There are some men who you can't help feeling sorry for. Every birthday, Father's Day or Christmas they're faced with the unenviable task of trying to look happy when presented with yet another pair of socks, aftershave or soap. I can't count the number of times I've heard female friends complain that they don't know what gift to get for their dad. Strangely, they don't have the same problem buying gifts for a woman. So, is it really so difficult to buy a gift for dad? Maybe we're just not trying hard enough.



The key when buying a gift for dad is to know his likes and dislikes. Yes, I know that's basic, but it's astonishing how many of us don't know. It possibly stems from the fact that for many of us when we were growing up (in my case during the 60s and 70s), we simply didn't have the same contact with our father as with our mother. He was away at work most of the week. And of course, most kids lose interest in their parents when going through the teenage years. It's no wonder our dads lag behind in the gifts-receiving department.

So, a special occasion is looming and you haven't got a clue what to give dad as a gift. Here's a tip – visit when your dad's not in. Take a good look at his cd collection to get an idea of his tastes. Examine his bookcase and his dvd cabinet. Check whether there are any magazines around with a male-oriented theme. If you know he likes wine, then look at the labels in the rack to ascertain what style of wine he likes. That should at least give you a starting point for ideas about a gift for dad. How about the latest book from his favorite author? Or a box set of cds or dvds in the genre he likes best? A magazine subscription would make a long-lasting gift. Consider buying wine in a gift box instead of just a bottle. It makes it more special.

It may be, of course, that your dad has a keen hobby or interest. This makes giving gifts easier, but it's still worth putting a little thought into it. My dad plays golf, but there are only so many times I want to give, or he wants to receive, a set of golf balls. So, in the past I've given him golf gifts such as a calendar with photos of famous courses, a ball-cleaning set, a wooden box carved with golfers for storing pens and a book about the history of the course he plays on. The same rules apply whatever the hobby. If you can't think of anything out of the ordinary, then use the internet and you'll be amazed how many different items you can buy for any sport or hobby.

A nice gift for dad is a personalized one. I don't mean something with his name embroidered on it, but rather something that has a particular resonance for him. For example, this could be a mouse mat with a picture of a beloved pet, or a framed portrait of his grandchildren, or the autograph of his sporting hero. If he loves food then buy or make him up a hamper or gift basket filled with his favorite treats. If you enjoy crafts then you could use your skills to make dad a scrapbook filled with memories, a cushion for his chair or an extra-special personalized card.

When you really think about it, you can come up with almost endless ideas on buying or making a gift for dad. So, instead of purchasing another aftershave/deodorant/shower gel combo, take a look online. You'll be spoilt for choice and your dad will be the one to benefit with a great gift.