The time has finally come for your high schooler to graduate. Congratulations! To reward them for all their accomplishments, it’s nice to give them something special aside from cash (which is always the number one gift every year). We were stumped for ideas for the best high school graduation gifts, so we reached out to our band of experienced parents for some wonderful suggestions, as well as researching popular top-rated products that could be useful for someone leaving home for the first time.
Here are 50 of the best graduation gift ideas that will suit various interests and help support them as they take their next steps.
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Need more ideas? We have the best books to give grads and gifts for college graduates.
The Best High School Graduation Gifts
1. For the one planning to move: IKEA Frakta Bag
These are truly the most amazing bags we’ve ever used for packing and moving. College-bound grads will have loads of stuff to bring to school, and giving them one of these lightweight and durable bags will be a huge help.
Fill it with new towels, laundry supplies, or their favorite toiletries, and they’ll be well on their way toward move-in day. This is one of the most practical gifts on the list!
2. For the sentimental one: Project Repat T-Shirt Quilt
One of THE VERY MOST popular grad gifts for teens is a t-shirt quilt from Project Repat. Take a stack of your teen’s t-shirts from camp, game day, memorable family trips, sports teams, concerts, and more, cut them into panels, and ship them off to Project Repat. Prepare to surprise your teen with a keepsake that celebrates their accomplishments and that they will love to use in college.
3. For the nervous one: The Naked Roommate
Harlan Cohen is the dean of advice to college students, and The Naked Roommate, his bestselling book, is an excellent go-to guide for all things related to college life, academics, friends, and more.
4. For the forgetful one: Centered Student Planner
Created by an award-winning college professor, this unique (and did we mention gorgeous?) planner can help to motivate your student to develop good time management habits and stay organized. This innovative planner comes with weekly college success tips that link to video tutorials to support your student throughout the year.
Now, save on the Grad Bundle, which includes the planner (in a choice of five colors) and the brand’s Stripe It Up Pen, Click It Pencil Pens, Fine Line Journal Markers, Smarter Sticky Note, and two sets of stickers. An $80 value, the Grad Bundle is available for just $65.
5. For the one with a bad back: ViscoSoft Select High-Density Mattress Topper
Dorm mattresses are usually the bare minimum for thickness and comfort. But you can help your student sleep like they never left home by sending them to campus with a ViscoSoft Select High-Density Twin XL mattress topper. Recommended by Consumer Reports, they are super comfortable, easy to clean, durable, and provide an ick-safe barrier between your teens and the old dorm mattress that’s typically provided. You can choose from either three or four inches of gel-infused memory foam. The covers are washable and come with adjustable straps and slip-resistant mesh for a snug fit.
6. For the one with communal showers: Pottery Barn Quick-Dry Organic Towels
Pottery Barn Dorm offers quick-dry organic 100% cotton fabric towel sets. They are the Quick-Dry Organic Collection, and the site says these towels are “10 times more absorbent than traditional cotton Terry.” Available in 13 beautiful colors, it can be monogrammed, so there’s no mix-up in the communal bathroom.
7. For the one always on their phone: Anker Portable Charger
One of the best ways for your kid to stay safe at college is to have an always-charged phone. Having one of these small, lightweight, and high-speed battery bank chargers in a backpack is invaluable. This one from Anker is the slimmest model the brand makes for easy portability.
8. For the thankful one: Minted Photo Gifts
We love gifts as unique as your grad, so we are big fans of photo art designed by Minted’s independent artists. With dozens of layouts, themes, and frames to choose from, the options feel endless. This heart-shaped keepsake is a fan favorite.
9. For the one doing laundry for the first time: Time To Do The Laundry Bag
This cute laundry bag may give your student just the motivation they need to get to the laundry room before running out of clean clothes.
10. For the focused one: Bose Noise-Canceling Headphones
A way to block out noise from a roommate or hallmates is key for college students. These noise-canceling wireless headphones from Bose get the top reviews for audio quality and loads of other features like Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in mic for phone calls.
If you’re looking for a less expensive but also well-reviewed set of headphones, these wireless noise-canceling headphones by Anker are considered the top ones priced under $100.
11. For the worthy student: Apple MacBook Air
If your new graduate has an outdated computer, there is no gift that they will need more than a new laptop. Most students would appreciate a light MacBook Air to tote around campus. Although expensive, look for student discounts from Apple, Microsoft, or stores like Best Buy.
For example, Apple offers a discount to college students, seniors with admission letters, or college parents. If you want to spring for a PC, Microsoft also offers discounts to students and their parents.
12. For the one who needs to hydrate: Stanley Adventure Quencher Travel Tumbler
This massive tumbler from Stanley has become quite popular on TikTok and is now the No. 1 choice for Class of 2023 grads. Personalize it with their initials or college logo, which they will use every day. It comes in several colors and sizes, but the 40-ounce option will keep them hydrated.
13. For the one trekking far: Lululemon Everyday Backpack
If your teens love Lululemon leggings and workout gear, they’ll be thrilled with a backpack from the same brand. This durable, lightweight, water-repellent backpack has a padded compartment for a laptop and an exterior pocket for a water bottle. Starting college with a new backpack, not one with the crumbs and bits of torn paper from high school, will be a welcome addition to their college life. It comes in three colors.
14. For the one who needs advice: Do Your Laundry or You’ll Die Alone
Becky Blades, author/illustrator (and mom of two daughters), is the genius behind this adorable book. You’ll give your grad what she wants but doesn’t know she needs: her mother’s loving counsel. The beautifully illustrated book covers topics from laundry to forgiveness to creative living.
15. For the one ready to start life: The Defining Decade
Dr. Meg Jay, a bestselling author and clinical psychologist, wrote this wake-up call to twentysomethings who will find her advice and coaching about this decade compelling. Updated in 2021, this book is filled with wisdom about what’s to come. Watch her amazing TED talk, Why 30 is Not the New 20, to learn more about what she covers in her book.
16. For the one who needs a fresh wallet: Leatherology Thin Bifold Wallet
This slim wallet from Leatherology would be an elegant keepsake gift for your son. This thin, bifold style gets top reviews; you can even personalize it for something special.
17. For the one who needs sleep: Baloo Weighted Blanket
Getting a good night’s sleep may be the single most important goal for our college kids to help them stay well. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most elusive for them in loud dorm rooms where they’re paired with a stranger whose habits may be vastly different than their own.
Consider this “mini” weighted blanket that is machine washable, can go in the dryer, and provides just enough pressure to help soothe them. You can also cover it with a softer duvet cover for more comfort.
18. For the late-night worker: AFROG LED Desk Lamp
A dimmable desk lamp with a built-in high-speed charger for a phone is a practical gift that your teen can use in dorms or apartments for years to come.
19. For the one who wants to stay connected: Long Distance Friendship Lamp
A very different kind of lamp connects two family members by light. Get a pair of friendship lamps, and you can convey your love by touching the lamp, letting your teen know you are never far away. Likewise, they can send the same back to you.
20. For the one who plans on pledging: Kendra Scott Jewelry
Kendra Scott earrings, necklaces, and rings can be personalized with a gorgeous selection of stones that many college freshmen have worn during their sorority rush rounds. Pick your daughter’s favorite color or the color of her new college.
Buy the Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace:
Buy the Kendra Scott Lee Gold Drop Earrings:
21. For the one with a great moniker: IMESILVER Handwriting Bracelet
We love this idea for a unique jewelry gift – a bracelet in your handwriting! Your daughter will be reminded how much she is loved when wearing this lovely and very personal bracelet. Available in silver, gold, and rose gold colors.
22. For the one with a student ID: Herschel Charlie Wallet
We’re big fans of the Herschel brand and think their selection of lightweight, durable, and affordable card cases is one to consider for your grad. Add a few dollars or a check for $20.23, and you’re all set!
23. For the one living in a far dorm: Schwinn Wayfarer
College kids on bicycles is an idyllic image, but not if your kid’s bicycle was the small one they got for the holidays in sixth grade. If they are going to attend a university that is suited to a bike, and most are, this may be the single most helpful gift you can give after their laptop. Don’t forget to add a bike repair kit for helping to keep the bike in tip-top shape and a lock for safety.
24. For the caffeine addict: Keurig Mini
Students waking up early for class or pushing through late-night studying will appreciate their single-serving coffee maker. Keurig makes many different machines, but our favorite is the Mini which measures only 5 inches wide and comes in six colors. This is an excellent gift for teens or young adults moving into a dorm or smaller apartment.
For students who prefer cold brew, the OXO Brew Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker is an excellent solution. The compact size is much less counter and fridge space, perfect for a dorm.
25. For the one with school spirit: Unbreakable Tervis Tumbler
Choosing one of these unbreakable tumblers from the Tervis Tumbler Collegiate Collection is a thoughtful (and inexpensive) way to celebrate the graduate in your life. Shop the collegiate collection and get the gear for the school where your teen will be next fall.
26. For the fitness fanatic: Whatafit Resistance Bands Set
This compact set of exercise bands will give your teen a way to work out in their dorm or apartment. It comes with five bands with different resistance levels, a door anchor, and two cushioned handles. They’re adjustable and perfect for travel, too.
How about a gift for the parents of grads? The Grown and Flown book has tips for college shopping, advice for move-in day, and … how to say goodbye! Now, in paperback.
27. For the one going to their dream school: College Logo Gear
Sweatshirts or other items with college names and logos are almost a requirement. Fanatics has one of the widest selections of officially-licensed NCAA (and pro team) shops, with over 500 colleges represented.
28. For the bangle lover: Lokai College Bracelets
We think these simple bead bracelets are lovely. When we read about the founder’s story and saw how many bracelets he created to honor and contribute to worthy charities, we were even more excited to feature them on this graduation gift list. Check out the new collegiate collection — perfect for a recent grad.
Use the code “GFFamilyandFriends” at checkout for a 20% discount.
29. For the one with valuables: SentrySafe Portable Dorm Safe
If your teen takes any valuable jewelry, a passport, or meds, having a lock box to store them in will give you peace of mind. This one has a programmable electronic lock and a steel tethering cable.
30. For the not-so-handy one: Blue Ridge Tools Household Tool Kit
Unassembled furniture? A hinge that is coming loose? A small but well-equipped toolset like this one will last four years and beyond.
31. For the one who checks the time: Fossil Watch
Treasured gifts might be tucked away until your teen has a special occasion, but these watches are graduation gifts that last a lifetime. Fossil offers watches that strike the perfect balance between style and affordability that can withstand a graduate.
Buy the Fossil Women’s Carlie Mini Quartz Watch:
Buy the Fossil Men’s Dean Chronograph Watch:
32. For the one who calls weekly: Stand Up Picture Frame
They may have snapshots of the family on their phones, but that’s not the same as a beautiful professional photo for their wall or desk. This cool standing frame is an upgrade they’ll proudly display in their dorm room. Consider filling it with a family photo shoot, complete with the family dog, before your grad leaves home.
33. For the sentimental one: Graduation Photo Album Photo Book
What will you do with all those old report cards and iffy school photos? Here is a chance to put their lives on paper and make a scrapbook with mementos you have saved for years. You can even create a photo album using a site like Shutterfly to complete the job easier.
34. For the one who eats breakfast: Dash Rapid Egg Cooker
While cooking in a dorm room may seem impossible, your grad can at least whip up a good breakfast with this cult-favorite egg cooker. It has an impressive more than 100,000 reviews on Amazon thanks to its ability to boil, poach, and scramble eggs. Plus, there’s no fire hazard. They can even make hard-boiled eggs as a power study snack throughout the day!
35. For the photogenic one: Canon PowerShot ELPH Digital Camera
Despite having a camera built into their smartphone, teens are now drawn back to documenting their lives with a digital camera. There’s something just so “vintage” about the classic point-and-shoots. The Canon PowerShot ELPH has been a popular option that is nearly impossible to find right now, but if you can find it in stock (like it is right now!), your teen will be floored.
36. For the one who wants instant memories: Fujifilm Instax Mini 11
Another fun, “ancient” camera idea? An instant camera! That way, they can get an immediate photo with their friends to hang for decoration in their dorm room. This one from Fujifilm has a selfie mirror, so they’re not guessing to get a group shot, but you’ll want to get them some film to go with it.
37. For the outdoorsy one: ENO DoubleNest Camping Hammock
You may have noticed students hanging from trees in hammocks on the quad during college campus tours. Known as the ENO, these portable hammocks are made of strong nylon, can fit two people, and fold up into a convenient carrying case. It’s the perfect study spot!
38. For the candle lover: Luzdiosa Candle Warmer Lamp
Candles aren’t typically permitted in dorm rooms (they can be a fire hazard!), but there’s a solution for your candle-loving grad. Using a 50-watt halogen bulb, this candle warmer combo is the perfect reading lamp while simultaneously heating the candle wax — no flame required. It also releases the scent much more slowly, helping the candle last longer.
39. For the binge watcher: Roku Streaming Stick 4K
The hand-me-down TV or the one in the dorm common room might not have smart features, which is needed if they want to watch Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, and other streaming platforms. Roku offers one of the friendliest interfaces (so they can find the right app) and has 4K resolution. It will be a hit for the next movie night.
40. For the active one: Fitbit Inspire 2
Walking from class to class across campus seriously adds up, and your grad might want to give themselves some bragging rights. The Fitbit Inspire 2 is a great fitness tracker to monitor your steps, heart rate, and sleep without the cost of an Apple Watch. Plus, the 10-day battery life means they won’t have to worry about charging it all the time.
41. For the cold one: Sophie Faux Fur Throw Blanket
College dorms are notoriously cold, but you can make your grad a little more comfortable with the coziest blanket ever! This throw blanket is uber soft and available in 10 different colors for lounging and sleeping with. It’s one of the things they’ll be glad they had.
42. For the coffee drinker: Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug
Lukewarm coffee is the worst. And while your grad is getting into the zone writing an essay or a study session, they might want the caffeine burst. The Ember Mug ensures that the cup will stay at the perfect temperature (between 120 degrees F and 145 degrees F) for up to 80 minutes. It comes in many color options, too, and is controlled by a nifty app.
43. For the one flying home: Beis Carry-On Roller
Your new grad deserves to travel home for the holidays in style. Designed by actress Shay Mitchell (of Pretty Little Liars fame), the Beis Carry-On Roller is a minimalist traveler’s dream. It has many valuable features, including a cushioned handle, a two-inch expander, plenty of compartments, a built-in lock, and a built-in scale. They’ll never have to worry about overpacking.
44. For the hand notetaker: Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook
It may be quicker to type up notes in class, but studies have shown that writing things can help us memorize them better. The Rocketbook is a smart notebook you wipe down and reuse thanks to the erasable ink. But don’t worry! Your grad can still save whatever they’ve written onto the companion app to look back on later.
45. For the starstruck one: Mydethun 3D Moon Lamp
Moon lamps are all over social media, and your grad can have their own as part of their graduation gift. The 3D-printed moon-like surface was made using astronomical data provided by NASA. Pretty neat!
46. For the lounger: The Comfy
This next-level Snuggle is perfect for the new grad lounging at home. While slightly unflattering, the cozy fleece is next-level soft and comes with a kangaroo-like pouch to keep hands warm. Not to mention this wearable blanket is almost appropriate enough to wear to class.
47. For the homesick one: Homesick Candle
Whether going to school across the country or just a state away, they could still use a reminder of home. Homesick candles perfectly capture the essence of each state with notes of nutmeg, lemon, and eucalyptus for Connecticut or lemon, orange, and patchouli for Nevada. Regardless, they’re a good reminder of home.
48. For the eco-warrior: 4ocean Handmade Beaded Bracelet
This bracelet is a good reminder for your environmentally conscious grad, made from 100% certified post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, including less than 5% reclaimed ocean plastic. Plus, each string color represents an animal or ecosystem impacted by plastic pollution.
49. For the one who doesn’t like backpacks: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe
Let’s face it: Backpacks aren’t always the most stylish thing to tote around. But this lightweight yet strong tote bag works perfectly for dashing across campus. It comes with two exterior slip pockets, two zippered collar pockets, and a removable, adjustable crossbody strap to fit all. Plus, it’s great for travel, too, as it comes with a luggage sleeve and can easily be rolled up thanks to the mesh material.
50. For the one with a skincare routine: Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier
If your grad already has their skincare routine down to a T, they will probably appreciate this facial humidifier to help them through trying times. It delivers a light water mist for up to 8 hours to hydrate dry skin. Plus, it’s portable, so they can bring it to the library on a late-night study hour if necessary.
Prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
More Graduation Gift Lists:
High School Graduation Gifts for Guys
High School Graduation Gifts for Girls
