Practical & Thoughtful Gifts For Graduates In Illinois

Graduation always sneaks up so fast, and suddenly you're wondering—what the heck do I get everyone for a grad gift?  You're not alone!

Every time I've ever been invited to a graduation party, I always stress so hard on what to get someone.  As much as they say, "oh, as long as you're there that's all that matters!" you still want to get them the best gift ever.

I started getting people really meaningful gifts, like Polaroid cameras with film so they can document their college years, and cash if the graduate really doesn't want anything else.  Cash can really go a long way, let's be real.  If they're headed to college, they'll need as much money as possible so they're not drowning in so much debt.

Read More: Illinois Universities Shine In Global Rankings For 2025 

Here are some practical ideas on really great gifts to get someone who already has everything in the world.

What To Really Give As Gifts For Graduation In Illinois

• A year subscription to their favorite streaming platform
• Gas cards to help them get to and from college
• Durable backpacks for travel/school
• Portable phone chargers for all the festivals they're attending
• Amazon/Spotify Subscription
• All kinds of dorm essentials

Nobody will complain if you get them any of these, let's be completely honest.  If anything, they'll personally thank you for being so thoughtful because everyone else is getting them stuff that will just take up space.

Be practical, realistic, and thoughtful all at the same time and think of what they REALLY NEED to kickstart their future.  Cash is always the best option so they can put it toward what the want, but it's never a bad thing to throw in an extra gas card with the inflation these days.