Father’s Day Gift Ideas for the Broke and Thrifty


By Cheryl Mattox Berry

If money is tight this Father’s Day, you’ll have to be a little more creative when it comes to dad’s gift. Trust me, he won’t be upset if he doesn’t get another tie, mug or white dress shirt. Use your imagination. If you can’t think of anything, choose a gift from the list below:

  1. Take a picture of you and your dad, frame it and present it to him. He’ll find a special place for it at work or home. While you’re at it, make a copy for yourself and put it on the nightstand.
  2. Buy all his favorite snacks and arrange them in a basket. They will come in handy when he’s watching his favorite sports team on TV.
  3. Sports paraphernalia, such as a baseball cap and T-shirt of his favorite team.  T.J. Maxx and Marshall’s have a good selection.
  4. Create coupons for five car washes. FYI: That includes dusting the dash and console, vacuuming and polishing the tires. If you have siblings, ask them to pitch in.
  5. A CD of his favorite recording artist or put together a playlist for his MP3. Throw in a couple of your faves just for fun.
  6. His favorite adult beverage. Don’t even try going to the liquor store. You’ll need a grownup to help you with this one.
  7. Clean the barbecue grill. The whole family will appreciate this.
  8. Volunteer to do one of the chores your dad hates for one week. Put a Post-it note on your bathroom mirror to remind yourself.
  9. Update dad’s personal care products. He’s probably been using the same deodorant, shampoo and aftershave since high school. Introduce him to new fragrances, body wash and shower gel
  10. Give dad a mani/pedi. He’ll love the pampering, and his feet will thank you.

Many outlet and discount stores have a wide selection of inexpensive Father’s Day gifts under $15, including car care kits, personal grooming kits, gadgets for electronics and tools. Also, browse thrift stores and consignment shops. They carry gently used and new merchandise. You can buy picture frames and baskets to hold an assortment of gifts for dad. Hurry up before all the good stuff is gone.

 

 

 

 

 

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