Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Read full disclosure here
Every year I have to buy a number of high school graduation gifts, so I need to find items that are not expensive. But I also want the gifts to be of use to the high schoolers who are usually heading off to college in the fall.
I have compiled this list based on things I have bought, items my high school grad would like, and items a recent high school grad enjoyed receiving.
At the time of publication these items were under $50.
1. External Phone Battery
This is an ideal gift as every student needs one! If you want to spend a but more than this, you can buy more powerful batteries that can be used multiple times before you recharge them.
2. Picture Holder
To make this gift even more special, include a few photos from home or from an activity you had in common with the recipient.
3. Flash Drive
When I went to college, I took my own printer but today printers are available on campus – students just need a quick and easy way to take their documents to the printer. Find a fun flash drive that relates to their interests.
4. Bedside Caddy
This is a great gift for students who might not have a bedside table as they can have everything they need close at hand when they might be too lazy to get up.
5. Gift Cards
Make sure they can use the gift card you get them wherever they will be going to college. Amazon and Target are big hits. So are fast food gift cards!
6. Adultish book
College can be a stressful time. Reading is a great way to unwind, and sharing stories can help kids to connect with one another on a deeper level. This is a fun sciency book that one of my employees loves.
7. Mini basketball hoop for the dorm door
A friend of mine bought one of these for each of the guys in his Bible Study group and he told me they were a HUGE hit.
8. 6 in 1 Tool Pen
I love the fact that this has so many functions – stylus, screwdriver, pen, bubble level and ruler.
9. Luggage
Most students have never owned luggage and have used their parents’ until now. Carryons, backpacks, duffel bags are all good choices. Luggage tags are another idea if you want something cheaper.
10. Headphones
Headphones are essential for college students as they will be working in shared spaces. There are good ones at a variety of price points.
11. Microwave S’more Maker
I don’t think you can go wrong with this gift! You can be sure it will make a student very popular! You can buy them a S’more Caddy to go along with it.
12. Air Tags
Air Tags will help new graduates keep track of valuable belongings and help ease them into adulting and keeping track of their possessions.
13. Coffee Maker
College students are notorious for needing coffee to help them through long study sessions so a Coffee Maker is a great gift. It will also save them money. If the grad in your life isn’t a fan of coffee, try a teakettle instead!
14. Bluetooth Speakers
Whether it is music to help students study, or music for a dorm party, Bluetooth Speakers are sure to be a hit.
Got any more ideas? Please share them in the comments.
