Graduation season is here, and if you’re looking for graduation gifts for college-bound students, shopping for your student’s friend or looking for something thoughtful to give a whole group, this list has you covered. You’ll find picks for both guys and girls, creative ways to give cash or gift cards, and one SPLURGE at the end that might just be for your own daughter.
1. Owala Western Collection – Five brand-new designs that are textured, unique, and honestly unlike anything else out there right now. A great upgrade from a plain water bottle. 🤠🩷
2. She’s Birdie 3.0 – The latest model of the keychain personal safety alarm that has become a college girl staple. Thoughtful, practical, and something every parent feels good giving.
3. Coach Wristlet— A cute little bag that’s the perfect home for a gift card, too. Doubles as an everyday carry for a night out or heading to class.
4. College Gear at Target — 61 schools represented with very reasonable prices (though some jewelry gets pricey!). Select the school on the page to see what’s available.
5. Mini Bluetooth Speaker— Equally great in the dorm, out in the quad, at a tailgate, or at the lake. A solid under-$50 gift that gets a ton of use.
6. Board Games — One of the best ice breakers for meeting neighbors and making new friends on the hall. Invite people over to play and suddenly you have a friend group.
7. Bluetooth Mini Projector — Under $50 and perfect for organizing movie nights or binge-watching sessions in the dorm room or a shared lounge.
8. Poker Set — A huge hit for guys on the hall. Whether they keep it friendly or make it interesting, it’s a go-to reason to gather.
9. Clear Stadium Bag Bundle — Fill a clear stadium bag with a few helpful little items and you’ve got an easy, personalized gift. Ideas to tuck inside: lip balm, Tide stick, door stopper, drink cover scrunchie, and a gift card.
10. Personalized Stationery— They will need to write thank you cards throughout college — for professors who make a connection, speakers who visit their club, contacts from job fairs, and post-interview follow-ups. Handwritten still wins in today’s world.
11. WOOZOO Fan at Costco — If they’re heading somewhere warm, a great fan is one of those things every dorm room needs. Check Costco in-store for the best price (often $10 less than online).
12. Rechargeable Hand Warmers — If they’re heading somewhere cold 🥶, these make a genuinely thoughtful gift — and they’re priced well this time of year. This is the UL Listed (safety-certified) brand we recommend.
13. Cash or Gift Cards in a Coffee Mug — Don’t just hand over an envelope. Tuck a gift card or cash into a cute mug, and it instantly feels more intentional. Great pairing with a Target, Amazon, or coffee shop card.
14. The Dorm Room Guide Book — Lara’s book officially releases May 5, and it makes a great graduation gift paired with a gift card to put toward dorm essentials. Order during the pre-order window and you’ll receive a bonus chapter on Health & Safety in college — delivered as an immediate download.
15. Hulken Floral Bags — These new floral Hulken bags are stunning. This is a collab, so inventory is likely limited. Use code THEDORMGUIDE10 for 10% off. Would make a gorgeous gift for your own daughter if a Hulken is already on the list.
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