15 Easy Ideas for Buying Budget Father’s Day Gifts

Dads hold a special place in our hearts. They patiently teach us valuable skills and life lessons. They’re our protectors and providers. And for better or worse, they’re our beloved terrible joke tellers, too. With Father’s Day on the horizon, you may be pondering what to buy him to celebrate his special day. After all, he’s not the easiest person to buy gifts for. And what do you give the man who has everything he needs, anyway? At the end of the day, it’s not about how much you spend or the grandeur of your gift-giving celebration. It’s the thought that counts the most.

With everything going on, you may be searching for a more affordable gift for Dad this year. Look no further. We’ve got you covered with a few budget Father’s Day gift ideas below.

Thoughtful Father’s Day Gifts

Most of the time, small gestures stretch a long way. Think about what’s most important to Dad, then try to find a gift that’ll complement his interests.

1. Updated Family Photos

Does he carry around family photos in his wallet? Most dads do. But how old are these photos? Either they’re all tattered, many years old, or both. Arrange a photoshoot to take updated family photos. Nothing fancy, a simple smartphone camera and plain backdrop will do. Already have new photos? You’re one step ahead. Find your nearest CVS or Walgreens to print these photos for a few dollars. The typical wallet size is 2×3.

2. A New Wallet

Speaking of wallets, what’s the condition of Dad’s current wallet? It may be hanging on by a few threads. And more than likely, it’s chocked full of cards that he doesn’t even need or use on a daily basis. New wallets are easy to find, and they usually aren’t too pricey, depending on the type. Maybe a simple money clip will help Dad to downsize. But buyers beware: some guys aren’t too keen on trading in their old wallets. This may take some major convincing.

Cool Cooking Items for Dad

Some dads love to cook. But nearly all dads love to grill. Something about cooking over an open flame is irresistible. Plus, these cool tools make the best budget Father’s Day gifts.

3. Grill Gadgets

You almost can’t go wrong with new gadgets for Dad’s grill. The options for these budget Father’s Day gifts are plenty— from tongs, thermometers, forks, skewers, potholders, oven mitts, baking stones and racks, all the way up to a new (and pricey) Big Green Egg.

4. A New Apron

Every king has his crown. And every top chef has his signature apron. These range from canvas to denim to pricier leather options. Go the extra mile and get his initials monogrammed if you have the means. Remember to keep his size in mind when picking the perfect apron. Lengths usually fall right above the knee. Adjustable neck straps can help this. Also, make sure the drawstrings will fit around his waist.

5. Recipe Books

Does Dad always cook the same stuff? How about a new recipe book? It could be authored by his favorite chef, made especially for grilling, or geared toward making easy meals. Want a super budget-friendly Father’s Day gift option? Find your favorite recipes online, print them out, and make a homemade recipe collection. Have the kids color the front and back cover pages for an extra artful approach.

A New Goblet for the King

Sure, it’s not the most original option, but a new coffee cup or mug is an easy budget Father’s Day gift idea.

6. Coffee Mug

Think about it— he drinks coffee every morning. Try gifting him a new thermos or mug to keep his coffee warm for hours (even though it won’t last nearly that long).

7. Fancy New Beer Glass

And for after work, perhaps Dad would enjoy a fancy new beer glass. Do a little research; there are different types of glassware shapes for different types of brews.

Dad’s Brand-New Media

Consider the different types of media your dad digests. Sure, he might watch a lot of TV (especially during football season), but you can bet he’d enjoy new music or books quite a bit.

8. His Favorite Music

If your dad is a tech titan, sign him up for a music subscription service like Apple Music or Spotify this year. If he’s more old school, he may enjoy CDs or even vinyl records of his favorite albums from his younger years. He’ll be jamming out to nostalgic tunes in no time.

9. A New Book

Whether it’s a self-help book, a do-it-yourself garage guide, or even a new Bible or religious text, Dad could always appreciate new reading material for Father’s Day.

Classic Budget Father’s Day Gifts

There are a few tried-and-true budget Father’s Day gifts that may never go out of style.

10. New Ties

You guessed it— give Dad a new tie for Father’s Day. Some families have traditions where they give him a new tie each and every year, or even every holiday. Perhaps you can change it up this year. Steer his style in a new direction with a skinny tie or brand-new bowtie.

11. New Socks

Another classic budget Father’s Day gift: new socks. But this year, try going with new colors, patterns, and wacky designs for his sweet new socks.

Favorite Father’s Day Subscription Services

Subscription services are all the rage these days. Plus, they’re the gifts that keep on giving every single month.

12. Gift Box Subscriptions

There’s a monthly gift box for nearly everything— from clothing to grooming and more. Birchbox, Scentbird, and Stitchfix are just a few options in a sea of subscription boxes.

13. Shave Subscriptions

Have his razor blades and shaving cream shipped directly to his doorstep each month. Popular brands include Harry’s and Dollar Shave Club.

Turn Up the Volume

These gifts are a little pricier than the ones listed above. However, if you have the budget, Dad will surely love these music-making machines.

14. Bluetooth Headphones

For the father that works out, works hard, or just enjoys a little noise-canceling every now and then, try a pair of Bluetooth headphones. These range in price and can be moderately pricey.

15. A Portable Speaker

A good portable speaker might be just what Dad is missing. Bluetooth speakers are great options but may cost more. Instead, opt for plug-in speakers that connect directly to his smartphone. These offer quality sound at a more affordable price. There you have it! Fifteen budget Father’s Day gift ideas that will surely make Dad smile this year. Did you wait until the very last minute? Find more last-minute gift ideas here that may help your situation. Loans should never be used to buy gifts. But, if getting your finances in order tops the Father’s Day wish-list, you’re in luck. Check Into Cash can offer loan options for whatever comes your way.