Looking for that special gift for a high school or college graduate? If you're thinking cash or a gift card, or even some sage advice, you probably have the right idea.

For students heading off to college and for others striking out on their own for the first time, gift cards, especially, will come in handy, says Kathy Grannis, a spokeswoman for the National Retail Federation. In a 2007 survey conducted by the association, gift cards and cash topped the list for gift-givers.

"They allow the recipient to save up and splurge on items that match their style," Grannis says. "Gift cards have increased in popularity over the years."

If you ask 18-year-old Kristin Myers to pick her ideal graduation gift, her preference would be "a newer car that runs better." The West Florida High School student says she knows that's not likely, so she'll settle for the next best thing.

"Money would be good," she says, because that would give her the option to spend it on what she wants or needs when she goes off to college.

While monetary gifts may be the popular trend again this year, Kailua resident Patrick Gallagher said his family favors a tangible, memorable gift.

His older daughter received a Hawaiian bracelet from her mother's side of the family when she graduated two years ago. He expects his daughter Kerilyn will receive a similar gift when she graduates from Kamehameha Schools later this month. His side of the family might also keep with tradition and give Kerilyn luggage for college on the Mainland.

As for Kerilyn Gallagher's gift from her parents, she'll have a say in that. Her older sister Kaci chose a laptop for school; Patrick Gallagher expects his younger daughter might do the same.

"We kind of like to keep the focus looking forward, rather than get too caught up in the celebration of the immediate moment," Gallagher said, of the practical gift.

Haven't made up your mind about what to get your grad? We've picked out six gifts to help you get started.

Tassel portrait frame. A memorable souvenir, this frame keeps track of the graduate's high school years. It displays yearbook photos from every year of high school with slots for four photos and the graduate's tassel. Things Remembered, $40; www.thingsremembered.com.

"How to Survive Your Freshman Year." In this 302-page book, find clever and humorous advice from students who have already blazed the trail — from the best ways to say goodbye when leaving home to dealing with homesickness and making friends. Barnes & Noble, $15.95.

Calling cards. Not only are they cost-saving, it's an easy way for your graduate to keep in touch, whether it's to boast about making the dean's list or simply to hear your voice. Prices start as low as $5. General retailers.

Advice. Perhaps the most valuable gift and the least expensive your graduate can ever have. Passing on some of your own life experience is a gift that will last indefinitely. Free.

Graduate keepsake box. Throw in all those school mementos in and preserve memories. Shaped like a graduation cap, this box includes a removable photo album, as well as the inspirational phrase "The Future Belongs to Those Who Believe in the Beauty of Their Dreams." Things Remembered, $40.

Passport. Open the door for your graduate to experience the world. $100.

Treena Shapiro contributed Hawai'i information to this report.