How much money is appropriate for a birthday gift?

Most people choose a gift that fits within a realistic and affordable budget. On average:

• For acquaintances or colleagues, a small gesture is often enough—think £10 to £20.
• For close friends or family members, people usually spend between £30 and £75, depending on the relationship and occasion.
• For a partner or your own children, spending often starts at £30 and can go above £100, depending on what feels appropriate.

Ultimately, there’s no “right” amount—it’s the thought behind the gift that truly matters.

How much you spend usually depends on your relationship with the person celebrating their birthday. You might be happy to spend a little more on someone close to you, while a small gesture may be more than enough for others.

We looked at various sources, including blogs and surveys, to get a clear picture of what people tend to spend. Here’s a general breakdown by relationship type. 

Birthday gifts for your own children

For children, birthdays are a big deal. Parents often enjoy going the extra mile. Popular gifts include toys, gadgets, or even a fun day out. Spending can vary greatly, but it’s often between £30 and £100, depending on the child’s age and the gift.

Gifts for family members (siblings, parents)

When buying for close family like siblings or parents, people tend to spend between £25 and £50. This can vary depending on family traditions and how close you are.

Birthday gifts for friends

A typical gift for a good friend falls between £20 and £40. For a best friend or a milestone birthday—like turning 30 or 50—people are often happy to spend a little more.

Gifts for in-laws

People generally spend a bit less on in-laws than on their own family. An amount between £20 and £40 is usually considered appropriate. Think of thoughtful items like a book, a bottle of wine, or a gift card so they can choose something themselves.

Gifts for colleagues

For colleagues, the typical amount is similar to what you’d spend on acquaintances: £10 to £20. If you’re buying as a group, everyone can chip in for something more substantial.

Tip: use an app like PayPal or Monzo to collect group contributions—it’s simple and avoids hassle.

Gifts for acquaintances

For neighbours, distant relatives, or parents of your child’s friends, a small gesture is usually appreciated—£10 to £20 is more than enough.

Here are some factors that can help guide your decision:

• Your personal budget: Only spend what you’re comfortable with. A small, well-chosen gift can mean just as much as a more expensive one.
• Your relationship with the recipient: The closer the relationship, the more people often choose to spend.
• The type of occasion: Milestone birthdays (like turning 18, 30 or 75) often call for a bit more than an ordinary birthday.

And remember: it’s not about how much you spend—it’s the thought that counts. A meaningful gift with a personal touch will always be appreciated.

Not sure what to give? A Choice gift voucher is always a great idea! It gives the birthday boy or girl the freedom to choose something that truly suits their taste.

Benefits of a gift card:

• Fits any budget: you choose the value.
• Always a hit: the recipient decides what to spend it on.
• Perfect for last-minute gifts: available as a digital gift voucher for instant delivery.

Explore our full range of gift cards and give a birthday gift that’s guaranteed to please. Who will you surprise today?