If you have a college student leaving for school for the first time, we have tons of great gift ideas for college students to make them feel at home!
It’s hard sending a kid off to college! Whether you’re getting ready to say goodbye to your own kid, a family member, or to a close friend who’s headed off to school, it’s never easy.
Aside from the sadness at seeing someone you love leave town, it’s also not easy in the practical sense – college kids need a lot of stuff! Not only do they need to be ready for classes, with books and laptops and backpacks, they need to set up a dorm room or apartment as well. They’ll need everything from laundry baskets to soap to speakers.
If you’re wondering where to start or what college kids really need when they head off to school, we’ve got you covered! We have an expert list – compiled by someone who has experience sending kids off to school. Find out what gifts for college students really are helpful, so you don’t waste your time and money on things they don’t need.
This list has everything from dorm essentials to fun treats kids will love getting in the mail! You’re sure to find gift ideas for the college students in your life and help them make the transition away from home a little easier.
60 Useful College Gift Ideas
Awesome college student gifts for every college kid!
These lights are easy to install and take down at the end of the year, and they can change the whole feel of a dorm room with just a button! Students can adjust the brightness, change light colors, and even set the lights to sync to their music. They can put on a fun, multicolored show when they’re hanging with friends or choose a soothing mild light to study by.
Personal Experience
Definitely a worthwhile purchase, the Nexillumi 50Ft Strip Lights have transformed my space with their vibrant colors and adjustable brightness. The ease of installation combined with their flexibility made it simple to create unique patterns and light up my room beautifully. Despite a few minor challenges with the double sided sticky paper, these lights have stood the test of time, remaining bright and firmly in place even after a year of use.
Tiny dorm rooms rarely have space for a nightstand or table near the bed! A bedside shelf gives students a spot to charge their phone, place a book, or keep their glasses when they go to bed. The shelf doesn’t take up much room but provides a much-needed spot for bedside items.
Personal Insight
In my experience, this bed shelf proves itself as a clever solution for people craving extra bedside storage. The bamboo build feels sturdy, easily holding my nightly essentials like a flashlight and cell phone. While I wish it came in darker colors, it's a minor drawback to an otherwise well-crafted, practical addition to my bedroom setup.
Weighted blankets can help with a number of sleep issues! They can calm stressed-out students, they can lead to a better night’s sleep, and they can even help legs and sore bodies recuperate from an intense workout. Gift one to your favorite college student and see if it helps with sleep troubles.
Community Review
My experience with this weighted blanket has been quite positive. It took a couple of days to adjust, but it's helped me sleep better, and I've noticed fewer restless leg symptoms. This blanket offers a comforting pressure that's been a relief for my anxiety, especially on nights when my husband is away. I also appreciate that the cover is removable for easy washing, although I'd recommend getting a duvet cover to prevent stains as it's not machine washable. I initially chose the 20lb weight, but I would advise picking a lighter weight if you frequently move around in your sleep.
Sure, there are times college students dress up, but for those morning classes, comfort is key! This sherpa sweatshirt is perfect for girls to pull on on chilly mornings and head to class. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns – you may even want to get her more than one!
Individual Opinion
I've found this pullover to be incredibly comfortable and warm, even on windy days. While the color isn't a pure white but more of an off-white or tea-dyed, it's still quite pleasing and even has a hint of purple to it. However, be aware that the fit can be a tad snug, so consider sizing up if you prefer a roomier feel.
Having a fridge in the dorm room can be an excellent gift for college students – especially those who have trouble getting out of bed and to the dining hall for breakfast! This mini fridge is perfect for keeping snacks and drinks in. The flat top also functions as an extra shelf for storing food or dishes.
First-Hand Impression
I'm genuinely pleased with this fridge, despite a few hiccups along the way. I bought this fridge to replace my old Igloo that suddenly quit working, and although it isn't my perfect fridge, it's been reliable for the last four months. Setting up this fridge was a bit of a hassle, especially the reversible door that required a bit of brute force. The lack of a designated space for the drip tray is a tad annoying, but the surprise addition of an interior light more than makes up for it. Despite some incorrect temperature dial readings and a slight issue with uneven cooling, I'm satisfied with my purchase, and the fridge's quiet operation is a definite plus.
Some students may not want overwhelming LED lights all around their room and may prefer these charming twinkle lights instead! They can be strung over a bed or on the wall, and the lights are interspersed with clips where students can hang pictures of their friends and family.
Personal Experience
I'm quite pleased with these lights I've installed on my daughter's bunk bed. The variety of colors is a hit, and the dimming feature comes in handy. However, after being on for a day, I've noticed the color subtly shifts to a light red, which is a mild annoyance. Despite this, and the slightly chunky USB plug, these lights have truly enhanced the cozy ambiance in my home, and even have a nifty timer feature.
If your college kid doesn’t have a luggage set yet, this is the perfect time to buy them one! They’ll need something to pack clothes in to move back and forth to school, and to come home to visit. This set includes a carry-on bag with in-line skate wheels and a tote with a strap. It comes in a variety of colors so you can pick one that will stand out on the baggage carousel.
Personal Insight
My recent experience with this luggage set was quite positive overall. The main bag was surprisingly spacious, comfortably accommodating a week's worth of clothing, including a pair of sneakers and toiletries. It rolled smoothly through every airport, and the handle quickly extended and retracted with a simple button press. The additional travel bag securely fit over the main bag's handle, making it perfect for carrying essentials like books and medications. The non-standard green color was more muted than expected, but still appealing and unique enough to easily spot on the luggage carousel. Despite being fully loaded, the suitcase remained compliant with both U.S. and European airline regulations, making it a reliable companion for any globetrotter.
Lots of college students are watching their money carefully, so anytime they get a gift card for a special treat that wasn’t in the budget, they’re thrilled! You can grab a Starbucks gift card to send in just about every increment from $25 on up. Or, grab a couple and send them to your college kid throughout the year as a nice surprise.
Community Review
I'm pleased with this Starbucks gift card, it's an ideal token for friends or family. Personally, I found the "Happy Birthday" design on the front to be unique and gave a personalized touch that I haven't seen in stores. I've given this gift card to my wife on her birthday and my granddaughters who enjoy buying their special Starbucks drinks with it. This Starbucks card is a fantastic option for those unsure of what gift to give. Based on my experience, I will likely purchase this gift card again for future gift-giving occasions.
There usually isn’t a lot of seating in dorm rooms, and certainly not a lot of comfy seating! A pillow to prop up and read or work can be a wonderful college student gift. This one has pockets on the sides and a convenient handle for carrying it around.
Individual Opinion
When I initially got this support pillow, it was for recovery after surgery. My experience has been nothing but positive, with the plushness and form stability standing out. This pillow has proven versatile, perfect for sitting up in bed to read, watch TV or even work while maintaining comfort. I've had it for three years and it's still as fluffy and firm as when I first got it. It's also larger than those you'd find in department stores and stays upright when lounging. Some might find it a bit hard, but I believe that's what allows it to hold you in a seated position effectively.
When you’re listing all the things to buy for college, don’t forget a laundry container! A backpack like this one makes lugging laundry up and down stairs to the machines (or to Mom & Dad’s!) much easier. It fits 4 loads of laundry inside, so they should be able to get all their clothes to and from their room in one trip.
First-Hand Impression
I've found this laundry bag to be incredibly sturdy, easily managing the hefty loads of laundry that accumulate during my busy college schedule. Despite encountering some minor stitch issues after a year of use, this bag's surprising capacity and convenient shoulder straps have made my trips to the laundromat a breeze.
Everyone needs a sweatshirt that proudly proclaims their school on the front! This hoodie has a fleece lining and screen-printed university logo and name. The unisex fit means it should suit both guys and girls.
Personal Experience
If you're considering this sweatshirt, be aware that sizing up might be wise as it tends to run a bit small and doesn't offer much stretch. Despite that, the overall quality is commendable and the material feels pleasant to the touch. However, a minor concern lies in the sleeves, which seem to be slightly short and tight around the wrists, even after several months of use. While the colors might not be everyone's preference, my son, for instance, is quite fond of his, suggesting that the sweatshirt's appeal can differ greatly among individuals.
There are a lot of fun parts of dorm life, but one drawback is that two people sharing a room but on different schedules can be tricky. It’s likely at some point that your college kid will be trying to sleep while his roommate is desperately trying to get a paper in on time. A sleep mask is perfect for blocking out the light while he sleeps. This mask has contours so the wearer can blink and not worry about eyelashes hitting the mask, and it completely seals out the light for a good night’s sleep.
Personal Insight
I'm impressed with the design of this sleep mask, particularly the contoured shape that allows for comfortable blinking and ensures no light seeps in, aiding in a restful sleep. Having used it in a shared dorm room with differing schedules, I found it to be incredibly useful in blocking out unwanted light, enhancing my sleep quality significantly.
This quirky room sign is a fun, inexpensive way to add personality to a drab dorm room! It’s battery-operated and just needs three AA batteries to work. It’s an amusing addition to a desk or dresser to add a little whimsy.
Community Review
For a fun, affordable neon light, this product really shines. I used it in my greenhouse and it added a warm glow, while my husband found it easy to set up for his audio tour. However, it does have a few issues - the brightness started to fade after a while, the switch is a bit flimsy, and the USB cord could be longer.
It’s a little more pleasant to feel like you woke up to the rising of the sun than to the blaring of a phone alarm! This alarm clock not only mimics the rising of the sun, but it has white noise to fall asleep to. It also has adjustable lights so college kids can turn on a soft-glow reading light to study.
Individual Opinion
Love the soothing rain sounds at night and the convenience of the sunrise alarm feature on this alarm clock. While I appreciate being able to control it with my phone, the brightness of the clock light can be disruptive to my sleep. The sound and light occasionally malfunction, necessitating a reset, but when it's working properly, it's the best alarm clock and sound machine I've encountered. I do wish the light intensity could be adjusted to a softer red rather than a bright white, and it would be great if the app could control the color and brightness.
College kids will probably get their share of unhealthy food if they want it, but they’ll also appreciate a healthy variety of snacks. This would be a fun package to send at the start of finals to help make sure students are properly fueled and ready to conquer! The snack pack includes granola bars, popcorn, veggie straws, and more.
First-Hand Impression
This snack box has proven to be a hit among various age groups, from college students to children and adults alike. The diverse assortment is much appreciated, although it could benefit from an increased variety of sweet treats and less of the less popular items like tea. The healthy options are a plus, making it a suitable choice for school snacks or afternoon treats at work. However, while generally satisfactory, the flavor of certain items, such as the Zee-Zee grahams, could use some improvement.
If you’re not sure what your favorite college kid needs while they’re away at university, an Amazon gift card is an excellent choice! They’ll be thrilled to have a little “fun money” to spend on whatever they’d like, without worrying about having to pay for it themselves. Gift cards may not seem like a very exciting purchase, but they do make wonderful gift ideas for college students!
Personal Experience
I've really enjoyed the convenience of these gift cards and the joy they bring to the recipients, like my husband and neighbor, who both appreciated the thoughtful gesture. The quality of the gift card holder is impressive, adding a touch of elegance to the gift, and though it took a moment to figure out how to load the card, the process turned out to be quite straightforward.
These joggers are immensely comfortable. However, they also have some style to them, so she can wear them to bed or wear them to class. Or, let’s face it, both. They also come in a variety of colors, so she may even be happy with several pairs!
Personal Insight
These joggers are my top pick for comfort and fit. They're incredibly soft and have a lovely flow on the body, making them a superb choice for post-surgery comfort or simply lounging around the house. Despite being a bit large in the waist for me, a quick roll of the waistband and a tightened drawstring fixed the issue. They're versatile, pairing nicely with various footwear and tops, and the range of color options is a bonus. While they did shrink a bit after washing and I noticed some slight pilling, I found these issues minor and easily remedied.
There are smartphones and tons of apps to help college students plan and stay organized. However, some people do much better when their plans are written out on paper. This planner is a great option. It doesn’t have dates inside, so your college student can customize it to begin and end whenever they want. This would be a fun present along with a really nice pen for writing in the new planner!
Community Review
I've been using this planner for several months now, and its ability to seamlessly blend the qualities of a journal and a planner has been a godsend in managing my hectic professional and academic life. The undated pages, monthly and weekly sections, and dedicated reflection page at the end of each month help me keep track of important events, clear my mind, and reflect on my progress, serving as an effective tool for personal development, goal setting, and habit building.
While it’s true that some of us may have gotten our first set of dishes by stealing them from the university dining hall, we certainly don’t advocate this or admit it out loud. This wheat straw dinnerware set is a much better option – cuter than the school dishes and without the side of larceny. The dishes are sturdy and eco-friendly, and the pastel color is perfect.
Individual Opinion
This set of camping cutlery and dishes has been a hit with my family. The pieces are sturdy and have survived multiple dishwasher cycles without any staining or damage. The plates have a prominent edge, making it easy for children to scoop food, and the cutlery handles a variety of foods well. While the set is excellent and highly practical, it's worth noting that the spoon might be a bit large for small children and the opaque cups can make it hard for kids to judge the amount of liquid inside.
Students can save plenty of their valuable money by making their own coffee rather than stopping at a cafe for their caffeine! This device makes the perfect cold brew coffee, and will likely save them a whole lot of money to boot. They can make up a batch in their room or the dorm kitchen to drink the next day, and they won’t taste the difference between that and store-bought.
First-Hand Impression
I've found this coffee maker to be an excellent addition to my daily routine, offering a rich, smooth, and less acidic brew that can be prepared in advance and enjoyed warmed up. However, it requires careful handling during cleaning to avoid leakage or misplacement of parts, and patience in the brewing process which can take anywhere from 12 to 36 hours for an optimal flavor profile.
If you’re looking for gifts for college students who are on the older end and getting ready for internships and job interviews, this leather tote bag is a great gift idea! It’s a simple, elegant brown leather bag that will fit a laptop, water bottle, tablet, make-up, and a variety of other essentials.
Personal Experience
Bought this bag and was instantly struck by its perfect size, beautiful brown leather, and great adjustable straps. The inside construction is great, featuring several pockets and a handy inner zippered pocket. However, I did notice a flaw with the bag's zipper if opened all the way, it's somewhat difficult to close, and the stitching on the outside pocket's zip started to unravel over time. Despite these minor issues, the bag's quality, color, and the fact that it stands on its own makes it a worthy purchase.
While they’re living in a dorm, there probably isn’t a need for a college student to own an entire toolset just yet. If the problem is big enough, either the front desk or maintenance department should be able to help. However, it’s useful to have some small tools for minor repairs. This Wallet Ninja has an eyeglass screwdriver, nail puller, box opener, screwdrivers, a can and bottle opener, and many more small tools.
Personal Insight
My experience with this wallet tool has been mostly positive. The eyeglass screwdriver is incredibly useful and the mirror has proven to be more handy than I initially thought it would be. However, I did encounter a slight issue with the nail file falling off, but a touch of super glue fixed that. The compact design fits perfectly into my phone wallet, and it's surprisingly versatile for its size. Despite minor flaws, I find this wallet tool to be well-made and quite handy.
The ladies don’t get all the sherpa fun! These hoodies are lined with deliciously comfy sherpa inside to keep him warm and comfortable during chilly morning classes or on cold winter days. The sweatshirt also comes in a variety of colors – it could be fun to find his college colors and grab one in that shade for him!
Community Review
When I first wore this sweatshirt, I was immediately impressed by its thickness and softness. The fit was nearly perfect, although as someone with long arms, I found the sleeves to be slightly short. This hoodie is ideal for cold weather, keeping me cozy even in temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit. However, I would recommend wearing an undershirt as the inner wool lining can be a bit uncomfortable after extended wear. Despite a minor amount of shrinkage after washing and drying, this sweatshirt has become a staple in my fall and winter wardrobe.
Since dorm desks are notoriously uncomfortable (and probably covered with papers), sometimes it’s nice to work on another surface. This bed desk has a storage drawer for pens or chargers. It’s big enough to fit a laptop and mouse, so students can get work done while sitting in bed. It also folds flat to store, which is a big deal when you have so little space.
Individual Opinion
As a rather large individual, I've found this lap desk to be the perfect size for my needs. Its width comfortably accommodates my laptop, and the table's adjustable tilt and fold features make it remarkably versatile. There's even a cleverly hidden drawer that's proven handy for storing small items like my reading glasses and highlighter. While it may not be the sturdiest piece of equipment, its functionality and convenience, especially during my recovery from back surgery, cannot be overstated.
This duffel bag is perfect for weekend trips home, to visit a friend, or to head on a road trip with some college buddies. It packs into a small, flat envelope, so it’s easy to store. When open, it can hold enough clothes for several days. It also has several pockets and a shoe compartment.
First-Hand Impression
Got this travel bag and it's surprisingly roomy, easily fitting several outfits, shoes, and toiletries, even when I overpack. Despite its thin material, the bag seems to endure well and I appreciate the extra pocket and multiple straps, though I'd advise against stuffing it with heavy items if you plan on carrying it for long periods.
This bedside caddy not only holds things that are useful just before bed, it provides extra storage space in a very small dorm room! The caddy will fit a laptop, magazines or books, a phone, a water bottle, charging cables, glasses, and more. It simply hooks on the end or head of the bed so that all those items are in easy reach.
Personal Experience
Definitely, this bedside caddy has been a neat solution for my storage woes. It effectively holds my glasses, reading materials, chargers, and even my iPad, keeping everything within easy reach and reducing clutter in my room. The only hiccup I had was that it didn't quite stay in place on my bed rails due to their depth, but it worked perfectly when I hung it near my bed and even better when I attached it under the cushions of my sectional sofa.
If you have a college student who’s constantly losing things, a Tile Mate may be the perfect gift! It attaches to their key ring, and they can track their keys with the accompanying app. If the keys are within Bluetooth range, they will actually make a noise – otherwise, the app will help your student track them down.
Personal Insight
My experience with this Tile Key Finder has been overwhelmingly positive, as it effectively keeps track of my routinely misplaced items like keys and wallet. Its compatibility with Life360 adds an extra layer of security, allowing me to trace my lost items, even when they're left behind in a friend's car. The only minor setback is the somewhat muted sound of the wallet card when ensconced in a trifold, but the convenience and peace of mind this gadget offers far outweigh that trivial issue.
College can be stressful! Fortunately, adult coloring books are an inexpensive but effective way to relax and fight stress. Your son or daughter can also indulge their creative side with a coloring book while they take a break from studying for a bit. This coloring book has a bunch of inspirational sayings to remind them that they’re up for all this work.
Community Review
For anyone who loves coloring, this book may be a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, the artist's designs are truly captivating, especially the motivational sayings and varied designs. However, the paper and ink quality left something to be desired. I tried a range of pens, markers, and pencils, but the paper seemed prone to rippling and the ink was prone to smearing, making layering and blending colors a challenge. Despite this, I found that using specific pencils like the Black Widow and avoiding excessive erasing or blending near the black ink can somewhat improve the coloring experience. Though it's not perfect, this coloring book has its own charm if you're willing to adapt to its quirks.
This utility cart is very useful in a dorm or first college apartment! It can be used to store snacks and food, books, art supplies, or various other items. It’s inexpensive and easy to assemble and disassemble. It also rolls, so it can be moved around easily.
Individual Opinion
I'm really pleased with this utility cart's sturdy build and ample storage space, which makes it a functional addition to any room in my house. From holding craft supplies, medical items, to even my tea selection and cookbooks, I've found this cart to be versatile and a great organizer. The metal mesh shelves are a nice touch, allowing everything to breathe and, although not as deep as some other carts I've seen, they're quite large and can comfortably accommodate a standard-sized magazine or even a clipboard.
Spotify is another service that college students will appreciate not having to pay for! Send along a gift card worth a few months of free service. They’ll be thrilled they can listen to their favorite bands, podcasts, and audiobooks without having to worry about the cost.
First-Hand Impression
I'm genuinely pleased with this Spotify premium code. It's super handy, providing instant access to premium features without the need to run to a physical store or wait for a card to arrive. From my years of using Spotify, this service has proven efficient, delivering the code to my email within minutes and making the redeeming process a breeze.
A new laptop isn’t a must for college…but it would certainly be appreciated! The newest Mac has the longest-running battery ever in a Mac, plus an M1 chip. It has an 8-core CPU for faster performance, including faster graphics for games (and, of course, they’ll only be using it for studying *wink*).
Personal Experience
From the moment I started using this MacBook Pro M1, I was blown away by its speed, sleek design, and battery life. Its space gray color, new keyboard, Touch Bar, and larger trackpad make it not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing. The standard model of 8gb of RAM with the 256 ssd is more than enough for everyday use, unless you're editing 8K UHD videos or a professional photographer. This MacBook Pro M1 is a powerful, versatile machine that has simplified my life, and I've enjoyed every moment spent on it.
They’ve taken a lot of challenging classes to get to this point, but one thing most teens miss is a good class on managing money! The Broke Millennial series helps teens and twentysomethings manage their money responsibly. When you consider that credit card companies gleefully push debt on vulnerable college kids, there’s no better time to give them a good foundation for finances than right now.
Personal Insight
This book, The Broke Millennial, truly resonated with me on a personal level. It tackles the real issues of personal finance, such as paying off debt and investing, with a down-to-earth approach that made me feel understood and not judged. While the occasional modern humor attempts fell flat for me, the practical advice and relatable scenarios made this book an incredible resource for me to navigate my financial journey.
Sometimes it’s hard to settle into a new place, but one thing that helps is comfy clothes and bedding! These socks are perfect for hitting the chilly floor first thing in the morning, or for wearing on cold nights. The plush socks don’t itch and come in several colors.
Community Review
When I slipped on these socks for the first time, I was immediately struck by their softness and warmth, truly a treat for my feet. I adored the pretty patterns and the cozy feeling they provided, making them an excellent choice for lounging around the house. However, I did notice a slight snagging issue with my well-manicured toenails, which I resolved by simply wearing the socks inside out. Despite this minor hiccup, these socks have held up well, maintaining their softness even after several washes, and have become a cherished part of my daily comfort.
They’ll have the dorm to hang out in or the apartment where everyone wants to be, with a projector! They can show movies on the side of a wall, or on the screen that’s included with the projector. They can also play video games or stream TV shows on the projector as well.
Individual Opinion
Got this TMY Projector and I was bowled over by its performance for such an affordable price. This projector shines with 9500 lumens, making it brighter than I expected and perfect for my night-time viewings. The image quality is surprisingly sharp and vivid, truly enhancing my family's movie nights. It's not just for watching films, the size of the projection is massive and impressive, giving a real 'wow' factor. I was pleasantly surprised by the decent sound quality from the internal speaker, though I plan to use external speakers for a fuller experience. While it has some minor focus imperfections and is not suited for daylight use, this projector is fantastic value for the money and has made our family movie nights a joy.
Water bottles make great gifts for college students, and this is one of the most popular brands! Make sure your student stays hydrated throughout the day, heading to classes and work and sports and anywhere else they have to be. This Hydro Flask is BPA-free and non-toxic and comes in a variety of colors so you can pick their favorite.
First-Hand Impression
If you're seeking a reliable, durable flask, this water bottle might be the one for you. I found it to be of high-quality, maintaining the temperature of my drinks effectively, whether it was piping hot tea or frigid cold water. Despite its slightly heavy build and the need to unscrew the lid, the slim design allows it to fit conveniently in my bag, and the robust color withstands drops and rough handling, making it an essential companion for my travels.
These gel pens are perfect for using in an adult coloring book when students need to unwind and take a break from studying! They’re also great for journaling, or lettering, or leaving nice notes for friends down the hall. The pens come in a zip-up carrying case and come with 60 refills.
Personal Experience
After coloring with this set of gel pens, I was impressed with the smooth ink flow and the beautiful, albeit slightly muted, metallic colors. The sturdy case and included refills, distinguished by number for easy matching, were welcome features, though the claim of 40% extra ink didn't quite hold up. Despite this minor pitfall, the wide variety of vibrant colors, including glitter, metallic, neon, and pastel, and the satisfactory performance on different paper types, made this gel pen set a pleasure to use.
Plants always cheer up a room and have health benefits for their owners as well! This quirky planter is a fun way to add humor and a unique vibe to a dorm room. You can add a cascading plant to mimic long hair or a spiky succulent for a different hairdo.
Personal Insight
Excellent little planter, this gift was a hit with everyone I gave it to because of its adorable design. Despite its petite size and plastic build, the planter was surprisingly well-constructed except for the base not being perfectly level. Though some might find the planter's look a bit quirky, I personally found its uniqueness and the playful vibe it added to my room quite charming.
Bikes are the transportation of choice on a lot of campuses. In fact, it’s often faster to get to class on a bike than by car, thanks to paths through campus. Unfortunately, because so many college students bike, it’s also a great target for bike thieves. Make sure your college student’s ride stays safe with this heavy-duty bike lock. It’s cutting-, leverage-, and drill-resistant so it’s hard to take off without the key. However, the bike lock is small enough to toss in a backpack when it’s not being used.
Community Review
I've found this bike lock to be an essential tool for campus life, providing the much-needed security for my bike. Its robust design, resistant to cutting, leverage, and drilling, has given me peace of mind that my bike is safe when unattended. Despite its heavy-duty nature, the lock is compact enough to easily fit in my backpack when not in use.
Everyone texts and Snapchats these days but there’s still something fun about leaving a friendly message or a goofy drawing on a friend’s whiteboard hanging on their dorm room door. Get a whiteboard for your student and they can leave notes, write messages for roommates, and use it for lots of other useful tasks.
Individual Opinion
Great dry erase board for my weekly menu and personal memos! This board came with a vibrant assortment of marker colors, which I found delightful. Initially, the magnets gave me a bit of trouble, but once I repositioned the board on my fridge, it stayed put. Just a heads up, the markers that come with the board tend to run out quickly, so you might consider investing in some extra, perhaps some Expos markers which are longer lasting and have built-in erasers. On a lighter note, this board has unexpectedly turned into a communication board between my husband and me, bringing little surprises and "I love you" messages in our daily routine.
A Bluetooth speaker is a great addition to a dorm room or apartment! Students can use it for studying or to play music while having a few friends over or for any other mood they’re in. They can also bring the speaker along to the park or beach for an afternoon. This one is waterproof, and you can pair two speakers for more volume.
First-Hand Impression
My experience with this little speaker was overall pleasing. The sound quality outperformed my expectations, even producing surprising bass for its small size. My only gripe was the overly loud speaker voice when turning it on and the initial confusion with file formats - it only recognizes MP3, not MP4. Despite these minor hitches, it's a sturdy, compact device with impressive battery life, perfect for poolside playlists and casual use.
A microwave is a hugely helpful device for a dorm room! Students can heat up a nighttime cup of tea or reheat leftovers to save on an extra meal. And, of course, it’s perfect for that college staple – ramen! This microwave is compact, has several settings, including a reheat function, and is perfect for a small room.
Personal Experience
My experience with this microwave has been quite satisfactory. It's compact and doesn't claim too much of my counter space, which is a plus. The interface is user-friendly and the door handle, as opposed to a push-button system, adds a nice touch. One feature I appreciate is the instant 30-second heating option with just a tap of the start button, perfect for quick reheats. I do wish it had an option for Eco mode to be the default setting and a more precise time selection. Despite being a tad slower than larger microwaves, it gets the job done without being a space hog.
We want our college students to be healthy, of course. But sometimes it’s nice to get a special treat! This gift basket includes a variety of chocolates – chocolate pretzels, nut clusters, truffles, and more. They’re great for indulging a sweet tooth and for students to share with a roommate or other friends.
Personal Insight
For a chocolate aficionado like my husband, this chocolate assortment was a delightful surprise. The variety and quality of the chocolates were commendable, and the reusable tin adds a charming touch. However, our experience was slightly marred as the tin was dented upon arrival, detracting from the overall presentation. Regardless, the chocolates themselves were lauded as "super yummy", making this assortment a repeat purchase for us.
This organizer is perfect for organizing personal items that your student needs every day! It has a spot for a phone, watch, glasses, keys, coins, and everything else we all seem to need each day. Designating one spot in the room for these items means they are less likely to lose track of those important items when they need them.
Community Review
I'm appreciative of the size and shape of this organizer, although I've noticed the wood on top appears a bit cheap and susceptible to damage. The design, especially the watch hang, is elegant and simple, but I believe the quality of the product does not completely justify the cost. The rubber bottom makes it quite easy to clean and it's proved efficient in holding all my desk knick-knacks. While it didn't blend well with some other items on my desk, it's been a practical solution for neatly storing watches in our entryway.
A record player is a fun and festive addition to any room! This one is especially suited because it closes like a suitcase, making it easy to bring back and forth to school and protecting the player when it’s not in use. Choose from a variety of fun colors, and maybe grab a few records from a thrift store to go with it! This makes the perfect Christmas gift for college students to bring back after winter break.
Individual Opinion
Definitely, this record player has made my vinyl music experience enjoyable. It's super light and easy to transport, plus the Bluetooth OUT feature allowing me to connect to my Bose micros in stereo mode is just amazing, even though I wish it had a battery option. The sound it produces is decent, and adjusting the speed helps optimize the sound quality, but it would be perfect if it came with more playing needles.
One fun, inexpensive gift idea for a freshman going away to school for the first time would be a basket of products like shampoo, soap, face wash, and sunscreen – things they’re used to their parents providing that now they’re going to have to remember to buy themselves. This sunscreen is specially formulated for sensitive, acne-prone skin and will protect their face while they’re at football games, sports practice, or just out in the sun headed to and from class.
First-Hand Impression
This sunscreen, specifically designed for sensitive, acne-prone skin, is an enjoyable and affordable gift for a freshman heading off to college. The unique formulation ensures protection during outdoor activities like attending football matches, sports practice, or simply walking to and from class. I found that it effortlessly substituted the skincare products my parents used to provide, now that I had to remember purchasing them myself. I've experienced no negative reactions, and it indeed serves to safeguard my face while I’m out in the sun.
This sleek black backpack is a step above the canvas packs with lots of straps that many students use. It has space for a laptop, plus two main compartments for books, binders, and other school items. A USB port makes charging phones easy, mesh side pockets for water bottles, and pen pockets to keep things organized.
Personal Experience
This Monsdle Travel Laptop Backpack has proven itself to be a reliable companion on my travels, offering security and convenience in equal measure. The anti-theft design, complete with hidden zippers and a main compartment nestled against my back, provided an added layer of security that kept my belongings safe. I found the built-in USB charging port to be incredibly useful, allowing me to keep my devices powered up during my journeys. Despite a few minor issues such as the inability to cram too many items in, and a persistent "factory seam", these backpacks durability, ample storage, and comfortable design make it a worthwhile investment.
YETI is one of the best brands when it comes to drink insulation! This coffee cup is perfect for bringing hot drinks to class or wherever else your student is headed. The Magslider lid keeps the cup closed so the drink won’t slosh, and it fits standard cup holders so it can go in a car or on a bike. It also comes in a variety of fun colors.
Personal Insight
My experience with this tumbler was impressive, especially when I found my iced drink still cold with ice cubes intact the next morning, even during summer. However, be mindful as the lid tends to leak a bit when it's filled to the brim and angled, but otherwise, it does a commendable job at keeping beverages hot or cold for extended periods.
These sheet masks are a lovely way for your student to take 10 minutes to themselves for a little pampering. They’re also a fun idea for a dorm night with roommates and friends – everyone can do a mask! This set comes with 24 masks that have green tea, cucumber, collagen, vitamins, and other ingredients that are good for the skin.
Community Review
When I started using these masks, I immediately noticed the soothing hydration they provided to my skin. Despite having a demanding job in a kitchen, these masks replenished the moisture in my skin, reducing splotchiness and fine lines which made me look more refreshed. The variety and affordability of these masks also impressed me because each type caters to different skin needs without causing irritation.
This mug is more understated than a lot of college gear, but is a fun way to show school pride! Pick a mug with your student’s college on it, and it comes with watercolor-inspired illustrations of mascots, school buildings, and other items from college life on campus.
The earlier students and adults can form good habits and make them stick, the better! This book shares strategies to form good habits, break bad ones, and keep them up over time. The author focuses on small tweaks and behaviors that add up to awesome results.
First-Hand Impression
Best read for those seeking a comprehensive guide on habit formation. This book provides a thorough understanding of how habits work, underpinned by relatable examples and scientific studies. Having implemented the author's system myself, I can attest to its efficiency and the positive changes it brought to my daily routine.
AirPods make a great college student gift for just about anyone! The fit is comfortable, the AirPods sync up easily with Apple devices, and the sound quality is excellent. The AirPods work for more than 24 hours on one charge, and they’re easy to toss in a backpack or bag to bring wherever your student is headed.
Personal Experience
I initially found the concept of AirPods odd, but they've proven their worth for me over the past month. Their compact size, decent battery life, and instant connection across my devices make them a convenient option, particularly when compared to my hefty over-ear headphones. Despite struggling with the fit at first, they've become comfortable and provide surprisingly balanced sound quality, even if they don't match the bass of other brands or offer noise cancellation.
Shower caddies are one of the many things freshmen need to have to be ready for life in the dorms! This would be a fun present to pair with a set of bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths. The mesh caddy lets water through in the shower and dries quickly. It also has a key hook for a dorm room key, plus plenty of room for toiletries, hairbrushes, and other essentials.
Personal Insight
My experience with this bag has been pretty positive; it's surprisingly sturdy for a mesh material and offers ample space. This bag has been a fantastic organizer for everything from craft supplies, hair products to gardening tools. For my children's hair accessories, it's been a great help in keeping things tidy. I also found it to be a fabulous dormitory companion, standing up to the weight of my body wash, hair products, and skincare. It's even worked out well for my pool workouts, holding my microfiber towels, goggles, cap, and personal belongings conveniently.
Now that they’re no longer living at home, it’s possible a college student might really appreciate a Netflix subscription for their dorm or apartment! It’s one less expense to worry about. It also means they can have friends hang out for movie night or to watch the latest Netflix series together and take a study break for a bit.
Community Review
I recently invested in this Netflix gift card and I must say, it's been a liberating experience knowing my entertainment bill is taken care of for a few months. It's an easy and safe method to credit my Netflix account, with the added bonus of immediate usability post-purchase. I also appreciated the digital format, it's so convenient and exactly what I expected. It's a relief to have the balance taken from the gift card instead of directly from my bank account. Plus, when I gifted one to my sister, she received it in her inbox within minutes, which was a nice touch.
Sheets are one of the many new things college students need for their dorms! These Mellanni sheets come in a wide variety of patterns and colors, so you should be able to match just about any decor. They’re inexpensive, but very good quality for the price. In fact, it would be useful to gift two sets for when one needs to be washed.
Individual Opinion
My experience with these sheets over the past six months has been quite pleasant. Their thin, lightweight material not only saves space in the laundry, but also allows for easy air-drying. Despite their soft, silky feel, I did notice that they tend to hold onto oil stains, so be cautious if you use body oils or enjoy midnight snacks in bed. However, the sheets have held up well with no shrinking or seam splitting, retaining their vibrancy and easily fitting back onto the bed after each wash.
These headphones are great for popping on to listen to calming music and drown out background noise while studying! They’d also be great for listening while on a bus or train to school or for longer airplane travel. They have 40 hours of battery life and excellent sound quality.
First-Hand Impression
Got these Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones recently and they're a treat for the ears. The sound quality is top-notch, the Apple W1 chip provides smooth Bluetooth connectivity, and the battery life is absolutely stellar, running a full 40 hours. However, I did encounter an issue with the right ear cup not working on Bluetooth, but it's fine when I use the audio cable. Also, they're a bit tight on my head, but after stretching them over a saucepan for a couple of hours, the fit improved significantly.
These bright little cameras are a whole lot of fun to bring to band, theater, or sports practice. They’re also great for goofy pictures hanging out in the dorms, or for parties and other events. Students can take selfies or group photos, then accessories with frames, stickers, and other fun add-ons.
A soft, comfy throw is a quick way to make a new room feel like home. This sherpa throw is super soft and comes in a variety of colors. It’s perfect for snuggling up in to study or to bring along to a park or beach on a picnic.
Personal Insight
I initially found the color of this blanket to be a bit redder than anticipated, clashing slightly with my orange items, although the quality and value were undeniable. This blanket felt a bit small for my liking, leading me to suggest potential buyers to consider a size larger. It gave a soft, pleasant touch, despite being slightly heavier due to its larger size. The Sherpa side was cream, not white, and was not as thick as some other Sherpa blankets I own, but still provided ample warmth. When I first washed and dried it, I noticed how well it held up, coming out perfectly fluffy. Lastly, this blanket has proven to be a delightfully soft and warm, excellent for personal use or as a thoughtful gift.
Make sure college kids continue a healthy skin care routine once they’ve gone away to school with this cleanser. It’s gentle on skin and is hydrating for dry skin. It’s especially great for winter! It’s also oil- and fragrance-free, and is inexpensive enough that if they like it and they run out, they can likely afford to replace it themselves.
Community Review
For those with sensitive skin, this La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser has been a true revelation. Its gentle, fragrance-free formula leaves my skin feeling nourished and refreshed, without any feeling of tightness or dryness. Unlike many cleansers, it effectively eliminates impurities without stripping my skin of its natural moisture. I've also noticed a significant improvement in my skin's overall appearance since I started using this product. Despite its creamy consistency, it doesn't leave any residue, making it ideal for both morning and evening use. It's worth noting that it may not be strong enough to remove heavy makeup or sunscreen, so using it as a second cleanser after an oil-based product could be a great solution.
There are plenty of times an extra-long charging cable could come in handy. If your teen likes to study in the library or at a coffee shop, it’s possible they’ll need a longer cord to reach an outlet. Even in their own room, the outlets may require longer cords. This cable stretches 10 feet and is extra-strong so it won’t break easily. It comes in several colors so you can get one that won’t easily be confused with a friend’s.
Individual Opinion
In my experience, these Native Union cables have proven to be sturdy and reliable. Despite having to replace previous ones due to some issues, this cable has consistently provided good performance and durability. Though it might come across as pricey, the quality justifies the cost, making it a worthwhile purchase.
This lamp does double-duty as a wireless charger for phones and has a USB charging port as well. It has 5 levels of brightness and 5 lighting modes for different tasks. It also has a timer so it can be set to turn off at bedtime.
First-Hand Impression
Got this AFROG LED Desk Lamp and it's a versatile addition to my workspace. I appreciate the multiple lighting modes and brightness levels, as well as the added convenience of a built-in USB and wireless charger. Despite a few quirks like occasional issues with the auto-off timer and the charger that needs some positioning to work, overall, it's a functional and stylish lighting solution.
There are lots of good gifts for someone going to college! If you’re looking for something to send during the school year to brighten their day, a care package with snacks, homemade treats, or something fun like face masks they can share with roommates are all good ideas.
If you’re looking for a good gift for someone who just graduated and is heading to college, a t-shirt, mug, or sweatshirt from the university where they’re headed is a good idea.
What to Get the College Kid Who Has Everything?
Consumables like snacks, luxury spa products, or a Starbucks or other food gift cards are always appreciated by college kids! You could also get them a gift card to somewhere like Target or Amazon – chances are, they’ll need something during the school year and it will be a relief not to have to spend their money on it.
You could also get a college kid something sentimental, like a framed photo of friends or family – or a string of twinkle lights with space for several pictures they can hang up.
What Do First Year College Students Need?
It feels like first year college students need everything! They need gear for school itself – a good backpack and laptop, pens, binders, paper, and headphones. They may need a few new clothes, depending on the state of their wardrobe. If they’re going away to school, they’ll also need all the dorm or apartment necessities – towels, soap, shampoo and toiletries, sheets, dishes and silverware, and other items to set up a home away from home.
Laura Falin is a freelance writer from Colorado. She worked in TV news for more than ten years, and since then has written for publications and websites including BabyCenter, Colorado Parent Magazine, and Denver Parent. She loves being outdoors and reading.