Dad you have, wrapping paper may or may not matter. Regardless, spend a little time to wrap your package instead of just giving it to him in a plastic bag or shipping box. Little efforts count!

Every Father is unique. However, here are some general types to help give you some ideas when shopping for a gift for him.

Active/Sport Dad:

This dad is a sports junkie. He coaches all the sports teams, plays basketball at the gym every week, and loves athletic competition. Find a gift that will help him to enjoy these hobbies more. Game tickets and the latest exercise or coaching gizmos are a great place to start.

Outdoor/Hunting Dad

These Dads love to go hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and anything else that will get them outside. Luckily for you, there's a plethora of equipment for all of these hobbies. Why not pick him up the latest camping gadget and then offer to go camping with him?

The Tinkerer

Maybe it's cars, electronics, computers, your refrigerator or something else, but this dad always seems to be fixing, breaking, building or tinkering with something. Being a bit of a tinkerer myself (no kids yet though :) ) I can say that TOOLS are a fantastic gift for this kind of person. They can usually build whatever they want, but they need the tools to do it.