Father’s Day is around the corner, and if your dad is anything like this Reddit user’s father—a man who bikes, fishes, cooks, stays fit, and devours military history books—you know he deserves more than a cliché mug or tie. With a budget of $120, you can gift him something meaningful, experience-based, or delightfully useful, without adding unnecessary clutter.
We curated this list based on community wisdom and clever ideas from Reddit. It’s ideal for dads who are active, curious, and always up for the next great read or adventure.
1. 🎣 A Guided Fishing Trip or Local Charter Voucher
If fishing is his happy place, elevate his next trip with a half-day guided charter. Local outfitters often offer reasonably priced excursions for individuals or small groups. It's a great way to create memories without adding stuff.
Bonus Pairing: Include a waterproof phone pouch or mini tackle upgrade from Patch & Bagel’s adventure accessories.
2. 🔬 Military Museum Pass or Experience + Book
Does he love war strategy, aviation, or specific eras in military history? A membership or day pass to a nearby military or war museum can be a meaningful, experience-rich gift. Pair it with a new release or niche title from his favorite historical period.
Bonus Tip: Add a Patch & Bagel gift box with a vintage-style bookmark and snacks for the perfect history nerd bundle.
3. 🔊 Audible Subscription + Headphones
If he's downsizing and ditching DVDs, audiobooks might be the upgrade he didn't know he needed. Audible gift credits let him pick what he likes, whether it's World War II narratives or classic military strategy. Toss in a pair of wireless earbuds if he needs an upgrade.
Budget Idea: 3-month Audible subscription + budget-friendly Bluetooth earbuds = around $80 total.
4. 🌞 Multi-Tool or High-Quality Biking Accessory
If he’s still hitting the trails, a sleek new multi-tool, bike light upgrade, or repair kit could be the ideal mix of practical and appreciated. Look for something compact and durable that fits easily in his ride bag.
Patch & Bagel Pick: A leather keychain multi-tool or reflective pouch that clips to his belt or bike.
5. 🥝 Cooking Gadget with a Gourmet Twist
Whether he’s into grilling, meal prep, or gourmet sauces, go for a tool that levels up his kitchen game. Smart meat thermometers (like Meater), a sauce tasting kit, or an artisan spice rack can make cooking feel new again.
Creative Combo: Pair a regional BBQ sauce trio with a high-heat grill glove or cookbook focused on his favorite style (e.g., Texas smoke, Japanese yakitori).
Your dad doesn’t need more stuff. What he really wants is something that reflects his passions. Whether it’s a peaceful morning on the water, a deep dive into battle tactics, or just a new way to grill the perfect steak—your $120 budget can go a long way. And if you want to wrap it up right, our gift-ready boxes at Patch & Bagel are always a win.
Want more gift guides like this? Explore our other curated collections for hard-to-shop-for dads, moms, and giftees who already "have everything."