Some people like to stick to traditional presents when it comes to birthdays and some like a wacky surprise. As long as you put a little effort in, your birthday present ideas will be appreciated, and that means anything but a voucher. If you don't have much time, it's easier since the appearance of the World Wide Web. Just about every retailer has an online shopping facility now and you can still look around and compare prices. Plan your gift well ahead, in case it has to be returned for any reason.

If you're not sure what to buy, you could ask the person you're buying for to draw up a wish list of birthday present ideas. Ask them to put lots of things on it, and then it will still be a bit of a surprise. Of course, they may have been hinting at what they want for weeks and you missed it!

Clothes are always difficult to buy in case they don't fit. They can also be good birthday present ideas for the fashion conscious. Sneak out a shirt or a top belonging to your loved one and use it for a guide in the shop. Alternatively, take a friend of similar size with you.

Most shops will gift wrap items for you, if you want that special finish. Birthday present ideas don't have to be the sort that need unwrapping however. Experience Days have become very popular recently. There are lots of adventurous, artistic or relaxing days you can give as a present. What sort of experience would suit the personality of the recipient? Participants can drive a Ferrari, spend a day at a health spa or attend an art workshop. There's even a swimming with sharks experience! Other days include bungee jumping, glider flying and game fishing.

A lot of people have a favorite magazine they like to read and most publications have a subscription scheme. It's possible to take out a year's subscription as a gift for someone else to enjoy. That way, they'll never miss an edition and it will be conveniently delivered to their home. Birthday present ideas can be as simple and thoughtful as that.

Another more unusual gift would be to buy a star. Not literally, but it is possible to name a star in someone's name. It's official, it carries the name forever and they get a certificate of registration. Birthday present ideas that come from space!