GoKawiilGraduation season is almost here, and the class of 2026 will soon be walking across the stage and getting ready for their next phase in life. Whether they're graduating from high school or college, it's time to recognize their hard work with a gift that's both thoughtful and practical.
Regardless of what this upcoming chapter entails -- whether it's a new job, starting college or a first apartment -- our editors have carefully assembled a batch of gift ideas that grads will appreciate. Some are useful, like a jump-starter for their car and a handy blender. Others are geared towards fitness and the outdoors and will help them make the most of their downtime.
For more quality gift ideas, check out the best travel tech gifts and the best gifts under $200.
Graduation gifts under $50
Apple AirTag (2nd Gen) AirTags are especially useful for grads who will be moving to a new place. Help them keep track of their luggage, bike, keys and more. When you purchase AirTags through Apple, you can get them engraved for free with an emoji, initials or numbers, which is a nice way to personalize this gift. If you don't care about personalization, you can usually find them for a lower price at Amazon. $29 at Amazon Close
Gerber Gear Armbar Drive multitool A compact, reliable multitool is something that every graduate should own, whether they use it for outdoor adventures or for random DIY tasks at home. Gerber makes some of the best multitools around, and CNET's David Carnoy especially appreciates its Armbar Drive, one of its more compact models. It's made of stainless steel and includes eight tools: scissors, a fine-edge blade, awl, two-sided 1/4-inch bit driver, bottle opener, pry bar and hammer. $30 at Amazon Close
She's Birdie Personal Safety Alarm If your new grad will be living away from home for the first time, they'll probably find themselves navigating new territory. A personal safety alarm can help them feel more independent and better prepare them for dangerous situations. The She's Birdie personal safety alarm is small, loud and has a flashing strobe light. It's easy to attach to your car keys or slip into a back pocket. $28 at Amazon Close
Roku Streaming Stick Plus If you don't want to shell out for a new TV for your grad, you can still beef up their home entertainment options. Roku's excellent video streamers can turn any HDMI-equipped TV into a gateway to online entertainment bliss, featuring Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, YouTube, HBO Max and literally hundreds of other streaming channels. $29 at Amazon $35 at Best Buy $40 at B&H Photo-Video Close
Graduation gifts under $100
Beast Mini Blender Don't underestimate this compact blender -- it can juice, chop, grind, whip, juice and more. The first thing that comes to mind is making smoothies on the go, but it can also do things like whip up salsa, pesto or even soup. It's ideal for grads who are moving into a dorm or new apartment and want a versatile gadget that doesn't take up tons of space or make a huge quantity of food. $99 at Amazon Close
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