Father’s Day is a time to honor the man who matters most--a tradition that Americans have been commemorating for over 100 years. Though, with the recent rise of gas and food prices, celebrating dad may be on a more limited budget. In fact, a recent survey by PriceGrabber suggests those who plan to shop for Father’s Day gifts this year will be looking for deals on presents under $100. Even that seems like an awful lot of cash to spend. So, whether dad enjoys being outdoors, watching sports or a sophisticated night on the town, creating a memorable holiday need not cost a lot of money.
Here are eight thoughtful and thrifty ways to pamper dad on his special day:
Clean His Car. Men treasure their vehicles and surprising dad with a freshly washed and vacuumed ride will make his day. Put in the extra effort to clean and re-organize the garage--he will be thoroughly impressed!
Feed Him. Fathers like to eat and a good meal will make him forever grateful. Grill a steak at home or go out to dinner. Before heading out, check Restaurant.com for discount restaurant gift certificates. Online coupons are also available for additional savings of up to 80-percent off already reduced prices.
Plan a Poker Night. Game night is not only fun for the whole family, but it can also be free. Up the ante by planning a poker night and serving dad’s favorite cocktails. If the phrase "straight flush" seems foreign, brush up on poker rules and tips from the experts at Pokertips.org.
Escape to the Great Outdoors. Whether dad prefers to hike, bike or fish, plan a day doing the activity he enjoys most with the people he enjoys even more. Taking interest in his favorite hobbies will make him feel appreciated. If the weather won't cooperate, there's certainly a sporting event on TV the family can watch together at home.
Book a Staycation. If a weekend getaway is out of the family budget, surprise him with a staycation to help him relax and unwind. Pitch a tent in the backyard and roast marshmallows for a camp-like setting, or create a hotel experience with an “in-room” dining menu. Luxurious maid and butler services as well as spa amenities should be included, of course.
Do His Chores. From mowing the lawn to cleaning the gutters and taking out the trash, show pop how much he's appreciated by doing all his usual household chores. Even better, give him a homemade coupon book filled with vouchers for household services he can redeem for help from the family throughout the year. It's a gift that really keeps on giving.
Teach a Tech Course. Dads are naturally drawn to neat tech products, but many times their operational abilities are lacking. Give him a crash course in making the most of his smartphone. There are lots of father friendly apps on the market for less than two dollars. For the handyman, the iHandy Carpenter app provides five professional tools including a surface level and steel ruler, right in the palm of his hand. For family time, the free GreatDad app finds local activities and attractions that are fun for everyone. Since most dads like to save money, load him up with a mobile coupon app while you're at it too.
Shop Discount Sites. For those who already have a gift in mind, scope deal-of-the-day sites like Dealery.com to score up to 70-percent off local spa services, restaurants, entertainment and more. CouponSherpa.com also offers hundreds of online coupons for savings on popular electronics, sporting goods, home improvement supplies and men's apparel to help finding the perfect present on a tight budget.
Andrea Woroch is an established consumer-savings expert passionate about helping individuals discover financial freedom. You can check her out at AndreaWoroch.com
