Top Ten Father's Day Gifts for Under $50

When I was a kid , dad got a tie, after shave or an ashtray from art class. Well, times of course have changed. And the gifts we give dad need to reflect those changes. It's important in these days of higher costs, to be more careful with our cash. And we also need to be mindful of what dad really wants for Father's Day.

There are a questions to consider before choosing a gift. What does dad like? What are his hobbies? Does he play sports? What books or magazines interest him? Because a Father's Day gift needs to be essentially a gift focused on relaxation and rest.

Choose gifts that are useful, personal and not too work related. Don't waste money on silly gimmicks or expensive cards. That only indicates that you hurried to the store at the last minute and grabbed the first thing you saw. If you shop around, watch sales and ads and consider carefully, you can find dad a very nice gift at a reasonable price.

Here is a list of the top ten gifts for under $50 that will please dads, husbands, grandpas or any man on Father's Day. They are in random order.

1) Tickets/Fare to an event he enjoys. Plan an outing for him based upon what he needs (a date with the wife, an outing with the family, or some alone time). Most any dad needs to get out more and have some fun! They need a break from work. Check websites for local venues for game schedules if he's a sports fan or concerts, movies or plays for the arts enthusiast. I am hiring a charter fishing boat for my husband and kids to go out on Lake Michigan.

2) A hammock: You can purchase a free standing model inexpensively. Look for one with an awning or cover for shade.

3) A complete dinner. We splurge every year and get dad all his favorite treats. Good steaks, scallops, onion rings and we turn our kitchen into a buffet. He never seems to get full or have time to enjoy his meal. We prepare it for him while he lounges. This is a meal we set out to make memorable.