5 Useful Gifts for High School Graduates

5 Useful Gifts for High School Graduates

Many times, people get stuck in deciding what to give a high school graduate, so they just fall back on gift cards and cash. But not only can those get expensive, they may not actually be as useful to the graduate as household items.

Here are 5 useful gifts for high school graduates:

1. Laundry supplies. While it may not be the most glamorous gift, laundry supplies will make any young adult’s life easier. Detergent, dryer sheets, laundry bags, and laundry baskets are all incredibly useful, and you can even throw in a roll of quarters for coin-operated laundry machines.

You can stretch your gift dollars by looking out for coupons on detergent and other items. You can also buy laundry supplies in bulk at warehouse stores and divide them up to give to multiple graduates on your list. If there’s any leftover after buying in bulk, you can keep some for your own supply.

2. Stationery. Since they grew up in a digital world, most teens and young adults don’t buy stationery and other mailing supplies, but those items can still be useful to have around. Give your graduate some nice stationery, envelopes in various sizes, and a book of stamps. These items are sure to come in handy at some point, especially large envelopes that can be used both for mailing and for storing important papers.

Stationery is another item that you can buy in bulk to save money if you have multiple graduates on your list. Office superstores like Office Depot/Office Max or Staples offer some of the best prices. You can also look into the rewards programs these stores offer to save even more money.

3. Microwavable plates and bowls. Young adults tend to use the microwave a lot for their meals. Sometimes it’s because a microwave is all they have, and other times it’s just because they’re busy. Either way, microwave-safe bowls and plates can be a life saver.

Choose some fun colors and designs to make the gift extra special. Give them multiple plates and bowls so they don’t have to worry about doing dishes as often. Check the college supply section of the store for sales that pop up in the spring and summer as parents and students prepare for the new school year.

4. Mini appliances. College dorms are often tight on space, and mini appliances can help students to eat well and save space. Mini refrigerators, toaster ovens, small microwaves, and single-serving blenders are all great options.

Depending on what you choose, this gift can get pricey, so keep your eyes peeled for sales and promotions, and take advantage of price matching. You can also search online for manufacturer rebates.

5. Simple cookbooks. When a teenager moves out on his own, he’s probably going to miss mom’s cooking. By giving cookbooks geared towards young single people, you empower them to learn a new skill and might even help combat homesickness. Look for cookbooks that feature recipes with a small amount of ingredients, recipes for the microwave, single-serving recipes, and other themes that might be appropriate in a college dorm setting.

If you’re a great cook yourself, you can compile a list of your own recipes. Convert the recipes for fewer servings and print them on high-quality decorative paper for a special touch.