13 Thoughtful Going Away Gifts for Friends

Saying goodbye to a friend who’s moving away is never easy. My heart aches thinking about the coffee dates, late-night chats, and shared adventures that’ll soon be memories. But a thoughtful going away gift? 

It can bridge the distance and keep your bond strong. I’ve been there, searching for the perfect gift to show my friend how much they mean to me. In this article, I’m sharing 13 unique going away gift ideas for friends that’ll make them smile, reminisce, and feel loved. 

These gifts suit various budgets, personalities, and needs—whether your friend is moving across the state or halfway around the world. By the end, you’ll find the perfect way to say, “I’ll miss you, but our friendship will last.”

Let’s dive in and find the gift that’ll make your friend’s farewell a little sweeter.

Table of Contents

• Gift Selection Criteria
• The 13 Going Away Gift Ideas for Friends
  • 1. Customized Photo Book
  • 2. Personalized Map Art
  • 3. Friendship Bracelet or Jewelry
  • 4. Handwritten Letter Kit
  • 5. Custom Playlist USB or QR Code
  • 6. Travel Journal
  • 7. Personalized Keychain
  • 8. Care Package for Their New Home
  • 9. Engraved Compass
  • 10. Memory Jar
  • 11. Portable Charger with Custom Design
  • 12. Long-Distance Friendship Lamp
  • 13. Customized Tote Bag
• Tips for Choosing the Perfect Gift
• How to Make the Gift-Giving Moment Special
• Maintaining the Friendship After the Move
• Conclusion

Gift Selection Criteria

Choosing the right gift isn’t just about picking something cute. It’s about thoughtfulness. I always think about what’ll make my friend smile or tear up (in a good way). Here’s how I selected these 13 gifts:

• Thoughtfulness: The best gifts reflect your friendship. They might tie to an inside joke, a shared trip, or a moment only you two understand.
  
• Utility: A practical gift is a win. It’s something your friend can use in their new home, job, or adventure.
  
• Sentimentality: Keepsakes tug at the heartstrings. They’re items your friend will look at years later and think of you.
  
• Versatility: These gifts work for different ages, genders, and interests. Whether your friend is quirky, minimalist, or sentimental, there’s something here.
  
• Ease of Acquisition: I’ve prioritized gifts you can find online or customize easily. No stress, just clicks.

With these criteria in mind, I’ve crafted a list that’s equal parts heart and practicality. Let’s explore the 13 going away gifts that’ll make your friend’s departure unforgettable.

The 13 Going Away Gift Ideas for Friends

Here’s the heart of the article: 13 going away gift ideas that’ll show your friend you care. Each one includes a description, why it’s special, a price range, and where to find it. 

I’ve poured my heart into these picks, thinking about what I’d love to give or receive.

1. Customized Photo Book

A printed photo book filled with pictures of your best moments together. Think road trips, birthday parties, or silly selfies. You can add captions or quotes to make it personal.

Why It Works: This gift is a time machine. Every page brings back laughter and tears. It’s a physical reminder of your friendship they can flip through anytime. Plus, it’s perfect for their new coffee table.

Price Range: $20–$50, depending on size and quality.

Where to Find: Shutterfly and Mixbook offer user-friendly platforms for creating photo books. Local print shops work, too, if you want a quick turnaround.

I made one for my friend Sarah when she moved to Seattle. We laughed and cried over photos from our college days. She still texts me when she flips through it.

2. Personalized Map Art

A piece of art featuring a map of their hometown, your shared city, or their new destination. You can add a heartfelt message or coordinates for extra meaning.

Why It Works: It’s both sentimental and stylish. They can hang it in their new apartment, and it’ll remind them of home—or excite them about their new city. It’s decor with heart.

Price Range: $15–$40, based on size and framing.

Where to Find: Etsy has tons of customizable options. Minted also offers beautiful designs.

I gave my coworker Jake a map of our city with “Best Work Buddy” written on it. He hung it in his new office and says it sparks conversations.

3. Friendship Bracelet or Jewelry

A matching bracelet, necklace, or ring for you and your friend. You can engrave initials, dates, or a short message. Think simple leather cords or elegant silver charms.

Why It Works: Jewelry is a wearable hug. Every time they see it, they’ll think of you. Matching pieces strengthen the “we’re still connected” vibe.

Price Range: $10–$100, depending on materials (e.g., sterling silver vs. handmade beads).

Where to Find: Etsy for custom pieces, Pandora for charm bracelets, or local jewelers for something unique.

My friend Mia and I got matching friendship bracelets before she moved to London. We both wear them daily, and it feels like she’s not so far away.

4. Handwritten Letter Kit

A set of pre-addressed envelopes, stationery, and stamps for writing letters to each other. You can include a few starter prompts like “Tell me about your new favorite coffee shop.”

Why It Works: In a world of texts, a handwritten letter feels special. This kit encourages you to stay in touch the old-fashioned way. It’s personal and thoughtful.

Price Range: $10–$25, or less if you DIY.

Where to Find: Amazon has cute stationery sets. Local stores like Paper Source are great, too. Or grab supplies and make your own kit.

I sent my friend Liam a letter kit when he moved to Chicago. He wrote me back about his new job, and it felt like we were chatting in person.

5. Custom Playlist USB or QR Code

A curated playlist of songs that define your friendship. Think your road trip anthem or the song you danced to at 2 a.m. Deliver it on a cute USB drive or via a QR code for digital access.

Why It Works: Music is a memory trigger. They’ll listen and think of you. It’s lightweight and easy to take anywhere.

Price Range: $5–$20 (USB drives are cheap; the playlist is free to make).

Where to Find: Create the playlist on Spotify and generate a QR code. Buy custom USBs on Amazon or Etsy.

I made a playlist for my friend Emma with songs from our summer adventures. She plays it on her commute and says it’s like I’m there.

6. Travel Journal

A sleek journal for documenting their new adventures. Look for ones with prompts, pockets for mementos, or space for photos.

Why It Works: Moving is a fresh start. A journal lets them capture their journey—new places, people, and experiences. It’s practical and inspiring.

Price Range: $10–$30, depending on brand and features.

Where to Find: Moleskine journals are classic (Amazon or bookstores). Barnes & Noble has themed travel journals, too.

I gave my friend Alex a travel journal when he moved to Japan. He’s filled it with stories and ticket stubs, and it’s become his prized possession.

7. Personalized Keychain

A keychain with their initials, coordinates of your favorite hangout, or a tiny charm that screams “us.” Think leather, metal, or acrylic.

Why It Works: It’s small enough to carry everywhere but big on sentiment. They’ll see it daily and smile.

Price Range: $8–$25, based on customization.

Where to Find: Etsy for handmade options. Things Remembered offers engraving services.

I got my friend Zoe a keychain with our hometown’s coordinates. She uses it for her new apartment keys and loves the reminder.

8. Care Package for Their New Home

A box filled with cozy or practical items—think snacks, a scented candle, fuzzy socks, or a small plant. Tailor it to their tastes.

Why It Works: Moving is stressful. A care package feels like a warm hug and helps them settle in. It’s thoughtful and useful.

Price Range: $20–$60, depending on contents.

Where to Find: Harry & David for pre-made baskets. DIY at Target, Walmart, or local grocery stores.

I sent my friend Rachel a care package with her favorite chocolates and a cozy blanket. She said it made her new place feel like home.

9. Engraved Compass

A brass or wooden compass engraved with a message like “Find Your Way Home” or your initials. It’s both functional and symbolic.

Why It Works: A compass represents guidance. It’s a reminder that you’re cheering them on, no matter where they go. It’s a unique keepsake.

Price Range: $15–$50, depending on quality.

Where to Find: Etsy or Amazon for engraved options.

I gave my friend Mark a compass when he moved to Denver. He keeps it on his desk and says it inspires him to explore.

10. Memory Jar

A glass jar filled with handwritten notes about your favorite memories, reasons you love them, or funny quotes. Decorate it with ribbon or stickers.

Why It Works: It’s deeply personal and emotional. They can pull out a note whenever they need a pick-me-up. It’s easy to DIY, too.

Price Range: $5–$20 (mostly craft supplies).

Where to Find: DIY with supplies from Michaels or Amazon.

I made a memory jar for my friend Sam. He reads a note every week and says it’s like getting a letter from me.

11. Portable Charger with Custom Design

A portable charger with a printed photo, quote, or design that’s meaningful to your friendship. Look for slim, high-capacity models.

Why It Works: It’s practical for travel or daily life. The custom design adds a personal touch they’ll appreciate.

Price Range: $15–$40, depending on capacity and customization.

Where to Find: Zazzle for custom designs. Amazon has affordable options.

I got my friend Lily a charger with a photo of us at the beach. She uses it daily and loves the memory.

12. Long-Distance Friendship Lamp

Description: A pair of Wi-Fi-connected lamps. When you touch yours, theirs lights up, and vice versa. Choose colors that match your vibe.

Why It Works: It’s a magical way to say, “I’m thinking of you.” It fosters connection across miles. It’s innovative and heartfelt.

Price Range: $80–$150 for a pair.

Where to Find: Uncommon Goods or Filimin’s website.

My friend Tara and I got friendship lamps. When I touch mine, hers glows in Boston, and it feels like we’re closer.

13. Customized Tote Bag

Description: A canvas tote with a funny quote, inside joke, or their new city’s name. Pick a sturdy, stylish design they’ll use often.

Why It Works: It’s practical for groceries, work, or travel. The custom touch makes it a conversation starter.

Price Range: $10–$35, based on design.

Where to Find: Redbubble or Etsy for unique prints.

I gave my friend Noah a tote with “Adventure Awaits” and our initials. He uses it for everything and gets compliments.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Gift

Picking the right gift can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how I narrow it down:

• Know Their Personality: Is your friend practical, sentimental, or quirky? Match the gift to their vibe. My friend Emma loves gadgets, so the custom charger was perfect.
  
• Consider Their Destination: Think about their new life. Moving abroad? A travel journal fits. New apartment? Try the care package or map art.
  
• Add a Personal Touch: A handwritten note or small add-on (like a keychain with another gift) makes it special. I always include a card with a memory.
  
• Balance Budget and Sentiment: You don’t need to spend a lot. The memory jar is cheap but heartfelt. DIY gifts show effort without breaking the bank.
  
• Plan for Presentation: Wrapping matters. Use colorful tissue paper or a gift bag. Or present it at a farewell party for extra impact.

These tips helped me choose gifts that felt just right. They’ll guide you, too.

How to Make the Gift-Giving Moment Special

The gift itself is only part of the magic. The moment you give it matters just as much. Here’s how I make farewells unforgettable:

• Personal Delivery: Handing over the gift in person is special. I love doing it over dinner or during a final hangout. It’s a chance to share memories.
  
• Virtual Farewell: If they’ve already left, mail the gift and set up a video call. Open it together on Zoom. I did this with my friend Liam, and we laughed so much.
  
• Group Effort: Get mutual friends involved. Pool money for a bigger gift like the friendship lamp. Or have everyone contribute to the memory jar’s notes.
  
• Memory-Making: Pair the gift with an activity. Write memory jar notes together. Or listen to the custom playlist while reminiscing. It deepens the moment.

When I gave my friend Sarah her photo book, we looked through it over wine. It was the perfect goodbye.

Maintaining the Friendship After the Move

A going away gift is a start, but keeping the friendship alive takes effort. I’ve learned this with friends scattered across the globe. Here’s why it matters and how to do it:

• Why It Matters: Distance can strain friendships, but effort keeps them strong. Your gift can be a tool for connection, like the letter kit or friendship lamp.
  
• Practical Tips:
  
  • Schedule Calls: Set recurring Zoom or phone dates. I talk to my friend Mia every Sunday.
    
  • Use the Gift: If you gave a letter kit, send the first letter. If it’s a playlist, ask what song they loved. It keeps the gift alive.
    
  • Plan Visits: Save up for a trip to see them. Or meet halfway. I’m planning to visit Alex in Japan next year.
    
• Gift Tie-In: The friendship lamp lights up when I think of Tara. The letter kit keeps Liam and me writing. These gifts aren’t just objects—they’re bridges.

Your friendship is worth the work. These steps make distance feel smaller.

Conclusion

Saying goodbye to a friend is hard, but a thoughtful going away gift can ease the pain. These 13 ideas—from photo books to friendship lamps—are designed to show your love and keep your bond strong. 

Each one is heartfelt, practical, or both. Whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge, there’s something here for every friend and every farewell. My favorite part? Knowing these gifts will spark joy and memories for years.

So, pick a gift that feels like “you and them.” Make the moment special with a heartfelt presentation. And don’t stop there—use the gift to stay connected, whether it’s through letters, lamp glows, or shared playlists. 

Your friendship is bigger than distance. Let’s make this farewell one they’ll never forget. What gift are you leaning toward? I’d love to hear your thoughts!