14 Last-Minute And Inexpensive Gift Ideas For Father’s Day

Fatherhood is an important role. Dads become the voice in our head and have an impact on who we become even after they leave us behind. Therefore they deserve to be celebrated!
But life gets busy. You realize Father’s Day is right around the corner, because you’ve been so busy taking care of everything else. “Uh-oh!” It completely slipped your mind. Now you feel pressured to find something thoughtful, and quick. Relax, and take a deep breath. These last-minute ideas below will save the day, and he will really love them because they came from his family.
Although not mandatory the thought behind gifts and presents brings smiles to people’s faces and makes them feel special. That’s the ultimate goal, to make that special man in your life see just how incredible he really is.

1. Plan a picnic. Put a couple of snacks in a basket or bag, maybe even a bottle of wine (don’t forget plastic cups), a blanket and you’ve got a picnic. Go to a nearby park and enjoy the outdoors. Bring a frisbee or ball to throw for the kids. Picnics are simple to carry out and don’t require much money. Here are some easy and healthy snacks you can prepare and bring along with you.
2. Surprise him with a short road trip. Last minute trips almost always turn out to be super fun. It doesn’t have to be a planned vacation; you don’t even have to stay the night. Get up in the morning and say “Surprise, I packed a bag, and we are going on a road trip.” Drive to a nearby town and explore.
3. Breakfast in bed. Sneak out of bed and get in the kitchen woman. Make him his favorite breakfast meal. Although this may require a short trip to the grocery store the night before, it’s something that will pamper him on his day. It takes a little planning, but I bet you already have all the ingredients you need right in your fridge and pantry.
4. Book him a massage. Massages are relaxing and a treat. If the man in your life is not the type that likes massages, but you know he could use one here is an idea for you. Get in the car and tell him you are going somewhere. Make something up. Drive to your preferred massage location and say “A massage is waiting for you in there.” He won’t be able to refuse such an offer. An hour massage costs anywhere from $40-$65 depending on the location. Get online and search for the best offer. Deals are everywhere especially on occasions such as Father’s day.
5. A “Day Pass” to go do his favorite activity: Golf, fishing, biking, etc. Most men have an activity they thoroughly enjoy. My dad’s favorite is singing and BBQing. My husband loves golf. Whatever he is into, give him a “Day Pass.” A day to himself to do what he enjoys most. If he’s into golf, book him a T-Time the day before. Wake him up early the next day and say “Happy Father’s Days, you have a T-Time at 8 AM.” If he is into fishing, buy him some bait and tell him you’re expecting him home for family dinner. 🙂
6. Tie & Cufflinks. If your husband, dad, or grandfather is a businessman, he would appreciate a new tie and cufflinks. You can find these at a men’s department store for a good price.
7. Shaving Kit. This is the gift that keeps on giving. It will keep him clean and well manicured for many months to come. If you have some extra money, you can actually buy a fancier shaving kit. These generally come with a new neat brush and shaving cream that makes a difference when shaving. At least that what my husband tells me.
8. Hand-Stamped Handkerchief. An easy DIY idea you can put together the day before Father’s day. It’s a unique and personal touch that no other will ever have. You will need a plain colored handkerchief, a stamp and fabric paint from your favorite craft store. The colors are up to you. 🙂
9. Man Basket. His favorite treats all in one basket. Beer, Beef jerky, body wash, maybe even a new pair of slippers. Set a budget and get creative.
10. Cookout Kit: Restock the Grill Master’s tools for summer. His burgers are so worth it. Technically it’s a gift for you and the family he just doesn’t know it.
11. If you have little one(s):
    DIY Stepping Stone. A mold of your baby’s foot. What a sentimental and sweet gift. Kids grow up so fast, a stepping stone will freeze this time and memory forever. You can do these every year and make it a tradition. *Warning: Don’t allow dogs to eat this. It can make them sick.
    What you need:
    1/2 cup of salt
    1/2 cup of flour
    1/4 cup of water (approximately)
    Instructions:
    Shape the dough.
    Make foot impression.
    Bake at 200 degrees for 3 hours.
    Spray paint whatever color you want.
    Place in the garden or on a shelf.
12. Father Daughter/ Father Son picture. Print out your favorite picture and put it in a frame. Don’t forget to wrap it up.
13. DIY Personalized Picture Frame. Decorate and personalize a picture frame. He will find it endearing. Here is an example for a Dad that is into Starwars. I realize you can purchase them, but normally they have more meaning and are much cheaper if you put it together.
14. Finger Paint Card. Set up a disaster area. Ha. I call it that because it’s going to get messy. Fun messy though. Give your kiddos some colorful paint and allow their creative juices to express their love for dad. If you want to contain the mess, a simple hand shape on a piece of paper and some finger letters will do the trick.

Extra: Family Activities

• Go out to lunch or dinner. Family meals are a time to bond. Going to a restaurant means you won’t have to worry about cleaning a mess and you can actually sit back and enjoy this moment. You can also invite extended family along and celebrate other dads. Done and done.
• Watch a movie together. In my family we grew up with movie night. I have fond memories of going to Blockbuster and renting movies with my dad and siblings. Those don’t exist anymore. Kids don’t know the half of it. LOL. Plan a movie night for fathers day. Actually, go to the theater or stay at home. Either way, pick up some popcorn and candy and do it.
• A stroll out in the town. Almost every city has at least one hot spot where couples and families go to eat dinner or hang out. Pack up the family in the car and go for a stroll. Look up the city’s website online. Nine times out of ten, they will have an activities calendar that tells you exactly what is going on.

Now I realize do you don’t have much time to get a Father’s day gift together but don’t stress. Remember, everything is going to be ok. At the end of the day, Dad is going to be grateful for his family and kids above all else.
Some of us are lucky to still have our dads with us, others not so much. Remember to celebrate the time you have with your dad, your husband, and grandfather. Time with them is the most precious gift.

What are last minute gifts you’ve gotten your loved one? I’d love to hear about it.

Have a fantastic time celebrating Father’s Day!

Cheers,

Abril