19 Best Gifts for Empty Nesters That Are Thoughtful & Helpful — Starting at $12

When the time comes for children to leave home and embark on their own life adventures, it often leaves parents wondering “what’s next?” Sure, many of us joke about the kids leaving home, but when it finally happens, there’s always a wave of real emotions — and maybe those jokes stop being so funny. If you’re trying to help a newly empty nester find some joy while navigating this new phase of life, or are looking to treat yourself to something nice to soothe the grief of kids leaving, these options for the best empty nest gifts will help.

Best Empty Nest Gifts, at a Glance

Best Overall: Hug In A Box, $44.10-$68.98 (was $49-$76.65)
Best Book Gift: The Girlfriends’ Guide to Empty Nesting Paperback by Allie Hill, $14 (was $15)
Best Gift For Reflection: Papier Italian Summer Journal, $32
Best Elegant Gift: Waterford Lismore Diamond Martini Pair, $220
Best Home Fragrance Empty Nest Gift: Nest Custom Three Is A Charm Set, $118 (was $130)
Best Wine Gift: Crate & Barrel French Kitchen Marble Wine Cooler, $55
Most Unique Candle Gift: Diptyque Gold Pyramid Candle Holder, $328
Most Memorable Gift: Levenger Remembrance Box, $179.50
Best Sheet Set Gift: Boll & Branch Signature Hemmed Sheet Set, $229
Best Gift From the Kids: MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Lacquer Frame, $90
Best Coffee Gift: Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Slim Espresso Maker, $139
Best Coffee Mug Gift: Le Creuset Stoneware Set of 6 London Mugs, $80
Best Meal Delivery Service: Gobble Meal Delivery, $68+
Best Budget-Friendly Gift: Garden Party Photo Album, $15
Best Self Care Gift: Salt & Stone Body Care Ritual Set, $103 (was $121)
Best Jewelry Gift: Empty Nest Necklace, $12
Best Sleep Gift: Blissy Dream 4-Piece Mulberry Silk Set, $120-$140
Best Candle Gift: Apotheke White Vetiver Classic Candle, $46
Best Beauty Gift: Jones Road Pinky Bronze Kit, $66 (was $90)

The best empty nest gifts are ones that are thoughtful and helpful. Books on empty nesting, for example, are an excellent option to wrap up and give to someone who is having a hard time — or looking for a way to fill up some new free time. You can always snag a gift box like this one to help them unwind. Or, if you’re looking to splurge, consider gifting a new coffee maker and mugs so they can enjoy their now quiet mornings at home. For something more simple, candles are always welcome — especially if you know their preferred scents. And you can never go wrong with fine china and glassware, like this stunning set from Waterford.

Ahead shop the 19 best empty nest gifts for any occasion.

Waterford is a Flow Space sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.