Gift ideas for young adults (age 18-22)

Young adults in the 18- to 22-year-old group are in a transition stage – first jobs, moving out, more independent but often still financially dependent on family. These young people have a variety of interests and needs. Here are some gift ideas for them – some practical, some fun, and often a bit of both.

For Christmas 1984, as I was about to enroll in college for the January semester (I was a late bloomer!), my aunt and cousins gave me bath towels and a set of twin-size sheets for my dorm room. I still have at least one of those well-worn towels and the faded pillowcase.

College and career essentials

• Portable phone charger. A must-have for students or anyone on the go.
• Laptop stand and wireless keyboard. For better posture and productivity during study sessions.
• Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds. Useful for dorms, libraries, or public transport.
• Blue light blocking glasses. Helps reduce eye strain from screens and decrease the effect on circadian rhythms that can disrupt sleep.
• Professional padfolio or business backpack. Ideal for interviews, internships, or first jobs.

Home and dorm life

• Compact air fryer or mini slow cooker. Makes fast, healthy cooking easy.
• Nice bedding set or weighted blanket. Adds comfort to small living spaces.
• Wall art with scripture or inspiring quotes. Adds a personal touch and spiritual encouragement.
• Toolkit or emergency car kit. Grown-up gifts they don’t know they need – yet.
• Reusable water bottle or travel mug. Look for brands such as Hydro Flask or Yeti.

Personal growth and faith

• Devotional for young adults or Bible study book. Two awesome picks: New Morning Mercies by Paul David Tripp and My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers. I’ve read both. My uncle gave me My Utmost for His Highest as a college graduation gift, and several years later I obtained a copy in more modern language, which was easier to read (both were great, though). I always told people My Utmost was the best devotional book I’d ever read – until a friend recommended New Morning Mercies. It quickly became my new fave.
• Scholarship to a financial stewardship study, or simply a book on finances. I used to be a volunteer budget coach (and later an administrative assistant to the Midsouth director) at Crown Financial Ministries, whose co-founder went on to create Compass. Compass has a TON of resources for all ages, from little kids to retirees wanting to leave a legacy. If you need help sorting through the options on Compass’ website, contact me and I’ll either help you personally or put you in touch with my former boss, James Walden, who has remained a dear friend to this day. A good place to start is The Financial Stewardship Bible.
• Prayer journal. You can give a blank copy or find one that includes prompts for gratitude and reflection. I’m working on publishing a Bible study journal. Stay tuned!
• Book on productivity or habit-building. A great one to start with is Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown. When I read it in 2015, I ranked it my No. 1 nonfiction pick of the year. (My fiction pick of 2015? The Martian by Andy Weir.) Atomic Habits by James Clear is another great option.

Creativity and hobbies

• Art supplies or sketchbooks. If they love drawing, journaling, or painting, they probably can’t get enough supplies to feed their habit.
• Procreate app + stylus (for iPad users). You don’t have to be a digital artist or a designer to love this app. I’m not (well, maybe in my dreams), and I count it among my favorite iPad apps of all time.
• DIY craft or kit subscription. Candle-making kit, embroidery, or cooking kit? Well, that’s just the beginning. Let your imagination run wild.
• Photography accessories. If she’s into selfies or Instagram Reels, a ring light or a tripod fits the bill. An instant photo printer comes in handy when Grandma isn’t tech savvy.

Travel and adventure

• Weekender bag or carry-on suitcase. Stylish and functional for road trips or flying home.
• Travel toiletry bag + TSA-approved containers. These are practical but often overlooked gift items.
• National parks pass or museum membership. For adventure seekers or culture lovers.
• Gas gift cards or airline gift cards. These are a big help for broke students!

Tech and digital gifts

• Streaming-service subscription. If you’re sneaky, you might be able to determine which ones are their faves without giving away the surprise.
• Bluetooth speaker or smart assistant. Great for music or productivity.
• USB hub or charging station. These help with desk clutter – especially helpful in a small dorm room or a tiny first apartment.
• Digital course or subscription. For people who love to learn new skills.

Fun, fashion, and personal style

• Trendy beanie, flannel, or hoodie. On-brand and cozy.
• Jewelry with meaning. If your gift recipient is a Christian, a cross necklace, mustard seed pendant, or a tiny pocket cross. If you have a Bible bookstore in your town, check there first. It’s always fun to see what little goodies they have.
• Gift cards. For practical, think Walmart, their local grocery store, or Amazon. For fun, pick a coffeehouse or tea supplier near them.
• Faith-based apparel or stickers. Check brands like Elevated Faith or Etsy shops.

Gifts with a personal or sentimental touch

• Custom photo book or framed picture. Think high school or family pics for a treasured keepsake.
• Handwritten letter in a nice journal or box. Fill it with prayers, memories, and encouragement.
• “Open when” letters. Package them with prompts such as “Open when you’re lonely,” “Open before a big test” or “Open before the big job interview.”