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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 17, 2023

You probably know someone who's graduating this year. 

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
  • 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.