My baby sister is graduating this spring. According to a National Retail Federation survey, consumers were expected to spend an average of $99.94 on graduation gifts last year, buying on average gifts for two new graduates.
Don’t tell her, but I don’t plan to spend much on my sister’s grad gift this year. After all, gifts are better if they come from the heart, not the wallet, and I have a few ideas for inexpensive, personalized gifts.
If you are buying a gift for a new grad this year, check out these inexpensive and free ideas.
1. Starter kit
My go-to gift for extended family, friends of friends and co-workers’ kids: a starter kit for their new apartment or dorm room. The kit usually consists of a laundry basket stuffed with things everyone needs — cleaning products, toilet paper, paper towels, sponges, hand soap, trash bags and other supplies. Because I know it will get used, I feel better about getting it. The money clincher: I only buy what I find on sale and have a coupon for. I once paid less than $30 for an entire basket of goodies.
2. Organizational tools
It may not seem like the most exciting gift, but if your grad is headed to a dorm (or out of one), simple, cheap organizational products can make their new life a lot easier. For example, last year I bought a friend’s kid two large shoe organizers, an over-the-door purse rack and a shower caddie to take to the dorm. I spent less than $50 and she used everything.
3. Nice pair of shoes
Many people recommend buying a college grad their first business suit. Not a bad idea, but suits don’t come cheap and it’s hard to know the perfect size, style and color. Instead, how about a nice pair of shoes? Most college students don’t spend a lot of time buying dress shoes, so they’ll appreciate the gift. Not sure what to buy? Check out 13 Ways to Save on Shoes for tips. Make sure to review the return policy before you make a purchase.
4. Tie
A nice tie also makes a great gift, especially considering that new college grads probably don’t own a lot of ties yet. Online, 6PM.com has several for about $40, and Overstock.com carries ties for less than $10. Offline, check discount stores like T.J. Maxx and Marshalls.
5. Personal finance book
I’ve made my share of financial mistakes. (You can read about them in 5 Dumb Money Moves I’ ve Made .) If I could do it all over again, I’d learn the ropes before I started making an income. If you feel the same way, why not give the grad in your life the gift of financial know-how? We have highly recommended books by Michael Lewis, Charles Wheelan and even Stacy Johnson in the Money Talks News store.