Between juggling work deadlines, household chores, and everything in between, it’s completely understandable if Father’s Day has slipped your mind. Don’t panic! We’ve all been there. This article is all about the last-minute gift ideas for dads. This article is packed with last-minute gift ideas that still show you’re thoughtful, even if you waited until the eleventh hour to pick them out.
The seasonal rush might take you by surprise, but there are many last-minute gifts that you can prepare or get on the same day. Let’s find out!
Table of Contents
Evaluating Father’s Day spending trends
Popular Father’s Day gift ideas
Digital presents
Printable or DIY gifts
Quick-ship or same-day delivery items
Parting notes
Evaluating Father’s Day spending trends
Father’s Day spending has increased significantly over the past decade. According to the National Retail Federation, which has been tracking Father’s Day spending since 2003, the largest increase in spending occurred in 2021. That year, it went up by 18.2%, reaching US$20.1 billion.
In 2024, overall spending dropped slightly by 2.2%, coming down to US$22.4 billion. The average amount people spent also went down, from US$196.23 in 2023 to US$189.81 in 2024, among the 75% of consumers who said they planned to celebrate.
If you’re a retailer wanting to make the most of Father’s Day sales, knowing how much people spend is essential, but it’s not enough. You also need to understand what types of gifts they are buying so you can better stock your store and meet their needs.
Popular Father’s Day gift ideas
Digital presents
When you’re down to the last few hours before Father’s Day, digital gifts can truly be a lifesaver. They’re thoughtful and instant. When you consider your dad’s preferences, your chosen gift may become one of your dad’s most cherished belongings.
Gaming credits or subscriptions
Do you know that people now gift gaming subscriptions to their loved ones? Get your dad a subscription to PlayStation, Nintendo, or Xbox to help him de-stress. These memberships unlock access to free digital titles, exclusive deals, and online multiplayer so that he can enjoy gaming with friends or family. It’s a gift that keeps giving with its regular content updates and cloud saving features.
Caution: your dad might spend hours on it before he realizes he skipped his lunch!
E-gift cards
There are loads of options when looking for e-gift cards. You must first learn what your dad really likes. For instance, you can choose e-gift cards for Apple, Home Depot, or Starbucks. They allow him to pick exactly what he wants: a new tool, tech gadget, morning coffee, or digital books. You can even include a personal note or a few links to suggestions he might love to explore.
Streaming service subscription
How about giving your dad the gift of entertainment, learning, or fun? A subscription to Netflix, Spotify, Audible, or MasterClass means he can kick back with his favorite shows, enjoy music and audiobooks, or explore new skills from top experts. These digital gifts arrive on time and make it easy to spend quality time together. For example, you can have fun movie nights, share playlists, or learn something new together.
Fitness app subscriptions
There’s no better present than fitness app subscriptions if your dad loves to take care of himself. Consider a wellness app like Fitbit Premium, Peloton, or Calm. He can access workout videos, guided meditation sessions, and sleep support without stepping out of his door. It’s a simple way to bring balance into his life when he’s powering through busy weeks or chilling on the holidays.
You can get this gift with just a few taps on your phone!
Printable or DIY gifts
You probably don’t want your dad to find out that you started looking for a present at the last minute. These DIY and printable gifts are perfect when you’re short on time but big on love. You may simply plan to celebrate your man or add a personal touch to your gift. These ideas are sweet, meaningful, and easy to pull off, with little or no extra charge!
DIY memory jar
Grab a jar, some paper, and start writing down your favorite moments with Dad: funny memories, life lessons, or simply why you appreciate him. You can even find cute printable templates online to make it look polished. It’s a small gesture that brings big awe. Every time he pulls out a note, it will remind him of how much he means to you. Fill it with paper and maybe some strawberries or candy for dads with a sweet tooth.
Photo collage or scrapbook page
Consider designing a cute collage if you have a few spare hours before the big day comes in June. Head to Canva or any free photo editing tool and create a collage of your favorite moments. It could include snaps from family vacations, Sunday BBQs, or that goofy selfie you took last Father’s Day. Print it out at home or at a local shop. Add captions, stickers, or inside jokes for a gift that’ll make him smile whenever he sees it.
Handwritten letter
It doesn’t get more personal than this. Write him a letter telling him how much you love him and what he means to your life. Share a few favorite memories, thank him for being your rock, or just say “Happy Father’s Day” in your own words. You don’t need anything more than a pen and paper. Just try to be creative, expressive, and appreciative of your old man!
These DIY ideas clearly show you don’t need to burn a hole in your pocket when investing in a Father’s Day present. A whole lot of heart and knowing your dad is all it asks for.
Quick-ship or same-day delivery items
Looking for the fastest delivery options can be your facesaver when Dad’s Day arrives. Here are some quick-delivery gift ideas that you can get on the same day.
Local flower or gift shops
Check out nearby flower or gift stores that offer same-day delivery. Many have ready-to-go Father’s Day gift baskets filled with goodies like grooming products, chocolate, coffee, and even popcorn. It’s a quick and classy way to show that you care.
Food delivery gift
Treat him to his favorite meal from Uber Eats, DoorDash, or a local restaurant. It’s an instant win. He gets to skip cooking and enjoy something he truly loves. Add a note like “Dinner’s on me, Dad” for that extra cheesy touch. It’s an overnight gift that satisfies both the heart and the stomach.
Chocolate-covered cookies
Every dad deserves to feel special on this day. A box of chocolate-covered cookies would make an excellent present that satisfies their sweet tooth. You can pair them with cheese, chocolate truffles, crackers, and savory snacks to create the ultimate Father’s Day gift basket that hits both sweet and salty cravings.
Add in some gourmet coffee or his favorite breakfast items to help him start the day with a smile. Besides all this, you can also tuck in a gift card to his favorite deli or restaurant so he can treat himself later, too.
Parting notes
If you’re running late on Father’s Day shopping, don’t worry. Great gifts don’t need weeks of planning. Look into categories like quirky gadgets, personalized keepsakes, or practical items that’ll make his day. Head over to Alibaba.com and scan through their wide selection of last-minute Father’s Day gifts.
