So what do you buy someone who’s turning 40 that probably already has everything they could want or need at this point in their life? We’ve included the most creative and unique 40th birthday gift ideas for men and women covering all the bases, including their favorite hobbies. Food-inspired gifts to indulge in from Goldbelly, innovative technology gifts like these tiki torch blue tooth speakers and a foot massager, silly novelty gifts like a jumbo 40th birthday card and trucker hat and so much more are highlighted in the best 40th birthday gift guide below. We also included custom gifts like this monogrammed fleece robe, canvas tote bag from Etsy and personalized yoga mat. So scroll down and discover the best birthday gift ideas under $500.00 to buy your special friend or family member to remind them that their best years are yet to come! Here at Parade.com, we’re all about sharing products we love with our audience. When you make a purchase on an item seen on this page, we may earn a commission, however, all picks are independently chosen unless otherwise mentioned.
50 Best 40th Birthday Gift Ideas
1. Initials and Last Name Customized Embroidered Tote Bag, $28.69 at Etsy
Available in 10+ thread colors, this year-round tote is large enough for all her belongings like beach towels, baby necessities, books, a laptop and more. Customize this durable canvas tote with her name or initials for her 40th birthday!
3. Birthday Basket for Him, $174.99 at Gourmet Gift Baskets
Men turning 40 years old will dig this beer-inspired birthday basket that comes with a variety of 12 beers arranged in a bouquet and delish snack foods like handcrafted gourmet popcorn, jerky, crackers and more. Beer glasses are not included.
4. 40th Birthday Black Gold Glitter Extra Large Jumbo Card, $34.95 at Zazzle
For a novelty gift idea, get your friend a large jumbo card for their 40th birthday. “It is great quality and it arrived early,” shares a 5-star Zazzle review. He will really get a kick out of this fun men’s graphic tee that says “Vintage 1982 Original Parts” screen printed on it! This polycotton tee comes in a bunch of colors in sizes small-5X-large.
6. Machete Smart Watch Band, $65.00 at Anthropologie
If she has an Apple watch, upgrade her smart watch band with this super stylish resin one from Anthropologie in white, blue or clear.
7. HATCH Restore Reading Light, Sound Machine & Sunrise Alarm Clock, $129.00 at Nordstrom
Waking up at 40 years old just got easier with the HATCH Sunrise Alarm Clock which also doubles as a useful reading light and soothing sound machine.
8. Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil, $55.00 at Sephora
When you turn 40-years-old, skincare matters that much more than the year before, so get her this all-in-one face oil from Sephora by bestselling brand Summer Fridays. To upgrade this gift, add a face roller or Gua sha tool to your cart so she can use one with this fabulous face oil.
9. Leather Tassel Keychain for Airtag, $27.99 at Mark & Graham
If you’re stumped, key chains are an easy gift idea for someone’s 40th celebration. This Mark & Graham leather tassel keychain is designed specifically for an Apple Airtag—and it’s on sale! We’re obsessed with this hot pink fuchsia color, but it also comes in other neutral colors. Personalize this unisex keychain for an extra $12.50 with his or her initials!
10. The Mini Bar Cocktail Recipe Book Collection 8 Piece, $20.00 at World Market
For the friend, sibling or hubby that’s turning 40 and loves their happy hour, go for this 8-piece cocktail recipe book collection available at World Market for just $20.00. You’ll inspire their inner-mixologist with these 100 crafty cocktail ideas.
11. Indoor S’mores Fire Pit, $175.00 at Uncommon Goods
S’mores are a delicious treat, so surprise your loved one that’s turning 40 with this indoor s’mores fire pit gift. The entire family can enjoy spending quality time together roasting marshmallows and telling stories conveniently inside their home with this mini s’mores maker.
12. Laurent-Perrier + La Box en Pink Gift Set, $499.99 at Wine.com
Looking to spend $500.00 for a special lady in your life that’s turning 40? Make it one birthday to remember! Check out the Laurent-Perrier + La Box en Pink Gift Set that includes, of course, a bottle of luxurious rosé champagne, plus a crepe de chine scarf by bash, Delina Hair Mist, Feminine Discovery Set and more high-end goodies.
13. HOPPER FLIP 8 Soft Cooler, $200.00 at YETI
We included this $200.00 HOPPER FLIP 8 Soft Cooler from YETI on our 40th birthday gift idea list because it’s sleek and functional for hikes, tailgating or beach days. This personal insulated cooler is a no-brainer for any guy or girl turning the big “4 0.”
14. Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit 1.0 and Stand Kit, $309.99 at L.L. Bean
Next up, is a 40th birthday gift for someone who has a nice deck or patio. Introduce them to the 5-star Solo Stove Bonfire Pit and Stand Kit so they can enjoy it in their backyard whenever the weather allows.
15. Versace Logo Cotton Slippers, $125.00 at Saks Fifth Avenue
Give this cozy present to your favorite girlfriend turning 40! If you spend $125.00, you’ll impress her with designer Versace Logo Cotton Slippers in this cute girly pink.
16. Money Tree, $39.99 at Harry & David
You’ll wow the birthday girl or boy with this pre-planted money tree that symbolizes good fortune! It arrives in a green decorative ceramic container at 5" D x 5 " H.
17. Chocolate Dipped Indulgence Platter, $54.99 at Edible Arrangements
We’re showcasing this chocolate-dipped fruit platter by Edible Arrangements so you can mail it to your friend turning 40 if you don’t live close by! Strawberries, pineapple daisies and Granny Smith apple wedges will arrive hand-dipped in gourmet semisweet chocolate—yum!
18. Dyson Pure Cool TP01 Purifying Fan, $399.99 at Dyson
For a pricer gift option, get this Dyson Purifying Fan for the 40th birthday girl or boy. “The air quality difference is huge,” shares a 5-star reviewer about the functional household gift. “The design is so nice I went with nickel and silver and it was a great choice.” Available in six different colors, this takes any frozen fruit and turns it into a smooth treat similar to ice cream or sorbet, but without all the extra sugar and preservatives.
20. Polaroid Now i-Type Instant Camera, $119.00 at Nordstrom
They can take photos of their 40th birthday bash if you buy a Polaroid Now Instant Camera as a birthday gift. The easy-to-use camera has a built-in auto-focus lens system, powerful flash and included neck strap.
21. Driver Drink Dispenser, $79.99 at Sharper Image
We’ve got the best gift for your 40-year-old golfer friend! It looks like a golf club that you can easily fit in your bag and has an insulated cooler tank with 48 oz. to add your favorite hot or cold beverage. Get this cool gadget on Sharper Image on sale today!
22. Tennis Deluxe Bracelet, $195.00 at Swarovski
We are showcasing the classiest 40th birthday gift idea: The Tennis Deluxe Bracelet at Swarovski. With round cut, white, rhodium-plated jewels, this high-class birthday gift costs just under $200.00 and will show her how much you care about her.
23. The Tutu. $85.00 at UrbanStems
I’ve sent The Tutu pink dried flower arrangement at UrbanStems to a best friend for a birthday and she absolutely loved it. She sent me pics of it right away and it looked gorgeous in her living room. Highly recommend buying this floral gift for a friend’s 40th! Know someone who could use a little relaxation? This is the perfect 40-year-old gift for a mom or workaholic! Aromatherapy shower steamers are super cheap and will help your sibling, friend or loved one chill out while freshening up in the morning or evening.
25. New York Brunch from Russ & Daughters, $195.00 at Gold Belly
A glorious breakfast will get delivered to your soon-to-be-40-year-old pal’s house if you head over to Gold Belly and buy the New York Brunch. For $195.00, New York’s finest Nova, all-natural cream cheese, hand-rolled bagels, chocolate babka and Private Blend coffee with a Russ & Daughters mug are included.
26. Fellow Stagg Electric Kettle - Pink w/ Maple Handle, $195.00 at West Elm
The stainless steel Fellow Stagg electric kettle in pale pink is a great addition to any girl’s kitchen. With 0.9 L capacity and a range of features such as temperature control and quick heat time, a 40-year-old birthday girl will go crazy over this new kettle.
27. Burberry Fringed Wool-Jacquard Scarf, $360.00 at NET-A-PORTER
Want to win over your friend with the best 40th birthday gift? Shop this jacquard-woven Burberry scarf with fringe detail. The black and beige colors will go with any outfit while still making a statement.
28. Black Onyx Beaded Bracelet, $55.00 at FOSSIL
He will feel extra trendy at 40 years old if you gift him this black onyx beaded bracelet. This subdued piece of jewelry is perfect for the guy who doesn’t want to be too flashy but keeps up with his style.
29. Kessler Large Duffle, $400.00 at Leatherology
Look at this top-of-the-line large duffle bag available for purchase at Leatherology as a 40th birthday present option. The full grain leather large 14.2"H x 25.6"W x 12"D size is $400.00, has an exterior, large zippered interior pocket and two additional open interior pockets with leather trim. Customize their initials on this classic tote with tons of personalization options including text placement, text size and color.
30. Arcade1up Pac-Man Bandai Legacy 12-in-1 Arcade, $449.99 at Kohl’s
Even though he’s an adult, he can still be a serious gamer! For under $500.00 you can buy this super cool vintage Pac-Man Arcade game for his man cave or basement.
31. Composite Agate Cheese Board, $78.00 at Anthropologie
If you know a birthday girl turning 40 who loves to entertain, take a closer look at this chic cheese board. The Anthropologie serving board is crafted from colorful pieces of natural agate and makes the ideal dish for charcuterie, hors d’oeuvres, and more.
32. Georg Jensen Indulgence Grande Champagne Cooler, $499.00 at Bloomingdales
Cheers to 40! Get the bubbly ready and chilled ASAP with this mirror-polished champagne bucket chiller that holds up to three bottles of champagne.
33. A Gift For You Sampler, $180.46 at Omaha Steaks
We have a mouth-watering gift for a guy with a 40th birthday coming up and it’s under $200.00! Go to Omaha Steaks to get a sampler of filet mignons, burgers, franks and sirloins and chicken breasts. For the amazing price, this food gift package also comes with a side of Potatoes au Gratin and a dessert of Caramel Apple Tartlets!
35. Sparkling Name Personalized Yoga Mat, $39.99 at Personalization Mall
So the person you love who’s turning 40 years old is big into working out? Then get her this sparkling name personalized yoga mat that can be used for yoga practice or stretching.
36. Back to Life Sport Bottle 32oz, $48.00 at Lululemon
It’s important to keep up with your water intake and stay hydrate especially when you hit the 40-year-old milestone. Inspire your loved one or friend to drink up and stay healthy with the new arrival 32 oz sport bottle at Lululemon. The insulated water bottle with leak-proof lid comes in this clean white or you can pick from a bunch of other fun colors.
37. Joy Recipe Journal, $35.00 at Papier
Shopping for someone who’s always cooking in the kitchen? Give this hardback recipe journal as a birthday gift. It also has extra blank lists to document your favorite stores, restaurants and places to try.
38. Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc, $100.00 at Sephora
Tom Ford is known for their unbelievable fragrances. This 1 oz/ 30 mL bottle has a vibrant, fresh scent with radiant citrus notes. The good thing about Tom Ford scents are that they’re unisex so they make an easy gift for any person in your life.
39. Peri Home Chenille Leopard Comforter & Sham Set, $149.99+ at Nordstrom
New year, fresh bedding. We’re talking about a cozy tone-on-tone leopard comforter and sham set that come in full/queen or king size. The chenille animal print patterned bedding set adds a modern touch to any bedroom.
40. 24K Gold Anti-Aging Routine 5-Piece Kit, $72.00 at Peter Thomas Roth
All of the essentials needed to keep up with 40-year-old women’s skincare are included in this 23K Gold Anti-Aging Routine 5-piece kit by Peter Thomas Roth like a facial serum, cleanser, face mask and more.
41. Norkfork Butterfly Mirror By Rosdorf Park, $399.99 at Wayfair
She’s a special woman in your life turning 40, so surprise her with this ornate butterfly mirror in an antique gold finish by Rosdorf Park. She will definitely find the perfect place in her home to display this exquisite home decor.
42. Nike Air Max 270 Women’s Sneaker, $150.00 at REVOLVE
Women’s sneakers that are extra comfy like this Nike Air Max 270 will make errands and workouts that much more enjoyable during her 40th year!
43. Birthday Gift Box Set, $100.00 at Alex and Ani
Alex and Ani has a birthday box gift set available in shiny gold or shiny silver that you can gift your girlfriend or family member for their 40th! The top-rated star beaded bangle and an accent bangle that says “Happy Birthday” comes in a special celebratory gift box. We love a trendy trucker hat, especially a whimsical one that says “40 never looked so good!” Your friend will get a laugh on their 40th birthday and rock this novelty hat during his or her birthday festivities.
45. Miko Shiatsu Foot Massager with Deep Kneading and Heat in Charcoal Grey, $138.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond
Foot massages are so relaxing, so your 40-year-old birthday recipient will really appreciate this Shiatsu Foot Massager that has deep kneading, massage modes and heat settings for extra relief.
46. Men’s Wool Runner-up Mizzles, $145.00 at Allbirds
We’re featuring a pair of ultra comfy men’s wool sneakers from Allbirds because they have tons of 5-star reviews by all the men that wear them. His feet will always stay dry on his commute to work with water-repellent Puddle Guard technology. Here’s a gorgeous aqua blue glass candle with a lid that burns up to an impressive 85 hours. With nearly 10k ratings averaging at 5-stars, you can bet your giftee will adore the exotic citrus and sugary notes of this fragrant candle.
48. Tiki Torch Outdoor Bluetooth Speakers (Set of 2), $99.99 at Sharper Image
For the relative who loves to throw fun backyard bashes, you’ll want to consider these fun tiki torch outdoor Bluetooth speakers at Sharper Image that blast your favorite songs for up to 6 hours.
49. Classic Embroidered Pink Short Fleece Robe, $47.99 at Personalization Mall
It’s so nice to receive a brand new cozy fleece robe, especially during a new season like the fall when you can cozy up in it and enjoy your morning coffee. Buy this classic long robe with a built-in belt and get it embroidered with her name for a personal touch (no extra charge!). The best 40th birthday gift a cook can ask for is a new 10-piece cookware set—and this one by GreenPan is nonstick and scratch-resistant. Up next… if you’re celebrating a special occasion with your hubby or wife soon, you’ll want to check out 50 Gift Ideas to Celebrate One Year of Marriage With Your Person.
