Choosing a present for someone who is graduating from college is a serious matter. Completion of college education is a significant achievement in a person’s life, as it was for me too. Therefore, it is important to choose a gift that symbolizes this important milestone. Obviously, the task can be daunting.
Naturally, cash is always appreciated by college graduates, but a significant occasion like this calls for a gift that is more special than a mere card with money. As someone with numerous graduate gifts to purchase this year, I can attest that finding the perfect gift for a graduate isn’t an easy task. It’s essential to find a gift that is not just meaningful but also practical at the same time. If the graduate you are buying for is moving out, a thoughtful apartment gift is a great option. Alternatively, if they plan to backpack through Europe after graduating, a personalized travel journal could be an ideal present. Whatever the case may be, below are some of the finest college graduation gifts for the year 2023.
For the voyager
CalPak Starter Bundle
The CalPak Starter Bundle includes a checked bag, carry-on luggage, packing cubes, and a luggage tag for only $300. After extensively researching various luggage options, I can confidently say that this is the best deal available. If you’re a college senior planning on traveling abroad after graduation, this bundle has everything you need. While it may not have the most advanced features offered by high-end suitcases, it’s the perfect fit for graduating college students embarking on exciting trips.
Monos
Monos Metro Backpack
Any experienced traveler understands the value of a reliable personal item. If your graduate is preparing to globe-trot, having a personal item that is capable of carrying more than just a laptop becomes indispensable. The Monos Metro Backpack boasts a stylish appearance and offers ample storage space for a laptop, books, and other additional items.
Monos charged me $220.
Etsy
Customized Leather Notebook
Owning a journal is truly rewarding. Whenever I feel low, I love reading my journal entries about my past travels and younger days. Give a personalized notebook to a graduate so that they can keep a special message to remember as they record their new journeys.
$50 on Etsy
GOLF le FLEUR*
GOLF le FLEUR* Sunseeker Sunglasses
The Sunseeker Sunglasses, a product from GOLF le FLEUR*, a fashion brand established by artist Tyler, The Creator, are perfect for any college graduate with upcoming plans in a tropical location. As someone who has an assortment of low-quality sunglasses, I can attest to the fact that the Sunseeker Sunglasses set a new standard. Their sleek rectangular shape makes them an excellent option for anyone looking to bask in the sun after graduation.
$250 for GOLF le FLEUR* sneakers, perfect for new apartment dwellers.
Uncommon Goods
Homesick State Candles
Crafted from soy wax, these candles are individually scented to evoke the unique essence of every state. From the desert sand, blue agave, and citrus of Arizona to the notes of bourbon and praline in Kentucky, or the spruce, sandalwood, amber, and cinnamon in Colorado, each candle is hand-poured to create a one-of-a-kind sensory experience.
$34 at Uncommon Goods.
Amazon
Vinci Express Cold Brew Coffee Maker
During the summer months, cold brew is a popular beverage, but recent graduates may need to save money. An ideal solution is to provide them with an at-home coffee maker which can help them make their own. The Vinci Express Cold Brew machine can create cold brew beverages in only 5 minutes, whereas the traditional method can take over 18 hours to complete. Additionally, this model has a small footprint that is perfect for small apartments.
$80 on Amazon$100 at Walmart$80 at Target
Chamberlin Coffee Cold Brew Starter Bundle
Chamberlin Coffee, founded by the popular influencer Emma Chamberlin, has become a sensation in the coffee industry in recent years. If you know a coffee-loving graduate, they would surely appreciate the Chamberlin Coffee Cold Brew Starter Pack. This pack consists of a 10-pack of single-serve Chamberlin Coffee (you can select the blend you prefer), stainless steel straws, and a Chamberlin Coffee branded mason jar.
$44 spent on Chamberlin Coffee.
Monday
The Monday Cocktail Creator Set is a great way to start building your bar collection as you transition into adulthood. In college, all you really need are a few basic drinking accessories like wine glasses and a corkscrew, but as you start to explore the world of bartending, you’ll discover the joy of a well-made cocktail. The set includes a cocktail shaker, Hawthorne strainer, fine mesh strainer, bar spoon, and a pourer, making it the perfect starter kit for any college grad looking to set up a bar cart in their new apartment.
Monday’s expense was $40.
Lively Root
Money Tree Bonsai Plant
For Prosperity and Financial Fortune
Houseplants have become a trendy gift idea, especially among Gen Z. However, a Money Tree Bonsai Plant is an excellent choice as it is believed to bring good fortune and luck. For just $38, you can purchase a small plant, but if you want an extra dose of luck, you can go for the XL size for $118. Additionally, you have the option to include a pot or basket as part of your gift. Moreover, Money Trees are easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for beginner plant-parents.
$38 on Lively Root – Ideal for new entrepreneurs.
MVMT
MVMT Watches
In my opinion, sporting a nice watch is what sets apart an intern from a professional. Wearing a watch as part of your daily outfit signifies the beginning of adulthood. (Admittedly, I am still learning the ropes.) Although purchasing a Rolex for a recent college graduate may be over the top, there are plenty of great watch options available for under $1,000. I am particularly fond of the polished and modern designs of MVMT watches, but Fossil also offers stylish and budget-friendly options.
If your graduate is interested in a more advanced technology, the Apple Watch Series 8 is an excellent choice for smartwatch enthusiasts.
$248 at Amazon, you are being notified about price changes for the MVMT Watch.
Beis
Beis’ Work Tote is the perfect work bag for any young professional. It features an interior zippered pocket, a laptop pocket, and adjustable straps. What I love about the tote is its design, which makes it easy to transition from work to happy hour. The bag is available in various designs to suit your preferences.
$128 from Béis
J.Crew
Sterling silver rectangle cuff links by J.Crew
Cuff links can be a luxury that a young individual might not purchase for themselves, but they’re a helpful accessory to have accessible. They can be worn at formal gatherings, like weddings, and even in the office. These timeless, sterling silver cuff links from J.Crew would make an ideal graduation present for someone special.
$98 price tag at J.Crew.
The Work From Anywhere Kit from Amazon is something I ordered impulsively prior to starting work, and it has become an essential item for me. With remote and hybrid work becoming increasingly popular in the job market, having a kit that carries charging cables, passwords, and other commonly forgotten small things is extremely advantageous. This kit comes with a case that includes a two-in-one charging cable, a phone stand, sticky notes, and numerous other useful items.
You will receive price alerts for the Work From Anywhere Kit, which costs $37 on Amazon, perfect for graduates who are moving on to grad school.
Apple’s latest version of the mini iPad is the iPad Mini 6th generation which has the functions of a notebook, sketchbook, and TV screen. Although it may not be compatible with some keyboards, the iPad Mini can work with all Apple pencils. The best advantage of this device is that it is compact and can fit into most bags with ease.
$469 on Amazon, $500 on Best Buy, and $499 on Apple.
The Troubadour Orbis 2 Pocket Backpack
For those who heavily rely on carrying around a 16-inch MacBook for work, having a good backpack is essential, and the Troubadour backpacks are sitting at the top of the list. Despite being a bit pricey, the professional design and comfortable fit of the Troubadour backpack make it a valuable investment for grad students who need to carry around more books and tech than their undergrad years. The backpack allows for comfortable carrying of everything you need without straining your back, even when it’s filled to capacity.
$295 to attend a performance at Troubadour for creative inspiration.
‘Oh The Places You’ll Go’ Graduation Edition
Dr. Seuss’ book, Oh The Places You’ll Go, has become a permanent fixture on every graduation gift list. It’s appropriate for any milestone in life, whether it’s elementary school or college graduation. When I graduated from college, my best friend gifted me a copy of this timeless classic. The book included signatures from all my friends and professors, along with their top recommendations of places to visit after graduation.
$18 at Barnes & Noble.
Amazon
Tiny Beautiful Things
Cheryl Strayed’s Tiny Beautiful Things is the perfect read for recent college graduates seeking life advice on topics ranging from love and career to family conflicts. The book is a collection of Strayed’s insightful and compassionate advice columns, written under her pseudonym “Sugar.” With numerous columns to peruse, readers can find guidance and clarity on navigating difficult situations in their own lives.
You are currently receiving price alerts for “Tiny Beautiful Things” on Amazon, priced at $12. This is especially useful for times when you are unable to purchase the item in person.
Fresh Sends is a service that delivers cute bouquets directly to the recipient’s doorstep. I recently used Fresh Sends to send flowers to my friends who were graduating in Nashville and they were thrilled. The bouquets come in different sizes and designs and you can include a personalized card and video message.
Check out Fresh Sends.