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Picking out the best 40th birthday gift can be a challenge. After all, by the time most people reach their 40s, they're in their "buying things for themselves" era. Still, it is a milestone worth celebrating (don't forget the birthday cake!). I personally have (ahem) a few years of experience into my 40s, so I'm well-versed in what a quadragenarian (that's what you call a person in their 40s!) might have on her wish list.
Keep in mind that, for some people, turning 40 can be difficult. Although we're firmly in the "40 is the new 30" camp, it can bring out uncomfortable emotions about aging. So think twice before you grab that "over the hill" greeting card or put a "lordy, lordy, look who's 40" sign in her yard. Instead, look to one of these practical and fun gifts that will celebrate her milestone. We've got picks for every budget, from $10 to splurge-worthy items.
More gift inspiration from our experts:
A Kindle is a bit of a splurge, but the e-reader has become my "don't leave home without it" accessory. The Kindle Paperwhite is not the top-of-the-line model (that honor goes to the Kindle Scribe), but it give her the most bang for her reading buck. The display is easy on the eyes and it has a dark mode for nighttime reading, plus the battery life is incredible. It's also waterproof. For an additional $20, you can get a version without lockscreen ads, but we don't even notice them.
Take her reading setup to the next level with this delightfully over-the-top pillow stand. It comfortably holds her reader (no more dropping it on her face if she falls asleep reading!), plus it has a little compartment for snacks.
Related: Our Favorite Kindle Accessories
In the world of Stanley cup girls and Owala water bottle faithful, I'm firmly in the Yeti camp. From my experience, you can't beat the brand known for its bear-resistant coolers when it comes to durability and functionality. Plus, they have so many fun colors to choose from.
If she spends any time in an office or just tends to be cold, she needs a wearable blanket at her disposal. This one is ultra cozy, plus it comes in eight colors. It even has pockets so she can stash her phone or glasses.
Related: Gifts for People Who Are Always Cold
This heating pad is one of my most-used gadgets, and I even take it with me when I travel. It's big (20 x 24 inches) for serious coverage. It has six heat options plus automatic shutoff so she can use it worry-free.
This clip-on fan is designed for a stroller, but we've found countless ways to use it, from a must-have travel accessory flights and road trips to baseball games and camping. It has three speed settings and a light, plus it's rechargeable.
Whether I'm working from home, at the gym, or walking my dog, I'm pretty much guaranteed to be wearing bike shorts. I've tried lots of brands, and the Align from lululemon get my top pick. They're super comfortable and high-rise, plus they come in an array of lengths (from 2 inches to 8 inches). The 6-inch length is perfect for me. They stay in place and are super comfortable.
The traditional game of mahjong has become surprisingly trendy! Where we live, people are forming clubs to play with friends (it's been called the new Bunk0). Get her started with a classic set, complete with a carrying case.
She doesn't need a green thumb to grow fresh herbs in her kitchen. Each jar comes with everything she needs to get growing basil, mint, cilantro, rosemary, or parsley. Plus, they come in mason jars with fun and colorful patterns. Consider this your go-to gardening gift idea.
When in doubt, go with a gift card. We've yet to find someone who doesn't appreciate a Zappos gift card (after all, who doesn't need a new pair of shoes?). It ships quickly and comes in a decorative box.
Looking for a splurge gift she'll love? Our vote goes to the BedJet. The innovative device (seen on Shark Tank) blows cold or hot air into her bed while she's sleeping. It's controlled by app or remote, and has customizable options to help her sleep more comfortably. I tested the BedJet for months and can confidently say it has changed the way I sleep.
Keep her organized with this clever reading valet. She won't lose her spot in her novel, plus it has a spot for her coffee, phone, and glasses. The front is engraved with "Save My Spot" and the back says "To Be Continued."
If she's a puzzle fan, choose a beautiful and challenging set from Cavallini Papers. We love the vintage-style illustrations and canister case. (Psst: Joanna Gaines sells this brand at Magnolia Market.)
If you haven't heard, birdwatching is having a moment! This clever device serves as a birdfeeder and camera in one, so she can keep an eye on her winged visitors.
Related: Jennifer Garner Made Me Want a Bird Feeder Camera Immediately
This handmade tea bag and spoon rest will be beloved by any tea drinker. It's beautifully made in Poland, and each one takes 12 days to create.
If she's living her plant lady life, another house plant is always welcome. I've purchased several plants from Costa Farms, and they always arrive safely and well-packed. Plus, you can choose a pot or planter that will match any decor.
Keep her organized on her travels with this surprisingly spacious backpack. It has a wet pouch, shoe bag, water bottle holder, and laptop sleeve. Plus, it opens like a suitcase for easy packing. She can use it for short trips (it fits under the airplane seat), or attach it to the handle of her suitcase. (Also available in black.)
If she never leaves home without her Stanley, she'll love this carry-all that helps her stay hydrated hands-free. The clever accessory has a phone slot, card sleeve, and mesh compartment, plus a sunglasses sleeve and key clip.
Bogg bags may be all the rage, but they're just not that practical or comfortable to carry. If she needs a serious tote, this Yeti carryall can't be beat, whether she's going to the pool, traveling or just corralling her day-to-day items. It comes in three different sizes and dozens of colors.
The Softies brand has made Oprah's Favorite Things list for seven years running. You can rest assured she'll love this ultra-cozy lounge set, available in sizes small to 3X.
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