It’s graduation time! Such a great time of year to celebrate over a decade of education and commitment.
I know many students are all about money and gift cards, which is totally understandable, but sometimes it is still fun to get a gift you know they will need, use or love or even a little something you can wrap along with a little extra cash.
Here are some great ideas that are both fun and useful at all price points!
Gifts Under $10
Mesh Pop-up Laundry Hamper
It is large enough to contain a week’s worth of dirty clothes, but still small enough to fit in any tiny apartment. Pops right open and it’s easy to close up for space. Very handy as an everyday hamper at home, as well as a travel hamper . ($8) If you want to add a little extra to it, add some laundry detergent or a little cash for the laundromat.
MICROWAVE COVER
Nothing gets more disgusting in a shared kitchen than the microwave. This is a gift the whole apartment with thank you for. ($8) You can add some fun quick and simple microwavable food they can use when they move out!
Microfiber Hair Wrap
If you are gifting to a girl, these are such an inexpensive gift that are so useful! Add some travel shampoo and conditioner and tie it with a bow, put this in a shower caddy along with other shower supplies, or pair it with a robe or towel! ($8)
Chatbook
If you are gifting to someone close to you, a photo book with all your favorite pictures together would make a great gift along with a gift card or money! You can even get the book for free by using this link HERE. ($0-$10)
AirPod Pro Case
A good case to help you keep track of your AirPods is a great idea. Buy it in their college colors to tie it into their next life step! ($8)
BEFORE YOU GO TOILET SPRAY
This is kind of a fun tongue in cheek gift that is also super useful when living with roommates. Add a little money or gift card to it! ($17 for 2)
Not Paper Towels
I have loved these in my own house and they would make an awesome grad gift. They are disposable dish cloths, that are heavy duty enough for about a week of use, but then you can toss them when you are done…no smelly dish rags hanging around. They are my favorite. You can get 10 for less than $10 when you use my code BROOKE15. ($10)
Gifts Under $20
Oversized,Super Absorbent Sand Free Microfiber Beach Towel
Once you leave home, you realize how many things you took for granted that your family owned. Beach Towels being one of them! This one is great because it hardly takes up any space and is easy to just thrown in the car or a backpack if you plan a day on the water. ($11)
Simple Cookbook
If your kiddo is off on their own for the first time, cooking can feel a bit overwhelming, but this book offers affordable and yummy options that beginners can make! Add some stable ingredients, pans, or cooking utensils if you wanted to add a little extra! ($11)
Life Skills for Teens
This is a great book with simple skills every teen should know…like how to know if chicken is bad, how to get rid of dandruff, fix your car, perform first aid…all those things adults just seem to “know.” ($11)
Letters to Open When
If you are close to the graduate, these letter could sure mean a lot at the right time! ($12)
MINI WAFFLE MAKER
This small kitchen tool is awesome for waffles, eggs, paninis and just about anything else you need to cook quickly. Also small and perfect for a shared kitchen! Gift with your favorite waffle mix and syrup. ($13)
20 Pack Retractable Gel Ink Pens
Great pens to have on hand for writing, doodling or drawing! ($13)
The Great Dalmuti Card Game
This is such a fun group game. A light card game where players gain status by going out first. Seat positions change and the cards are re-dealt. It’s always nice to have something fun to play with roommates or new friends. ($14)
Thank You Cards
Maybe not the coolest gift, but one they will be so grateful for. Add some stamps to make those notes even easier to put in the mail! ($15)
Cover Your Assets
Another good group game that might turn into a college favorite. ($16)
GEOMETRY HOUSE TOWELS AND DISHCLOTHS
Having a couple great, absorbent towels for your new place is the best, especially when they are beautiful. They make a great gift along with some dish soap and a cute ribbon. ($16 but use the code BrookeR15 for 15% off!)
Thread Wallet
Thread Wallets are so brilliant for kids who don’t like to carry much around. If you want to be especially fun, add some money or gift cards to the wallet before you gift it! ($16)
Wood Photo Frame
Such a darling way to decorate and make your space your own! Perfect for displaying favorite moments through the year and works great for those moving out or staying home! ($16)
6 ft USB C to Lightning Cable
If the teen is moving away from home, you KNOW they are going to need an extra charger if they don’t have a parent’s to steal. A super useful gift! ($17)
Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter
The Apple 20W USB C Power Adapter really is the best for a super quick charge and something they won’t want to splurge on but will love having. A great gift! ($18)
AUDIBLE MEMBERSHIP
This is a great gift for the book lover who might be adding a commute to their lives going back and forth to school. Add a list of some of your favorite audiobooks! ($15 and up)
Backpack Laundry Bag
This makes packing Landry around so easy! A must for every college student.
MICROWAVE POPCORN MAKER
This is such a useful gift for a movie or popcorn lover. Pop the kernels right in your microwave for a healthy and delicious snack! ($19)
Office Supplies Kit with Desk Organizer
The kit comes with multiple accessories such as scissors, a ruler, an eraser, and paper clips, things they will be so happy they don’t have to buy! ($19)
A Great looking, cooling lunch box
If you are gifting to a kiddo who will be on campus or packing a lunch for work, this is a great gift to give…add a gift card to a favorite restaurant when they don’t have time to pack something in the morning! ($20)
52 MODERN MANNERS FOR TODAY’S TEENS
Every young adult needs this book as they learn social skills that will add to their future success. It is also super useful to put in your apartment to help your roommates with the modern manners they may have missed. It stands up so each manner can be displayed and easily read. ($20)
Pocket Knife
Pocket KnifeHaving a few useful tools on hand is always a good thing as you start making your way in the world! ($20)
Tool Set
Everyone needs a basic tool set when they move out. All the necessary items to get you started! We have used our simple one for 20 years! ($20)
FIRST AID KIT
Not all that exciting, but certainly necessary when you venture out on your own! They will be so glad they have it when they hit their first emergency! ($20)
Gifts $20-$40
Womens Fleece Bathrobe
This super soft robe is perfect for the girl who is heading off to live on her own. Great for after a shower or for wrapping up on cold nights. ($21)
Collegiate Gear
Gifting a sweatshirt, t-shirt, or hat from their new school is always a great gift! ($21 +)
Made by Mary Customized Jewelry
If you wanted to create something really special, Made By Mary offers such beautiful, high quality, personalized pieces that she is sure to love. ($20 +)
Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Electric Hand Mixer with Whisk
($21)
Another useful kitchen item that they will be glad they have! Include a few cake or brownie mixes or a recipe for a go to dessert!
Men’s Foam Slipper
Easy on/off clog style slipper that is perfect for walking around a new apartment or dorm! ($22)
Travel Toiletry Bag
This is such a lifesaver for anyone who travels often or has to take their supplies in and out of a shared bathroom space! The perfect toiletry bag that is easy to pack, open, and use! Plus, it comes in lots of cute colors! ($23)
Travel Umbrella
An umbrella doesn’t seem like a super exciting gift but it is SO USEFUL! Every young adult needs one of their own, and no one wants to spend their own money on one! ($23)
Smile Face Slippers for Women and Men
Warm, easy to wear slippers are a must for young adult hood and these happy faces are a fun reminder to keep your chin up when nothing is going right. ($22)
Women’s Terry Cloth Spa Towel with Elastic Top
The girl headed to college will love you for making going back and forth from a shared bathroom so much easier! The elastic band around the bath wrap that is secured with adjustable closure is going to keep you covered and comfortable. The large pocket is an extra bonus! ($25)
Cloud slide sandals
These are everyone’s favorite and work great all year round! ($25)
Quip Metal Electric Toothbrush
The cool design makes a usually boring gift pretty fun! ($26) You can sign up for a new brush head subscription for $5 every 3 months and help these new adults stay on top of their oral hygiene without having to think much about it!
Men’s Cotton Adjustable Closure Spa Shower and Bath Wrap
Such a great option for a guy headed off to share a bathroom! The towel is awesome and the pocket is perfect for holding what you need before and after a shower! ($23)
SOLAR POWERED CHARGER
Great idea for anyone who is often on the go or loves the outdoors! Young Adults love to know they can always keep their phone charged! ($30)
PERSONAL SAFETY ALARM
Taking safety seriously is always a good idea. This personal alarm can give protection and peace as they head out into the world on their own. ($30)
NEW TOWELS
Who can’t use a fresh set of towels before they embark on their own journey? This set has everything you need! ($32)
Hydroflask Waterbottle
If you want to purchase something that will 100% get used, this is a great option. ($35)
OIL DIFFUSER/ALARM CLOCK
This is such a cool option for someone who loves essential oils and needs a clock for their room. ($35)
CAR EMERGENCY KIT
I really love purposeful gifts, so this one isn’t glamorous, but it is awesome. An emergency kit for the car that includes jumper cables, first aid, raid jacket, tools, tire gauge, flashlight and more. A great gift for any driver! ($36) Order yours HERE.
Hookey
Need something fun to add to a dorm space? This ring toss game is lots of fun and can add hours of entertainment. Order HERE ($36)
HAMMOCK
Tried and true gift for anyone who loves the outdoors! Young adults love to hammock and this 2 person option makes a great and super useful gift! ($39)
Kan Jam
A bit like ultimate frisbee for four, this fun and portable game is great when the weather gets nice and young adults are the perfect age for it. ($40). For more fun, outdoor group games that would make great gifts, click HERE.
CHARGING STATION
Pretty perfect for any young adult who has plenty of tech and a hard time finding a charging cord! ($39)
Gifts $40-$120
Cotopaxi Mariveles 32L Duffel – Del Dia 32L One of A Kind!
This is our favorite family duffel bag! It is perfect for road trips, swim days, sleepovers and the fun design is always a win. ($40)
SMALL COOLER
This portable cooler is perfect for a road trip or picnic! This is something every young adult will put to use for years and years to come! Fill it with a bunch of groceries and they will love it even more! ($43)
MASSAGE GUN
This is such a great gift for any young adult who loves to be active and needs to take care of their muscles. Affordable and super useful! ($50)
PORTABLE BLENDER
Smoothies are a great staple in a college kid’s life! this blender is easy to store and use! ($50)
Slackline
This is a great idea for kids who love to be outdoors and challenge themselves. It works anywhere you can find a couple trees! ($53)
Conair Turbo Extreme Steam Hand Held Fabric Steamer
If your kiddo would rather not bring an iron to college, this is the perfect alternative. This steamer combines the performance of an iron with the power of steam to instantly smooth out wrinkles in clothing and upholstery while killing 99.9 percent of germs, dust mites and bed bugs. ($55)
PICKLEBALL SET
There is nothing better than having a past time you love! Pickleball is great for all skill levels and will give you hours of fun! It’s nice to be the one with equipment. ($58)
Seagate Portable External Hard Drive
Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop. ($65+)
Coleman Sundome Camping Tent
This dome tent has a sturdy frame that withstands 35+ mph winds. It is an easy setup in only 10 minutes. It is great for backpacking or a night in the mountains. An outdoor lover would think it was the perfect gift. ($65)
Women’s Packable Ultra Light Weight Short Down Jacket
A stylish, compressible, and packable lightweight down jacket for women that can be stuffed into a small carrying pouch. Perfect for all weather. ($65)
Spikeball
Spikeball is the perfect outdoor game. This portable, easy to play ball game will be a college favorite. ($60)
JanSport Cool Student Backpack
Every kid needs a great, sturdy backpack and this one can go the distance. Simple & convenient design, 2 spacious compartments, 15″ laptop sleeve, front utility pocket with an organizer and a side water bottle pocket. ($70)
Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Packable Down Puffer Jacket
A great jacket for a guy ready to get out on his own. It packs up into a small back so it is perfect for tiny spaces and any weather. ($80)
SINGER | M1000.662 Sewing Machine
Simple, portable and easy to use sewing machine for those that want to continue a hobby even once they leave home. ($85)
AIR FRYER
This is the kitchen tool dreams are made of and perfect for the person who is just learning to cook! Great for reheating or trying to make each meal delicious and healthy. Exactly what every young adult needs. ($89)
GOOD SHEETS
Nice sheets make bedtime blissful! These are awesome and will keep you sleeping like a baby! ($90)
The North Face Borealis School Laptop Backpack
This backpack works for both school and adventuring. It has easy-to-access pockets, an overhauled suspension system and front elastic bungee system. A spacious main compartment has a dedicated and highly protective laptop compartment. ($99)
Padded Office Desk Chair
If you are going to spend hours studying or working at a computer, having a comfortable chair makes a huge different. This one is height-adjustable padded seat with adjustable seat angle, tilt control and padded armrests; perfect for home office, computer desk, guest work station or conference room. ($103)
AMAZON PRIME
Amazon prime is truly the gift that keeps on giving! It grants access to great deals on Amazon and gives all kinds of shows and movies on demand every month! This is the perfect gift for the person pinching pennies. ($119 per year)
Kindle Paperwhite Kids
Why a paperwhite kids? Thanks to the input by @everydayreading we know that it is exactly the same as the adult paperwhite. It comes with a case and 2 years without ads and is awesome for anyone who loves to read. ($120)
INSTANT POT/SLOW COOKER
This is a bit of a splurge, but it is so cool to have two appliances in one…it is both an instant pot and a slow cooker! Perfect for people who are just testing out their kitchen skills. ($130)
LUGGAGE
Getting a graduate a great, high quality carry on is one of my favorite ideas. This brand has been amazing for us and has done well on trip after trip for the last 10 years. If you want to make it a big gift, add an airline or hotel gift card to it or fancy luggage tags! ($160)
72 HOUR SURVIVAL KIT
It might give you a little peace of mind to send your kiddo off with all the supplies he or she will need in an emergency. These 72 hour kids are our favorites! ($125) Code Brooke15 gives you 15% off everything on their site!
Bose SoundLink Color II: Portable Bluetooth, Wireless Speaker
This is such a great speaker. It is so portable but still has an amazing sound and your young adult will be so happy to take it everywhere! It as a built-in mic for speakerphone to take clear conference or personal calls out loud. ($129)
Apple AirPods Pro
Who doesn’t want a new pair of AirPod Pros? It has the active noise cancellation that blocks outside noise, so you can immerse yourself in music or studying. It also has transparency mode for hearing and interacting with the world around you. ($175)
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
This is the perfect pack for traveling. It has so many pockets that help you fit everything in. It is carry-on size so it fits in the overhead compartment on planes. ($200)
Apple Watch
Your graduate will be thrilled with this as a gift. It has everything they need in one spot…fitness, health, reminders and phone. ($300)
GoPro HERO9 Black – Waterproof Action Camera
If you have a kid who is off on adventures, this is the greatest gift! Shoot stunning video with up to 5K resolution, perfect for maintaining detail even when zooming in. Capture crisp, pro-quality photos with 20MP clarity.($350)
SPECIAL SURPRISE
Mac Book Air
The best computer for a college student by far. Easy to use, virus free, and great for creatives. Starting at $899.
If the person you are celebrating is heading out on a mission, I have a special list for you HERE.
*I am an affiliate for many of the products linked on this post, but only recommend things that I know will make great gifts. Thank you for supporting my research and writing with your purchases.
