14 Meaningful Gifts New College Grads Will Actually Use

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When you graduate from college, no one tells you to upgrade your luggage to something sturdy (and, if you’re lucky, equipped with a phone charger). No one tells you that, yes, there’s always space in your kitchen for an appliance, like an Instant Pot, a crockpot, or an air fryer. And no one stresses just how important really, really good bed sheets are — and we’re not talking about those rough-to-the-touch 200-thread sheets.

Why? Because new college grads are so broke, they can barely afford that first student loan payment creeping up at the end of the month. That’s why, as a parent or friend or family member, it’s worth putting a bit more thought into what you give your graduate this year. Sure, you can write a heartfelt card, but what your grad (also) really wants is something they’ll use for months — maybe even years — to come.

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Ahead, we’ve curated a list of meaningful and useful gifts for your new college grad.

1. Brooklinen luxe core sheet set

More than 13.5K reviewers agree: This Brooklinen sheet set is worth every penny.

2. Arlo Skye carry-on

You’ve heard of Away, but Arlo Skye is another popular hard-shell luggage with an integrated, removable charger. What we love about Arlo Skye’s carry-ons, though, is the front pocket.

3. Feskin backpack

Your 20s are the perfect time to go explore the world; and to do so, you’ll need a good, sturdy backpack.

4. INIU power bank

Great for travel, for camping, for long road trips, you name it: Your grad will thank you for gifting this dual high-speed portable charger.

5. Echo Dot

“Alexa, help find me a job.”

6. Instant Vortex Plus

Instant Pots are so last year. Now, we’re on to air fryers — and health-conscious grads will love ’em.

7. Elixir crystal wine glasses

So long, Red Solo cups.

8. Ritual

Multivitamins are likely not top of mind for your college grad, so help ’em out with this monthly subscription box that comes equipped with just that.

9. Bissell featherweight vacuum

It’s lightweight, it’s bagless, and it’s a beast.

10. Ninja coffeemaker

A great — not just functional — coffee maker is essential.

11. A coffee subscription

Why not pair the coffee maker with a steady supply of coffee from around the world? Atlas Coffee Club sends a different flavor directly to your door at the frequency of your choice — either every two weeks or every four weeks — and each box features 12 ounces of freshly-roasted coffee, flavor notes, a postcard, and brewing tips.

12. Business card holder

Getting your first set of business cards is always exciting. Gift this personalized, leather business card case and this sleek wood business card holder.

13. AirPods

For those with long commutes, these AirPods will be lifesavers.

14. Polaroid OneStep2

Help them capture post-grad life in the trendiest way possible.

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

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