When it is time to purchase a birthday gift for the boy in your life, coming up with an original idea can be tough. While you can always just give another toy, a unique gift is sure to be appreciated and remembered long after the birthday is over.

Birthday gifts for boys can be educational as well as fun. Consider tickets to an IMAX movie, along with admission to a local science museum. A model car kit can be paired along with tickets to a racing event. Chemistry sets or model airplane kits can be given for the boy who enjoys space or science.

One popular gift for boys is a construction set. Construction sets can contain a lot of small pieces and one unique idea is to purchase luggage and then place the construction sets inside. Kid luggage works great for this, but you can also purchase quality pieces such as Samsonite luggage which can be used for years to come. If the luggage has wheels on it, it can be easily transported throughout the house or to a friend's house to play.

Tickets for sporting events make great gifts. Sports equipment or sports memorabilia can be given along with the tickets. Autographed items of a favorite player are an excellent choice. You can also get season tickets to a local amusement park if the birthday falls during the early spring. The gift recipient can enjoy the gift throughout the whole summer.

If the boy on your list enjoys movies, you can purchase several DVDs, along with popcorn, soda and snacks. For the gaming fan, a new controller along with games for a gaming system or the computer can be given along with magazines which provide tips or cheat codes. You might even purchase a separate TV to be placed in the boy's bedroom so that he can play the game without monopolizing the family television.

Gift cards are an easy alternative when you are aren't sure what to get. Movie theater tickets or gift cards to a sports store are appropriate for almost all boys. For a boy interested in construction or who enjoys working with his hands, a gift card to a home improvement store allows them to pick out their own tools or a tool belt.

When you are confused as to what is the best gift idea, money is always an option. Instead of just placing it in a card, purchase a nice wallet and put the money inside.

Whatever you choose, unique birthday gifts can be a way to let your gift recipient know how much you care about them.