Survey: Americans To Spend More On Dad

You might be hard up for Father's Day gift ideas, but according to a new survey, most kids will spend plenty on dear old dad.

The National Retail Federation survey of more than 8,300 people found that consumers this year are expected to dish out $9.9 billion on dads across the country. The average person will spend $98.34 on the holiday, up from $88.80 last year.

As in previous years, the most popular gift for dad will be a greeting card, which nearly 70 percent of dads can expect. And more than 42 percent of dads can also expect to be treated to a special outing such as dinner.

Other popular gift items include apparel, a gift certificate or gift card, consumer electronics or computer-related accessories, sporting goods or leisure items, tools or appliances, and home improvement or gardening tools.

"Gas prices have little effect on what consumers spend for those who matter most," NRF President and CEO Tracy Mullin said in a news release. "Retailers will see increased sales of clothing and tools as well as gift cards, which allow dad to treat himself to something he chooses."

The majority of shoppers will buy gifts for their fathers or stepfathers this year, but buying for other family members and friends is also popular. More than one-fourth of consumers will buy a gift for their husbands, and 7.7 percent will splurge on their sons. Some consumers will also spend on their grandfathers, brothers and godfathers.

Although the holiday is for dad, men will still be spending more than women this year, with men planning to spend $100.72 on average versus women's average of $96.09.