35 Best 40th Birthday Gift Ideas for Him and Her

Jun 05, 2023

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Unique and traditional presents that are sure to cue the happy tears.

Turning the big 4-o is a huge milestone that deserves to be celebrated. By now, they know who they are and what they like. Upgrading their home, traveling well, prioritizing their health and finding unique items to make their day-to-day life easier are all key once you hit your 40s. Since a birthday this big calls for the best present money can buy, look no further than our roundup of the top 40th birthday gift ideas.

Whether you're shopping for him or browsing for her, there's a no-fail gift on this list. We found a wildflower bouquet that will never die, a custom birthday book from The New York Times, a scented candle made especially for their birthdate and much more.And if they enjoy practical gift-giving over sentimental picks, we have those too (there's a nifty device to promote a good night's rest, for example).

So, whether you're shopping for a blowout 40th birthday party, an intimate gathering or even a one-on-one coffee date with your BFF to ring in their big year, we have you covered.

Help them celebrate their birthday in style with this custom book from The New York Times. It contains the front page from each year since they were born, wrapped up in a beautiful binding.

She'll love this beautiful pop-up card, which is so much more unique than a traditional bouquet. It even comes with a paper standing vase so she can proudly display it long after her 40th birthday.

She'll love this cute t-shirt that gives a nod to the year she was born. It's made of a soft cotton blend that'll keep her comfy from the gym, to running errands or even a casual meeting with friends.

Once they've hit their 40s, sleep might be a bit more difficult. This light system will train their brain to fall asleep naturally. It claims to reduce the time it takes them to fall asleep in half and will shut off automatically.

RELATED: 10 Best Sleep Aids, According to Doctors and Sleep Experts

At this age, self-care is everything. Over 21,000 Amazon reviewers have purchased this ice roller for the face and eyes and most love it. It claims to prevent wrinkles, moisturize dry skin and even help relieve fatigue.

Since they can never get enough of experiences, give them a little motivation to plan a memorable getaway. This inspiring book features 1,000 thrilling adventures for all types of travelers.

This set includes everything he'll need to enjoy his nightly glass. Standing three inches tall, the tumbler gives a nod to his birth year and includes four natural granite stones.

Go traditional with these chic sterling silver studs featuring created rubies (they look realistic!), framed by small white sapphires. One reviewer raved about the halo design: "These are very simply elegant. Nicely made and looks expensive."

Keep her cozy in this snuggly long sleeve pajama set. Made of cotton and polyester with an elastic waist, they're perfect for lounging around the house on a lazy Sunday.

Remind her just how great she is with this cute makeup bag. Made of linen and waterproof material, one Amazon reviewer called it "cute and durable."

Just like the name, they can take this belt bag everywhere. Its thick water-resistant fabric and minimalist style is perfect for jogging, running errands or even a night out with friends.

More unique than a fresh bouquet, this one is built to last. It's made of brass wire, alder wood, paper and glass and can be customized to match her birth month.

Let's face it: Passwords are bound to slip their mind. Luckily, there's a solution. Their important passwords will always be safe with this handy book, which even comes with tabs. Over 29,000 Amazon reviewers have tried it, and most are saying it's a "great product."

Chances are they take cooking seriously at this point in their life. For that reason, they'll appreciate this wireless smart meat thermometer. It comes with two sensors and one probe, and the free app will tell you when their meat is cooked perfectly pink.

Cloud slippers are everywhere right now, for good reason. Their EVA foam rubber design is easy on feet and purchasers describe them as "super comfy" for around the house or running errands.

Add to his collection of baseball hats with this embroidered "Vintage 1983" cap. Made of polyester and cotton, it comes in a bunch of different colors to choose from.

These birthdate candles are just too cool. Using numerology, tarot and astrology, each candle is personalized to the receiver, down to a signature scent.

Help her celebrate her 40th with this unique necklace. Made of glass, nylon and glass, it has one bead for each year she's spent on earth.

Working or watching movies in bed just got easier! Once they attach this nifty shelf to the side of their bed, all of their essentials — their phone, coffee and laptop — will be within reach.

Share all the reasons you love them with this fill-in-the-blank book that tells their story. It comes with prompts that can be filled out and over 16,000 Amazon reviewers are calling it a "thoughtful gift."

Cailey Lindberg (she/her) is a writer and editor with over a decade of experience covering products, lifestyle, entertainment and food. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, she was a staff writer at USA Today's shopping network, Reviewed.com.

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