We are thinking a little outside of the box on some of these graduation gift ideas because they are NOT meant to add the growing number of luxury gifts given and loved for a short time and then tossed aside.
These are actually useful gifts that every graduate can use to make their lives easier, more productive, and more grown up whether their after high school plans include college, work, a gap year, or something in between.
Here are The 8 Most Useful High School Graduation Gifts to give this year.
#1 Cash
Topping this list is the most obvious and easiest gift to give a new high school graduate – cash! It’s something every young person needs a little bit of to make the transition into the next stage of their life easier.
But how much should you give?
Obviously, you should only gift an amount of money that is within your reach and budget. Assuming you have a little bit of money to gift, here are some ideas to help you determine how much you will give.
Consider your relationship with the graduate. If you’re a friend or acquaintance, a smaller amount given as s gift is totally appropriate. If you are the graduates parents or grandparents, you might want to consider leaning towards a slightly higher amount in your gift giving.
Set your own gifting budgets. For example, think about the gifts you give most commonly – birthday gifts, holiday gifts, wedding gifts, graduation gifts – and then set your own personal spending limits around those major events. Then, whenever an event arises, your gift giving is a no brainer!
#2 Luggage
This feels like a very “adult” gift, and while it might not be the flashiest gift, it certainly is one of the most useful high school graduation gifts. Whether packing for college, a backpacking trip around the world, or just a quick weekend away to see family, luggage comes in handy in so many of life’s situations.
Amazon Basics has got it figured out with these affordable, hard-sided luggage basics that come in a variety of sizes and colors. Simple + durable = recipe for landing on this list of most useful graduation gifts you could give.
#3 Planner
Nothing says ‘adulting’ like getting a planner for a gift. HA!
But seriously, planners are so much more than just spiral notebooks full of lined paper. They can really help you get it together, stay organized, stay focused, and live a more satisfying life.
If you’re graduate is a pen-and-paper planner fan, check out Erin Condren’s Academic Planners.
Big shout out to the minimalist version, which are chef’s kiss perfection.
If you prefer a digital planner, check out The Dailee by Sophie Lee. Originally a pen-and-paper planner option, The Dailee now gives you the same organizing power with on your laptop or tablet. Love it!
#4 A Nice New Backpack
Maybe an obvious gift for a college-bound student, a nice new backpack is a great for every graduate in every stage of “what’s next.”
Excellent for college students because you carry so much stuff on your back as you move from class to class! CHoosing a backpack that is meant for hiking and being carried means you are getting padded shoulder straps and other ergonomic features that make toting all those books and tools around a breeze!
Looking for a backpack that’s as stylish as it is functional?
The Lovevook 4Pcs, 40/50L Freyja Laptop Travel Backpack is in a league of its own, especially at such an affordable price point. You can fit SO MUCH into this stylish pack. It’s perfect for walking around campus, carrying with you to your new job, toting your laptop into your new internship, or using as a carryone for an upcoming trip.
An Amazon Prime subscription is a useful high school graduation gift for every student on your list.
Speedy delivery, Amazon streaming services, and more. This is a gift that will just keep on giving all year long.
#6 Laptop
Admittedly, this one is the higher end of a graduation gift idea budget, but its usefulness for every student heading into the next chapter of their education and career is undeniable.
Voted “Best Small Laptop for College” by PCMag in 2024, Microsoft Surface Pro recently released Version 11 – lightweight, AI-accelarated with Copilot, and boasting 14 hours of battery life.
#7 Cooking Classes
Cooking classes can be just as fun as they are practical! Afterall, you can't live on EasyMac and pancakes forever.
We LOVE an experience-based gift. Make this one mean even more and go with your graduate to create a lasting memory of time well spent together.
Search for local cooking classes in your area or consider online classes from experts at places like Sur la Table.
Literally EVERYONE can benefit from an AirTag.
Attach them to your keychain so you quickly find them when they’re lost.
Pin one inside of your purse, wallet, backpack, etc. to monitor its location.
Drop one in your checked baggage so there’s no more lost luggage at the airport!
The AirTag has so many uses. Trust us. Get one…or two… or three.
Remember, gifting is a special way of showing your love and admiration for the receiver. Anything you give will be loved and appreciated. These items will make your gift incredibly USEFUL too!
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