The 70 Best College Gifts for Students

Many college dorms don't have a TV, and watching movies on a laptop isn't the most ideal option. This mini projector lets them transform their movie nights or binge-watching sessions into an enjoyable experience. Pair it with some popcorn and their favorite movie treats for the ultimate gift that’s perfect for unwinding after a busy day of classes.

Since so much studying happens on laptops nowadays, every college student could benefit from a reliable pair of blue light blocking glasses to reduce eye strain. With this three-pack, they can keep a pair at their desk, in their backpack, and on their nightstand, ensuring they always have a pair nearby to protect their eyes.

These Loop Switch 2 earplugs provide the perfect noise isolation, whether you're trying to sleep next to a snoring roommate, study in peace, or attend loud concerts. Unlike typical earplugs, they feature three adjustable modes—Quiet, Experience, and Engage—to customize your noise-blocking experience. They also come with a convenient carrying case for easy portability.

Leaving the warmth of your blanket is always tough in the morning, but with this wearable blanket, they won't have to. Offered in over 20 colors and designs, this oversized, fluffy hoodie will keep them snug and warm throughout the day.

With this high-capacity portable charger, they'll never have to worry about their phone running out of battery. It charges an iPhone 12 to 50% in just 30 minutes, according to the manufacturer. Plus, it includes two cables, so they don't have to stress about forgetting one on campus when they need it the most.

Help turn their college space into a soothing, spa-like environment that brings them closer to home. With more than a dozen scents celebrating various U.S. cities, a Homesick candle will foster a feeling of nostalgia and hometown pride, no matter the distance. (If their hometown is not represented, consider alternatives like Grandma’s Kitchen or Beach Cottage.)

Designed with UGG's signature sheepskin lining, these Coquette Slippers are perfect for lounging around their dorm or apartment. The durable rubber soles make them suitable for outdoor wear as well, offering both comfort and versatility.

Not everyone thrives in the library! This lap desk, complete with a convenient phone slot and an elastic note holder, makes studying from bed effortless. Its handle allows for easy transport, while the microbead cushion conforms to their lap, ensuring maximum comfort.

Take their cooking skills beyond chicken nuggets and Easy Mac with this college cookbook. Designed specifically for students, it’ll inspire them to create delicious meals and late-night snacks using their favorite Trader Joe’s ingredients.

Designed to easily fit their phone, wallet, and keys, Lululemon’s popular belt bag is ideal for running errands or heading out. This versatile fanny pack can be worn around the waist, slung across the body, or draped over the shoulder, quickly becoming a must-have everyday accessory.

For those who don’t quite love mornings, skip the trip to Starbucks with this Keurig coffee maker at home. With just water and a K-Cup pod, they’ll enjoy a fresh cup of coffee in just minutes. At under five inches wide, this compact single-serve coffee maker fits on even the tiniest countertops.

A late-night shower is pure bliss, but a wet pillow is the last thing anyone wants when it's time for bed. This ingenious pillowcase features a microfiber towel side to soak up moisture from damp hair and an anti-frizz satin side for ultimate comfort.

For college students feeling a bit homesick, these twinkling string lights are a perfect way to add a cozy touch to their dorm or apartment. They can easily hang up to 50 photos of family and friends, creating a warm and nostalgic vibe.

Not all dorms come equipped with refrigerators, but this compact Frigidaire mini fridge is a fun and practical solution for storing drinks and snacks. It even includes a freezer compartment, perfect for keeping ice on hand to fill up water bottles before heading to class.

For anyone who loves accessorizing, this travel jewelry case is a must-have. Made from vegan leather, it features multiple compartments perfect for organizing and untangling bracelets, necklaces, and rings. Available in more than 20 vibrant colors and with the option to add a personalized shadow-printed monogram, this jewelry organizer makes a thoughtful and customized gift.

Everyone wants a water bottle that’s both practical and fashionable, and this stainless steel Hydro Flask does just that. It’s spillproof, sweat-resistant, and keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours. With a range of bright colors available, this bottle is more than just functional—it’s a stylish accessory.

Sanchez emphasizes that a cozy robe is essential, and this plush option from Brooklinen will make any undergrad feel like royalty, even in their dorm room. With convenient pockets, adjustable cuffs, and a customizable tie waist, this robe stands out from the typical, no-frills versions.

From early morning lectures to late-night study sessions, coffee is the college essential that never fails—this cold brew maker will quickly become a trusted companion. It lets them brew four servings of their favorite cold brew coffee at once, and with its included mesh filter, they won't have to worry about any unwanted grinds sneaking through.

Movie night isn’t complete without popcorn, and this micro-popper is the perfect addition to any screening. Simply measure kernels into the lid, pour them into the jar, and microwave for three minutes. With its wide opening, it's easy to share, and the borosilicate glass makes cleanup a breeze. Whether plain, buttered, or topped with M&M's, this popper will have everyone excited for the next movie marathon.

Give them the tools for a professional-looking manicure at home with this cute gel nail polish kit from Le Mini Macaron. The kit includes everything they need: a mini macaron-shaped LED lamp, USB cord, matching gel polish, a cuticle pusher, mini nail file, and 10 gel polish remover wraps. With all the essentials, they can skip the salon and still have gorgeous nails while away at school.

Ideal for holiday getaways or quick trips to see friends, this versatile duffle bag is the ultimate travel companion. Its roomy, expandable design provides ample space for all your essentials, while the convenient interior pockets ensure everything stays neatly organized while you’re on the go.

With great audio comes great responsibility, and this waterproof Bluetooth speaker will make them the ultimate DJ at any gathering. Its portability makes it easy for them to bring the party anywhere, whether indoors or outdoors, while blasting their favorite tracks.

Every college student needs food, and an Uber gift card can make sure they enjoy their favorite meal delivered straight to their door. It's perfect for students who don't have a car or need a ride somewhere. Whether it's for a meal or transportation, this is a gift they'll really appreciate.

If their dorm doesn't have space for a couch or beanbag, these cozy floor pillows offer an additional seating option for guests beyond just their bed. Whether they choose to use each pillow individually or stack them for a more comfortable seating area, the corduroy texture will transform their dorm into the go-to hangout spot.

Have you ever wanted to start journaling but didn’t know how? Papier’s interactive wellness journal makes it easy to organize your thoughts, goals, and gratitude all in one place. Available in 10 vibrant colors, this journal features 96 pages with helpful prompts and sections designed to make the journaling experience more approachable.

Engage in some friendly competition with the timeless game of Spikeball. This set includes a net and three balls, all conveniently packed into a compact drawstring bag. It’s easy to set up, portable, and perfect for a quick match on the go, especially on your college campus.

Instantly bring their memories to life with this portable color photo printer, no ink cartridges necessary. A helpful tip: Download the HP Sprocket App to personalize their mini prints with fun borders, stickers, and editing features.

Students will proudly display their college town with a personalized wall art piece, featuring a custom map of the city where their university is located. Choose from over 40 colors and three size options to create a decorative item they’ll be excited to hang in their dorm.

Stress from finals week will melt away with this soothing body lotion from Bath & Body Works. The energizing blend of eucalyptus and spearmint oils will help them unwind, leaving them refreshed and prepared for the challenges ahead in the semester.

This shredded memory foam reading pillow guarantees an incredibly comfortable and supportive experience for lounging, whether studying or watching TV. It comes in two color choices and three sizes, with one version designed to support the neck as well.

At some point, every college student will need a reliable luggage set, and this carry-on bag from Beis is an excellent choice. Ideal for quick weekend visits home or adventures with friends, it features a weight indicator, 360-degree wheels, a compartment for dirty clothes, and a TSA-approved lock.

Skincare products and cosmetics often take up a lot of space on your counter, but this convenient organizer can help reduce the mess. Featuring four upper compartments, four drawers, and 12 slots for lipsticks, it offers plenty of storage for all your essential wellness items. The sleek, transparent design also allows for easy access to your favorite products.

The Fujifilm Instax Camera is an ideal present for photography enthusiasts who want to preserve candid moments beyond their social media posts. Equipped with a macro lens, selfie mirror, and adjustable brightness settings, capturing high-quality images becomes effortless. The package includes 20 mini film sheets for wallet-sized pictures, perfect for sharing and decorating with loved ones.

For those times spent watching TikTok clips or binge-watching Netflix shows, college students will appreciate the convenience of this portable phone or tablet mount—no assembly required.

Designed to block out all light, this mask ensures a sound sleep no matter what’s going on around them—from early morning sunshine to their roommate’s distracting desk lamp. The adjustable buckle, contoured shape, and secure sides will keep it in place, even for the most restless sleepers.

As Palazzolo suggests, undergrad students need a cozy environment to unwind, especially during the intense moments of the semester. This ultra-soft weighted blanket became our top choice during testing, ensuring warmth and comfort throughout the night. Its removable cover also makes cleaning a breeze.

Whether they’re out running errands or hitting the gym, these sleek, lightweight sneakers are the perfect gift for an active college student. Offering a cushioned yet breathable feel, they provide excellent support, all while offering a variety of stylish colors to keep them moving in fashion.

These temperature-regulating Tencel pajamas are perfect for lounging around the residence hall. The silky fabric is ideal for college students dealing with warm dorm rooms and unreliable AC systems.

On days when heading to the gym feels like too much, these resistance bands provide an effective home workout. The set includes three bands with varying resistance levels and comes with a portable carrying case.

This tri-fold lighted makeup mirror is perfect for getting ready for a night out in your dorm room, bypassing the need for a communal bathroom. It features two magnifying mirrors for close-up detailing and 21 LED lights to combat poor lighting. Plus, the mirror's base includes a built-in storage compartment for small items such as jewelry.

These cozy drawstring joggers are so comfortable, they’ll never want to take them off. Crafted from ultra-soft fabric, they’re perfect for both running errands and enjoying a laid-back day.

Tech enthusiasts will be thrilled to say goodbye to tangled wires with these wireless AirPods. They can listen to their favorite tunes, podcasts, or audiobooks on the go. We suggest pairing them with a colorful silicone cover to easily spot and distinguish their personal pair.

Managing schoolwork and a social life can be overwhelming, but these stylish Hydro-Stars are not only fun to wear but also effective as pimple patches. Made with 100% hydrocolloid, these colorful stars help reduce redness and inflammation with a touch of flair. Each pack includes 32 stars and a handy mirror for easy application.

Whether they’re just starting out in the kitchen or already a master like Gordon Ramsay, this versatile 4-in-1 air fryer will take any college student’s cooking to the next level. With the ability to air fry, broil, roast, and reheat, it requires minimal preheating, making it perfect for fast, effortless meals. The nonstick basket and tray also ensure quick and easy cleanup.

This 17-by-11-inch shelf provides a convenient space to keep their phone, book, and water bottle within reach while they sleep, without the need for a bulky nightstand. Its three-clamp design easily attaches to furniture, and the raised edge ensures that nothing will fall off during the night.

They won’t have to choose between warmth and music this winter with this cozy Bluetooth beanie. The knitted hat delivers clear sound and has user-friendly control buttons, so they can easily enjoy their favorite tunes while staying warm.

With a demanding class schedule and a busy social life, they might struggle to find time for self-care. That's where Laneige's overnight lip mask comes in. Available in six delicious flavors, this mask keeps lips feeling soft and hydrated by morning.

Compact and easy to carry, this mini backpack is ideal for when they need to carry just the essentials without the bulk. Available in several vibrant colors, it features a small main compartment, a front zippered pocket, and a side pocket for holding a water bottle.

Even the most forgetful college student will always know where their keys are with this personalized leather key ring. Pick their favorite color and add up to eight custom characters for a unique gift they’ll use every day.

Nothing creates the perfect party vibe like dynamic lighting and music, and these LED strip lights offer both. With the ability to switch between millions of colors and adjust the brightness, they can easily set the mood for any occasion. Available in 50- and 100-foot lengths, these lights adhere effortlessly to walls, making them perfect for dorm room décor.

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K makes an ideal gift for college students living off-campus. With quick access to streaming platforms like Netflix, Apple TV, Disney+, and Peacock, upperclassmen won't miss the free cable that came with their freshman dorm.

For those days when they want the comfort of pajamas but still need to look put together, this cozy loungewear set is the perfect solution. The knit top and slim-fit pants come in a range of warm, neutral colors, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and fashion.

Flannel sleep pants are timeless, remaining a wardrobe staple through changing fashion trends. Made from lightweight cotton, these pants are available in 12 vibrant colors, six sizes (S to XXXL), and four different inseam lengths.

A diffuser for essential oils is a fantastic way to experience the benefits of aromatherapy. The InnoGear model operates silently and projects a soothing, colorful light to elevate the ambiance in a dorm room.

Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity, and this set makes an excellent gift for both beginners and seasoned players. It includes two paddles, three balls, and a practical carry bag, offering everything needed to jump right into the game.

Carrying your phone in hand constantly can be a hassle, and the act of taking it out and putting it back in your bag over and over can get tiring. The Bandolier crossbody strap is a stylish and convenient hands-free solution, allowing you to keep your phone easily accessible. On top of that, the hidden snap-cover compartment ensures your cash and cards stay safe while keeping you fashionable.

This versatile carrying case not only protects your laptop during travel but can also transform into a portable laptop stand. Its sleek, slim design makes it easy to pack into a backpack or tote, while its adjustable angles help you find the perfect position for a better viewing experience.

Equipped with a convenient carrying strap and eight spacious compartments, this shower caddy will ensure your toiletries are kept organized. Its collapsible design makes it ideal for public bathrooms and shared spaces, and the breathable mesh dries quickly.

Although charging cords may not seem like an exciting gift idea, this one is sure to be highly appreciated. Waiting for your phone to charge is frustrating, but with a 10-foot long lightning cable, your college student will have the freedom to use their phone while charging from almost any location. The braided nylon construction makes it exceptionally durable, and the cable’s 90-degree angle minimizes the risk of bending or damage.

Spending a cozy night in doesn’t have to be dull! The Voting Game offers a fun twist for any group of friends, where each player anonymously votes for who they believe is ‘most likely to’ carry out a task from the card. With a variety of cards and scenarios to explore, this hilarious game guarantees endless entertainment for everyone.

No flames in the dorms? No worries! This stylish candle warmer lamp lets them enjoy the lovely fragrance of their favorite candles, without any fire risk. Plus, the adjustable brightness lets them control how quickly the wax melts.

If dealing with dripping wet hair is a hassle, this hair towel could make the post-shower routine much easier. Made from microfiber, the waffle-knit design speeds up drying, reduces frizz, and helps maintain volume. Unlike DIY towel turbans that often slip off, this towel features a button and clasp to keep their wet hair securely in place and out of their face.

Dorm rooms may not offer the best airflow, but this compact fan is here to help any college student stay cool. With a three-foot air range, it's ideal for smaller spaces. The handy handle makes it easy to move between rooms, and it's USB or battery-powered, so they can enjoy a breeze without being tied to an outlet.

Whether they’re filming a ‘GRWM’ video or just trying to keep their hair dry while washing their face, this stylish spa headband adds flair to any skincare routine. Along with the soft headband, the set also includes terry cloth wristbands to stop water from running down their arms. Plus, it’s available in more than 20 different colors and patterns.

Whether they’re feeling nostalgic about the end of their college journey or eager to look back on their semester, Mixbook can turn their favorite moments into a lasting keepsake. Even better, they can design the entire photo book directly from their iPhone.

The Ninja Creami has become a sensation on social media for its ability to transform frozen fruits into ice creams, smoothies, and shakes in just minutes. This appliance is perfect for dorm rooms, off-campus apartments, or even for graduates eager to elevate their cooking skills.

Most college students aren't exactly morning people, and this sunrise alarm clock helps make waking up for those 8 a.m. classes a little less painful. It lets them personalize their wake-up routine, gently bringing them out of sleep with calming light and soothing sounds of their choosing.

An immersion blender is one of the most versatile kitchen gadgets you can own. It’s compact, easy to use, and simple to clean—all qualities that busy college students will definitely appreciate. Whether they’re whipping up smoothies, soups, pancake batter, or more, this tool will make it easier to satisfy hunger at any time.

Slides are a go-to when you need shoes that can be slipped on as you're heading out the door. Whether they're rushing to class or just strolling across campus, these Cushionaire Cloud slides will ensure they stay comfortable every step of the way.

As a college student, keeping track of their things can be a challenge, especially with the many places they visit daily. This set of four Apple AirTags will ease the worry of misplacing anything—they'll be able to quickly locate their backpack, wallet, luggage, keys, and anything else they might leave behind during their hectic day.

Questions You Might Ask

What Do College Freshmen Need the Most? 

In addition to the typical dorm necessities like a quick-drying shower caddy and shower shoes, Sanchez has some other suggestions for incoming freshmen.

She recommends a cozy bean bag chair for the dorm, offering a comfy spot to work that’s not the bed or desk. She also advises bringing long extension cords for charging and a step stool to access those high closet shelves.

And Sanchez’s must-have item? Heavy-duty Command hooks. They’re perfect for hanging towels, but she also uses them to keep her everyday items organized and off the floor, like her wallet, keys, and backpack.

Palazzolo also emphasizes the importance of having a cozy place to unwind. “I suggest doubling up on memory foam mattress covers and adding a heated blanket,” Palazzolo says. “These two items were lifesavers for me during the harsh winters and exhausting freshman year.”

When it comes to things that aren’t essential, Sanchez mentions that a printer and headboard are likely unnecessary for students living on campus. She points out that most dorm beds don’t accommodate headboards, and printing is easy to do at the library when needed.

While some items are good to have from the start, Sanchez suggests it can be helpful to wait until you’re at school to figure out which things are truly necessary.

“Students will often think, ‘Who knows if I’ll need this, but I’ll just bring it,’ and then arrive at campus to find their dorm isn’t that spacious,” Sanchez says. “Keep in mind you’re not isolated, and you can always pick up the things you need.”

What Should I Include in a Care Package for a College Student?

When putting together a care package, it’s important to blend items that a college student both wants and needs.

Sanchez recommends starting by asking the student if there’s anything they need shipped from home. Whether it’s a pair of snow boots or a pack of batteries, there are often small items they didn’t realize they were missing.

To make sure the essentials are covered, toiletries and cleaning supplies are always a good choice to include. College students might not get excited about receiving extra shampoo, but chances are they might have forgotten to buy it themselves.

Since college students are always on the move, it’s a nice gesture to remind them of the importance of self-care and relaxation. Including self-care products like a soothing candle, a rejuvenating face mask, or a calming coloring book can encourage them to take a much-needed break.

Sanchez also suggests holiday-themed gift boxes as a sweet idea. From a Halloween-themed gift basket to a Thanksgiving care package, these festive bundles will bring a little holiday joy to their dorm room.

Sanchez and Palazzolo both recommend avoiding random, space-wasting trinkets and instead focusing on practical items that college students will actually use.

Palazzolo shares that the most helpful care package items she’s received include cash, a blanket, cozy socks, shot glasses, lollipops, instant popcorn, and festive holiday window clings.

And of course, food. Sanchez insists that snacks are essential in a care package. However, she cautions against sending too much food.

Besides possibly attracting pests in the dorm, she points out that having too much food in their room could deter students from going to the dining hall, which is also a key place to socialize and make new friends.

“Opt for small, fun treats and snacks that won’t substitute for a full meal,” Sanchez advises. “I wouldn’t recommend sending oatmeal or microwaveable rice, but their favorite candies or snacks they wouldn’t typically buy for themselves are perfect.”

Are Gift Cards a Good Choice for College Students? 

Gift cards might come off as impersonal, but they can be a fantastic option for college students, especially those who are more selective or just starting to manage their own finances.

Exchanging gifts can become tricky, especially on a campus where returning items isn't always convenient, and if the student doesn’t have a car. 'A gift card can be much more useful than an unwanted gift,' Sanchez points out. 

When opting for a gift card, Palazzolo emphasizes the need to select stores or restaurants that the student frequents, whether it's their go-to store or a place near their college.

'I loved getting gift cards for Starbucks, Dunkin', and Target because I went there weekly for coffee and groceries,' says Palazzolo. 'Gift cards for random places don't offer the same benefit, as most freshmen don’t have cars and can only go to places within walking distance.'

Trust Us

This article is authored by Jamie Fischer, a writer for Mytour, and has been updated by Camryn Dilger, an associate shopping editor. For this compilation, Jamie gathered insights from two influential college students: Jordan Sanchez, Harvard ‘24, and Sammy K. Palazzolo, University of Illinois ‘26. Sanchez started her TikTok, @happiejordan, in May 2020, initially to give advice to new college students. Over time, she transitioned from advice-giving to vlogging her personal journey at Harvard. Palazzolo, who is known for her lifestyle content under the handle @skzzolno, shares relatable vlogs, useful college tips, and often features her infamous flip phone that she uses to snap photos.