21 long-distance birthday ideas that’ll make anyone feel special(Updated 2024)!
When your loved one’s birthday is coming up, but you can’t be there in person, you’ve got to get creative! Long-distance birthdays may seem tricky at first, but there are plenty of fun and meaningful ways to make them feel special—even from afar.
Not feeling particularly crafty? Don’t worry—you can still put together an awesome celebration that shows just how much you care, even if DIY projects aren’t your thing.
Here are some tips to make sure your long-distance birthday surprise is as thoughtful and fun as possible!
How to Celebrate a Birthday from Afar
*Hey party people! Just a heads up—this post has affiliate links. If you buy something, I might earn a small commission (don’t worry, no extra cost to you). I’m only sharing products I trust and think you’ll truly love!
1. Send a Meaningful and Personalized Gift
A personalized gift shows you’ve put thought into their day—even if you’re miles away! If they love reading, send them a book they’ve been wanting to read. Are they into fitness? A new pair of walking shoes could be perfect. Or make it extra special by customizing something—like a mug with their name or a keychain in their favorite color.
2. Make Sure the Gift Arrives On Time
Timing is everything! Be sure to order your gift early enough so it arrives on or before their big day. Use overnight shipping if needed, or have it delivered directly to their work for an added surprise. And if you’re sending a digital gift (like an e-book or a digital game), give yourself a little cushion by sending it a few days ahead.
3. Plan a Fun Online Activity
You might not be able to be there in person, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate together! Try planning an online scavenger hunt, puzzle challenge, or even cooking the same meal and enjoying it over a video call.
4. Keep It a Surprise
Everyone loves a good birthday surprise! If you’re planning a virtual party or sending a thoughtful gift, try to keep it hush-hush until the big day. It adds an extra layer of excitement when they’re not expecting it.
Long-Distance Birthday Celebration Ideas 🎁
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s dive into some specific ideas to celebrate your loved one’s birthday from afar!
1. Personalized Birthday Candle
Candles are a great way to brighten someone’s day, especially when personalized! You can easily find these online, and they’ll think of you every time they light it up.
2. Create a Birthday Video
Not big on singing? No problem. Record a sweet video message sharing your favorite memories, how much they mean to you, or give them an update on what’s been going on in your life.
3. Virtual Dinner Date
Make their birthday dinner special by cooking “together” over FaceTime or Zoom. You could even order from their favorite restaurant and have the food delivered to them while you enjoy the same meal on your end.
4. Throw a Virtual Party
Gather their friends and family for a virtual birthday party! You can even create a themed virtual background to make it extra festive—no need for expensive decorations.
5. Send a Birthday Cake
What’s a birthday without cake? You can order one from their favorite local bakery and have it delivered straight to their door.
6. Birthday Voucher Book
Create a personalized book of vouchers—whether it’s for a future hug, a day out together, or a favor. It’s a fun, sentimental gift that keeps on giving.
7. Watch Party
Pick a movie and watch it together online! Services like Netflix Party or Disney+ GroupWatch make it easy to enjoy a film even when you’re apart.
8. Online Games
Is your loved one a gamer? Play their favorite games together online for a fun, interactive birthday celebration.
9. Plan a Virtual Class
Sign up for an online class you can do together, like cooking, painting, or even a virtual wine tasting!
10. Personalized Birthday Mug
An affordable but thoughtful gift! Personalized mugs are a practical keepsake that’ll remind them of you every time they sip their morning coffee or tea.
11. Create a Birthday Playlist
Put together a playlist of their favorite songs—or songs that remind you of them—and share it on their birthday. Music has a way of bringing people together, no matter the distance.
12. Subscription Box Gift
Get them a subscription to something they love—whether it’s wine, coffee, or even a book-of-the-month club. They’ll get a monthly reminder of your thoughtfulness!
13. Send a Giant Greeting Card
Why settle for a regular card when you can send a giant one? It’s sure to bring a smile to their face!
14. Gift Card for a Mani-Pedi
Treat the birthday girl to some self-care with a gift card for a mani-pedi at their favorite salon. They’ll love the pampering and appreciate the thoughtful gesture.
15. Mail Out Birthday Accessories
Surprise them with fun birthday accessories like goofy hats, crowns, or even a birthday sash! It’s a simple but fun way to add some extra birthday flair.
16. Balloon Bouquet
Nothing says celebration like a bouquet of balloons! Have a fun balloon arrangement delivered to their home or work for a cheerful surprise.
17. Post a Birthday Serenade on Social Media
Record yourself singing “Happy Birthday” and post it for all their friends to see. It’s a sweet and personal touch that’s bound to make them smile.
18. Manly- themed gift for Him
Shopping for a guy? A manly themed gift is the perfect way to show you care without sending a typical birthday package. These crates are filled with everything from jerky to BBQ gear—perfect for guys who love their hobbies.
19. Experience Gift Card
Why not gift them an experience instead of a traditional gift? From skydiving to a spa day, there are so many cool experience-based gifts to choose from.
20. Favorite Scent
Send them a bottle of their favorite perfume, cologne, or a new scent that reminds you of them. It’s a thoughtful way to say you care.
21. Matching Friendship Bracelets
For your long-distance bestie, matching bracelets are a sweet way to stay connected. Look for crystal bracelets, like Lapis Lazuli, which is known as the stone of friendship.
Celebrating a long-distance birthday can be just as fun and meaningful as being there in person. So what are you waiting for? Pick one of these ideas and make their day extra special!
Happy celebrating! 🎉