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This post is for anyone who has ever made an important transition in life – and since that’s pretty much everyone in the world. I suggest you keep reading.

We all know how daunting it can be to flip a page in the book of life and begin the next chapter. For most of us, we will often look at graduation as one those noteworthy moments.

Whether it was finishing high school or polishing up your post-secondary education, it can be an intimidating period of life.

There is a lot left to the unknown and the idea of trying something new or moving out into the real world can cause even the most courageous of us to stumble.

If you’ve gone through this phase then you can have some empathy for those in your life that are going through the same experience right now.

One the most important ways a recent grad can transition smoothly is by having the proper tools.

Having things like the latest tech to help finish those late night papers or the actual tools required to assemble IKEA furniture –it’s these items that often can soften the blow and help make this transition much smoother.

If you are looking to get a graduation gift for your son, niece, cousin, grandson, or a friend – we’re here to help.

Or if you’re just looking for a great gift to get a young person, these will all easily fit the bill.

Here are the top 11 gift ideas we came up with.

 

 

1.  Laptop

The first and probably the most common gift for a fresh grad is a laptop. Be it staying up all night to write a final paper or just perusing Facebook while sitting through a boring lecture. A laptop is essential in post-secondary life or just for life in general.

In our current age, we can’t go very far without needing to be virtually connected, thus a laptop is a must.

The problem with laptops is often the issue of needing to be replaced frequently – if you cheap out, this often will be the case. But if you’re a willing to spend some time researching you can find quality laptops that can last you at least 3-4 years.

Thankfully we’ve done the research and have found you a couple laptops that will do the trick.

If you’re an Apple fan pretty much pick up any MacBook pro or air and you’re done. Not much to think about there.

However, if you are looking for a PC that is comparable to a MacBook, we would suggest something like the Dell XPS 13. As an Ultrabook the XPS 13 has a stunning 13 inch display with one the smallest borders available. It’s also extremely portable at just 2.6 pounds. Not to mention the battery easily last 10 hours (even more depending on the model). More than enough to get a student through a typical day.

     

Macbook Pro, Dell XPS 13

 

2.  Phone

6 years ago some people could actually get away with not having a cell phone. 2010 was a much more simple time. The Motorola Krzr was all the rage, Blackberry was a smart choice, and the touchscreen was only recently introduced by Apple.

Flash forward to today and it feels like there are a million companies with phones that claiming to do something rest cannot. (Hint: They are all pretty much the same, just a matter of personal preference). The truth is that if you stick with one of the well-known brands; you really can’t go too wrong. Apple, Samsung, HTC, Motorola, or LG; they all provide a similar product with minor tweaks to make one feature slightly flashier.

If you are looking to get a phone on a contract you can’t go wrong with an iPhone or Samsung S series. If you are looking to get an off contract phone, without breaking the bank, there are plenty of high quality “budget” phones that are nearly as good as many flagship phones.

The most notable is the Oneplus One. With a 5.5” 1080p screen you get a great display that looks sharp and is easy to read. It also holds a 3100 mAh battery that can get through a heavy day of usage. Starting at just $399 the 64GB model competes with phones like the Samsung S5 and iPhone 6 but at price that is half the cost.

    

OnePlus One, Samsung Galaxy S6, iPhone 6

 

 

3.  Headphones

Life is full of many distractions and it can be hard to shut them out. This can be amplified tenfold when living in a dorm. A pair of headphones is essential for surviving the fluctuating distractions that arrive during college.

Now most would suggest the obvious choice of Beats by Dre. But the tech savvy would offer a superior and cheaper solution.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. As far as design, specs, and overall quality – they’re a solid pair of headphones. They provide a clear crisp sound, fit comfortably over the ears, and block out any external noises. When compared to Beats, they might not be marketed by famous celebrities, but they offer an overall better product at nearly half the price.

Bonus: Check out dbrand skins to customize the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x like seen below.

           

 

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, with dbrand skins

 

4.  Multi Purpose Tool Kit

If the grad you know is heading into the real world they are being shoved off into the crazy place where virtually anything can go wrong. The house/apartment/trailer they live in can often be a culprit for many unexpected issues to occur. That’s why it’s important to always be prepared.

A multi tool kit is perfect for any young person who doesn’t have the need for a garage full of tools but instead just needs the basics.

Whether it’s assembling IKEA furniture, hanging a shelf, or taking apart two beds to make them into bunks bed – they need to be well equipped.

Check out the Stanley 94-248 65-Piece Homeowner’s Tool Kit. Complete with a hammer, wrench set, multi-head screwdriver, tape measure and more. Cover the basics and ensure that simple tasks can be solved easily.

 

Stanley 65 piece Tool Kit 

 

 

5.  PS4 or Xbox one

Now I know what you’re thinking. Video games and higher learning don’t mix. Technically you’re not wrong. But isn’t the major culprit here just a lack of motivation? I’ll let you decide.

Also, I’ve heard that people who play video games are better surgeons. Seems like a no brainer to me.

Not to mention that in a dorm room, owning any gaming console is a sure-fire way to attract a few new friends. The grades may take a slight hit, but friendships will only grow.

And isn’t that what college is all about?

Pick up an Xbox one or PS4. The difference between the two is negligible as far as play ability. The main concern is what system their friends are using. Maybe find this out before you make the final purchase.

  

PlayStation 4, Xbox One

 

6.  Projector

If you are going to get that Xbox or PlayStation, you might as well throw in a TV. It’s the perfect complement to any living space.

However not all living spaces are created equal and some may not be well suited for a full 40 inch flat screen. Instead we suggest a mini projector. These things are a lot more portable than they used to be. Some powerful models still come in the full size, but many have been designed to be compact and very portable.

Check out the Vivitek Qumi Pocket Projector. With a total dimension no larger than a six inch sub, you can take thing one with you everywhere you go. Just don’t eat it.

Vivitek Qumi Pocket Projector

 

7.  Shaver

For young men the transition of teen to adult comes with many wonderful blessings; one if which is the growth of facial hair.

Some may be lucky enough to experience this stage at an early age, but for most it can take some luring before a full beard can come forth.

In our current age, the trend between full beard or clean shaven is constantly wavering.

So for the moments when it shifts towards a smooth face, we suggest the Braun Series 7.

A top of the line electric shaver that works in both wet or dry conditions, and will give a clean, close, and comfortable.

On the women’s side, the desire for smooth legs is fluctuating as well. However, it often fluctuates with the temperature.

For the warmer months when the shorts are dusted off and bathing suits are frequent, an epilator is ideal. Now customer experiences may vary but for the most part epilating hair can be painless. Some will argue for the use of a shaver. But those who use an epilator on a frequent basis will swear by it.

Check out the Braun SE9579 Silk Epilator. It’s reliable, works wet or dry, and leaves skin feeling delicately smooth.

Braun Series 7, Braun Silk Epilator

 

 

8.  Online course subscription

If the grad in your life is moving on from the institution of education, it doesn’t mean the learning has to end. Online courses are extremely valuable when it comes to standing out in the competitive job market.

Whether it’s business, art, writing, science or any other discipline; there is a long list of technical skills that will not be taught in high school or post-secondary.

Having niche skills included in a young graduates tool-belt will help ensure that they stand out and have a fighting at chance of creating a prosperous career.

Udemy.com is a great option if you’re looking for variety. They offer everything from yoga to app development. The courses are well supported and continuously updated. Each course even provides a certificate once completed.

 

9.  E-Reader

Along the same path as online courses, reading is one finest ways to endlessly expand the mind. With the amount of knowledge available in books, no one can ever have reason to stop learning.

If the grad you know enjoys spending their free time reading, it would be nice to support them as best you can. If you can give them physical books that’s great. But often students move away from home and it can be difficult to physically stay in touch.

An e-reader is the perfect solution. By using a Kindle or Kobo, you can share books at the click of a button.

Additionally, if you have a joint Amazon account, your library can be shared on up to 6 different devices. That way everyone can read the same book and have something to talk about on the next visit.

Kindle Paperwhite

 

10.  Electric Skateboard

Living in the city, navigating through campus, or carrying out a daily commute can have its obstacles. For young people, having a car isn’t always a financial possibility or even all that necessary.

By having the right form of transportation a 20 minute walk can turn into a short 5 minute ride. But shouldn’t it be fun as well?

Now the first and obvious choice is a bike. So in that case we suggest the Critical Cycles Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Urban Road Bike. Not only does it provide a comfortable ride, work perfectly for short commutes, and have limited parts for maintenance – but it also looks awesome.

Now if a bike seems to primitive. Then the Boosted Board is exactly what you need. The electric skateboard market has been growing for the past few years. Many companies have come out with their own renditions. But none have been able to compare with the Boosted Board.

It’s durable, fast (up to 22mph), can assist short commutes (last 7-8 miles), and it’s incredibly fun. Boosted boards are made in 3 different models with varying price ranges; the Boosted Single, Dual and Dual+. For short distances, it’s by far the most electrifying way to get around (pun intended).

 

Fixie Urban Road Bike, Boosted Board

 

11.  Board game

A lot of young people feel the pressure to spend every night “out” and being a part of social lifestyle. But not every night needs to spent partying or getting out of the house. Some nights are best spent with a small group of friends having a tame evening.

For these somber nights the perfect addition is a board game. The list of amazing board games is endless and new ones are popping up all the time. The classics like Monopoly, Settlers of Catan, or Pictionary will always create the spark for a fun night.

Never the less, if you are looking for something newer and specifically designed to get everyone out of their comfort zone. Pick up Cards Against Humanity.

Described as the party game for horrible people. It’s simple, unexpected, and awkwardly hilarious. Perfect for any nearly any occasion. Maybe just don’t invite grandma.

 

Cards Against Humanity 

 

12.  Vacation

The last amazing gift on this list is a big one. And it should only go to those who really deserve it.

A vacation is the ultimate send off for anyone stepping into the next phase of life. Give that fresh graduate a gift they won’t soon forget and make sure that next time they want a break from reality; it’s on their own dime.

Great deals can be found on websites like Expedia, Travelocity, Priceline and many, many more. If you’re not sure where to send them: Mexico, Domican Republic, Bahamas, and now Cuba are all great options for all-inclusive resorts.

 

The ultimate gift

Well, there you have it. We hope you found this list helpful and you can make a young graduates life that much better.

Before you go. We have a special reminder.

For any recent grad, current student, or young adult this stage of life can be a transformational experience. The vast majority will be unsure of where the path ahead of them will go.

For this reason we need to always remember that the greatest gift we can give is our support and encouragement. Keep this in mind and give them everything you can.

Push them to be better and in-turn you will begin to see that reflect in ways you never thought possible. We’re all in this together.

For some honorable mentions and the full wishlist. Click Here

Happy gifting.

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