The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Relocating Gifts

As the sun dipped below the horizon casting a soft glow across the cityscape, Jennifer found herself bustling through the aisles of a famous gift shop. Trying to find the perfect gift for her friend, Rachel, who was leaving town for a new adventure.

Out of the vast ocean of possibilities, she could not set her mind on anything. Anything that reminded her of the special bond she shared with her.

We all know the struggle.

Standing there, lost in thought, and confused between a flurry of options and ideas. Desperately trying to find the winning combination to make that special someone’s move extra special.

Our team of gifting experts has prepared the ultimate guide to not only ease the selection but also make the whole process more enjoyable. So, let us help you win the day in style.

Our Top Four Picks:

1. DIY Home Security
2. DIY Potpourri
3. One Last Adventure
4. Local Food Basket

Anatomy of the Perfect Moving Away Gift

What makes a relocation gift flawless – is it shimmer and shine, a personalized memento, or a thoughtful gesture? We can never say, for sure.

Because like Jennifer and Rachel, each one of us is uniquely different. Our relationships are different too. For some, they are practical and formal; for the rest of us, they are close to the heart, woven with special threads.

A gift for your mom will differ from a gift to an old friend. Likewise, a gift for your employee will differ from your girlfriend's.

Your mom might like a new internet connection in her new home, while your friend might be up for an exciting adventure. In the same way, your employee might like a new watch or a shiny memento as a gesture of your lasting gratitude, but your girlfriend would prefer something memorable and romantic.

So as a general rule of thumb, consider the following factors before prioritizing a relocating gift:

• Relationship with the recipient
• Personal preferences and interests
• Practical needs

Types of Relocating Gifts

There are many types of gifts you can choose from. From practical fixes and personalized caveats to heartfelt escapes and something completely out of the ordinary. The list is simply endless.

At the end of the day, what really matters is the personal touch, love, and consideration for the other person. The thought and effort of choosing the right gift for the right person and giving it a personality of its own. Making it stand out from the average shelf Joe.

But just to move you along and help you tread ever so elegantly; we’ve curated a personalized list of the best housewarming gifts from the top six categories:

Practical Gifts

New Home Internet Connection

In today's hyper-connected world, a person might be able to live without food and water but not the internet. It is the backbone of modern living; no one can do without. So, what better gift than gifting a new internet connection to your relocating friend? Making them feel right at home.

But don’t forget to add this pinch of surprise.

Picture this: As they unpack boxes and arrange furniture in their new space. The doorbell rings and it’s the friendly neighborhood Xfinity agent right outside their doorstep ready to install their new internet connection. Now, that’s what we call an all-paid-for proper twist.

Just make sure to get all their details before finalizing the order and check provider availability in their area: Here are the three of the most widely available you can choose from:

1. Xfinity (Starting at $19.99/mo.)
   For 12 months with 1-year term contract. Taxes and equipment not included. Automatic payments and paperless billing required.
2. Spectrum (Starting at $49.99/mo.)
   For 12 mos¹ with Auto Pay
3. Hughesnet (Starting at $49.99²/mo.)
   Save $25/mo. for 12 months**

DIY Home Security

Moving to a new home, especially an unfamiliar place often comes with a mix of excitement and fear.

If that is the case, help ease your loved one's mind by gifting them a home security system that can help mitigate their concerns and make them feel safe and secure.

It does not have to be state-of-the-art security cameras, motion sensors, and the lot — just the basics they can set themselves in no time.

For options, you can explore our top picks for smart home security solutions:

1. ADT
2. Xfinity
3. Cox

Personalized Gifts

Hometown Food Basket

That's how it is and always has been! So, if you have a friend who is a real food warrior and sentimentally attached to local delicacies then a taste of a local home basket just might do the trick to win his heart all over again.

Just picture a guy from Southern France unpacking a box of Pain au Chocolat, Pont-l'Évêque cheese, and a bottle of beautifully aged local wine in his French Chateau while sipping tea. He's gonna be super stoked about this, at the very least. 

DIY Potpourri

A mixture of fruits, herbs, spices, and everything nice – potpourri is the perfect reminder of home you can give to a friend moving to a distant state or even an entirely new country.

And if you are thinking your friend won’t like something as fancy as this.

When it comes to gifts, never underestimate the power of arresting aromatherapy. And don't forget to personalize your potpourri bowl to give it a homey feel. Just follow a simple online tutorial and keep adding stuff that pleasantly reminds you of your neighborhood.

Sentimental Gifts

Your Favorite Perfume

Everyone has one go-to signature fragrance that fills the room with their presence even when they are not around – a touch of sandalwood, a dash of bergamot, and a pinch of water lily to build that perfect blend that is quintessentially YOU.

So, why not gift your special someone a bottle of your favorite perfume or cologne to transport them back to shared moments and cherished memories?

Every spray will evoke feelings of warmth and closeness. And, as they go about their day in their new surroundings, enveloped in the scent of your friendship, they'll carry a piece of you with them wherever they go.

Care Package

If you are out of time and still want to show that you care, a care package would be a thoughtful and practical reminder of what they mean to you.

The quickest is to just buy online. However, if you really want to stand out. Make sure to include the memorable stuff. Like the favorite ramen noodles you used to eat as kids, the sunscreen you shared on a hot Sunday morning, or the makeup products you enjoyed together on special occasions.

Simply anything that reminds them of shared experiences and brings out the best of memories.

Memorable Gifts

One Last Adventure

Before your loved one sets off on a new adventure, why not embark on one last escapade together?

Nothing compares to a day filled with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories – a road trip to a nearby hill station, a hike to your favorite mountain trail, or simply a leisurely stroll through local spots.

Sketch out a detailed itinerary and keep it a secret with a dash of familiar places. The anticipation will keep the heartbeat moving.

Going Away Party

Nothing gets bigger than a proper send-off – a going-away party where they get to meet friends and family for a night filled with laughter, toasts, and heartfelt goodbyes.  Giving them an extra special memory that they will cherish for years to come.

This can be as simple as a backyard barbecue or just a gathering for drinks at their favorite local spot. The list is simply endless. However, the key is keeping things simple and avoiding going overboard in emotions.

The most important thing is to surround them with love and support as they embark on this new chapter of their life. Lastly, as the party winds down and the hugs are exchanged, don’t forget to make a toast to honor your loved one.

Creative Gifts

Commission a Song or a Painting

Tap into the creative side and gift your parting loved one a one-of-a-kind song or painting that captures the essence of your friendship.

Commission a talented musician to write and compose a heartfelt song inspired by your shared experiences or collaborate with an artist to create a painting reflecting your unique bond.

Whether it's a catchy tune that they can listen to or a beautiful piece of artwork that adorns their new home, it's a gift that's sure to touch their heart and remind them of the special connection you share.

Dual Time Zone Watch

A dual time zone watch is the perfect gift to unite. Imagine your loved one opening the box to find a stylish timepiece that not only keeps them punctual but also serves as a constant reminder of your friendship.

With two dials displaying different time zones, they can easily track the hours in their current location and yours. From Timex Q Timex GMT starting at $219 to Rolex GMT Master at $10’000, the list of good options is infinite.

Experiential Gifts

Concert Tickets

Give your loved one the gift of an unforgettable night out with concert tickets to see their favorite band or artist in action, perhaps in the city they are moving to.

Just picture the excitement in their eyes when they see the tickets in their hands. Who knows they might get really busy and never get to explore the place. So, give them a chance while you are at it.

Selection is the easy part. Just go for their favorites.

One Last Sports Bash

Send your loved one off with a sporty big bang.

The best part about this option is that you can do these two ways. You can either go and watch your team together or if it is the offseason, you can organize a sporty getaway to remember. Either way, it doesn't get any better than this.

For the first option, simply get the tickets for their favorite sports team and join them on their last home game before they bid farewell.

For the second option, gather friends and fellow fans for a day filled with friendly competition, spirited cheers, and unforgettable moments on the field, court, or course.

Whether it's a game of basketball at the local park, a soccer match on a sunny afternoon, or a round of golf at their favorite course, make sure the competitive spirit is in full swing and the excitement contagious.

Moving Help is More Important Than You Think

Believe us when we tell you, there is no gift more valuable to your loved one than your time.

So, no matter what gift you finally set your heart on, make sure to be right there with them during the entire moving process. Help them organize their stuff and vent out their concerns making them comfortable about the transition.  

For instance, if they haven’t hired any mover, do the heavy lifting for them, and get some food for everyone. These small gestures go a long way.

Some Tips Before We Leave You

• If the gift is considerably large. Make sure to send it directly to the new address.
• Don’t forget to wrap the gifts. It’s the first thing that anyone notices. Going the extra mile is what counts the most.
• A heartfelt note goes a long way and words can be more powerful than you think. So, don’t shy away from expressing your feelings and how much you are going to miss them.
• Try not to break the bank and just be as ‘authentically you’ as possible.

Ready to Send Some Love?

Get Started today! But remember to keep things simple, personal, and classy.

The best strategy is not to overthink the gift; it’s to wing it with the person in mind while adding a personal touch to make it pop and stand out from the rest.

Additional Resources

Guide to Home Moving Across State Lines

Moving in Without Internet?

How to Change or Cancel Spectrum Service