Christmas Gifts for All Types of Dads in 2016

We are all more than aware of the monumental challenge that awaits us each year. Will we crack and crumble under the pressure? Will our minds go blank as we scan our brains for the answer? Will we be reduced to panicking and crawling around on our hands and knees with the other poor, damned souls?

Yes, it is that time of the year again- it is time to starting think about what to buy our dear dads for Christmas.

This used to be a challenge that I was reluctant to even admit that I had to partake in. I would usually leave it until Christmas Eve before venturing out and joining the others in our sacred quest in the centre of town.  Now, however, with the Christmas creep seemingly coming earlier, and my local Waitrose assembling their Christmas tree before I have even had a chance to wash the stench of bonfire smoke out of my hair, I can now proudly claim to be well-versed in all things Christmas.

If you are bored of getting him the same old bottle of whisky, or the usual comedy pair of sock from Marks & Sparks, take a look at my list of Christmas gift ideas for different types of dad in 2016.

The Music Obsessed 

It goes without saying that a lot of dads have a dreadful taste in music. I still feel myself clamming up every time I hear those opening chords of Caroline by Status Quo, remembering the sight of my father showing off his air guitar skills in the kitchen. However, we all know just how much music effects a person’s mood and it is only fair that we indulge him a little every now and then.

Treat him to one of his favourite band’s CDs or to a piece of musical merchandise. If you are feeling overly-generous this year, treat him to a couple of gig tickets.

The Sporty Type

This one is pretty much a safe bet and is one of the easiest types of dad to buy for. If he is into sports, I am certain that you have had to endure him ranting and raving about his favourite team losing, yet again.

Christmas represents a great opportunity to take an interest in his hobby and to spend some quality time together. Boxing Day has always been a traditional fixture in the British footballing calendar, and what better chance to spend some quality time together watching your local team suffer their annual humiliation in front of a bumper crowd?

Alternatively, if he is more of an active type and likes to get out and test himself on Boxing Day morning, then look to him something more practical, such as a fitness watch or a pair of cycle jeans.

The Traveller

If your dad is always on the move, something to remind him of home and his family is a great gift and will get him through those long evenings when he is away from home. In these cases, combine practicality with sentimentality to create the perfect Christmas gift.

Perhaps opts for a luxurious travel bag; something useful to store his valuables in or something to keep his mind fresh and active while travelling. You could also buy him whatever you think will make him most comfortable while travelling. Alternatively, you could simply for the easy option and buy him a travel mug with your face printed on the side.

The Geek

There is something toe-curling about having a geeky dad while growing up. However, as you get older and learn to fine-tune and embrace your inner-geek, you learn to accept and even appreciate him for who he is.

There is also the added bonus that he is one of the easiest types of dads to buy for. Your first step is to work out whether he is into his Star Trek or Star Wars. Once you have worked this out, there are all sort of gifts out there for you to choose from. Seriously, you do not have an excuse!

The Petrol Head

 Again, this type of dad will not provide you with too much of a challenge. You will be lucky enough to have the annual Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond books out in time to cash in on Christmas should you fall into any difficulties.

If you haven’t done so all ready, a day driving super cars around a track will probably keep him happy, and most importantly quiet, for the next 5 years. Make sure that it is extra special and treat him to a pair of driving gloves.