Affordable Graduation Gifts 2023

It’s graduation season and time to start shopping for the soon-to-be college or high school grad in your life. If you’re on a tight budget or have multiple graduation gifts to buy, don’t worry because every item on the list is less than $50.* And if you’re the one graduating, why not get yourself something to celebrate? Whether you want a practical, sentimental or fun gift, the list below has you covered.

KODAK Printomatic Digital Instant Print Camera

The Kodak Printomatic camera is great for capturing special moments from travel adventures and parties to graduations and weddings. And you don’t have to worry about finding a place to get prints – the camera instantly prints your pics. The camera speed allows you to shoot a new photo while printing the previous shot. It also comes with a light sensor that automatically turns on the flash in low-light settings. And no need to buy paper or ink – the camera uses Kodak Zink Photo Paper, so no ink cartridges, toners or film are necessary. The prints are durable, water-resistant, tear resistant and smudge free.

Taygeer Laptop Bag 15.6 Inch

Every grad needs a good briefcase/laptop bag. The Taygeer laptop bag fits most 15.6 in laptops and features a front pocket plus two external pouches for storing accessories. The bag is made from water resistant nylon fabric and has back pass-through strap for attaching to luggage. It’s the ideal all-in-one work bag for busy professionals.

MUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker

If you or the grad on your list needs caffeine to get through the day, an at-home espresso and cappuccino maker makes the perfect gift. Daily coffee runs can add up so the machine will save money and time. It features a milk frother, permanent filter and removable tank.

Echo Dot 5th Gen Smart Speaker

The Echo Dot allows users to play music, audiobooks, and podcasts from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify and others or via Bluetooth. Use Alexa to get the weather, hear jokes or ask questions. The alarm feature allows snoozing with just a tap. The device can be paired with other compatible devices.

FASISOY Glass Cups with Bamboo Lids and Straws

A stylish set of glasses makes a great gift choice for graduates moving to a new apartment or home. These glass cups come with stylish bamboo lids, glass straws, coasters and straw cleaning brushes. The cups are BPA free, heat resistant, dishwasher safe, freezer safe and scratch resistant. At less than $30, it’s a gift that will look pricey but won’t bust your budget.

Compendium Softcover Journal

Looking for a small and inexpensive gift? Try the compendium journal. At less than $10, it’s a great option if you have lots of people on your list or aren’t as close to the recipient. It comes in a variety of designs, has 128 lined pages and a sturdy soft cover.

Candle Theory Man Cave Stuff Men Candles Set of 3

Candles can bring warmth and coziness to any space. Having trouble finding a good gift for a male graduate? Try this set of manly-scented candles to make his space smell good and feel like home.

5 Piece Vase Set

A vase may seem like a boring gift. But this stylish set of five modern vases will be sure make decorating more fun for your graduate. The set includes a variety of shapes perfect for dining rooms, kitchens, offices and other spaces. The minimalistic design ensures that they’ll fit with any theme.

Photo Frame Collection 

Displaying memories, whether from graduations or other special occasions, can help personalize a room. This set of three beautiful gold frames will suit any space and design style. They come in a variety of sizes to fit different photos and can be wall mounted or displayed on desks and tables. It’s a high quality gift that your grad can carry through many moves and life changes.

Graduation Key Chain

For a fun and simple gift at a very affordable price, get the grad on your list a keychain to remind them of their accomplishment. This keychain has the year and an inspirational quote. Although a simple gift, this keychain provides a great way to congratulate someone for their big achievement.

Funny Graduate T-Shirt

Give the gift of laughter with a humorous t-shirt for your graduate. The road to graduation has likely not been easy, so a light-hearted shirt acknowledges the hard work and offers the recipient a way to wear proof of their achievement with both pride and a sense of humor.

Graduating is a huge milestone, whether it’s from high school or professional school. Don’t forget to show the graduates in your life how proud you are with a nice graduation present. The gift ideas above range from practical to funny. And whatever the budget, you’re sure to find the best present for any graduate.

*price at the time of publishing. All Amazon Links are affiliate