what should i buy my bf for his b-day?

It depends on the type of guy he is. The physical item doesn't matter, neither does the price tag or how much you went through to get something. What it comes down to is your feelings. You have to get your feelings across somehow. You can't buy something as a formality and it seems like you agree, thinking about this early on and such. Think about your experiences with him and what you think he could need/like. Birthday presents are sometimes seen as commonplace and the feelings on those days are lost. You seem practical, take a little time, calm down and think about something you can give to get your feelings across. Best of luck to you both.

this is an rather confusing question to respond to, as you have not provided any counsel with regards to your boyfriend's pastimes, age, likes/dislikes and so on. Are there economic constraints? the opportunities are countless, given no constraints or coaching. Is he a romantic? a spectacular quiet night, dinner, hobby. Is he a music lover? Musician? CD's, MP3 participant. Is he a mechanic? approaches are consistently a plus or a clean toolbox. Is he a chippie? returned, approaches are spectacular. Is he a cook dinner/baker? Cake adorning fabric/direction at a close by college in all possibility. This checklist could be countless.

How long have you been together?

What are his hobbies?