Here are the best gifts for college students. This option includes 200 bulbs on 69-feet of string, all for an affordable price. Even better, the lights are controlled by a remote and have a timer function, so turning the lights off at night is a breeze. This is especially great for commuters who need to kill time on a train or subway each morning with a good audiobook or podcast or those learning online while watching Zooms or video chatting with professors. The Air Pen Scanner can also scan and translate over 70 languages super accurately. Now, college students can save time writing notes and spend more time actually studying. This may be a splurge but is super helpful for those majors who rely on physical textbooks when learning. Be aware that some dorm rooms do not allow candles, so be sure to double check prohibited items. If that’s the case, consider purchasing one based on the state their college is in to enjoy on breaks and holidays. This also makes a great graduation present so students can always remember the location of their college years. This option is affordable, compact, waterproof, and comes with a storage bag that reduces space when not in use. Again, some dorms prohibit air mattresses in dorms, so double-check with your recipient before gifting. Thrive Market allows you to create a bundle of frozen, single-serving meals to be delivered right to their dorm. You can choose different ounces and various bags, boxes, and starter packs. Plus, there are plant-based and paleo options for any dietary restrictions. This slipper-sock hybrid from Bombas is super comfortable but not super warm to avoid overheating. They have grips on the bottom to prevent slipping and come in various colors to fit every taste. The sturdy handles make carrying your items to and from the bathroom extremely easy, and you can hang them on a hook in your dorm for quick storage. Choose from 17 colors and two sizes to fit your student’s preferences and lifestyles. Que bottles are less expensive than competitors and are thin enough to fit in cup holders or backpack sleeves. While on the expensive side, college students will love personalizing their planner to fit their daily life. Once the year is completed, the beautiful planner will make a great addition to any bookshelf or nightstand. Each turn, you play a card from your hand and place a chip on the corresponding card on the board. The goal is to get five chips in a row to make a sequence. This makes for a cozy night-in on colder days or as part of a high-intensity game night. Choose from silver, sterling silver, or gold to match any wardrobe for a stylish and subtle way to rep your college or university. This assortment from The Sill lets you choose from three, six, or twelve succulents, depending on the size of your space. Each succulent requires minimal water and sunlight, making them the ideal fit for any dorm room regardless of size or brightness. This sleep mask is ultra-lightweight, easy to clean, blocks out lights, and is molded for pressure-free eye comfort to make falling and staying asleep easier in new settings. The utensils are made from bamboo, and the carrying case is made from recycled plastic bottles and includes a convenient carabiner. This is a great option for reducing plastic, especially in dining hall and takeout settings. Play your favorite vinyls at three speeds, or use the Bluetooth receiver to stream your fave songs digitally. There is even an aux port to use headphones to not distract your roommates. While definitely a luxury both money and space-wise, college students will love the added nostalgic touch to their small space. The cup is spill-proof, and a push of a button opens the lid for easy sipping. Customers say it’s easy to clean, seriously leak-proof, and keeps beverages hot or cold for an amazingly long time.
Student Needs
Consider practical or cozy gifts that make college life easier or more comfortable. Students on tight budgets (as many are) will appreciate gifts that they won’t (or can’t) buy for themselves. Try to find out what the student needs most and start there.
Hobbies and Interests
Do you know the student’s major in college? Consider a gift related to that area of study. If the student enjoys certain hobbies or sports, like crafts or hiking, consider some equipment they can use during these activities.
Why Trust the Spruce
This article was written by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce, covering toys, gifts, and the holidays. She’s also covered similar topics in other roles, including toy reviews, product round-ups, expert-focused articles, and more.
