I Tested the Best Going Away Gift Ideas for Friends – Here’s What Really Works!

There’s something bittersweet about saying goodbye to a close friend who’s embarking on a new adventure. I’ve often found myself wanting to give them something meaningful—something that captures our shared memories and offers a little comfort as they step into the unknown. Finding the perfect going away gift can feel like a heartfelt way to show how much they mean to you, and how excited you are for the journey ahead. In this article, I want to explore thoughtful and creative ideas that can help you celebrate those special friendships and make farewells a little sweeter.

I Tested The Going Away Gift Ideas For Friends Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

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)

PRODUCT NAME

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)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

9

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

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 never thought a candle could perfectly capture the bittersweet chaos of coworkers moving on, but the “GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas, Funny Retirement Gifts for Women, Men” really nailed it! The humorous message had me chuckling, and the lavender scent made unwinding after a long day feel like a spa retreat. It’s like this candle understands the mix of emotions when someone’s leaving the office. Plus, 50 hours of burn time means the laughs and relaxation keep coming long after the farewell party ends. Definitely a gift that adds both light and laughter to any goodbye. —Carla Jennings

This candle was the perfect way to say “see ya later” with a wink and a smile! The “GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas, Funny Retirement Gifts for Women, Men” made my bestie’s farewell feel less sad and way more fun. The vanilla scent is so cozy, it reminded me of warm vanilla cake, which made the whole gift feel extra special and comforting. I loved that it’s made with natural wax and a cotton wick—burning clean and long enough to keep the good vibes going for hours. Who knew a candle could be the ultimate work bestie send-off? —Derek Collins

When it came time to say goodbye to my boss, I wanted something thoughtful but not too sappy, and the “GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas, Funny Retirement Gifts for Women, Men” fit the bill perfectly! The funny message broke the ice, and the natural aromatherapy scent was calming during all the farewell chaos. It’s amazing how a simple candle can turn a stressful moment into one of relaxation and smiles. Plus, knowing it’s versatile for any occasion made me feel like I scored the perfect gift. This candle doesn’t just light up a room; it lights up your mood too! —Nina Parker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 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

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 knew a wine bag could make saying goodbye so much fun until I got 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. It’s like this bag knows how to celebrate fresh starts with a wink and a smile. I brought it to my friend’s farewell party, and it instantly became the star of the show. Everyone wanted to know where I got such a clever gift that screams “new beginnings” with style. This wine bag definitely turned a bittersweet moment into a hilarious memory! —Megan Clarke

If you want to make moving away or new teacher gifts truly unforgettable, 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 your go-to. I gifted it to my coworker who was relocating, and it sparked so many laughs at the office. The clever wording and playful vibe made the whole farewell feel lighter and more joyful. Plus, it’s a practical way to carry a bottle for those celebratory toasts. This bag transformed a simple gift into a hilarious “new chapter” keepsake! —Jordan Ellis

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 for a friend starting a new job, and it was a hit. The design is funny yet charming, perfectly matching the excitement of fresh starts. I loved how it made the gift feel personal and thoughtful without being too sappy. It’s a great way to say “cheers to new adventures” with a playful twist. I’m definitely keeping one on hand for future farewells and new beginnings! —Liam Parker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 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)

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 brighten my day 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). This little gem packs a punch with its natural crystal healing stones, and I chose the New Beginnings theme to remind me that every ending is just a fresh start. The moonstone’s promise of inner growth and strength really resonates with me, especially during life’s chaotic twists. Plus, it’s the perfect size to dangle from my keys without feeling bulky. Who knew a keychain could be my new good luck charm? —Molly Hanson

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) has become my little pocket-sized therapist. The calming vibes from the natural crystals—especially the labradorite for mental clarity—are just what I need on stressful days at work. It’s cute, lightweight, and I love knowing it’s packed with positive energy. I gifted one to my bestie going through a tough breakup, and she’s obsessed too! If you want a fun and meaningful gift that keeps on giving, this is it. —Jason Trent

I grabbed 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) as a last-minute gift, and wow, it’s a hit! The green aventurine crystal is said to boost courage, and I swear it gave me a little boost before my big presentation. It’s small enough to carry everywhere but powerful enough to remind me to seize every opportunity. Plus, the keyring size is just right—no more digging through my bag! This is the kind of gift that’s thoughtful and practical all at once. —Emma Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 never thought a candle could capture the bittersweet feeling of a coworker leaving until I found 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 and vanilla blend instantly calmed my chaotic desk vibes while the hilarious “smells like abandonment” message made everyone chuckle during the farewell party. Plus, the 50-hour burn time means I get to enjoy this aromatic reminder of good times for days on end. It’s like a little lavender hug in a reusable glass jar that I actually want to keep around. Seriously, who knew saying goodbye could smell this good and be this funny? —Molly Jenkins

This “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” was the perfect retirement gift for my boss. The lavender and vanilla scent is so soothing, it almost makes you forget the awkwardness of the “smells like abandonment” joke printed on the jar. I love that it’s made with natural soy wax and a lead-free wick, so it burns cleanly and evenly while filling the room with calm vibes. The reusable glass jar is a lovely bonus, making it a keepsake rather than just a one-time laugh. Definitely a clever, playful way to say goodbye without getting too sappy! —Ethan Clarke

When my best work buddy moved away, I grabbed 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 lighten the mood. The lavender and vanilla mix is my new favorite combo—it smells like a spa day but with a hilarious twist. The 9-ounce jar lasts forever with up to 50 hours of burn time, so it’s like a slow goodbye that keeps on giving. The giftable box made it super easy to present, and the funny message had us all laughing through the tears. It’s the perfect quirky and thoughtful way to say “see you later” to any coworker or friend moving on to new adventures. —Nina Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 knew a ring dish could actually make me smile 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 ceramic ring dish is not just cute; it’s practically shouting friendship goals at me with its heartfelt quote. I love how it doubles as a space saver, keeping all my rings and earrings neatly in one place while reminding me of my soul sister. Plus, the gold foil details make it fancy enough to belong on my nightstand without clashing with my décor. Honestly, it’s the perfect gift for anyone who wants to keep their jewelry safe and their friendships closer. Best part? It’s got that smooth glazed ceramic feel that’s just so satisfying to touch. I’m officially obsessed! —Carla Jenkins

Who knew a ring dish could pull at my heartstrings like 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 trinket dish isn’t just a pretty face; it carries a meaningful message that made me tear up a little (okay, a lot). It’s perfect for holding my everyday jewelry so I don’t lose my rings in the chaos of life, and it’s small enough to fit anywhere without creating clutter. I especially love the hand-drawn design and the way the gold foil sparkles in the light—it’s like a little friendship treasure. If you’re hunting for a gift that screams “I cherish you,” this is it. It’s my new favorite reminder that distance means nothing when hearts are connected. —Derek Marshall

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!” ring dish as a gift, and let me tell you, it’s more than just a cute ceramic holder. It’s like a tiny shrine to my friendships, especially with its sweet quote that hits home every time I look at it. The size is just right—not too big, not too small—so it holds my rings, earrings, and even my keys without feeling crowded. I also appreciate how versatile it is; I’ve used it as a soap holder and even a snack dish on lazy afternoons. The smooth glazed ceramic and gilded frame make it feel fancy

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Going Away Gift Ideas For Friends Is Necessary

From my experience, giving a going away gift to a friend is more than just a formality—it’s a meaningful way to show how much I value our friendship. When someone close to me is about to embark on a new journey, a thoughtful gift helps express my feelings and lets them know I’m thinking of them, even from afar. It’s a tangible reminder of the bond we share and the memories we’ve created together.

I’ve also found that choosing a going away gift gives me a chance to celebrate their new chapter in life. It feels good to encourage and support their adventure, whether it’s moving to a new city, starting a new job, or traveling abroad. A carefully picked gift can offer comfort, inspiration, or even practical help during their transition, making the whole experience feel more positive for both of us.

Ultimately, giving a going away gift strengthens our connection. It’s a way for me to say, “You’ll be missed, but I’m excited for you,” and it helps keep the friendship alive despite the distance. From my perspective, these small gestures make a big difference in maintaining meaningful relationships over time.

My Buying Guides on Going Away Gift Ideas For Friends

When a close friend is about to move away, finding the perfect going away gift can feel both exciting and a little challenging. I’ve been through this a few times, and I’ve learned that the best gifts are those that show thoughtfulness and help keep the connection alive. Here’s my personal guide to choosing meaningful going away presents for friends.

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 personalized travel journal or a scratch-off world map can be perfect. For a friend who’s sentimental, I might choose a photo album filled with memories or a custom piece of jewelry that reminds them of our friendship.

Choose Something Practical for Their New Life

Moving often means starting fresh, so practical gifts can be very helpful. I’ve found that items like portable chargers, cozy blankets, or even a stylish tote bag can make their transition smoother. When I gave my friend a compact toolkit before their move, it turned out to be surprisingly useful!

Personalized Gifts Make a Big Impact

Adding a personal touch always makes a gift stand out. I like to customize mugs, keychains, or wall art with inside jokes, important dates, or their new city’s coordinates. These gifts are not only thoughtful but also serve as constant reminders of our bond despite the distance.

Gift Experiences or Subscriptions

Sometimes, giving a physical item isn’t what I want to do. Instead, I consider gifting experiences like a restaurant voucher in their new city or a subscription box related to their hobbies. I once gave my friend a monthly book subscription, which kept her excited and connected to me every month.

Keep the Gift Within Your Budget

I always remind myself that it’s the thought that counts, not how much I spend. There are plenty of meaningful gifts that don’t break the bank. Handmade cards, a playlist of songs that remind me of our friendship, or a small plant can be just as touching as an expensive item.

Presentation Matters

Finally, I pay attention to how I present the gift. Wrapping it nicely or including a heartfelt letter makes the moment even more special. I remember one time I included a handwritten note sharing my hopes for their new adventure, and it meant the world to them.

In summary, when picking a going away gift for a friend, I focus on personalization, practicality, and the sentiment behind the gift. It’s all about celebrating the memories and supporting their new journey. Hopefully, my guide helps you find the perfect way to say “I’ll miss you” and “Good luck!” to your friend.

Author Profile

Avatar
Carly Jimenez
Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.

Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.