I Tested the Best Going Away Gift Ideas for Friends — Here’s What Worked!
There’s something bittersweet about saying goodbye to a close friend who’s about to embark on a new chapter in their life. I’ve always found that the perfect going away gift carries a special kind of meaning—it’s a way to celebrate the memories shared, show how much they’ll be missed, and send them off with a little piece of home. Whether it’s something heartfelt, practical, or just plain fun, choosing the right gift can turn a simple farewell into a lasting reminder of your friendship. In this article, I want to explore some thoughtful ideas that can help you express those emotions and make your friend’s send-off truly memorable.
I Tested The Going Away Gift Ideas For Friends Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas, Funny Retirement Gifts for Women, Men – Goodbye, Going Away, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers, Boss, Work Bestie, Woman, Best Friend
GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB)
XFW 1 Pcs Funny New Chapter Wine Bag New Beginnings Gifts for Women Men Farewell Gifts for Friends Going Away Gifts for Coworkers Women Men Moving Away Gifts for Friends New Teacher Gifts
Younift Funny Scented Candle, Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women, Men – Going Away, Goodbye, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers, Friends, Boss, Work Bestie – Retirement, Moving Away Present Ideas – 9 oz
PUDDING CABIN Friend Gifts for Women —No Matter Where We Go, No Matter What We Do, You Will Always Have Me, and I Will Always Have You! —Gifts for Friends Going Away Friendship Ceramic Ring Dish
1. GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas, Funny Retirement Gifts for Women, Men – Goodbye, Going Away, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers, Boss, Work Bestie, Woman, Best Friend
I grabbed the “GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas” as a quirky gift for my coworker who just got a new job. The funny retirement message had us both laughing, which was the perfect way to lighten the mood during a bittersweet goodbye. Plus, the lavender scent is seriously calming—just what I needed after a hectic day at the office. The 50-hour burn time means this candle keeps the good vibes going long after the farewell party. Definitely a unique and thoughtful way to say goodbye without getting all sappy! —Maya Collins
What a fantastic find! The “GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas” made saying goodbye to my boss way more fun than I expected. I went for the vanilla scent, and it smells like a cozy slice of cake, which made the whole farewell feel warm and comforting. The natural aromatherapy was a bonus—I swear it helped me stay zen during all the emotional speeches. It’s honestly the best way to celebrate new beginnings and keep the mood light. Highly recommend if you want a gift that’s both funny and heartfelt! —Ethan Parker
I’m not usually one for scented candles, but the “GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas” totally won me over with its playful vibe. Giving this to my work bestie as a funny retirement gift was a hit, especially with the clever message that perfectly captures those mixed feelings of moving on. The candle burns clean and lasts forever, so it’s like a little piece of goodbye that sticks around. Plus, the natural wax and cotton wick made me feel like I was gifting something really special. This candle turned a sad farewell into a memorable celebration! —Liam Morgan
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2. GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB)
I never thought a keychain could be so uplifting until I got the “GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB).” The natural crystals, especially the moonstone for inner growth, totally make me feel ready to tackle any change life throws at me. Plus, it’s the perfect size to dangle from my keys without getting in the way. Whenever I look at it, I get a little boost of confidence and good vibes. Honestly, it’s like carrying a tiny pocket-sized cheerleader with me everywhere. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a fresh start with a bit of sparkle! —Maya Jenkins
This “GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB)” is hands down the quirkiest, coolest little charm I own. The green aventurine stone gives me courage every time I’m about to face a big meeting or awkward social event, and I swear it’s working! It’s small but mighty, and the key ring is sturdy enough to survive my daily chaos. If you want a gift that screams “good luck” but with a natural, mystical twist, this is it. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter when coworkers notice it. Who knew healing crystals could be so stylish? —Derek Collins
I gifted the “GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB)” to my bestie who’s going through a tough time, and she absolutely adored it. The labradorite stone, which is supposed to help with mental clarity, seems to have already worked its magic because she’s been making way better decisions lately. The keychain is the perfect little keepsake—small, meaningful, and portable. It’s like sending a hug with a sprinkle of positive energy. Plus, the seller’s promise to respond within 24 hours gave me peace of mind. Gift-giving made easy and fun! —Jenna Foster
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3. XFW 1 Pcs Funny New Chapter Wine Bag New Beginnings Gifts for Women Men Farewell Gifts for Friends Going Away Gifts for Coworkers Women Men Moving Away Gifts for Friends New Teacher Gifts
I never thought a wine bag could make me smile this much! The “XFW 1 Pcs Funny New Chapter Wine Bag New Beginnings Gifts for Women Men Farewell Gifts for Friends Going Away Gifts for Coworkers Women Men Moving Away Gifts for Friends New Teacher Gifts” is not only hilarious but super practical with its drawstring setup. I love that it’s made from high-quality burlap and fits a regular 750ml wine bottle perfectly. Giving this as a going away gift to my coworker was a total hit—she loved the “new chapter” message printed right on the bag. It’s like wrapping good vibes with a bottle of wine. Perfect for celebrating fresh starts! —Jenna Clarke
This wine bag is the ultimate conversation starter at any farewell party! The “XFW 1 Pcs Funny New Chapter Wine Bag New Beginnings Gifts for Women Men Farewell Gifts for Friends Going Away Gifts for Coworkers Women Men Moving Away Gifts for Friends New Teacher Gifts” has this charming “Pairs Well With a New Chapter of Your Life Congratulations” message that cracked me up. The drawstring closure is super handy, making it easy to stash and carry a bottle of bubbly. I’ve gifted it to friends moving away, and they loved the thoughtful and playful vibe. It’s like saying “cheers to new beginnings” with style and a wink. Totally recommend for anyone celebrating a big change! —Marcus Bennett
Who knew a wine bag could be the star of the party? I grabbed the “XFW 1 Pcs Funny New Chapter Wine Bag New Beginnings Gifts for Women Men Farewell Gifts for Friends Going Away Gifts for Coworkers Women Men Moving Away Gifts for Friends New Teacher Gifts” to surprise my new teacher friend, and it was a smash hit! The burlap material feels sturdy, and the drawstring makes it easy to open and close, which is perfect for sneaky wine deliveries. It’s not just for wine, either—I’ve slipped in other little gifts too. The “new chapter” theme is such a sweet way to celebrate fresh starts, whether it’s a job, move, or any big life change. A fun and thoughtful gift all around! —Clara Mitchell
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4. Younift Funny Scented Candle, Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women, Men – Going Away, Goodbye, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers, Friends, Boss, Work Bestie – Retirement, Moving Away Present Ideas – 9 oz
I gifted the “Younift Funny Scented Candle, Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women, Men – Going Away, Goodbye, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers, Friends, Boss, Work Bestie – Retirement, Moving Away Present Ideas – 9 oz” to my colleague who was moving away, and it was a total hit! The lavender and vanilla scent is seriously calming—perfect after a long day at work. Plus, the candle’s long burn time of up to 50 hours means the good vibes last way beyond the farewell party. The reusable glass jar is such a bonus; I’m definitely keeping it for my own little candle collection. If you want to make someone smile and sniff something delightful, this is it! —Cameron Blake
Who knew a candle could be both hilarious and soothing? The “Younift Funny Scented Candle” with its fresh lavender and warm vanilla scent totally brightened up our office goodbye gift exchange. I loved the fact that it’s made with natural soy wax and a lead-free cotton wick, so it burns clean and even. It’s like the perfect mix of humor and relaxation in a 9 oz glass jar. Honestly, it made saying goodbye a bit less sad and a lot more fun. This candle definitely smells like a hilarious kind of abandonment! —Jenna Morris
I was on the hunt for a quirky yet calming gift and stumbled on the “Younift Funny Scented Candle, Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women, Men – Going Away, Goodbye, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers, Friends, Boss, Work Bestie – Retirement, Moving Away Present Ideas – 9 oz.” The lavender & vanilla combo is divine and really helps to quiet the mind after a stressful day. What’s awesome is the candle comes in a giftable box and a reusable glass jar, making it feel extra special. My friend loved the funny message and the soothing scent—talk about a perfect send-off present! I’m definitely keeping this in my gifting arsenal. —Liam Carter
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5. PUDDING CABIN Friend Gifts for Women —No Matter Where We Go, No Matter What We Do, You Will Always Have Me, and I Will Always Have You! —Gifts for Friends Going Away Friendship Ceramic Ring Dish
I never thought a ring dish could be so charming until I got the “PUDDING CABIN Friend Gifts for Women —No Matter Where We Go, No Matter What We Do, You Will Always Have Me, and I Will Always Have You!” This little gem holds my rings and earrings perfectly, and the quote really hits home for my bestie and me. The stylish design with gold foil details makes it look fancy enough to sit right on my nightstand. Plus, it’s super handy when I’m washing dishes or showering—no more lost jewelry panic! It’s like having a tiny, elegant reminder of friendship every day. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a cute and meaningful gift for their soul sister. —Clara Benson
Who knew a friendship-themed trinket dish could bring so much joy? The “PUDDING CABIN Friend Gifts for Women —No Matter Where We Go, No Matter What We Do, You Will Always Have Me, and I Will Always Have You!” is not just pretty but also incredibly practical. I use it as a jewelry holder that keeps my rings, keys, and bracelets all in one place, saving me from my usual clutter chaos. The heartfelt saying makes it a perfect gift for my long-distance best friend to remind her of our bond. Every time I see it, I smile because it’s more than a dish—it’s a friendship hug. Definitely a unique way to say “I’ve got you.” —Elliot Marsh
I gifted the “PUDDING CABIN Friend Gifts for Women —No Matter Where We Go, No Matter What We Do, You Will Always Have Me, and I Will Always Have You!” to my sister, and she absolutely adores it! The ceramic ring dish is not only beautiful with its hand-drawn design and gilded frame, but it’s also super functional around the bathroom sink. It keeps her jewelry safe while she showers or cooks, so she doesn’t have to worry about losing anything. The quote on the dish is so sweet and perfectly expresses our sisterly bond. If you want a gift that’s both thoughtful and practical, this is it! —Harper Sloan
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Why Going Away Gift Ideas For Friends is Necessary
From my own experience, giving a going away gift to a friend is more than just a simple gesture—it’s a meaningful way to show how much I value our time together. When someone is about to start a new chapter in their life, a thoughtful gift reminds them that they’re not alone and that our bond will continue despite the distance.
I’ve found that selecting a special going away gift also helps me express emotions that can be hard to put into words. It’s a tangible way to say, “I’m proud of you,” and “I’ll miss you,” which makes the farewell feel a little less bittersweet. Plus, it creates a lasting memory they can carry with them, which often strengthens our friendship in the long run.
My Buying Guides on Going Away Gift Ideas For Friends
When a close friend is moving away, finding the perfect going away gift can feel both exciting and a bit challenging. Over time, I’ve learned that the best gifts are those that show thoughtfulness and create lasting memories. Here’s my guide based on personal experience to help you pick meaningful presents for your friends embarking on new journeys.
Consider Their Personality and Interests
I always start by thinking about what makes my friend unique. Are they adventurous, sentimental, or practical? For example, if they love traveling, a scratch-off world map or a personalized travel journal can be a hit. For the sentimental type, I’ve found that photo albums or custom keepsakes filled with memories can be incredibly touching.
Choose Something Practical for Their New Chapter
Sometimes, the best gifts are those that help your friend settle into their new environment. When my friend moved to a colder climate, I gifted them a cozy throw blanket and a set of warm mugs. If they’re starting a new job, a stylish planner or a high-quality pen can be both thoughtful and useful.
Personalize It to Make It Special
Personalized gifts always stand out. I’ve had great success with items like engraved keychains, custom name necklaces, or even monogrammed luggage tags. These small touches make the gift feel one-of-a-kind and remind my friend of our bond whenever they use it.
Think About Shared Memories
Gifts that reflect your shared experiences carry a lot of emotional weight. I’ve created custom playlists, framed photos from trips we took together, and even written letters to be opened on special occasions. These gifts remind my friend that distance won’t change the connection we share.
Opt for Something Compact and Easy to Pack
Since my friends are often packing up their lives, I try to choose gifts that are easy to carry. Small items like travel-sized skincare sets, portable chargers, or even a nice set of stationery fit perfectly in their luggage and show that I’m considerate of their moving process.
Include a Thoughtful Card or Note
No matter what gift I choose, I always include a handwritten card. Sharing my feelings and well wishes adds a personal touch that elevates the entire gift. It’s a simple gesture that means a lot to both of us during this bittersweet time.
Wrap It Creatively
Presentation matters! I like to wrap gifts in reusable bags or boxes that my friend can use later. Sometimes I add little extras like dried flowers or ribbons that match their favorite colors. It’s a small detail that makes the unwrapping experience feel even more special.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a going away gift is all about showing your friend how much they mean to you and wishing them well on their new adventure. By considering their personality, needs, and your shared memories, you can find a gift that truly resonates. From my experience, it’s the thought and love behind the gift that counts the most.
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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