Nobody has influenced your life quite like your Father, Stepfather, Uncle or beloved father figure. And for one day this year, you're probably going to join millions of other Americans in celebrating everything your Father means to you. But as Father's Day approaches, you may be struggling to find the perfect way to surprise him while staying within this year's tight budget.
Just because you're being conscious of your spending doesn't mean Father's Day has to feel frugal. Keep in mind that this is Dad's special day-anything can make the perfect gift, as long as the sentiment is right. With that in mind, consider these inexpensive gifts ideas just for Dad.
Record A Video
Dads like to know how you feel, just as much as Moms do! And sometimes Dads don't hear often enough how much they are cherished. A creative, heartfelt gift for Dad can be inexpensive (even free) and mean more to him than a more costly material item. And believe it or not, he'll probably treasure your sentiments much more than that new tie you were considering.
Before the holiday, set aside some time to be alone, or meet with siblings or Mom. Reminisce about Dad and all the ways he's impacted you throughout your life. Take the opportunity to be nostalgic. Make a list of your best family memories, all the lessons Dad has taught you, or all the opportunities he's provided for you. Then, if you have a camera available to use or borrow, pour out these thoughts and feelings on video for Dad to watch again and again. If you don't have a camera, just write them down, and send Dad a hand-written letter.
Take Care Of Chores
Most Dads work hard and don't ask for much in return. Whether it's working in the yard, around the house, on the car, or on the road, Dads usually do whatever they feel is necessary for their families to live the lives they deserve. This Father's Day, consider giving Dad a much needed break by tending to all the extra jobs he takes on to make you and your family's lives cleaner and easier.
Dad will be sure to appreciate being able to put up his feet and enjoy a relaxing afternoon, or spend some time outside playing his favorite sport while you tend to the yard or the car. Lawn mowing, hedge trimming, fence painting, gardening, and car washing are all excellent places to start. If possible, make the housework a family affair, and involve Mom and siblings too. It's a practical, easy, and very inexpensive gift that will not only show Dad your appreciation, but provide him with a nice change of pace.
Make Time
There are many great gifts for Dad that can't be purchased or even wrapped. A sentimental video, a day at the lake and a day off from chores are just the beginning. These ideas can be free or easy on your wallet, and really only require one major investment: time.
This Father's Day, even if you're watching your spending, you can give the gift of time set aside with only Dad in mind. Consider who your Dad is and what his favorite activities are. What are his hobbies? If he had no other obligations, what would Dad do with a day to himself? Those are the types of activities you may want to consider inviting him to share with you and your family on his special day. For a creative way of presenting Dad's special time, try making personalized coupons or invitations and disguising them as standard gifts.
No matter what gift you decide to give this Father's Day, remember that Dad will love and appreciate any gift crafted or chosen with him in mind. Want more inexpensive holiday ideas? Check 'n Go, a leader in the payday loan industry, offers many more frugal gift ideas, more financial advice and other in-depth resources for the budget-savvy shopper in its new planning section. Take a look at Checkngo.com for more information.
Christy Belden works in interactive marketing for Leapfrog Interactive. Visit Leapfrog Interactive for more information.
Download our free toolbar
I love oatmeal! It is so cheap and filling. I always buy tons of it and do a lot of baking with it and eating it. My whole family loves it. So when I got my new issue of Country side magazine the other day in the mail , I just freaked when I seen a thing written about how to make milk out of oatmeal. So I decided to try it out. I love soy milk , since I am allergic to milk, so this seemed great for me. I made some oatmeal milk!! Put a cup of oatmeal in a blender, add water to within an inch of top and blend for a minute, then put through a sieve. Great -- taste like soy milk. you can add flavor to it too, like vanilla. Great for baking and since milk can be expensive and I always have oatmeal on hand. This is perfect. 
