The 25 best high school graduation gifts that anyone will love — and actually use (2024)

Table of Contents
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera + Fuji Film Value Pack Fancii LED Lighted Large Vanity Makeup Mirror Uncommon Goods Collegiate Pouches LapGear Home Office Lap Desk Papier Undated Daily Planner Aritzia Cozy Fleece Perfect Hoodie Mejuri Charlotte Bold Hoops Wall Outlet Extender with Night Light and Outlet Shelf Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones Calpak Padded Laptop Sleeve Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Stackable Cooking Set Apple AirTag Facaxedre Soft House Slippers Brightech Elizabeth Table Lamp with Wireless Charging Pad and USB Port Coach Mini Skinny ID Case Béis The Front Pocket Carry-on Roller Soft Touch Linen Premium Terry Cloth Bathrobe Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L Monopoly Deal Card Game Gola Hawk Sneakers Casely Navy Power Pod Mark & Graham Block Print Travel Pouch Round Floral Rose Gold Picture Frame Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle The best high school graduation gifts Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera + Fuji Film Value Pack Fancii LED Lighted Large Vanity Makeup Mirror Uncommon Goods Collegiate Pouches LapGear Home Office Lap Desk Papier Undated Daily Planner Aritzia Cozy Fleece Perfect Hoodie Mejuri Charlotte Bold Hoops Wall Outlet Extender with Night Light and Outlet Shelf Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones Calpak Padded Laptop Sleeve Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Stackable Cooking Set Apple AirTag Facaxedre Soft House Slippers Brightech Elizabeth Table Lamp with Wireless Charging Pad and USB Port Coach Mini Skinny ID Case Béis The Front Pocket Carry-on Roller Soft Touch Linen Premium Terry Cloth Bathrobe Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L Monopoly Deal Card Game Gola Hawk Sneakers Casely Navy Power Pod Round Floral Rose Gold Picture Frame Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle FAQs

High school graduation is a momentous occasion in any young person's life. Now that they're finally done with all the stress of the SAT and finals, take a moment to recognize all of their hard work over the last four years and celebrate all that's to come with one of these unique gift ideas.

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Luckily, finding the perfect high school graduation gift doesn't have to be difficult. Whether you want to get them something to use in their college dorm (like a handy lap desk), something to help them cherish precious memories made this summer (perhaps a film camera?) or something long-lasting to mark the occasion (such as gold earrings), you're bound to find a winner on this list of graduation gift ideas.

We've rounded up the best gifts that your 2024 grad will actually use in their next chapter, no matter if they're going to college in the fall, taking a gap year or heading straight into the workforce. And while a gift card is always appreciated, you can rest easy knowing these presents won't be forgotten by the fall. Keep scrolling to shop our top high school graduation gifts for him and her, starting at just $8.

The best high school graduation gifts

Fujifilm

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera + Fuji Film Value Pack

An instant camera is a fun way for your graduate to document all of the special moments during this whirlwind time. This bundle comes with an instant camera, four packs of film, a camera case, a photo album and batteries. You can also snag the camera on its own for $80.

$138 at Amazon

Fancii

Fancii LED Lighted Large Vanity Makeup Mirror

Ideal for a dorm room or starter apartment, this rotating makeup mirror has a dimmable light so she can see what she's doing without bothering any potential roommates. There's also a storage compartment to hold her everyday essentials like mascara and makeup brushes.

$40 at Amazon

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$65 at Macy's$65 at HSN

Uncommon Goods

Uncommon Goods Collegiate Pouches

These carry-all pouches are the most thoughtful gift for someone heading to a big state school. Available in more than 30 collegiate designs that feature everything from mascots to school chants, these cotton zippered bags will surely find a spot in their backpack.

$33 at Uncommon Goods

LapGear

LapGear Home Office Lap Desk

Working or studying in bed can be productive as long as you have the right tools. Take this lap desk, for example: It has a built-in mouse pad and a slot to hold a smartphone.

$34 at Walmart

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$34 at Amazon$40 at Lowe's

Papier

Papier Undated Daily Planner

After high school, your graduate will have a lot more free time. This undated daily planner will help them keep track of their class schedule, work shifts and other activities.

$35 at Papier

Aritzia

Aritzia Cozy Fleece Perfect Hoodie

Loungewear is essential for relaxing on the weekend or pulling an all-nighter. This simple fleece hoodie from Aritzia comes in a ton of neutral colors and is perfectly slouchy. Want to go the extra mile? Spring for the matching sweatpants and you'll definitely earn some bonus points.

$80 at Aritizia

Mejuri

Mejuri Charlotte Bold Hoops

You can never go wrong with gifting jewelry, and these beautiful earrings won't break the bank. These elevated hoops from Mejuri are covered in 18k gold vermeil and feel much more special than standard huggies.

$98 at Mejuri

One Beat

Wall Outlet Extender with Night Light and Outlet Shelf

Dorm rooms and studio apartments aren't known for their excess outlets. Luckily, this outlet extender provides five extra outlets as well as USB and USB-C ports. But that's not all: It also has a nightlight at the bottom and a shelf on the top.

$14 at Amazon

Keurig

Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker

Your grad probably won't have the counter space for a big coffee pot, so gift them this single-serve Keurig instead. It can brew three different cup sizes and has a large 42-ounce reservoir that doesn't need to be filled up constantly.

$70 at Amazon

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$146 at Wayfair

Beats

Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones

Loud neighbors and noisy roommates are inevitable. These wireless noise-cancelling headphones will help tune them out. This pair features over 20 hours of battery life and comes in six additional colors.

$159 at Amazon

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$179 at Macy's$350 at GoPuff

Calpak

Calpak Padded Laptop Sleeve

If your grad was gifted a laptop recently, then you want to make sure it stays in tip-top shape. Available in both 13-14-inch and 15-17-inch sizes, this padded laptop sleeve is water-resistant, zips closed and has a front compartment for chargers and other tech accessories.

$26 at Calpak

Joseph Joseph

Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Stackable Cooking Set

New cooks and anyone without a full kitchen will appreciate this gadget. This four-piece set comes with a dishwasher-safe cooking pot, steamer, griddle and lid that all stack together.

$18 at Amazon

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$30 at Joseph Joseph

Apple

Apple AirTag

Help your grad keep track of their keys, backpack, luggage and more. Just attach it to a keychain or slip it in a pocket, then track down the missing item on the Find My app.

$24 at Amazon

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$24 at Walmart$29 at Adorama

FACAXEDRE

Facaxedre Soft House Slippers

Everyone needs a pair of cozy slippers to wear around the dorm. This plush pair has a textured, nonslip sole and a fun retro smiley face design. Snag it in six colors.

$17 at Amazon

Brightech

Brightech Elizabeth Table Lamp with Wireless Charging Pad and USB Port

This table lamp is so much more than just a pretty light source. It has a wireless charging pad and USB port built right into its base so they can easily juice up their favorite electronics without using up any outlets (which are probably few and far between).

$60 at Amazon

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$60 at Lowe's$65 at Wayfair

Coach Outlet

Coach Mini Skinny ID Case

They can attach their new room keys to this checkered card case, which has an ID window, two credit slots and a zippered compartment. It's a total steal, especially since it's on sale for an extra 15% off right now.

$26 at Coach Outlet

Béis

Béis The Front Pocket Carry-on Roller

Everyone could use a dependable suitcase for weekend getaways (even if they're just traveling home). This hard-sided carry-on has four wheels that spin 360°, secure TSA locks and a front pocket with a slot for your laptop.

$248 at Béis

Soft Touch Linen

Soft Touch Linen Premium Terry Cloth Bathrobe

A terry cloth bathrobe can make even a communal bathroom feel a little more luxe. Go with a classic white or opt for a fun color that'll stand out from everyone else's.

$40 at Amazon

Lululemon

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

Perfect for wearing around campus, while running errands or at a concert, this Lululemon belt bag is a bestseller for a reason. It can hold a phone, card case, hand sanitizer and more, all while keeping her hands free.

$38 at Lululemon

Monopoly

Monopoly Deal Card Game

Monopoly Deal is one of the hottest card games out now. The gist: It's similar to the beloved board game where each player collects properties and avoids debt collectors, but a whole game can be played in just 15 minutes. They can play it with their new roommates or make friends by hosting game night.

$8 at Amazon

Anthropologie

Gola Hawk Sneakers

Gola sneakers are so comfortable, they barely need to be broken in. And while your graduate probably has a pair of sneakers they prefer to wear to the gym, they'll reach for these more casual shoes whenever they're running to class or the cafeteria.

$105 at Anthropologie

Casely

Casely Navy Power Pod

Who said portable chargers have to be clunky? This charger doesn't even need a wire — it uses MagSafe technology to attach to newer iPhone models (the iPhone 8 or later).

$60 at Casely

Mark & Graham

This zippered pouch is the perfect size to hold skin care, makeup, hair and shaving products — the list goes on! Available in four eye-catching prints, you can personalize this travel bag with her initial or monogram for an extra $15.

SWTHONY

Round Floral Rose Gold Picture Frame

This floral frame will look right at home on any desk or bedside table. But be sure to fill the frame with a picture of the two of you together before gifting it!

$14 at Amazon

Owala

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Because hydration is important. This insulated water bottle from Owala has a secure lid that closes with a snap to prevent leaks. That means your graduate can toss it in their backpack and go about their day worry-free.

$25 at Amazon

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Your go-to shopping guide: See all of our gift guides in one spot. We've got gift ideas for all the different people in your life — men, women, teens, kids, you name it.

The 25 best high school graduation gifts that anyone will love — and actually use (2024)

FAQs

What is a good dollar amount for high school graduation? ›

High School Graduation

For high school grads, the average gift is around $50 to $200. To decide an amount, consider if this is a close friend or family member. You may also want to talk to other people who are giving gifts to decide how much you will give to the graduate.

What is a great high school graduation gift? ›

The best gifts are often those that are personalized, like an engraved necklace, photobook, a family cookbook or custom wall art. Consider fun memories you've made with the graduate, as well as their hobbies, passions and even future career field.

Is $25 a good high school graduation gift? ›

We've compiled the following breakdown of recommend gift amounts based on your relationship: Co-worker: $20 - $30. Close friend or sibling: $25-$75. Niece, Nephew, Grandkid: : $50- $100.

What gifts do high school students like? ›

Categories
  • Office & School Supplies. Writing Supplies & Correction Supplies. Education Supplies & Craft Supplies. Book Covers & Book Accessories. Desk Accessories & Workspace Organizers.
  • Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry.
  • Toys & Games.
  • Books. Teen & Young Adult Education & Reference.

What is the average cash gift for high school graduation? ›

The amount varies based on age bracket, but parents are typically the highest spenders. The average high school graduation money gift is between $30 and $200 dollars.

Is $500 a good high school graduation gift? ›

Some families and family friends may choose to spend closer to $100 - $500, depending on their finances and the needs of the graduate. It is important to take into account what the graduate is planning to do after graduation and whether they truly need money.

What is the most common graduation gift? ›

It's safe to say most college graduates or students want money. This gift card, which comes in a cute graduation cap box, makes it perfect for the occasion.

What is a good amount of money for a graduation gift? ›

Graduate School Graduation

The gift-giving guidelines are as follows: $100 - $200: For distant relatives and acquaintances. $200 - $500: For close friends and immediate family.

Is $20 okay for graduation? ›

You can also give a gift if you know what they are going to be doing after graduation. If it's someone who is graduating from high school, the minimum is $20-$25. If it's a college graduate it's around $50, Symington said. If you receive an invitation to a graduation party, you are obligated to send a gift.

What is a good high school graduation gift for a boy? ›

  • A smart suitcase that charges devices and has 360° wheels. Away Instagram. ...
  • A custom rambler. Yeti. ...
  • A nice leather wallet, which you can monogram for him. ...
  • A timeless pair of sunglasses. ...
  • A backpack they can carry work or schoolwork in. ...
  • A Bluetooth speaker his friends will appreciate. ...
  • A cool pair of sneakers. ...
  • A fun game for summer.
Apr 23, 2024

Is cash a good high school graduation gift? ›

If you receive an invitation to the graduation party, you should bring a gift if you attend. If it is a high-school graduation, I always give a card and $250 cash. Someone else said they would not go over $100.

Do people give high school graduation gifts? ›

Graduation day is a momentous occasion for students and families, but especially when you're in high school. The anticipation and work leading up to the commencement ceremony is stressful enough, but celebrating their accomplishments with a practical graduation gift (and perhaps a party!) will be well worth the hassle.

Are high school graduation gifts a thing? ›

You could get them a practical present—like a new backpack for college, or a work bag for a new job. Or you could treat 'em to a fancy perfume or piece of jewelry to make them feel super special for making it through what might've been the most stressful years of their life.

What do you get your daughter for high school graduation? ›

What do parents give for high school graduation?
  • Cash.
  • Flowers.
  • Balloons.
  • Gift bundles or gift boxes.
  • Decor or other needed items for their apartment or dorm room.
  • Apparel from the college or university they're attending.
  • Subscriptions to streaming services.
  • Personalized and sentimental gifts.
Jul 12, 2023

What is the appropriate graduation gift money? ›

Graduate school graduation marks a major professional achievement. The gift-giving guidelines are as follows: $100 - $200: For distant relatives and acquaintances. $200 - $500: For close friends and immediate family.

How much money should a graduate get? ›

What Is the Average Graduate Salary by State
StateAnnual SalaryHourly Wage
California$49,859$23.97
New Hampshire$48,562$23.35
Vermont$47,843$23.00
Maine$47,044$22.62
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