Gifts for High School Graduates That Aren't Cash
Even if you don’t know them that well, these grad gifts are sure to be a hit.
Photo by Julia Gartland
It’s graduation season once again, which means the hunt for high school graduation gifts is officially on.
With invites piling up and parties filling your weekends, you might be wondering what kind of gift feels thoughtful but not over-the-top, especially if you haven’t seen the grad since they were, like, 10. Whether you’re shopping for a niece, neighbor, or your best friend’s kid, we’ve rounded up some of the best high school graduation gifts that are actually useful. Think: dorm-ready essentials, small luxuries, and smart picks they won’t already get five of.
And if you’re looking for college graduation gifts, we’ve got a guide for that too.
To pull together this list, I consulted with a bunch of recent college grads about what they actually found useful from their high school graduation gifts, and some of their picks might surprise you.
TL;DR:
If the graduate is heading off to college, branded gear is a safe bet. Personalized water bottles, tote bags, and laptop stickers are small yet practical items that can be tucked into their car for their college move-in and will be used all through their four years.
And when you’re in doubt, go for a branded tumbler or picnic blanket (no one gets the latter). Pro tip: As someone who’s well-versed in Gen Z trends, I can tell you that “vintage-inspired” items are huge, and you can find great options on Etsy. Here’s a roundup of practical, fun, and useful gift ideas that any grad will love:
best high school graduation gifts
Tops recs are Tervis, Owala, or Yeti, customized with their school colors: For staying hydrated in style. Tervis is more customizable since they have an entire collegiate collection, but Owala and Yeti keep drinks cold for hours. All are perfect for college life on the go.
This is one of the underrated gifts ever. It’s a great way to make plans with friends—especially on college campuses with green spaces or quads. Trust me, the person with the blanket is always popular. Plus, it packs up easily and is perfect for impromptu picnics. Rally House has a bunch of schools.
If I had to choose one thing that I used most during my first year of college, it would be this. Whether it's fixing a lamp, hanging pictures, or assembling furniture, they'll thank you later. People would knock on our door asking for this because nobody brings scissors or hammers.
4. Personalized Clear Bag for Stadiums
A great pick for college sports games, since many stadiums now require clear bags for entry. This way, they won’t have to worry about sneaking in their stuff.
You can never go wrong with a portable speaker. Perfect for dorm life or hanging out with friends, a JBL speaker will make sure they always have the best music around. Plus, you can customize this one with school colors as well.
Want to really impress? This is a classic gift that is super chic and practical. It’s the tote bag every young woman between 18-23 is loving right now. Trust me, they’ll appreciate this when they start college!
7. Mini Keurig
This was probably the most used item in my dorm. If they’re a coffee drinker, having a mini Keurig will make them the go-to dormmate for caffeine.
Perfect for weekend trips or when they head back home. A stylish yet practical option that they can use for years. All the cool young kids are loving Beis right now btw.
Many dorms don’t allow candles, so a diffuser is a great alternative to keep things smelling fresh and inviting. Well—I'd probably also go with a mini candle pack because I'm a candle lover, but I also just love Pura.
10. Portable Charger
If there’s one thing every student needs, it’s this. They’ll never have to worry about a dead phone again (trust me, they’ll be grateful). Get one that plugs into the wall also, it's way better.
11. Quality Socks
College students rarely have nice socks. Bombas are cozy, durable, and a thoughtful upgrade from the cheap, worn-out pairs most students have.
Perfect for organizing jewelry without taking up too much space in a dorm room or suitcase (I love this over a hanging or square-shaped one). College students are lazy and love to just throw things in bags, but this little gem keeps things a bit more organized.
13. Portable Hammock
Perfect for relaxing outdoors between classes or just enjoying a sunny day on the campus quad. Lightweight and easy to pack, it's a great gift for someone who loves to chill and be comfy wherever they go. You always wanted to at least know someone with one of these.
14. Hot Water Kettle
For the beverage lovers. If they love tea or coffee, a kettle will be a lifesaver for quick, dorm-friendly drinks without trekking to the dining hall. This is a great beginner pick from Cuisinart.
Small but effective— these are great for hanging photos and posters without damaging the walls of their dorm or apartment. Go the thumbtack route because it can easily stick into that painted cinderblock dorm wall. I think it would be cute to print out photos and create a gift bag.
Every college student needs one of these (or at least every student I knew had one). To be honest, I was skeptical at first, but then I understood. No college apartment has filtered water, and this is a game-changer for staying hydrated.
It may seem a bit cute and impractical, but this affordable gift is perfect for dorms or small apartments, and who doesn’t love a warm waffle?
These could be seen a dorm room essential if you think about. All they really have is a microwave. If they’re going to be reheating food, they’ll need a set of containers to make the process easier.
I love this pick: EXCELLENT ADVICE FOR LIVING: Wisdom I Wish I'd Known Earlier. Instead of giving them the classic “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!” give them a bite-size advice book written by an actual dad. I do love that one too, don't worry, but I guarantee no one else will get them this one.
Somewhere along the way every single college student got obsessed with digital cameras. A portable printer for printing out photos directly from their phone is a great way to add some personal, nostalgic touches to their dorm room or apartment. Plus, they can be the 'friend with the camera now.'
Dorms can get chilly, and a soft, cozy blanket is perfect for wrapping up while studying or relaxing. Plus, they add a personal touch to the room. Bonus points if it’s a fun color or pattern that matches their style. You can never go wrong with Urban Outfitters for any college-aged kid.
What are your go-to graduation gifts? I'd love to hear ideas as I'm always working on my next gift guide
Originally Published: May 6, 2025