As the class of 2023 prepares to graduate and head off to college, chances on you’ll turn to Amazon to find the best grad gifts — from ideas for the dorm to unique Amazon graduation gifts that the new freshman will actually use. I spent time looking at the Amazon best-sellers list to find the best graduation gifts and confirmed these trending ones with my own niece, who is off to University of Alabama this August. (Shh…I wanted to get her something cozy that reminded her of home, so I went with #5 in our list, the sherpa blanket!).
Here’s all the best Amazon graduation gifts that is perfect for the grad. Don’t forget to check out our other graduation gift guides, including college graduation gifts, high school graduation gifts, and even preschool graduation gifts.
For more smart shopping tips and savings hacks, download the KCL app or text HACKS to 57299.
Amazon Graduation Gifts: Trending Right Now
1. Frigidaire 6-Can Beverage Cooler
This mini fridge (Amazon, $49.99) is perfect for college-bound grads, especially since fridge space is always highly contested in dorms. We recommend opting for either white or red since those colors are currently seeing the deepest discounts. Red is the least expensive at only $29.99, or 40% off.
2. Simple Modern 40-Ounce Tumbler
This tumbler ($29.99, Amazon) has been sold out multiple times ever since it went viral on TikTok as a cheaper alternative to the Stanley Cup which typically costs upwards of $50. Added bonus: they recently added a few new colors including new cheetah print designs.
3. YETI Rambler Stackable Mug
Whether your grad is going into the workforce or heading off to college, they’re going to want a way to keep their coffee hot or iced. This mug ($25, Amazon) can also be used to bring hot breakfast items like oatmeal or grits to early morning classes or shifts.
4. Intelligent Change The Five Minute Journal
I’m sure by now we’ve all seen this journal ($28.99, Amazon) all over social media, but there’s a reason why it went viral. It encourages daily mindfulness in a way that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles. That makes it a must-have for grads as they transition into adult life. And if you’re shopping last-minute, it’s eligible for Amazon Prime One-Day shipping.
5. Oversized Microfiber & Sherpa Wearable Blanket
With over 84,000 5-star reviews, this wearable blanket ($49.99, Amazon) is a must. Your grad will appreciate it when spending long nights in the library or settling down for a cozy night in. Just note that this bestseller is the cheapest in solid colors. Patterns cost up o $10 more.
6. Fjällräven 15″ Kanken Laptop Backpack
These backpacks ($115, Amazon) are everywhere, and for good reason. Fjällräven backpacks are known for being sturdy, eco-conscious, and aesthetically pleasing. We recommend ordering it in the colors Graphite or Black to get the lowest price. Other colors are as expensive as $140.
7. KODAK Printomatic Digital Instant Print Camera
Entering the real world is all about making lasting memories. Help your grad document the journey with this camera ($79.99, Amazon). It prints photos immediately after capture. The photos have an adhesive back, making them perfect for scrapbooking.
8. DASH Mini Waffle Maker + Grill + Griddle
No recent grad’s kitchen is ever properly stocked with usable appliances, whether it’s in a dorm or their first apartment. (I remember constantly googling if everything could be microwaved.) Save them some struggle with this bundle of miniature cookers ($34.99, Amazon). It includes a griddle, waffle maker, and grill.
9. Ninja AF101 Air Fryer
In that same vein, this air fryer ($129.99, Amazon) is perfect for young adults. It’s insanely versatile and can be used to roast, reheat, or even dehydrate foods. Basically, you name it, you can probably air fry it.
10. Cartman 39-Piece Tool Set
Make sure your grad is prepared for the real world with this tool set ($24.99, Amazon). Even if they’re moving to a dorm, a toolset comes in handy. Nobody wants to have to wait for maintenance to get there to fix a leaky pipe or cut off water to an overflowing toilet.
11. COSORI Electric Kettle
This bestselling kettle ($27.99, Amazon) is another incredibly versatile small appliance for dorms or first apartments. It’s perfect for making coffee, and tea, or heating up water for boiling veggies. Heck, I’ve even had a roommate who cooked ramen in her kettle.
Related: Where to Get Graduation Invitations and Announcements Under $1 Each
Amazon Graduation Gifts Under $10
12. Graduation Cap Charm
This charm ($7.66, Amazon) can be used as a keychain or just something special they keep in their car. Amazon offers a 6% coupon on it from time to time, so watch out for that.
13. Diploma Frame
This frame ($11.99, Amazon) is a gift that’s both sentimental and practical. Even better, it’s on sale now at $8.93.
14. Oh, the Places You’ll Go!
This children’s classic ($18.99, Amazon) has been a staple graduation gift for years. For a limited time, you can get it for under $10.
Graduation Gifts Under $20
15. Rocketbook Notebook
This digital notebook ($19.97, Amazon) is a huge money saver in the long run. It has 36 reusable pages that can be scanned, uploaded to your phone, then wiped from the notebook. The goal is to never buy a notebook again.
16. iLive Waterproof Fabric Wireless Speaker
This speaker ($19.99, Amazon) is down to $13, and I think it’s perfect for the grad’s shower caddy.
17. Goodnight Dorm Room: All the Advice I Wish I Got Before Going to College
This parody of Goodnight Moon ($17.95, Amazon) is the perfect blend of helpful and humorous. It touches on topics like what to pack for college and how TAs can help your grades.
18. I Wrote a Book About You
This fill-in-the-blank book ($15.95, Amazon) is unique and personal. Prompts include: “If I could give you a trophy it would be for” and “One thing I want you to always, always know is.” We’ve even seen it go on sale for as much as 15% off, so keep an eye out for sales.
19. “A New Chapter” Morse Code Bracelet
This unisex bracelet ($15.97, Amazon) spells out the words “a new chapter” in Morse code. It’s a subtle way to commemorate hitting such a big milestone.
20. Gold-Plated Compass Necklace
We’ve all seen compass imagery in grad jewelry and this piece ($16.98, Amazon) is a thoughtful buy under $20.
21. How to Be a Person
This graphic novel ($16.95, Amazon) helps simplify the transition to adulthood. It covers topics from basic cleaning and chores, to making proper meals out of inexpensive foods like ramen.
Tell us what you think