Budget-friendly Father’s Day ideas

You don't have to break the bank to show your dad just how much he means to you. In fact, recent research suggests that 44% of us spend between £10 and £30 on a budget-friendly gift. And trust us - a low-price yet thoughtful present will mean just as much to your dad.

If you're looking for Father’s Day gift inspiration or ideas on what to do on the day itself, we’ve got you covered.

Low-cost Father’s Day gift ideas

1. Give the gift of a new hobby

It doesn’t cost much to give your dad some inspiration. Why not buy him something that’ll help him find his new favourite hobby? Perhaps a planter with a handful of seeds or a second-hand set of golf clubs? There are plenty of online courses available, too, if your dad likes to invest in himself and learn new things.

Our own research shows that over half of us turn to our parents for DIY advice. So if your dad's a dab hand at home improvements, why not treat him to a new toolkit? You could even offer to help him take on a home renovation project, which could save the whole family cash in the long run. After all, almost one in ten homeowners say they have saved over £10,000 by DIYing!

2. Coupon book

A promise of your time and effort won’t cost you a thing. Perhaps he’ll take you up on a car wash or breakfast in bed. Why not give him some options and see what he'd like to choose?

If you really want to make his day, create a homemade coupon book offering a variety of favours from cooking a meal to helping with the gardening. Your dad can redeem the coupons whenever he wants throughout the year so it really is the gift that keeps on giving!

3. Personalised gifts

It’s the little things in life that really make our day, so don’t underestimate the power of a handmade gift.

A plain white mug will only cost a few pounds, but you can transform it into a personalised gift by writing a message or drawing a picture on it with permanent markers.

A photo collage will also go down a treat. Simply print off a range of family photos and arrange them on a canvas or in a picture frame to create a gift your dad will treasure.

4. A mix and match gift hamper

A gift bag full of small but thoughtful presents will give your dad plenty to unwrap on the day but it won’t hurt your bank balance too much either. His favourite snacks, novelty socks and a new book would all make fantastic stocking-filler-style Father’s Day gifts.

5. Give to charity

Your dad might support a particular charity or organisation that's close to his heart, so donating a small amount in lieu of a gift could mean a lot.

Many charities now also stock a selection of gifts dedicated to Father's Day, so you can buy a present he'll love while doing supporting a charity that means something to him.

6. A scented selection

Gifting fragrance can be one of the most expensive choices. However, if you shop around in plenty of time you could get your hands on a great deal. You might spot a last-minute price drop, exclusive online offers or flash sales - so keep an eye out for bargains in the months running up to Father's Day. 

Don't forget you can get cost-effective smellies by shopping local too. Small businesses may make their own soaps or skincare selections at a fraction of the cost of big brands. Not only will you be saving yourself some cash, you'll be supporting small businesses too. 

7. Tasty treats

Food and drink is one of the most popular Father's Day gifting categories, but you don't have to opt for the fanciest choices. A gift bag full of your dad's favourite food will show him you care... and you might even be in with a chance of him sharing his Father's Day treats. 

Things to do on Father's Day

1. Family fuddle

A family fuddle is a great way to celebrate with your immediate relatives. Ask everyone to bring a couple of food items, and before you know it you’ve got a party at a fraction of the cost!

2. Create an 'at home' movie night

You bring the popcorn and the snacks, let Dad choose the film! This is a great shared experience that won't cost too much. Plus, is there really a better gift than control over the TV remote? 

3. Baking competition

Get family members to make a dessert and have your dad take the starring role as the judge on the day, sampling and choosing his ‘Star Baker’. Warning: things may get competitive.

4. Enjoy the great outdoors

Get your bikes ready, pack a picnic or simply don your walking boots and get out and about in nature this Father’s Day. Spend some quality time together as a family talking and walking – good company is priceless, after all.

5. Trace your family tree together

Find out more about your family’s past by learning about your family tree. There are plenty of sites to help you explore your ancestry, so why not give it a go?

Are you all ready for Father's Day?

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