Buying gifts for college students can be tricky. Don't kid yourself - the last thing they want is a new pair of galaxy-print leggings. What they need are presents they'll actually use while living on campus and beyond!
But finding gifts that aren't just practical, but also thoughtful and meaningful to them is no easy task.
That's where this article comes in handy! We are here to help you track down clever and useful gifts for the college student in your life that won't end up gathering dust in the back of their dorm closet.
Our list of thoughtful gifts for college students will ensure your recipient will love what you give them.
Practical Gifts That College Students Will Love
College students are always in need of practical gifts that will help them through the course of their studies. Luckily, there are plenty of great options for practical gifts that college students will love!
Here’s a look at some practical gift ideas for the college student in your life.
1. Desk lamp
Desk lamps are a must-have for any college student.
Whether they're studying late into the night or need some extra light for their laptop, a good desk lamp is essential for staying productive in their dorm room. Plus, there are so many cute and stylish options to choose from!
Look for one with adjustable brightness settings and built-in USB ports to make sure your favorite college student can remain powered up throughout the day.
2. Electric kettle
An electric kettle is another practical gift that college students will love!
It's perfect for boiling water quickly and easily, which comes in handy when they need a hot cup of tea or coffee to get them through those long study sessions. Plus, some electric kettles even come with adjustable temperature settings so they can make the perfect cup of tea every time.
With an electric kettle, your college student will never have to wait too long for their hot beverage fix!
3. Shower caddy
Having a shower caddy is essential for college life!
It makes carrying everything from shampoo to conditioner to body wash and razor blades much easier, saving your college student from having to make multiple trips back and forth between their dorm and the bathroom.
Plus, most shower caddies come with multiple compartments and pockets, so organizing their bath products will be a breeze.
Look for one that's lightweight and waterproof so they can easily carry it from place to place without worrying about it getting wet or damaged.
4. Water bottle
A water bottle is an absolute must-have for college students, whether they're staying on campus or commuting to class.
Having a reusable water bottle makes it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day and cuts down on waste from disposable plastic bottles. Plus, many come with built-in filters so your college student can fill up anywhere with clean, great-tasting water!
Look for one that's lightweight and BPA-free for optimal portability and safety. If you want to make it extra special, look for one with their favorite color or pattern to match their style!
5. Insulated lunch bag
We all know how hard it can be to make a delicious and healthy lunch while you’re in college.
With an insulated lunch bag, your college student won't have to worry about running out of time - they can easily grab their lunch on the go and keep it fresh until they're ready to eat.
Plus, many come with extra compartments and pockets, so they'll be able to fit everything from snacks to drinks without taking up too much space.
Look for one that's lightweight yet durable enough to withstand the rigors of daily use. With an insulated lunch bag, your college student can enjoy a good meal wherever and whenever!
6. Planner or journal
Having a planner or journal is essential for college students, especially when it comes to staying organized and on top of their studies.
Not only will it help them keep track of assignments, exams, and due dates, but it can also be a great way to jot down notes during lectures or seminars.
Plus, planners and journals come in cute designs and colors to fit your college student's style! Look for one with plenty of pages and pockets so they can store all the loose papers that seem to accumulate during the semester.
They'll love having a place to keep all their notes tidy and organized, making studying and writing papers much easier. And don't forget to add a pen or two to complete their gift!
7. Laundry hampers
Living in a dorm can be hard, especially when it comes to laundry. Let's face it, carrying all those clothes and towels back and forth from the laundry room can be a drag!
That's why a laundry hamper is such an essential item for college students. It makes it much easier to carry all their dirty clothes in one trip and keeps everything organized until they're ready to do their washing.
Look for one that is lightweight yet durable enough to carry heavy loads of laundry without breaking or tearing. And don't forget to pick up some matching bins and baskets so your college student can keep their clean clothes organized as well! With a good laundry hamper, doing laundry will be a breeze.
8. Flash drive
Another great college student gift is a flash drive! College can involve a lot of writing papers and presentations, which means your college student will need a reliable way to store all their files and documents.
A flash drive is perfect for this, as it's small enough to fit in their pocket or backpack, yet large enough to store plenty of data without taking up too much space.
Look for one that's durable enough to withstand daily use and has plenty of storage capacity so your college student can keep all their important documents in one place. With a good flash drive, they'll never have to worry about losing their work again!
9. Alarm clock
Staying up late studying can be hard, especially when it comes to getting up early for classes the next morning. That's why an alarm clock is a must-have item for every college student!
With an alarm clock, they'll be able to set a wake-up time and get out of bed on time without any issues. Plus, most come with a snooze button so they can grab some extra rest if needed.
Look for one that has multiple alarms so your favorite college student can set reminders throughout the day - like when their lunch break is or when they need to start studying for their next exam.
With an alarm clock, they'll be able to get out of bed on time and make the most of their college experience!
10. Gym bag
Staying healthy is important in college, and having a good gym bag is essential for any fitness routine. With a reliable gym bag, your college student can easily bring their workout clothes, towel, and water bottle to the gym without any hassle.
Look for one that's lightweight yet durable enough to hold all their gear without tearing or breaking. And don't forget to pick up some extra accessories like a yoga mat or jump rope so they can stay fit and active!
With a good gym bag, your college student can get into shape and stay healthy throughout the semester!
While practical gifts are always appreciated by college students, sometimes it's the thought and effort put into a gift that makes it truly special. Personalized gifts are a great way to show your care and appreciation for the college student in your life. In the next section, we will explore some personalized gift options that will show them you care.
Personalized Gifts for College Students That Show You Care
Are you looking for a personalized gift to show your college student that you care? College can be an overwhelming and stressful experience, so it’s important to show your support and let them know you are there for them.
There are many different ways you can give personalized gifts that will make their college experience special.
Here are some gift ideas that can easily be customized:
1. Personalized photo album
A personalized photo album is a great way to show your college student how much you care. Photos are a great way to capture memories, and having all those special moments in one place can be meaningful for your college student.
You can easily customize the album with photos of your college student’s families, friends, and other important people in their life. You can also add captions or quotes that will make the album even more personal.
Your college student will be able to look back on these photos when they’re feeling homesick or need some motivation during tough times. And it’s a great reminder that even though they’re away from home, they’re still surrounded by love and support.
2. Engraved jewelry
Jewelry is a timeless and classic gift that can be personalized to make your college student feel extra special.
Engraved jewelry is a great way to show them you care, as it’s not only meaningful but also serves as a reminder of your love and support.
Whether it’s a necklace, bracelet, or ring, you can have it engraved with words or symbols that are special to your college student. You can choose from their favorite quotes, mantras, or even an inside joke – the possibilities are endless!
With engraved jewelry, they’ll never forget how much you care about them while they’re away.
3. Customized stationery
Stationery is a fun and useful gift for any college student, and you can easily customize it to make it even more special. From personalized notepads to monogrammed notebooks, there are lots of options to choose from.
You can also personalize their stationery with their name, initials, or favorite quote. With customized stationery, your college student will always be thinking of you when they’re writing down notes or studying for exams.
These are just a few of the many personalized gifts that you can give your college student to show them how much you care. No matter which one you choose, your college student will be sure to appreciate the thought and effort you put into it.
4. Customized phone case
A customized phone case is a great way to show your college student how much you care. There are so many different options out there, and you can easily customize it to make it extra special.
Whether they want a funky pattern or a cool quote, there’s a phone case out there that will fit their style perfectly. Customized phone cases are also great because they protect from everyday wear and tear.
With personalized protection, your college student can keep their phone safe from any bumps and scratches while on the go. And if you want to make an impression, you can even get a customized case with your college student’s name engraved on it.
5. Personalized coffee mug
A personalized coffee mug is a great way to show your college student that you care. Whether they’re studying late at night or going on road trips with friends, a custom-made coffee mug will keep them going all day long.
You can easily customize the mug with your college student’s name, initials, or even their favorite quote. They’ll love having something personalized and special just for them! You can even add a few extra touches such as their school colors or an inside joke to make it extra special.
Coffee mugs are also great because they’re affordable, practical, and they last a long time. Your college student will be thinking of you every time they take a sip of their coffee.
6. Monogrammed backpack
A monogrammed backpack is a great way to show your college student that you care. Not only is it practical, but it can also be personalized with their initials or favorite quote. This will make them stand out from the crowd and show everyone that they’re unique!
Backpacks are also incredibly useful for college students. They can carry all of their textbooks, laptop, and other supplies in one place. And a personalized bag will give them even more pride when they’re walking around campus.
Monogrammed backpacks come in a range of sizes and styles, so you can easily find one that fits your college student’s personality and needs.
7. Personalized keychain
Keychains are a great way to show your college student that you care. They’re small and practical, and they’re easy to carry around. Plus, you can customize it with their initials or favorite quotes to make it extra special.
This way, your college student will always have a little part of their home on them wherever they go. Keychains come in all shapes and sizes, so finding one that s perfect for your college student will be no problem. From sports teams to popular characters, there are plenty of options out there!
Plus, keychains are affordable and easy to find at most stores or online shops. No matter what you choose for your college student, they’re sure to love the thoughtfulness behind it.
8. Customized poster
Poster prints are a great way to show your college student how much you care. Whether they’re looking for something to hang up in their dorm room or a piece of art they can take with them wherever they go, a personalized poster is sure to make an impression.
You can easily customize the poster with your college student’s name, initials, or even their favorite quote. This way, every time they look at it, they’ll be reminded of how much you care about them.
So, if you’re looking for a thoughtful and unique gift for your college student, consider getting them a personalized poster! They’ll be sure to love it.
9. Personalized calendar
A personalized calendar is a great way to show your college student that you care. Not only is it practical, but it can also be customized with their initials or favorite quote. This way, they’ll always have something to look forward to!
Plus, calendars are incredibly useful for college students. They can keep track of their exams, classes, and other important dates all in one place. And a personalized calendar will give them even more pride when they’re hanging up in their dorm room.
You can easily find calendars in any size, shape, and style online or at local stores. So no matter what you choose for your college student, they’re sure to love the thoughtfulness behind it.
10. Engraved watch
An engraved watch is a great way to show your college student that you care. Not only is it practical, but it can also be personalized with their initials or favorite quote. This way, they’ll always have something special just for them!
Plus, watches come in a range of styles and sizes, so you can easily find one that fits your college student’s personality and needs. From classic leather bands to digital sports watches, there are plenty of options out there.
So if you’re looking for a thoughtful and unique gift for your college student, consider getting them an engraved watch! They’ll be sure to love it.
Personalized gifts can create a lasting impression on college students, but they will also benefit from practical gifts that help them stay organized during their busy academic schedules. Let's take a look at some great options for gifts that help college students stay organized in the next section.
Gifts to Help College Students Stay Organized
College students have a lot to keep track of. From studying, to classes, to exams, it can be hard to stay organized. But with the right tools, college students can stay organized and tackle the semester ahead.
Here are some great gift ideas that are sure to help any college student stay on top of their work.
1. Desk organizer
A desk organizer is a great gift for any college student. Not only are they practical, but they can also help keep their workspace neat and organized.
Whether it’s a classic wooden one or a modern acrylic option, you can easily find a desk organizer that fits your college student’s style.
From small trays to big boxes, there are plenty of options out there. So no matter what you choose for your college student, they’re sure to love the thoughtfulness behind it.
Plus, desk organizers make great college graduation gifts too!
2. Planner or agenda
A planner or agenda is a great gift for any college student! Not only are they practical, but they can also help keep their days organized.
Whether it’s a classic paper planner or an electronic version, you can easily find one that fits your college student’s needs. Plus, planners come in all shapes and sizes.
From small pocket-sized ones to large desk agendas, there are plenty of options out there.
3. Sticky notes and flags
Sticky notes and flags are other great gifts for any college student! Not only are they practical, but they can also help keep their study materials organized.
From colorful sticky notes to fun patterned flags, there are plenty of options out there. And these products come in all shapes and sizes—from small pocket-sized ones to large desk sets.
Plus, sticky notes and flags make a great addition to any college student’s workstation. They’re perfect for jotting down quick reminders and ideas.
So if you’re looking for a thoughtful and unique gift for your college student, consider getting them sticky notes and flags! They’ll be sure to love it.
4. File folders
File folders are another great gift for college students! Not only are they practical, but they can also help keep their study materials organized. Plus, you can easily find file folders in all shapes and sizes—from small pocket-sized ones to large desk sets.
If your college student is always on the go, consider getting them some of those cute mini file folders that can easily fit in a backpack or purse! They’re perfect for carrying around important documents and notes.
For those who prefer a more classic look, there are plenty of options out there. From wooden file boxes to metal filing cabinets, you can easily find one that fits your college student’s style.
5. Over-the-door hooks or shoe organizer
Over-the-door hooks and shoe organizers are great gift ideas for college students!
They are practical and can help maintain an organized living space. They also come in a range of sizes, from small pocket-sized ones to larger over-the-door sets.
These products are perfect for hanging jackets, coats, bags, scarves, hats, towels, and more. They’re also great for organizing shoes or other items that might take up too much space in a closet.
Speaking of gifts that can help college students stay organized, tech gadgets can be a game-changer. From noise-canceling headphones to portable chargers, let's explore some of the top tech gifts for college students in the next section.
Tech Gifts for College Students
College students are tech-savvy and always looking for the latest gadgets to aid in their studies. So, this holiday season, why not get them something that could help make their lives easier?
Before going on a shopping spree, here are some of the best tech gifts for college students that you should consider getting:
1. Noise-canceling headphones
Noise-canceling headphones are a great gift for any college student, especially if they’re studying in a noisy environment.
Not only do they provide excellent sound quality and touch control, but they also provide noise isolation and allow your college student to focus on their studies without being distracted by external noises. And because of the advanced technology, some noise-canceling headphones can even block out loud conversations!
Plus, there are plenty of options out there. From wireless Bluetooth headphones to wired over-ear models, you can easily find one that fits your college student’s needs.
You can also opt for a Bluetooth Speaker & Lantern if they already have headphones.
2. Smartwatch
Smartwatches are great gifts for college students who are always on the go! Not only do they provide basic features such as timekeeping, but they can also track fitness goals, manage notifications, and even answer calls and texts.
Plus, there are plenty of options out there. From stylish analog models to full-featured touchscreen ones, you can easily find one that fits your college student’s style.
What’s more, some smartwatches can even be customized with different watch faces or bands for a personalized look.
3. Wi-Fi extender
If your college student is always suffering from spotty Wi-Fi coverage, then a Wi-Fi extender could be the perfect gift!
It helps expand their network coverage and provides an improved connection to their devices. Plus, they come in all shapes and sizes—from pocket-sized ones to larger wall plug models.
It’s also easy to set up and use. And with fast speeds and reliable connections, your college student can stay connected no matter where they are!
So if you’re looking for a tech gift that your college student can use, then this is it.
4. Wireless keyboard and mouse
For college students who need to work on their laptop or desktop computer, a wireless keyboard and mouse are must-haves.
Not only are they convenient and easy to use, but they can also help make studying more comfortable. Plus, most of them come with a range of features such as backlighting, adjustable DPI settings, and even programmable buttons.
If you’re looking for an ergonomic option that supports your college student’s posture, then you should consider getting them a split keyboard design. These keyboards are designed to reduce strain on the wrists and fingers.
5. USB charging port
USB ports are incredibly useful for college students, and they’re also a fun and thoughtful gift to give. With a USB port, your college student can easily transfer data between devices or charge their phone on the go.
Plus, you can find USB ports in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors – so you can easily find one that fits your college student’s style. They’ll love having something that is both practical and stylish at the same time!
USB ports are also very affordable, so you can get your college student something special without breaking the bank.
These are just a few of the best tech holiday gifts for college students this season. Now that we have explored some of the best tech gadgets student love, let's now look at some self-care gifts any college kid would appreciate.
Self-Care Gifts for Stressed-Out College Students
Going off to college can be an exciting and overwhelming experience for many students. The transition to living away from home, managing classes and a part-time job, and making friends can take its toll on any student's mental health.
That’s why it’s important to make sure your college student is taking care of themselves during this tough time.
Self-care gifts are a thoughtful way of letting them know you care about them. Here are some ideas:
1. Personal massager
A personal massager is a great gift for college students who are feeling stressed out and overwhelmed.
Not only will it help them relax their muscles, but a massage can also reduce stress and anxiety levels. Plus, there are plenty of options available, from handheld massage gun models to ones with different massage heads or adjustable speeds.
With so many options, you can easily find one that fits your college student’s needs!
2. Aromatherapy or essential oil diffuser
Aromatherapy or essential oil diffusers are a great way for your college student to relax and unwind.
Essential oils can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, as well as promote better sleep and focus. Plus, there are plenty of diffusers available that come in different sizes, shapes, and colors – so you can find one that fits your college student’s style!
They also make great night lights, adding a bit of ambiance to their dorm decor. So if you’re looking for a thoughtful self-care gift for your college student, an aromatherapy or essential oil diffuser is a great choice. You can even include an air purifier to make it even better.
3. Sleep mask
Sleep masks are a great gift for college students who have trouble sleeping due to the bright lights of their campus apartment or late-night studying.
Not only will it help them get a good night's rest, but it’ll also make them feel like they’re in a cozy cocoon of calmness and relaxation.
Plus, sleep masks come in all sorts of styles, colors, and designs – so you can easily find one that fits your college student’s style. From fuzzy fur to sleek and modern designs, there’s something for everyone!
4. Yoga mat
Yoga mats are a great gift for college students who want to stay active and reduce stress. Having a yoga mat can provide convenience for home yoga practices as well as provide an additional layer of cushion when carrying out floor exercises or stretching.
Plus, there are tons of designs and colors to choose from, so you can easily find one that fits your college student’s style.
And if you want something more durable and comfortable, consider getting them a high-end yoga mat made with premium materials! Yoga mats are an excellent way to show your college student how much you care.
5. Bathrobe and slippers
After a long day of classes or studying, there’s nothing quite like slipping into a cozy bathrobe and slippers. That’s why they make the perfect gift for college students who need a bit of pampering.
You can easily find plenty of options that come in all sorts of styles, colors, and sizes – so you can find one that fits your college student’s style perfectly. From plush robes to lightweight materials, there’s something for everyone!
Plus, you can find matching slippers to make the perfect set. So if you’re looking for a thoughtful self-care gift for your college student, bathrobes and slippers make a great choice!
6. College care packages
When you’re trying to show your college student how much you care, there’s nothing quite like a college care package! A college care package gift can include all sorts of items, from snacks and drinks to school supplies and even small gifts.
It’s a great way to let your college student know they’re in your thoughts and that you care about them even when they’re away from home.
You can easily find a pre-made care package for college student online or create one yourself with items that your college student would love.
Now, that we have shown you the most thoughtful and practical gifts for college students, we will answer some questions you might have about this topic in the next section.
Frequently Asked Questions
As the holiday's approach, it can be difficult to choose gifts for college students.
Whether it’s your children, nieces, and nephews, or friends’ kids, college students have unique needs that are often hard to fulfill when it comes to gifts.
Here are some frequently asked questions about gifts for college students:
Do gift cards make good gifts for college students?
Yes, gift cards can make great gifts for college students. Gift cards can be used to purchase items they may need for classes or even just for fun. Plus, you can get them in different amounts and for different stores, so you can find one that fits your budget and your college student’s needs.
You can get your recipient an Amazon Gift Card, a Visa Gift Card, or even a gift card to their favorite store.
How can you personalize a gift for a college student to make it more meaningful?
Personalizing a gift for a college student is all about finding thoughtful and creative ways to show you care about them. Here are some ideas for personalizing a gift:
- Include something that commemorates an important milestone in their college career, such as the date they moved into their dorm or graduated from high school.
- Pick something that reflects their interests – like custom illustrations of their city’s skyline or favorite things in a fun frame.
- Buy something that will help them make memories and capture moments on campus – like a digital camera or a scrapbooking kit with stickers, photos, and memorable mementos.
- Put together a survival kit with useful items they can use every day – like an energy drink, snacks, notebook, and pen - inside of a customized bag.
- Create something unique just for them - knit them an item of clothing or pick up supplies to make jewelry.
No matter what gifts you purchase for your college student, they'll appreciate your thoughtfulness and effort when you put in the extra work to personalize it!
As a teacher, am I obligated to give my students graduation gifts?
No, as a teacher you are not obligated to give your students graduation gifts. However, it is certainly appreciated if you do choose to do so. Teachers generally know their students better than anyone else and how meaningful a gift or gesture of appreciation can be.
If you decide to get your students a gift, consider their unique interests and talents. For example, if one student loves photography and excels in music, they would likely appreciate an inspirational book or gadget related to those topics more than generic graduation trinkets.
No matter what type of gift you choose, the real gift will be the kind words and memories that accompany it - lots of luck with your college career! That's something that no item could ever replace.
What are good Christmas gifts for college students?
Some popular choices for good Christmas gifts for college students include practical gifts like coffee makers or microwaves; books and music; clothing and accessories; desk organizers, planners, and notebooks; tech gadgets like tablets and headphones; dorm decorations; and gift certificates they can use to buy the things they need.
If you’re looking for something meaningful, try personalizing your gift with artwork, photos, or motivational quotes on it. Besides physical items, you can also give experiences like movie tickets to watch their favorite movies or tickets to concerts they love attending.
No matter what gift you choose, your thoughtfulness will be appreciated!
Conclusion
When preparing thoughtful gifts for college students, it is important to focus on items that will be of use to them.
Consider the student's interests and lifestyle when making your selection so that they are sure to value and appreciate it.
Whichever gift you choose, take time to think through the decision and make sure that it fits the student's personality, lifestyle, and interests. This will ensure that your gift is both memorable and useful!
