We celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday June 21 this year and once again, we are faced with the same dilemma: Where will we find great gift ideas for Fathers’ Day? Historically, children and spouses have found it difficult to choose gifts for Dads and Granddads. Men rarely express their preferences so Father’s Day gift ideas tend to be “safe” - ties, home-made pottery-like creations, the occasional shirt or socks and more ties.

Defy tradition and think outside the tie box this year! Interesting gift ideas for Father’s Day abound throughout Dad’s lifestyle. Observe his career, his hobbies and interests, his personality, even his food and grooming preferences, and you will find the inspiration you need to select a Father’s Day gift that he is sure to enjoy.
 

Dads On The Go…
If Dad travels a lot, he might appreciate a leather travel wallet or an overnight bag.   Consider also a travel pillow for those long flights. Dad’s not a flier?   Maybe he could use a lumbar seat cushion for his car, or one of the many rescue kits out there that can bail him out of flat tires, minor bruises, even dead car batteries. How about a year’s membership in a roadside assistance service?
 

Dads Who Love Gadgets…
What would any group of Father’s Day gift ideas be without the latest high tech gadgets? You can choose from any number of audio, video and communications gizmos and downloads (can you spell G-P-S?) that entertain as well as connect Dad to you and the rest of the world at a price almost anyone can afford. 

Is your Dad a tool junkie? Few gifts say ‘you’re the best Dad in the world’ like a power tool! You can find something in any price range down to mini-tool kits and tool bench organizers.   Dad doesn’t have a workshop? Get him started with blueprints to build one.
If your Dad is the designated barbeque chef in the family, think of all the tools and accessories available for that activity – forks, tongs, clip-on lights, timers with and without alarms, funny aprons, etc. Let your imagination run wild!

Sports – The Universal Language...

Let’s not forget the sports arena for some fun and fabulous gift ideas for Father’s Day! Dads who like to play appreciate gadgets and accessories so they can play better or more often. Golfers can always use more golf balls and tees and they always need a hat and sunscreen for proper protection. If fishing ‘rows his boat’, Dad or Granddad could make good use of outdoor gear, rods, reels or lures.
If Dad is into professional team sports, his favorite team or player can inspire you with an impressive array of merchandising gift ideas for Father’s Day. Branded caps, mugs and apparel are quite affordable and easy to find. For a more sophisticated gift, consider an autographed photo of his favorite player, season tickets or books and memorabilia related to the history of his favorite team or players.
 

Not Your Mother’s Gift Basket …
If your brother snapped up the good automotive, sports or technology gift ideas, then a daughter or spouse might consider assembling a themed gift basket including Dad’s favorite personal grooming products, car detailing products or favorite snack foods.  
 

Playful Father’s Day Gift Ideas …
Gift ideas for Father’s Day can take a playful turn as well. Look to icon collectibles like Elvis, The Duke (John Wayne to you youngsters) and Harley-Davidson. Certainly Granddad would get a kick out of an Elvis bobble head or a framed movie poster of The Duke or even a Harley paperweight. 
If you and your Dad (or Granddad) have time to spend together, board games can provide hours of entertainment and good times for you both. If he is into solitary, more intellectual pursuits, collections of crossword puzzles, Sudoku or a book from his favorite author will appeal to him.
 

The Personal Touch …
If you have the time, consider personalizing your gift. Dad’s name or initials will add a thoughtful personal touch, letting him know you took the time to plan his gift. Leather goods, jewelry, casual apparel and golf accessories – balls, tees and club covers – lend themselves nicely to personalization. Allow at least two weeks for a personalization service.
Whether intended to be fun or practical, your Father’s Day gift should appeal to the little boy that still lives in the man, no matter what his age. Remember, he will appreciate it all the more because it came from you.

Tags: car, dad, father's day, father-in-law, games, golf, grooming, team, travel