It’s my husband’s 40th birthday next month, and I am at a bit of a loss as to what to buy him. He’s asked for a shed, or loads of wood for his allotment. Neither option is exactly exciting, is it? I have come up with a few ideas myself though – some are better than others. With that in mind, today I’m sharing the 40th birthday ideas I’ve come up with for my husband.

Previous Ideas

Over the years, I have got him plenty of geeky things – a new iPhone, lots of Lego sets, tools for the allotment, books and quirky things as well. I wanted us to go away this year, but hubby has said he’d rather have the money for stuff for his new allotment – who am I to argue?

My own husband didn’t want a party, so there was no need for me to factor that in or sort out birthday invites, this time around. I think he felt sorry for me, after the chaos of the kids’ parties in recent years.

My Husband’s 40th Birthday Wish List

Hubby’s made it very clear that he really wants a shed, but I am a big fan of surprises. If I get him a shed, he definitely won’t be getting anything else of much monetary value.

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I could probably stretch to a few bits of bunting to decorate the inside of the shed, or maybe a new tool box, but not much else. I did see some pretty cool looking tool chests when browsing SGS last week, actually.

My Ideas for my Husband’s 40th Birthday

I want to get him something he genuinely wants, but equally; the thought of him not having anything to open on his birthday itself is pretty sad. I wonder if I could wrap up a shed catalogue and put an IOU in there…?

A few years ago, I did a treasure hunt for him – maybe I could do that again and lead him to the shed website…? I was considering getting him custom keyrings made, for his shed and greenhouse doors at the allotment. I figured I could get his allotment blog logo put on one, and a photo of Syd in the greenhouse on the other. They’d fit nicely into a scavenger hunt though – don’t you think?

He hates birthday badges, but I thought that maybe some custom coins were a quirky idea which may be a good shout for little “token” gifts to place on my husband’s 40th birthday scavenger hunt?

I could ignore his wishes altogether of course, and just book us a night away for my Husband’s 40th birthday, like I’d planned to? I had my sights set on a night in a luxury RV not too far from home, but there was no availability.

The RV had its own private hot tub, and it sounded perfect for him. When you’ve got 2 large dogs, 2 young kids and no babysitters, getting away as a couple is impossible. It would be a night away, with kids – if we did go.

40th Birthday Ideas for The Day Itself

My husband’s 40th birthday will involve a trip to an RHS garden of his choice, which could make lovely memories if I decide to create a personalized photo calendar afterward.

His birthday lunch won’t be anything too exciting, given his Diabetes and restricted diet. Either Subway or a Burrito Salad Bowl from Bar Burrito. He will enjoy it though, even if it doesn’t sound particularly exciting.

In the evening, our daughter has already decided that she’s taking her Daddy out to the local fireworks display. I’m being left at home, to look after the dogs while they have fun without me. How rude! I’m not complaining though – the dogs are terrified of fireworks, so I’d never leave them home alone.

I did come up with some other possibilities for things to do…

1. Outdoor Adventure: A day filled with outdoor activities like hiking, dog walking, or even a thrilling parachute jump experience – He used to do these in early adulthood and loved them. For anyone looking for similar ideas, Tinggly offers a range of experience gifts for him, including adventurous activities and memorable days out.
2. Surprise Party: I briefly considered a surprise party with close friends and family, but realised he’d hate this.
3. Sports Extravaganza: He loves F1, so if money was no object, I’d definitely have considered an international F1 race weekend.
4. Travel Getaway: He took me to Center Parcs for my 31st birthday, and I considered returning the favour. Alas, no childcare and the kids now being school age veto’d that plan.
5. Foodie Adventure: I considered treating him to a culinary adventure by booking a reservation at a fancy restaurant, but he’s diabetic so options are very limited. No birthday cake for him!
6. Memory Lane: I considered creating a scrapbook or video montage featuring highlights from his life so far, including messages from friends and family. But I don’t have contact with his childhood friends or extended family.

I’d love to know if you have any low cost 40th birthday ideas for little gifts or surprises. Even if they aren’t suitable for my Husband’s 40th birthday!