Best Gifts for College Graduates, According to Recent Graduates

It’s graduation season (again!)—here’s what college grads actually want.

It’s that time of year when graduation invites start rolling in and your weekends fill up with ceremonies, parties, and post-grad send-offs. And with that comes the inevitable question: What do you get a college graduate? Especially if you haven’t seen them since they were 10, or have no clue what someone in their early twenties even needs these days.

Luckily, I’ve got you. I asked my own circle of friends—who’ve all graduated within the past year—for the things they use the most, or wish they’d received. Whether your grad is moving to a new city, starting their first job, or still figuring things out, there’s something on this list they’ll love (and actually use). Here’s what made the cut.

4. A Bottle of Something Local

Want a personal touch? Gift them a bottle from a local distillery near where they went to school or are moving. I love Journeyman Distillery in Michigan and Holladay Distillery in Missouri (very midwest of me). Crisp, cool, and unique—just like them.