It’s time for last-minute Father’s Day shopping! In a positive sign for the economy, the National Retail Federation reports that the average person will spend $117.14 on a gift this year – up 10% from 2011. However, that number is still considerably less than people spent on their mothers. Consumers reported spending an average of $152 on Mother’s Day.

Although he probably doesn’t mind taking the back seat, your dad deserves an annual pat on the back. It may be worth going the extra mile to show your appreciation. Go and spend a little extra $ on your dad and help the economy while doing so.

"He may not ever expect the 'royal treatment' on Father's Day, but this year dad doesn't have much of a say as it's evident his loved ones want to make sure he has a great day," said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. "For those looking for the perfect gift idea, retailers will have specials on everything from patio sets and grills to ties and gardening tools in the weeks leading up to the holiday." 

Nobody knows your dad better than you do, so we’ll avoid the obligatory top 10 gift list. Instead, Time Magazine has come up with a list of things to avoid. Here are a few of our favorites: 

ANYTHING THAT’LL REQUIRE HIM TO DO WORK. Unless he’s specifically requested a beer-making kit, it’s probably wise to steer clear. Ditto a donut maker. He may love drinking beer and eating donuts with Homer-like delight. That doesn’t mean he’ll enjoy making either of them—which might seem like just more chores to tend to.

ANY GADGET THAT’LL TAKE 15 MINUTES TO EXPLAIN ITS PURPOSE. Fewer than 1 in 10 dads put electronics on the top of their preferred Father’s Day gifts list. It’s safe to say that an even smaller number is interested in a gadget that they’ve never heard of, and that serves a mysterious purpose that’s not readily apparent. And if you think it’s difficult to explain to your father what it does, just think about how long it’ll take to convince him he needs it.

ANYTHING YOU MIGHT SEE IN SKYMALL. Not only overpriced, but of dubious utility too! That could be the motto of the shopping brochure found on airlines. Hammacher Schlemmer too—unless you really think dad wants a $700 Hands-Free Hair Rejuvenator on Sunday.

STUFF THAT SAYS HE’S REALLY OLD. The Reacher Grabber, for instance, or a mobility scooter. Even if he really needs something like this, don’t give it to him on Father’s Day. This is not the day to remind him he’s a frail old man. A cane is another example, though an exception can be made for a stylin’ fashion cane. But only if he doesn’t actually need the thing to help him walk.

ANYTHING THAT’LL HUMILIATE HIM. See: hair rejuvenator, Reacher Grabber, cane, mobility scooter. Also: Spanx for men. Neiman Marcus also suggests an anti-wrinkle cream for men as a Father’s Day gift, but that just seems cruel.