This "Smart" Notebook Connects to Their Devices, Then Wipes Clean With Water for Reuse
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He put in the hours, hit the books, wrote the essays and sweated bullets over tests — and he did parts of it through an unprecedented global pandemic. These are no small feats and should be celebrated with only the best gifts to say both "Congratulations, you did it!" and also, "Here's what you might need for what comes next." Whether he's graduating from a faraway university, a nearby community college or his local high school, your grad deserves the coolest graduation gift that builds on something he already loves, helps him discover a new passion, makes him laugh or sets him up to spread his wings.
These are the best graduation gifts for him in 2024. Choosing one is easy: all you need to do is think about what he loves most, anything and everything from gaming to travel, fashion to creative arts, sports to food, and so much more. The best gifts for grads should be both meaningful and useful. Graduating college and high school are once-in-a-lifetime events and should be celebrated accordingly. Because his big day might have you getting extremely emotional and nostalgic, we found personalized gifts that will become a special keepsake for him. Oh, and because graduation could be the time you choose to splurge, we also found luxury gift ideas that are worth every penny. Even if you're shopping for last-minute gifts, we're here to save the day, and save your money since many of these gifts are available on Amazon. That means your Prime membership will have them at your door in a day or two.
Looking for more great graduation gifts? Check out these Good Housekeeping guides:
Graduation Gifts for Nurses | Law School Graduation Gifts | High School Graduation Gifts | College Graduation Gift
Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook
Pen and paper may be a little too old school for him, but hear us out: He can jot down notes on all 32 pages of this notebook, send them to his cloud service of choice (think: Google Drive or Evernote) and wipe it clean.
Xbox Dream Vapor Special Edition Wireless Controller
An Xbox Series S Bundle is where you should start for your graduate if they're in need of a new gaming system, but if they're already playing Gotham Nights and Coral Island on their Xbox like every high schooler is every day, level up their controller game with this awesome Dream Vapor special edition or give him the gift of a fully customizable wireless controller from the Xbox Design Lab.
Personalized Leather Valet Tray
Everyone needs a catchall to hold keys, change and other small trinkets. For an additional $10, you can engrave these leather trays with a monogram or special message, 300 characters or less.
Timbuk2 Micro Classic Messenger Bag
An intensely strong velcro keeps this micro messenger bag ultra secure even on a crowded subway. The stylish design adds a preppy pop of color to your grad's fit, too.
Cameo Video
Get his favorite actor or athlete to give him a special shout-out. With Cameo, you can tell the celeb his name, and they'll send a completely personalized video message right to him.
Ninja Blast Portable Blender
One simple device lets your grad make their fruit smoothies and protein shakes and be on the go in seconds because it blends in a rugged, dishwasher-safe travel bottle. Or if they're really into their smoothie bowls and shakes, you can upgrade them to the SS101 Foodi Smoothie Maker & Nutrient Extractor, which garnered great reviews from the Good Housekeeping Institute for its built-in tamper and stable design.
Digital Alarm Clock
Rated the best overall alarm clock by the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute, whether he's graduating from high school or college, he'll need this. The sleek, chic design goes with his vibe, but it's also so functional (he can set three different alarms!).
Custom Signet Ring
He'll definitely pull this out for special occasions. You can pick the number (put the year he graduated or if he has a player number), name you want on the outside and even engrave a special message on the inside for him. There are a few design to pick from, including one that's more subtle.
David Beckham Classic Homme Cologne
Every grad should have a good cologne spray at hand, for when the alarm is snoozed and suddenly there's no time for a shower, as well as for when he matches online and has a date to impress. David Beckham's spicy scent with rosemary, dahlia, and pepper will serve him well every single day in every single situation life throws at him.
Keen Utility Kenton Work Sneakers
There's no denying that Keen makes incredible shoes and boots for all types of work to keep bottom digits safe, but never before has the brand made such a rad pair of kicks for everyday wear. The retro Brindle beige color especially will make your grad drool as they head out into the world, and the carbon-fiber toe will protect their feet as they build their future.
Starument Electric Milk Steamer & Frother
They've learned so much over the years, but your grad has one more lesson and this retro milk frother can teach it to them: They don't need to fork over a small fortune and wait in a drive-thru line to get barista-quality flavored coffee and milk steamers complete with fancy, frothy foam on top. This makes perfect foam every time and comes in green, pink and white.
'Oh, The Meetings You'll Go To!' Parody Book
Whether he's hoping to land a cubicle gig or not, this parody of Oh! The Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss is the funniest graduation gift you can give him this year. You haven't lived an adult life until you've sat through a work meeting that could've been an email!
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On
He got the education from teachers and textbooks, now it may be time to learn from life-changing experiences out in the real world. No matter where he goes, make sure he's got a rugged and reliable suitcase for his things. Samsonite's Freeform line earned the highest marks from the Good Housekeeping Institute because the suitcases roll smoothly and are super durable.
UnderGents Swagger Lounge & Sleep Pants
Because this affordable yet luxurious loungewear set is available in sizes small to 3XL, it's a set available to almost every graduate, and we love that! They made it through school and cleared every academic hurdle, now let them relax for a bit in comfort before the rest of their life begins in earnest.
KODAK Smile+ Wireless Digital Instant Print Camera
This rad pocket camera is the best of both worlds, an instant print camera like those Polaroids from your youth and a modern camera too, with Bluetooth connectivity and memory card storage. Best of all, it makes cool photographs through a filter-changing lens and is perfect for capturing memories while road-tripping with friends this summer.
BLK & Bold Rise & GRND Signature Medium Roast Coffee
The need for any kind of coffee at all to stay awake late into the night cramming for exams has ended with graduation. Now, give the gift of fine coffee to fuel your grad's burgeoning career and more refined tastebuds. This uses coffee pods for single-use machines like the Keurig, but you can also get whole beans.
YETI Hopper M20 Backpack
The concept of the backpack and tote cooler is awesome and because it's a YETI, you know they will love it and be able to rely on it forever. These Hopper coolers keep hands free and cans cold during a post-graduation day at the beach with friends and the newest color collections, including Cosmic Lilac, Agave and King Crab Orange, are as bright and bold as your kid's future.
A Dozen Cousins Microwave Rice Packets
If he's just getting set up on his own, these flavored microwavable halal rice pouches provide a quick, easy, and healthy way to ensure he's getting the nutrients he needs, even when he's just adding some take-out leftovers to the rice to create a whole new meal for himself in minutes.
Positive Potato
Listen, the world can be a harsh, cold, cruel place. Your grad will need all the help they can get, and you need at least one hilarious grad gift. Pick the positive potato to cheer them on as only a tiny knit root vegetable can, or else opt for the just-as-uplifting emotional support pickle.
Slim Wallet for Men
This wallet can hold up to 12 cards, and even features RFID-blocking to keep his information safe. Made of leather, it comes in tons of different colors, too.
Docking Station
He can keep his phone, glasses, watch, wallet and keys all in one place so he can get out the door fast. You can even personalize it with his name or initials.
Laundry Backpack
Available in so many different colors, the extra-large bag can hold up to three loads of laundry. It'll keep his hands free through each wash.
iWALK Portable Charger
Keep him charged up with this portable charger. Amazon reviewers say it works great and is so compact, he can take it with him anywhere.
Apple AirTag
He'll never lose his keys again with this AirTag. It even includes a built-in speaker to help find his essentials, or he can always just ask Siri for help once it's connected to his iPhone or iPad.
Engraved Wallet Card
Okay, he isn't into the mushy stuff, but you still want to let your little boy know how much he means to you. With this insert, you can do just that thanks to its compact size and sweet message.
Money Balloon
Cash is always a good idea, but make it a little more fun with this money balloon that makes it look like an endless supply of dollars are coming out of the box. (They give you the envelopes but you have to supply the singles.)
Auking Mini Projector
Everything looks better on the big screen — football games, Netflix movies, music videos, you name it. Connect this projector to any compatible device to watch movies, shows and more on a 32" - 170" display.
Laundry Symbols Artwork
Honestly, we could all use this clever chart. It breaks down exactly what each symbol means so he doesn't ruin any of his clothes.
Custom City Map
Simply send the name of the place that he used to call home and receive a cool poster map he can hang in his new space.
Diploma Frame With Tassel Holder
We like this frame because it also holds the tassle. (Otherwise...what do you do with it?)
Custom Face Socks
If he likes gag gifts, these custom face socks are sure to make him laugh. They're made of polyester and spandex for a super comfortable, stretchy feel when worn.
Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack
Perfect for travel and everyday use, this backpack has a designated spot for his 15" laptop, charger, water bottle, wallet and other on-the-go essentials. Even when it's stuffed to the brim, reviewers say that it maintains its "slim, modern silhouette."
Marshall Emberton Bluetooth Portable Speaker
Marshall knows a thing or two about delivering stage-worthy sound. Although it's small enough to fit in the palm of his hand, this portable speaker produces a sound way larger than its size. Plus, it can play music for up to five hours straight with just 20 minutes of charging time.
Apple Watch Band
Transition his Apple Watch from day to night with this stainless steel band. Go with silver or black for a more subdued yet sleek style.
Dog Tag and Bracelet
You'll get two gifts for one, each engraved with a thoughtful message just for your son. "He wears it every day. Even though I can't be with him as he lives in another state, he knows that I am always with him forever," one Amazon reviewer wrote.
Multitool Pen
It's going to take him a long time to build up his actual tool collection, but for the moment this will come in handy. It's a pen, ruler, screwdriver (flat & phillips), bottle opener, level and flashlight in one.
Smart Mug
This temperature controlled smart mug will keep his coffee at the perfect temperature, regardless of how long it's been sitting out.
RELATED: Ember Mug Review: What I Think After Using It for More Than a Year
Fossil Men's Watch
Help him upgrade his new adult wardrobe with this classy watch. Made of stainless steel, it's available in several different finishes that'll match literally anything.
Personalized College Football History Book
At some schools, football isn't just a game; it's a lifestyle. If that sounds about right, then pick up this collector's book and take him back in time to all of his team's highs, lows and major wins throughout the years.
The Cut Buddy Shaping + Styling Tool
Whether he's going to college or headed into the real world, he needs to look his best. This clever gadget helps him get the perfect trim for his beard or hairline without going to the barber.
Amazon Gift Card
If you're doing last-minute shopping for your favorite grad, look no further than an Amazon gift card. You can put any amount you want on it, and this one even comes with a cute, graduation-themed box.
Amazon Echo Dot
This smart speaker is guaranteed to impress his new roommates. He can play his favorite songs and books, and even get the weather from Alexa.
Frigidaire Retro Portable Mini Fridge
With a cute retro design, this personal cooling mini refrigerator will be perfect for their dorm room or a nice addition to the first apartment he rents after college. It can hold up to nine cans of his favorite drink.
Raycon Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones
Perfect for his new commute or a noisy roommate, these wireless headphones will block out all the extra noise. Amazon reviewers describe them as high-quality and super comfortable to wear.
Hamilton Beach Breakfast Sandwich Maker
Beloved by Amazon reviewers, this breakfast sandwich maker will start his morning right. It can be used with croissants, English muffins or mini waffles, so you know he'll always have a good breakfast now that he's far away from home.
Gooseneck Phone Holder
Looking down at his phone all the time is going to wreak havoc on his neck. Save his posture with this phone holder, which clips to a desk or shelf and can be positioned so he can FaceTime or watch videos hands-free. You can also get it in tablet size.
Under Armour Men's Slide Sandal
Protect his feet from communal showers with these slide sandals. They're also a great gift for athletes who need something cushy to step on after a long day on the field or court.
Leatherology Classic Mouse Pad
This full-grain leather mouse pad will help him — okay, his desk — dress the part. The ergonomic design and embossed details scream "professional," wouldn't ya say?
How we choose the best gifts
When it comes to toys, electronics and more, our experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute are constantly testing products to evaluate them for safety, durability and ease of use.
While not all of the gifts featured in this guide have been evaluated in our Labs, our gift guide writers select products made by trusted brands, gifts with great reviews from online purchasers, best-sellers and editors' favorites. The list is then vetted by Good Housekeeping editors, who, after years of curating gift guides and keeping track of trends, ensure our selections encompass trending items as well as gifts that Good Housekeeping readers have loved in the past.
Why Trust Good Housekeeping?
For decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has provided expert reviews and advice on everything parents, children and teens love, including outdoor sets, scooters, electric bikes, laptops and video games. This story was written by Jeff Bogle, a parent to teens who has previously written about gifts for teen boys, gifts for men and gifts for dads, among others. In addition, Good Housekeeping editors check for trusted brands and stellar reviews to ensure safety and durability.
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