How to Choose the Best Gifts for Your Dad [for father’s day or any time]

When it comes to giving your dad a gift, you want it to be special. It might be his birthday, Father’s Day, or because you want to show him how much he means to you.

He could be about to retire, it might be his fiftieth wedding anniversary, or you might be reunited after a long spell apart. Whatever the reason, finding the perfect gift isn’t always easy. There are plenty of old favorites such as a tie, cufflinks, baseball cap or a pair of socks. There are also a lot more interesting things you could buy your dear old dad.

Here are a few ideas to get you going.

• Spend Time with Him on Father’s Day 

Time is a great gift to give to your dad, especially if you’ve got other commitments and responsibilities that always seem to get in the way of spending quality time with him. Do something you know he’ll appreciate such as a walk on the beach, watching a movie together, visiting a museum or art gallery.

• Tick Something Off His Bucket List on Father’s Day 

If your budget can stretch a little further, then try an experience gift. Is there something you know he’s been longing to do for years? Would he like to learn how to fly a plane, drive a racing car, do a bungee jump or go for a balloon ride, for example? You know your dad well enough to be able to pick an experience that’s truly memorable.

• Noise cancelling ear buds are a gift any dad would love 

So many people are working from home nowadays, it is great to be able to work without tons of distractions, or at least a few less distractions. My husband has the Bose noise cancelling headphones. I used them and they do the job, but I can only use them for a while before they start to bother my ears, since they are quite heavy.

I was glad to find Vibes, small ear buds that keep distracting sounds to a minimum, making it easier to focus, while still allowing you to hear the sounds like baby monitors, the phone ringing, and the doorbell. And, another thing is that it isn’t one size fits all – it comes In three sizes of interchangeable eartips to ensure a comfortable fit for any sized ear. Get these noise cancelling ear buds here.

• Cocktails in a can are a great gift idea for dad 

If you have a father like mine, he is no nonsense, and certainly isn’t going to fool wth buying a bunch of ingredients for a cocktail. That’s why I love some of these new cocktail offerings available.

Related: The best cocktails in a can

Related: Spirits worth Sipping

I love a Manhattan or a Negroni, I mean what’s not to love, right? That’s why I’ve fallen in love with Tip Top Cocktails. I’ll admit, when I first saw them, I thought…umm…really? The can is tiny! But they pack a powerful punch in those tiny cans. I foolishly thought I’d have to crack open two cans just to get a buzz, but nope. One is incredibly strong, so watch out. But these are perfect for dads who enjoy a well made classic cocktail but don’t want to do the work. Or just have him over for dinner and crack one of these delicious classic cocktails open, pour over ice and act like you slaved away making it and he’ll be none the wiser.

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Cocktail Squad cans small-batch elevated craft cocktails (10% ABV) for fun on the go. Now available in six states–https://cocktailsquad.com/where-to-buy/  Cocktail Squad’s award-winning flavors include Greyhound; Margarita; Gin & Tonic; Bourbon Smash; Vodka Tonic; and Whisky Sour. Visit the Squad’s ordering page for purchase info.

For the Tequila loving Dad

Create your favorite tequila cocktails this spring with CaliFino! Tequila lovers, especially dads will love the smooth and elegant flavor of this Tequila. It drinks rather easily so no need to mix in a margarita but it certainly elevates any cocktail. It is from theHighlands of Arandas, Jalisco in Mexico – CaliFino creates all of its expressions using 100% ultra-premium blue weber agave. It’s the perfect gift for any tequila fan, and the good news is that you can get 20% off your oder using code DAD20 at checkout.

This is premium tequila without the premium price tag. Long time friends Miguel Luna and Phil Salvagio turned their passion project for luxury tequila into a reality. CaliFino was developed through endless rounds of tastings to ensure a lavish recipe every distinguishing tequila fan will love.

Get Dad a grill or Grill accessories (he’ll love this Father’s Day gift)! 

If you loves grilling, a new grill or grill accessories are something you can’t go with. There are so many choices. Grills are a great gift because so many dads like them and if you give them a grill or accessories for Father’s Day then he can start using it right away. You can go big time and get him a Big Green Egg or get a gas grill for around $300 or $400.

If that is out of your price range, why not consider grill accessories? A barbecue tool set is always a good idea and they are available in a variety of pricing.

Or one of new favorites is this meat thermometer, called the Meater! It connects via wifi to make sure Dad’s steak is the perfect temperature. Perfect for the techie dad! It also has a feature called the Advanced Estimator Algorithm. This estimates how long to cook and rest your food to help plan your meal and manage your time. So cool. And prices start at $99.

• Organize a Reunion

Does your dad have an old buddy he’s not been in contact with for ages? It’ll make his day if you organize a reunion. It’s possible to use Facebook or friend reunion services if you want to look for someone in particular. Organize their travel, accommodation and things your dad and his friend can do together for the day.

• A Gift That Keeps on Giving

Choose to sign your dad up for a subscription service and he’ll be able to enjoy his gift over and over again. You can get a wide range of goodies sent to your dad’s door on a monthly basis. It might be gourmet chocolates, bottles of wine, books, magazines, cookies or pies. Another great idea is to book him a table at a new restaurant every month and you can cover the cost.

• There’s Still a Place for Corny Gifts for dad 

Every once in a while, it’s good to give your dad a cringe-worthy gift just for the fun of it. It might be a mug, a t-shirt or some other trinket that sends your dad a message about how great you think he is. 

• Help Dad Travel

One last suggestion is to send him away on a vacation. If you’ve heard him say time and time again that he’s going to travel but never gets around to it, you can give him a little nudge and help him see places in the world he’s only ever dreamed of.

I hope this gives you some ideas of what you can get Dad this Father’s Day. And as you can see, it isn’t about money at all.