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3 practical graduation gifts seniors can actually use

It may be hard to fathom because it feels like the first day of kindergarten wasn’t that long ago, but your senior’s high school graduation is right around the corner. Of course, a fun gift like a copy of Dr. Seuss’ classic Oh, the Places You’ll Go! is symbolic, but it’s a great idea to pair it with something useful the soon-to-be graduate can use as he or she enters the next chapter.

There are a lot of wonderful graduation gifts for high schoolers, but what are the best gifts for seniors that will come in handy? Here are three options that any high school graduate will appreciate and get a lot of mileage out of using.

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Anker Portable External Battery

Today’s teen is always connected to his or her smartphone. When your teen is off at college or traveling, having a charged-up smartphone is vital because it can be a safety issue. (Plus, you always know they’ll be able to take your calls.)

Make sure the graduate always has a charge with an Anker Portable Charger. This external battery can work for an iPhone 12 and a Samsung Galaxy S10 as well as other models and tablets. It can charge a phone to 50% in 30 minutes, and it has a USB port for a second device. You can also pair it with an extra-long charger cable. Anker makes a 6-foot-plus charger wire that is compatible with multiple iPhone models in addition to iPad minis, AirPods, and iPods.

Who it’s best for: The teen who lives on Instagram and TikTok

Fitbit Versa 2

If you’re looking for something that’s a step up from a portable charger station and will help keep your teen on a healthier path when away from home, consider getting the graduate a Fitbit Versa 2. This health and fitness smartwatch is pretty cool. It actually has Alexa built-in, and the user can check the weather while keeping track of daily steps and calories. It also monitors heart rate 24/7 and keeps track of sleep quality.

The Fitbit Versa 2 is compatible with Bluetooth headphones and can store more than 300-plus favorite tunes. This smartwatch also features a larger, easy-to-read screen.

Who it’s best for: The teen who doesn’t want to gain that Freshman 15

U.S. Traveler Rio Rugged Fabric Expandable Luggage Set

“Kid, you’ll move mountains! You’re off to great places. Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting… so get on your way!” is the perfect high school graduation quote from famous children’s book author Dr. Seuss. Your graduate will be heading off to wonderful places, and you don’t want your son or daughter doing it with the tattered backpack they’ve been carrying for ages or their old childhood suitcase with the sparkle wheels. It’s time to invest in a quality luggage set that can take your teen to college and beyond.

The U.S. Travelers Rio Rugged Fabric Expandable Luggage Set is a perfect pick for the new high school graduate. Available in a range of stylish colors, this high-quality luggage set is ideal for traveling to all those great places. The set includes a 21″ H x 13.5″ W x 7.5″ D roller bag and a 14″ W x 10″ H x 6″ D tote. The tote makes for a great carry-on, and if need be, it can be strapped to a roller bag. With the expandable feature, teens can get more inside this two-bag set.

Who it’s best for: The teen who can’t wait to see the world

If it seems like those years between kindergarten and the impending high school graduation flew by, they did. Your little guy or gal is closing a chapter and embarking on a new one filled with possibilities. Give the soon-to-be high school graduate a special gift that is useful and thoughtful. Your senior will certainly appreciate one of these practical graduation gifts as he or she sets off to all those fabulous places and think of you warmly whenever it comes in handy.

Dawn Miller
Dawn Miller began her professional life as an elementary school teacher before returning to her first love, writing. In…
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