Dads can be super tricky to buy for. Finding a gift that’s unique and personal can be a difficult quest, especially if you want to steer away from the go-to grooming kits, ties and barbecue gear.
The past year has been tough for a lot of families, kept apart because of travel restrictions. If your dad isn’t close by, sending a gift is a great way to tell him you’re thinking of him this Father’s Day.
The best gifts are thoughtful. If you take some time to think about what your dad loves and values and it should shine through in your gift. Use our list of gifts below to help get the ideas flowing!
Here are 5 great gift ideas for your dad this Father’s Day, whether he is close by or miles away.
Personalise his gift
If you’re wanting to avoid generalised gifts, go for something you can personalise or customise specifically for dad.
Get your kids to create some artwork for dad and turn it into a piece he can hang on his wall. You could also turn the artwork into a notebook cover or print it on a mug that he can take to work every day.
Higher end gifts can also be personalised. You could have his name engraved on a pair of cufflinks, a watch or pen knife. Or go for a leather toiletry bag with his embroidered initials.
Adding a personal touch to your gift is a great way to be intentional about what you’re giving and dad will love the extra thought.
Get photos professionally framed
One of the most personal and heartfelt gifts you can give is photographs of people your dad loves and good memories that he can hang on his wall.
Make sure you get the photos professionally framed with custom picture frames. That way he’ll be able to display them proudly on his wall or desk. Investing in a custom frame will make sure it’s the right size and style for your dad’s home and it’ll also better protect the photos inside.
If it’s been a while since your family has had professional photographs taken, consider booking a session with a photographer. Having up to date family photos is a great way to celebrate this time of life and dad will appreciate the gesture for years to come.
Then you can pay for your dad’s favourite shots to be printed and professionally framed. You can also print some extra ones and slip them into a photo album for him.
Satisfy his stomach!
Most dads (actually, most people) love food. Whether your dad loves eating it or cooking up a storm, food-based gifts are always a great idea.
Consumable gifts, like a fancy cheese platter or a set of infused olive oils, are a great choice if you’re not sure what your dad already owns. Go for something he loves to eat, but won’t typically go out of his way to buy for himself.
Dads that love to cook will appreciate gifts that they can make the most of in the kitchen. Give him a classy linen apron, a handcrafted jarrah chopping board or a pasta maker so he can whip up some fresh Italian dishes.
If your dad values experience and quality time over gifts, why not shout him a dinner at a restaurant he loves? Or you could book two tickets at a sourdough bread workshop or a whisky tasting tour.
Give him an experience
If your dad is the kind of man who already owns everything he wants, an experiential gift could be the way to go.
Outdoor-loving dads might enjoy kayaking on the river, learning to sail or a scuba diving adventure. Music-loving dads will appreciate tickets to a concert or a night out at the local jazz club.
For hard working dads who deserve some time off, book him into a hotel or bush retreat where he can unwind for a few days.
If your dad loves being surrounded by family and friends (and if it’s possible with covid restrictions!), you could throw him a surprise party. Tailor the catering, music and decor to him so that it’ll be a party he won’t forget.
Sign him up for a subscription
Depending on where he lives, your dad might not have the freedom to leave home and attend events this Father’s Day. But that doesn’t mean you can’t give him a great surprise that keeps on giving.
Sign him up for a year’s subscription to the right thing and he’ll look forward to it landing on his doorstep every month. You can find a subscription to just about anything under the sun – from beer and wine to beef jerky, funky socks, watches and more.
The great thing about subscription gifts is that your dad will be reminded that you love him everytime he receives a new box. It’s also a great way to get him trying new things or deepening a hobby he already has.
Show dad he means the world to you
Father’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate our dads – and of course our grandfathers, step-dads, uncles and any other father-figures in our lives.
Whether your dad is nearby or far away at this time, make sure you show him what he means to you. Sending a thoughtful gift is a great way to show him that he’s valued and appreciated.
