Father’s Day may not come with as much glitter as its maternal counterpart, but this June, Texans — and Americans at large — are set to celebrate dad with their wallets wide open. The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that Father’s Day spending is expected to reach a whopping $22.4 billion in 2024. That’s just a hair shy of last year’s record-breaking total and makes this the second-highest Father’s Day on record in terms of consumer spending.
The average shopper plans to drop nearly $190 on dad this year, and if you’re in the 25-34 age bracket, you’re likely to shell out even more — around $275.67, in fact. But what are all those billions buying? Greeting cards still top the list, with 58% of consumers opting for one. Not far behind are clothing (54%), special outings (52%), gift cards (48%), and personal care products (31%). And despite inflation and tighter wallets, these numbers show no signs of slowing down. According to Prosper Insights & Analytics, categories such as clothing, electronics, and tools have seen spending increases of over $500 million since 2019.
But it’s not just about what people are buying — it’s how they’re buying it. Forty-two percent of shoppers plan to make their Father’s Day purchases online, with department stores (38%) and specialty shops (22%) rounding out the top retail options. And as Texans well know, that convenience can come at a cost.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is sounding the alarm on online purchase scams, which have already cost Texans over $450,000 in 2024 alone. One Texan shared their experience through BBB Scam Tracker: “I tried to order my husband a gift for Father’s Day and got taken for $98. I ordered some tools I found online and paid through PayPal, then my receipt said I was paying a person instead of a company, which seemed strange. I contacted PayPal immediately, but they could not return my money. It was that fast! The website was no longer active the very next day, but they already have a new one that looks the same, and they always say 80% off.”
Online purchase scams are now ranked as the fourth riskiest scam in North America, with nearly 88% of victims reporting actual financial loss. This year’s Scam Tracker Risk Report from BBB makes it clear: the threat is widespread, it’s fast-moving, and it’s targeting shoppers of all ages.
So how do you keep your Father’s Day full of sentiment and free of scams? BBB has some recommendations:
- Read the fine print. Whether it’s a gift card or a ticketed experience, check for expiration dates and usage restrictions.
- Do your homework. Research retailers at BBB.org and avoid deals that sound too good to be true — especially on social media.
- Plan ahead. Check shipping dates, and for expensive purchases, require a signature upon delivery.
- Pay wisely. Use credit cards instead of debit or payment apps for stronger fraud protection.
- Skip shady links. Always verify coupon codes and discounts by visiting the retailer’s official website directly.
And for those thinking outside the box this year, nearly 42% of shoppers say they’re eyeing subscription boxes, up from 34% in 2019. Others are focused on experiences that create lasting memories, such as concert or game tickets. Whether it's a fishing trip, a six-pack of Texas craft beer, or a high-tech grooming kit, nearly half of shoppers say they’re seeking something unique and memorable.
In true Texas fashion, we're prepping to do this Father's Day big—boots, brisket, and all. But this year, maybe pause before you click “buy now.” Because nothing ruins Father’s Day faster than a gift that doesn’t show up — or worse, a scam that cleans out your bank account.
For more shopping tips and scam warnings, visit BBB.org.
