Spoiling a new graduate with a generous gift is never a bad idea, but if you’re on a tight budget, you might need to explore some affordable alternatives. With graduation season in full swing, sticking to your budget is much easier if you have a savvy shopping plan of attack.
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No matter if a high school graduate is heading off to college for the first time or a college graduate is heading into the work world to start a new life, these gifts can help make that transition a little smoother. Best of all, you don’t have to spend a fortune to say congratulations.
Here are 10 last-minute graduation gifts for 2025 graduates — all for under $30.
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Personal Finance Book: $12
Give your fresh grad a chance to learn about budgeting basics and debt prevention with a personal finance book that can guide them through the money management process and help them learn good financial habits. For example, “The Total Money Makeover” by financial guru Dave Ramsey, is great for those starting their journey as it gives advice on how to aggressively pay down debt and stick to a strict budget while you do so.
Gift Card: $25
If you’re not sure what your grad will be thrilled with, a retail store, restaurant, Starbucks or Amazon gift card is sure to please. You can buy electronic versions to take care of a last-minute graduate via email or have the card sent to the recipient’s home with a congratulatory message attached.
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Cookbook: $24
Grads who will be living away from home for the first time or moving to an area where dining options are limited might enjoy some cooking tips. Pick out a hardcover cookbook for that vegetarian, paleo enthusiast or low-carb dieter, or stick with the classics like “Joy of Cooking” for a comprehensive guide on cooking fundamentals.
Portable Furniture: $20
From folding chairs to collapsible storage bins, the new grad will need some dorm room or new apartment furniture that doesn’t take up a lot of space. Choose from a few basic items that will help them furnish their new space — and save them space — like a collapsible laundry basket or folding chair.
Travel Backpack: $18
Grads who are already making travel plans to spend a year or more abroad, or who will be looking at a long commute in the upcoming year, will appreciate having a bag, backpack or small piece of luggage by their side to transport their items. A sturdy bag with pockets is the perfect weekender and go-to travel bag for any college-bound student or young professional.
Gas Card: $25
Some new graduates will be commuting to a new job and still be on a tight budget, so a gas card is sure to be well-received. Some cards can be reloaded so the cardholder can use them as a convenient way to monitor and manage their gas purchases. Prices can be expensive at the pump, so every little bit helps someone just starting out.
Journal: $13
Support your grad’s new transition in life by gifting them a beautifully designed journal or notebook. In addition, you can include some stationery or note cards, so that they can keep in touch in a more personal way. From leatherbound and personalized to distressed recycled paper covers, pick out a journal for the new graduate to keep a record of this special time in their life.
Dorm Room Laundry Kit: $25
If the new graduate is going away to college or renting a home after college, they’ll need some basic supplies to get that laundry done without coming home every weekend. Get them a care package that includes a laundry basket, laundry bag, detergent, fabric softener and stain remover. You can create this yourself with individual items or buy an already-made kit on Amazon for under $25.
Portable Bluetooth Speaker: $7
Music enthusiasts will appreciate having the option of setting up their own sound system wherever they go with a wireless, Bluetooth speaker. Pick up a speaker with a unique design and remote so they can place it on their desk or tabletop in their new home, apartment or dorm. If it’s waterproof, that’s even better as they can take it in the shower or poolside.
Cash: Your Choice
Let’s face it, sometimes cash is appreciated more than any other gift. That way, the new graduate can spend it on what they need — like bills — or use it toward a fun trip they’re taking. When in doubt, cash is king.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Last-Minute Graduation Gifts Under $25
