16 Top Graduation Gifts That New Grads Will Truly Use and Appreciate

As another school year ends, graduation season is here. If you’re looking for the ideal gift for someone about to wear their cap and gown, this list has you covered. Whether they’re starting college, grad school, or a new career, these gifts will help them begin their next chapter and remain useful for years.

1. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation); $200

Apple’s AirPods Pro stand out as some of the finest true wireless earbuds available. Ideal for new graduates, they’re perfect for work meetings or enjoying music and podcasts during commutes. The MagSafe-compatible case allows for easy charging on any MagSafe surface, offering up to six hours of listening on a single charge and 30 hours with the case. Additionally, the active noise cancellation feature lets users block out distractions whenever needed.

2. Amazon Basics 8-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set; $48

For new graduates moving into their first homes, kitchen essentials are a must. This eight-piece Amazon Basics cookware set includes everything they need to start cooking, featuring two frying pans, two saucepans with lids, and more. Crafted with a non-stick coating for effortless cooking and cleaning, these BPA-free aluminum pots and pans are simple yet highly practical, ideal for those starting out independently. A 15-piece version (now on sale for $57) is also available, adding a pasta server, soup ladle, and other handy utensils.

3. Cartman 148-Piece Tool Set; $35

From hanging artwork to assembling IKEA furniture, a tool set is invaluable for new graduates. This 148-piece Cartman set includes essentials like a hammer, screwdrivers, wrenches, hex keys, and more, all corrosion-resistant and neatly stored in a carrying case for convenience.

4. Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer; $189

For creative graduates, a 3D printer opens endless possibilities. Whether crafting everyday items like ceramic cups or designing functional parts like hinges, this affordable model makes it all achievable. It even includes features like resume printing after power outages, setting it apart from pricier alternatives.

5. Away Carry-On Suitcase; From $250

Graduation opens the door to new adventures, like travel. If someone you know is planning to explore the world with their newfound free time, a suitcase is a practical yet thoughtful gift.

The Away Carry-On is renowned for its modern design and functional features, including 360-degree spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and an interior compression system for maximizing packing space. It also offers an optional version with built-in USB charging ports, ensuring their devices stay powered while traveling.

6. Zendure SuperMini 20-Watt Portable Charger; $60

Compact enough to fit in a pocket, this Zendure power bank is perfect for graduates constantly on their phones. Available in white and red, it’s about the size of a credit card yet can charge two devices simultaneously, including smartwatches, tablets, and more. The brand claims it can boost phone batteries by 50 percent in just 30 minutes and fully recharge devices up to three times.

7. HelloFresh Subscription; From $50 per box

For busy graduates, cooking healthy meals can be challenging. A HelloFresh subscription simplifies the process by offering diverse cuisines and flexible delivery options. It also caters to dietary preferences, including pescatarian, vegetarian, and vegan choices.

Subscribe: HelloFresh

8. Kindle Paperwhite; $140

Graduation doesn’t mean the end of reading. Inspire new graduates to continue exploring great stories with the Kindle Paperwhite. This 8GB device is waterproof, features a 6.8-inch display, and boasts up to 10 weeks of battery life. Plus, it includes three free months of Kindle Unlimited, offering access to over 2 million digital titles, including audiobooks.

9. Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen, 2023 release); $90

The Echo Show 5 is a versatile smart device that acts like an extra helper at home, perfect for graduates moving into their first apartment. With Alexa, they can manage tasks, shop online, and control smart home devices like lights and thermostats.

Its 5.5-inch screen is ideal for streaming, photo displays, and live camera feeds. Compact and portable, it’s great for following recipes in the kitchen or enjoying music in the bedroom. It also supports multiple user profiles, making it ideal for shared living spaces.

10. Amazon Prime Subscription; From $15 per month

For graduates who love online shopping, an Amazon Prime subscription eliminates the wait for orders. Most items arrive in two days or less, and the service includes perks like access to Amazon Prime Originals, fast grocery deliveries in select areas, and more.

11. UGG Women’s Coquette Slippers; From $120

Surprise the new graduate with a timeless gift: luxurious slippers. The UGG Coquettes feature sheepskin uppers and insoles, with warm shearling interiors to keep their feet cozy anywhere. The durable treads even make them suitable for outdoor wear.

12. Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum; $160

Stop lending your vacuum—give the new graduate their own to make cleaning easier. This Shark upright vacuum is perfect for small spaces, featuring a detachable motor for canister-style use. Its swivel brush head navigates tight corners, and the included upholstery tool is great for pet hair removal.

13. Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 Instant Camera; $85

Help your graduate preserve precious memories with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 instant camera. Equipped with a selfie mode, mirror, and automatic exposure, it’s a simple yet stylish choice for capturing moments in real-time.

14. Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState 40-Ounce Tumbler; $55

Help new graduates stay hydrated on the go with this reliable tumbler. The Stanley Adventure Quencher, a TikTok sensation often sold out (with a 150,000-person waitlist at one point), is now available in the H2.0 FlowState 40-ounce version. This vacuum-insulated, dishwasher-safe tumbler keeps drinks cold for 11 hours and ice intact for two days. Made from 90% recycled stainless steel, it features an ergonomic handle with comfort-grip inserts.

15. Custom Graduation Puzzle; $42

Celebrate their big day with a personalized memento. This 252-piece puzzle from Minted can be customized with colors, photos, and text. Designed by award-winning artist Robin Ott from Orrville, Ohio, it’s a unique way to commemorate their graduation.

16. Keurig K-Slim Coffee Maker; $90

The Keurig K-Slim packs big features into a compact design. At under 5 inches wide, it’s perfect for small spaces like dorms or apartments. With a 46-ounce water tank, three cup-size options, and quick brewing, it’s a practical choice. The removable drip tray accommodates mugs up to 7 inches tall.

This article was first published in 2022 and has been updated for 2023.