14 Aug 2019
Updated August 2022
What do you get for the Dad who has everything?
Most of the time if Dad’s want something new they’ll go and get it themselves. Or if they need to replace an item there’s a good chance Mum has already got it.
So how do you make Dad feel special on Father’s Day?
Here are 11 simple ways to treat your Dad without spending a fortune.
1. COOK HIM A WORLD CLASS BBQ
Most Dad’s love getting around the barbie, but imagine his surprise when you tell him to relax while you take over the tongs!
While the chances are high that he’ll help you flip the snags, that doesn’t mean it won’t feel special when you're spending that time together.
As for the world-class part, what could beat a sausage on bread from his new favourite chef?
Did you know? Our parks come with outdoor BBQ's included!
2. WASH HIS PRIDE AND JOY - THE CAR!
Grab a sponge, fill a bucket and give Dad’s pride and joy a good old fashioned scrub.
Make sure the outside is spotless before you vacuum the interior and be sure to go easy on any old scratches.
If Dad loves a road trip be sure to wipe down the dash. Not only will his car get that 'brand new' smell, it will also be primed for his next big adventure.
Hot Tip: While it’s great to surprise Dad with a good-as-new shine, it’s worth checking in about what products to use. Dad’s can be very particular about their prized possession, so don’t let a good idea go sour.
3. TAKE DAD ON A FISHING TRIP
Whether it’s the serenity of the water or the thrill of the catch, there’s something about a few hours fishing that most Dad’s love.
Often a solitary activity, why not suggest joining Dad on his next fishing trip. It doesn’t mean you have to stay the entire time he’s away (Dad’s love alone time too) but he’ll definitely love the fact that you're trying his favourite pastime.
Hot Tip: Make a weekend of it by organising a fishing trip with Dad. Here's our guide to Australian fishing destinations he'll love.
4. HAVE A KICK OF THE FOOTY
All Dad’s are big kids at heart, so why not grab the footy or soccer ball and have a kick-to-kick?
Not only will it mean getting out in the fresh air, chances are that Dad was a ‘pretty good player in his day.’ Either way he’ll love it just as much or maybe even more than you.
Hot Tip: Our parks have loads of space to play! See this list of free nature play activities you can do in our parks!
5. TAKE AN OLD FASHIONED POLAROID WITH THE OLD MAN
Remember when Dad used to have a family photo in his wallet?
With the invention of smartphones, these types of keepsakes have all but disappeared. To fill the digital void, get your hands on a polaroid camera or print out some copies of your fave digi-snaps in a few different sizes.
Not only will the photo go 'straight to the pool room' (or family fridge), he’ll now have something worthy of his wallet or money-clip.
Hot Tip: Take Dad somewhere he'll love to take snaps. Check out these awesome thought-starters.
6. GO CAMPING TOGETHER
What better way to bond with Dad than to book a Father-son, Daddy-daughter few days away, just you and him.
It doesn’t matter how old or young you are, it’s never too late (or early) to getaway somewhere new.
Hot Tip: Never been camping? Dad not into tents? Discovery has some of the best cabins in Australia in some of the most popular locations.
7. GO FOR A BIKE RIDE WITH DAD
Everybody knows that the simple things in life are the best, and a bike ride is a great activity for every generation of Dad. It's also a great excuse to enjoy the great outdoors together.
Unless you don’t have a bike, it won’t cost you anything to start pedalling, and there are so many great trails and bike paths to discover, so you’ll never be bored or run out of options.
Hot Tip: Our parks all have bike hire and are close to some of Australia's best family-friendly trails. Read about a bunch of them here.
8. PLAY A GAME FOR OLD TIMES SAKE
Whether it's a simple card game like snap, a friendly game of old-school dominoes or an epic round of trivial pursuit, you’ll discover a lot about your Dad when you play a game together.
Dust off the family's best board games and enjoy the nostalgia that comes with an afternoon of family game time. Win or lose, there’s fun to be had when you play Dad's favourite game or do his favourite hobby, just be sure to let him win too.
Hot Tip: Having fun on the road is a blast. Check out this story about old fashioned fun from Deanne and Gary.
9. TAKE DAD ON A SHOPPING SPREE
Truth be told, your Dad probably avoids crowded malls and department stores as mush as he can.
However, Dad will love the idea of having some alone time with you if you tell him you want to buy him something special - your treat!
The best part is it doesn’t matter how much you spend, as with all of these ideas, it’s always the thought that counts.
Hot Tip: Everybody loves ice-cream. Check out 10 of the best ice-cream shops in Australia!
10. GO TO THE GAME WITH DAD
Most Dad’s love a bit of sport, and what’s better than seeing it live?
It doesn’t have to be Manchester United vs. Barcelona to get the blood pumping either, Dad will love it if it’s your local suburban team. In fact, it's highly likely you’ll be much closer to the action here, not to mention the cost of a pie and a beer is at least half the price.
Hot Tip: Local sport is never far from our parks.
11. GO FOR A HIKE OR RUN WITH DAD
Why not make this one a family affair?
Grab Mum too and tell them you want to go running or hike to the nearest hill.
Once again you’ll get those outside endorphins flowing and create a sweet memory your Dad will cherish. Be sure to take plenty of pics and add some friendly competition - last one to the tree has to sing your favourite nursery rhyme!
Hot Tip: There are fun runs and trail runs at all times of year. Check out this list of some of the best.
