Practical, Crowd-Pleasing Graduation Gifts
If you think about it, there aren't that many occasions in life, other than birthdays and maybe promotions or new jobs, that folks get to celebrate an individual. Sure, weddings and babies are big milestones, but they're a group achievement. Graduations offer up the perfect moment to tell someone special in your life that you're proud of them.
Often, along with graduations come big life shifts – think moving, new jobs and new routines. You can help ease the transition with these practical gifts that will set the grad in your life up for success. We combed Target to find the best options that will actually delight the matriculating student in your life.
Their new emotional support water bottle
It's not just about hydration. Water tumblers have taken on an elevated status as emotional support objects. Next time you stroll around a campus, or heck, really anywhere, take note: more folks than not are bustling along bottle in hand. Hydro Flask's 40-ounce travel tumbler is a favorite for good reason. It keeps drinks cold for hours thanks to the double-wall vacuum insulation and the lid is leak resistant. Customer Sydney affirms in their review that 'it keeps my water cold' and that it's 'so easy to clean.' Choose from eight different colors.Get it from Target for $39.99.
A French press set
Coffee and grads go hand in hand. We all need a little caffeine boost to get our day going and in this economy, paying $5 ($6, $7, $8!?!) for a cup of coffee every day just isn't practical – especially for new grads on a budget. This 8-cup French press set from Bodum is the perfect way to set your grad up for success. Bobsyouruncle confirms in their review that the set 'works perfectly and the accessories are a nice touch.' It comes with a scoop and sand timer that's pre-measured to run out at 4 minutes, which is roughly the perfect brew time. Once the timer's out, it's time to press. The included battery-powered milk frother is a nice touch to help you one-up your cup.Get it from Target for $24.99.
A weighted blanket
Graduation often means embarking out on your own — and sometimes leaving the nest can feel a little daunting. This weighted blanket is the perfect gift to quell anxieties. At 12 pounds, it's just the right weight to keep you cozy on the couch or safe while snoozing. Adirana's review affirms that they had the 'best night sleep [because] it did its job' adding that they weren't 'tossing or turning all night long' anymore. Get it from Target for $25.
A happy light
You need more sunlight than you'd think to keep happy and healthy. Whether you're stuck in June gloom on the West coast or short winter days in the East, an extra dose of light can really (excuse the pun) brighten your outlook. If your grad is moving somewhere new, the little extra boost can make a big difference. This full spectrum LED light delivers up to 10,000 lux at three different brightness settings. It's fully portable and shown to improve sleep, boosts mood, increases energy, and enhances focus. WeavingQueen confirms in their review that their 'days are much happier with more energy' thanks to this LED light.Get it from Target for $39.99.
A great self-help book
After graduating you're expected to find a job and in turn, your place in the world. Sometimes, getting to know yourself can be tougher than expected, especially if you're a perfectionist. Give the grad in your life a little extra encouragement with psychotherapist Katherine Morgan Schafler's new book The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control. The book is 'an invitation to every 'recovering perfectionist' to challenge the way they look at perfectionism, and the way they look at themselves.' Shan says 'this fresh perspective on perfection went above and beyond' in their review adding that it will leave 'you with the tools to begin to reframe your perfectionism into your very own superpower.' What grad couldn't use a new superpower?Get it from Target for $19.67.
Some fancy earbuds
Apple AirPods make a particularly nice gift. Whether you need to make calls, score your morning commute or watch your shows in privacy, these premium wireless earbuds have you covered. The latest version boasts added noise cancelling technology, clearer calls and can even function as a hearing aid (perfect for sitting in the back row of the lecture hall). Arguably the creme de la creme of personal listening, these headphones are on sale now for just under $170. PaolaH21 confirms in their review that 'they're worth every penny" and that 'the noise cancellation is a game changer.'Get them from Target for $249.99.
A personal blender
Grads are frequently on the go. Whether it's studying for finals or starting the job hunt, certain obligations make their time is a precious commodity. Why not gift them with something practical to help them save a little time and money and get breakfast or a snack in a snap? The Nutribullet is a 'powerful and effective blender,' according to Hegesh's review, its 'large capacity cup and strong blades' make it the perfect smoothie-making companion. Get it from Target for $69.99.
A hybrid digital Polaroid camera
With new life milestones on the horizon post graduation, this hybrid camera is the perfect gift for creative grads. The Instax Mini Evo combines the fun of traditional Polaroid prints along with the predictability and technology of modern digital cameras. Just like the classic, it spits out prints in a snap, but with this camera you can preview images before printing, apply filters or print directly from your smartphone. It's like 'Polaroid reimagined for today's time,' Neville F says in their review, adding that it's a 'great way to combine today's digital cameras with the ability of Polaroids to get some really fun pictures that can become part of a physical album.' Film isn't included, but a built-in selfie mirror is (!!) as is a charger and camera strap. It's an investment at $200, but is sure to build memories or years to come.Get it from Target for $199.99.
An easy-on-the-eyes e-reader
After years of toting around heavy textbooks and notebooks, a Kindle is the perfect break for a recent grad. Give them the gift of reading on the go without the distractions of news, notifications and apps. The Kindle replicates a 'real' reading experience thanks to its glare-free paper-like screen. With instant access to over 15 million books in the Kindle store, you can rest assured that they'll find something up their alley. 'This is such a beautiful device' pavlinad1_2715 writes in a review. '[It's] paper-thin and so light, the screen quality is amazing, it doesn't hurt my eyes, it's just a perfect product.' And, the perfect gift!Get it from Target for $159.99 (available in two colors).
A cheerful carry-on suitcase
You want them to explore the world and come back home for long weekends, right? Luggage is a great way to gift a new graduate. This hardside carry-on suitcase is the perfect travel companion thanks to its expandable side zips and easy roll wheels. Kimmy calls it 'great for a weekend getaway' in their review and Ldodd421's review concurs, saying their suitcase 'holds enough for a week and is expandable.' With six stylish color choices and a price point under $100 ($89.99 to be specific), you can't go wrong.Get it from Target for $89.99.
An iconic cookbook
When you're in student mode, cooking can go the wayside. Between classes, working and studying, who has the time? Welcome them back to the world of cooking with a culinary icon: Martha. Celebrate their graduation with Martha Stewart's 100th (!!!) book, "Martha Stewart's 100 Favorite Recipes." It's the ultimate collection of her all time favorites. This cookbook is a great place for a new cook to start their collection – and, hey, maybe they'll even invite you over for dinner as a thank you.Get it from Target for $22.54 (originally $28).
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