articles

Go-To Graduation Gifts

More than 70 graduation gift ideas they're sure to love!

By Christen Reiner, publisher of Macaroni Kid Lakewood-Littleton & Macaroni Kid Denver May 21, 2021


You probably know someone who's graduating this year. Graduation might look a little different in 2021, but it is still a time for celebration!

My oldest graduated in 2019, and we spent a lot of time at grad parties for his friends. Not only did my son get some super creative gifts, but I got some super creative ideas for my grad gift list!

I've spent two years scouring the internet and putting my own spin on some great ideas. I figured that many of you are in the same boat as I am, so here ya go! I've got you covered this graduation season!




For graduation parties:

Cold, hard cash delivered creatively with a: 

Gift cards for:

  • A coffee shop (for those late study nights in college)
  • A restaurant
  • Uber
  • Amazon
  • Target
  • Bed, Bath and Beyond 
  • Gas
  • Pizza

Things they'll love:

  • One cup coffee maker
  • Laundry detergent and quarters
  • Candy bouquet or poster
  • Movie night
  • Office supplies in a jar
  • Stationery (Don't forget the stamps!)
  • Monthly cookie or treat delivery
  • Tool kit
  • Microwave cooking supplies
  • Ramen cookbook
  • Sticker from their college
  • Travel coffee mug
  • Bottle opener
  • Blank journal
  • Lock
  • Spa basket
  • Portable phone speaker
  • Pens and pencils (Trust me)
  • Address book
  • Planner notepads
  • Portable phone charger
  • Shower caddy
  • Bucket o' batteries
  • Toiletry kit
  • Snack basket
  • Gum 
  • Coupon for a finals care package
  • First aid kit
  • Travel journal
  • Lunch cooler
  • Blanket
  • Succulent terrarium










For your high school friends

I have always made sure that my high schooler didn't go to grad parties for his friends empty-handed. Here are some inexpensive ideas that you can even buy in bulk.

  • Scratch and win cards
  • A framed picture of the friends
  • Stress ball
  • Lanyard with Card Holder
  • Pet rock or pet cloud 



For your own kid

Is your own child graduating? Not sure what to get your student? Here are some great (and practical!) ideas!

  • GIFT CARDS!!!
  • Laptop
  • Microwave
  • Bed linens
  • Towels
  • Watch
  • College gear or apparel
  • Lap desk
  • Backpack
  • Laundry and cleaning supplies
  • Overnight bag
  • Budgeting notebook
  • Amazon Prime membership
  • Netflix or Hulu membership
  • Luggage set
  • Noise-canceling headphones
  • Vehicle emergency kit
  • Roadside assistance plan
  • Amazon Echo Dot
  • "Open When...." letters (for those days they are happy, sad, scared, tired, etc.)
  • Bicycle (Don't forget the lock!)
  • Airline gift cards
  • Concert tickets

Christen Reiner is the publisher of Macaroni Kid Lakewood-Littleton and Macaroni Kid Denver.




WANT MORE FAMILY FUN? 

Be sure you are receiving our FREE emails for weekly event listings and also check out our events calendar!




Proudly serving Northeast Bergen County area families in Closter, Harrington Park, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Park Ridge, River Vale, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake since 2010.