Best Fun and Practical Gifts for 2023 Graduates

Many graduates heading off to college or to a new home or job would benefit from these gifts to aid their next steps in life. 

Cookbook

The entry-level cookbook "How to Cook for Beginners" by Gwyn Novak is the new basic everyone needs in order to get comfortable in the kitchen. Novak walks newer cooks through all of the steps of making a hard-boiled egg, and then graduates them on to creating simple but delicious dishes.

Meal delivery

A meal delivery gift card will always be appreciated. Consider Grubhub or Uber Eats, among others. 

Shower caddy

When you share a bathroom with one roommate or several, a shower caddy is a must-have. This shower caddy holds everything they'll need.

“Adulting” manual

Your college grad might need a few tips on being a full-fledged grown-up before they are released into the real world. The book “Adulting: How to Become a Grown-Up in 535 Easy(ish) Steps” is the perfect present.

White noise machine

A Dohm natural sound machine will help anyone block dorm or apartment cacophony for a restful slumber or productive study sesh. 

And don’t forget local businesses, which can offer familiar comfort to someone away from home. A gift certificate from a local small business you love is a great way to celebrate your graduate.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in 2020, and has been updated for 2023.