Smart shopping for Father’s Day

There’s still time to get Dad the perfect gift for Father’s Day, and it doesn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet. Here are a few ideas to get you going:

Something simple
A nice card says a lot, especially if it’s personalized. Cardstore.com has greeting cards starting at $1 plus shipping and often has great deals.

You can upload a photo and write a personal message. If you won’t get to see Dad on his day, you can mail it directly to him from the website.

Something smart

Documentaries, books and online memberships to scientific websites are all great gift ideas. From a National Geographic subscription to Discovery Channel Experience packages, there are plenty of ideas for the intellectual man.

Something sporty

If you’ve got an athletic dad, shoes are a good gift. Check out outlet stores such as Nike for discounted options. Online, Joe’s New Balance has deals with shipping that starts at $1.

Tickets to his favorite team can be expensive. Try looking on eBay for single-game tickets or season ticket holders selling for a specific game. Another good site is Stubhub.

Something BBQ

If your dad likes to grill and has a smartphone, this is a pretty cool gift. iGrill is a grilling device that along with a phone app, tells you exactly when a steak is done, and you don’t have to be standing over the grill. It works like this: plug the metal thermometer into the steak with an end plugged into the iGrill device. A Bluetooth connection from the iGRIll to your smartphone tells you when it’s time to flip, or what the temperature in your food is, etc.

The iGrill could run up to about $100, but here’s another option, and it’s free: The Weber Grills app is available for Apple or Android, gives dad weekly recipes, guides, tips and grilling tricks.

Something small

No, not a tiny gift. I’m talking about a small thought like giving the man unlimited access to the main TV for a whole week. Or a pampering day where he could just sit, relax, watch movies and have a drink. For little kids, dedicating a piece of artwork to Dad is a great way to bond. Make a special dinner for and include the kids in the making of it. A simple “I love you, Dad” will go a long way.

Shop smart

If you’re hitting the store or buying online, take these extra steps to make sure you get a great deal. First, browse store ads and websites to compare prices. Remember, some stores such as BestBuy and Fry’s Electronics price match to give you the lowest advertised price found elsewhere.

Use Twitter to find good deals. Whether it’s getting details to a specific getaway or looking to score a special discount, here are some tips to maximize using social media to treat dad.

If you’re buying online, do this first: Google “coupon codes” and the store where you’re looking to buy. The search results could give you coupon codes for free items, free shipping and discounts. Don’t forget, cash- back websites can pay back part of what you spend online.

Father’s Day is not only for those who’ve brought kids into the world. Let’s not forget father figures who have played important roles in our lives. Show them some appreciation as well. Give them a call, send them a text or post something on their Facebook to say “Thank you,” and “I love you.”

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