In the current state of the economy, it is obvious that people are being more cautious about how and where they spend their money. However, despite the down economy, it is projected that Americans will still spend close to $9.4 billion this Father’s Day. Most consumers still plan to treat dad to dinner, a sporting event, or give gift cards, electronics, books, CDs, home improvement items and sporting goods.

Here are some ideas about how consumers can find the perfect gift for dad without having to spend a fortune.

For the gadget dad:

• Instead of spending over $1,000 on a new laptop or PC, get Dad the newest trend – a mini notebook! Toshiba’s new NB205 mini Notebook is packed with features, available in four different colors and priced between $349 and $399!
• If Dad really wants a laptop, Toshiba also offers a great notebook for under $750. Visit http://laptops.toshiba.com/laptops/satellite to get more information on the Toshiba Satellite A350.
• With PayPal Shopping, consumers can receive 15% off items like a 52″ Sharp AQUOS 1080 LCD HDTV plus free shipping – perfect for baseball season!

For the sporty dad:

• Get $20 off of any purchase over $100 at Sports Authority including a golf club set, camping gear, sports gear, etc. when purchased through PayPal Shopping.
• What about the dad who likes to get outdoors? Help dad save money on gas and give him something unique that he’ll have for years to come.  The A2B electric bike is a unique gift that not only saves on gas, but also saves on parking tickets and traffic congestion. By riding a sleek A2B, dad can commute to work, the gym or the store on a 100% electric bike powered by clean emissions. The smart design of the A2B will allow him to get up hills powering up to 20 mph without breaking a sweat!  And, he’ll look cool doing it.

Other great items and discounts for dad:

• Receive 25% off any item on eBags.com including laptop cases, wallets and more through PayPal Shopping.
• Free shipping of any purchase of $49 or more at Zales.com through PayPal Shopping – so get that watch dad has always wanted!

How are you planning to celebrate dear ole dad this year? Have any great gift finds of your own? I would love to hear about it all so please leave me some comments and share your thoughts and choices.