Practical Graduation Gifts from top left: edgy work tote / fun desk mug / quick recipes cookbook (here is a good vegan one) / travel coffee tumbler set / workhorse backpack (I love mine!) / water bottle / hairdryer (luxurious gift-I love mine!) /

It’s that time of year when seniors are graduating from high school and college; and also graduate students are completing their advanced degrees. While some graduates may be continuing their education, many will be entering the workforce full-time. I know watches and fancy jewelry are always fun graduation gifts, but what does a modern grad really need?

Practical graduation gifts are where it’s at these days. Graduates no longer need a fancy watch on their wrist when they graduate; to be frank, this generation doesn’t really wear watches anyway! Here is what happens when someone graduates; they suddenly live on their own, with a pile of bills, and a low paying job. Let’s give them something for graduation they can actually use; and may not be able to afford.

Work Tote: Even if someone works from home, they eventually will need to carry their work with them to meetings or for travel. A work tote is must! A young worker would love a practical, black tote bag which isn’t too stuffy to carry around files and a laptop. The tote is even better if it fits a spare pair of shoes. Look for black tote bags without too much fuss or labels. There is a chance your graduate may need to take public transportation to work. Logos and large labels could make them a target. Look for simple yet chic tote bags which aren’t too boring. I found a few around the web:

Backpack: Whether your grad is heading back to school for another degree, or diving into the workforce, they will need a backpack! May I suggest my all-time favorite backpack? This backpack from adidas is strong and sturdy. I use it as a carry-on when I travel. There are multiple compartments making it easy to separate electronics from shoes or toiletries. My laptop and cord fit nicely inside with plenty of room to spare. It’s also comfortable to wear on my back for long periods of time. This backpack is great for more than just travel. Your grad can use it for work too! It’s easy to wear while commuting to work on public transportation. It also makes a great gym bag. This backpack is sturdy, strong, grown-up, and under $100. It really is a must-have!

Coffee mug, travel tumbler and water bottle: If your grad drinks coffee, they will probably make their own at home to save money. I mean, let’s do some quick math. Coffee made at home for about one dollar is roughly $20 per month. Coffee drinks purchased at a coffee shop average five dollars per work day, which equates to roughly $100 per month. As a new grad on a tight budget, this won’t be rocket science. Encourage good spending habits by gifting your grad a coffee travel tumbler; also a water bottle! Your grad should not drink coffee all day. At some point they will switch to water. Gift them a good quality water bottle they can carry on the bus, as well as proudly place on their desk. Love!

Hair Dryer: OK, whether your grad’s hair is short or long, it will need to be tidy and styled. I made the mistake of going to work with wet hair in my 20’s one day. I got in trouble. Don’t be me. Encourage your grad to go to work with dry hair by gifting a fabulous hair dryer. This one is pricey, but it’s soooooo good.

Cook books: Most graduates went through school having their meals made for them, or by eating ramen. Since they will be tired after work, and won’t be able to afford to eat out every day, why not gift them a cookbook with quick and easy meal ideas? There are two I find fabulous; one for meat eaters, and one for vegans. Why not gift both!

Shop practical graduation gifts around the web:

What does your grad want for graduation? I hope you like my practical graduation gift ideas!

Happy graduation to your grad, and thanks for stopping by!

XOXO
Cathy