College students are notoriously challenging to shop for. They are often either short on cash or space, making traditional gifts impractical. However, there are gift ideas that are sure to be appreciated by any college student. So, if you are stuck on what to get your favorite college student, read on to learn about college student gifts that will be sure to please.
What Are the Best Gifts for College Students?
Buying gifts for students in your life can be tough. You want to choose something that is both practical and unique, something that will help them with their studies or make their campus life a little easier. Here are ideas that fit the bill.
1. Laptop Backpack
A laptop backpack is a great gift for a college student. It will protect their laptop from scratches and damages and it will also make it easier for them to carry their laptop around with them. There are different laptop backpacks on the market, so it is important to choose one that is the right size for the laptop and that has enough padding to protect it. It is also good to choose a backpack that has compartments and pockets for holding other items, such as textbooks, notebooks, and pens. College students often carry a variety of items with them, so a backpack with storage space is essential.
2. Weighted Blanket
A weighted blanket is a great gift for a college student. The added weight of the blanket provides a sense of security and comfort, which can be helpful for students who are dealing with anxiety or stress. Students can use weighted blankets to manage sensory processing disorders. For students struggling to focus or stay asleep, a weighted blanket can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Additionally, weighted blankets are affordable and easy to care for. Most can be thrown in the washing machine when they need cleaning. Given all of these benefits, it is no wonder that a weighted blanket makes such an excellent gift for a college student.
3. Care Package of Their Favorite Things
A college student’s life can be stressful. They are often juggling a full class load, a part-time job, and social activities. This can leave them with little time to take care of themselves, let alone shop for their favorite things. A care package filled with their favorite things is the perfect gift to show them that you are thinking of them. It is also a great way to help them relax and recharge. other ideas for items to include are their favorite snacks, drinks, books, movies, or games. You could also include items that are practical, such as school supplies or toiletries. Whatever you choose, your thoughtfulness will be appreciated by the college student in your life.
4. Spotify Premium Subscription
A Spotify premium subscription is a great gift for any college student. With Spotify premium, they will have access to millions of songs, ad-free listening, offline playback, and more. Plus, they can use it on their phones, laptops, and other devices. It is the perfect way to help them stay entertained and connected while they are away at school. And best of all, it is affordable. So, if you are looking for a gift that will make a college student’s life easier, a Spotify premium subscription is a great option.
5. Air Purifier
Whether the dorm building is old or new, there will be germs just like there are freshman, sophomores, juniors and seniors. Particulates in the air are full of microbes. Air purifiers can kill the bacteria and viruses that harm a college student’s immune system. An air purifier can be a great gift for a college student, providing them with much-needed relief from dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants. Not only do air purifiers help to improve indoor air quality, but they can also reduce the symptoms of allergies and asthma. Best of all, many air purifiers are designed to be quiet and unobtrusive, making them the perfect addition to any dorm room or small apartment.
6. Bluetooth Speaker
A Bluetooth speaker is a great gift for a college student. Bluetooth technology allows the speaker to wirelessly connect to a smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled device. This means that the student can use the speaker to listen to music, podcasts, or audio books from their phone or tablet without having to worry about tangled cords. The student can use the speaker to make hands-free phone calls, which is ideal for when the student is studying or working out. In addition, many Bluetooth speakers are portable, so the student can take it with them wherever they go. Whether they are studying in the library or relaxing at the beach, a Bluetooth speaker is a great way for a college student to enjoy their favorite tunes.
7. Smart Watch
A college student’s life is hectic and often unpredictable. Between classes, homework, extracurricular activities, work and socializing, it can be tough to keep track of time. That is where a smartwatch comes in handy. An Apple Watch or Fitbit not only tells time, but also provides valuable information like class schedules, weather forecasts, and text messages. Students can also use a smart watch to track fitness goals and monitor activity levels. In short, a smartwatch is the perfect gift for a college student who wants to stay organized and on top of their game. And with so many different styles and features to choose from, there is sure to be a smartwatch that is perfect for any college student.
8. Suitcase for Traveling
A great gift for a college student who is planning to travel is a suitcase. A suitcase will help them to keep all of their belongings safe and organized while they are on the go. There are a variety of suitcases to choose from, so it is important to consider what type of traveler the student is. For example, a hard-sided suitcase may be ideal for someone who plans to do traveling by plane, while a soft-sided suitcase would be better suited for someone who plans to travel by car or train. Regardless of the type of suitcase, it is sure to be a gift that the college student will appreciate and use for years to come.
9. Keurig Single-Serve Coffee Pot
A Keurig Single-Serve Coffee Pot is a great gift for a college student. It is easy to use, and it does not take much space, which is perfect for a dorm room or small apartment. And there is no need to worry about making a mess, because the Keurig brews each cup individually. Plus, there are many flavors of coffee and tea that can be used with the Keurig, so the lucky recipient will never get bored.
10. Digital Picture Frame
A digital picture frame is a great way for college students to keep their loved ones close. It is a gift that keeps on giving, providing a constantly changing view of family and friends. Most digital frames come with a wide variety of display options, so the student can choose how to best show off their photos. With the ability to add music and video, a digital frame can also provide a welcome break from studying. And when the semester is over, the student can take their frame with them, providing a piece of home in their new digs.
11. AirPods
AirPods are a great gift for any college student. They are practical, offer great sound quality, and are versatile. They are small and lightweight, so they are easy to carry with you, and they provide great sound quality. They are also very versatile; you can use them with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod, and they work with all kinds of music apps. And if you get the new AirPods Pro, they come with noise-canceling technology, so your student can focus on their studies even when there is noise around them.
12. Streaming Stick
A streaming stick is a great gift for a college student. It allows them to watch all their favorite shows and movies without having to worry about using up all their data. Plus, it is super easy to use. All they need is an HDMI port on their TV and they are good to go. And if they do not have an HDTV, no problem! The streaming stick comes with an adapter that lets them stream in standard definition, so they can still enjoy all their favorite content.
13. Drink Tumbler
A drink tumbler is a great gift for a college student. It can be used for a variety of drinks, including water, coffee, tea, and soda cold or hot. Many tumblers are BPA-free and dishwasher-safe and come with a lid that has a straw hole, so it is easy to drink from. They are usually leak-proof, double-walled, and vacuum-sealed, so it will keep drinks cold or hot for hours. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it is easy to find one that the recipient will love.
14. Aroma Diffuser
An aroma diffuser is an affordable and thoughtful gift that can be a great way to help college students relax and unwind. Aroma diffusers work by releasing essential oils into the air. The student can choose an oil that has a calming effect, such as lavender or chamomile. The diffuser will help to fill their room with a relaxing scent, creating a haven for them to study or take a break from the stress of college life.
15. Sunlight Desk Lamp
For many college students, studying for exams and writing papers can often lead to late nights spent hunched over textbooks and laptops. A sunlight desk lamp is a great gift for any college student in your life. These lamps provide bright, natural light that can help to reduce eye strain and headaches. In addition, the light from a sunlight lamp can also help to boost energy levels and improve mood. If you know a college student who could use a little extra light in their life, a sunlight desk lamp makes a great gift.
16. Games
Games can be a great gift for a college student to help them unwind and take a break from their hectic schedule. They are a fun way to spend leisure time and can also help relieve stress and anxiety. Board games, card games, and even video games can provide much-needed distraction from the everyday pressures of college life. So, if you know a college student who could use a little break, consider giving them the gift of games. It might just be the thing that helps them get through finals week.
17. Gift Cards
It can be tough to know what to get a college student for a gift. They may seem like they have everything they need, but the reality is that they are often struggling to make ends meet. A gift card can be a great way to help a college student out. It is good to use for essentials like food and textbooks, or for fun items like new clothes or going out with friends. Gift cards are also flexible, so if the student changes their mind about what they want, they can always use the gift card for something else. Whatever you do, make sure to stay away from store-specific gift cards, as these can be very limiting.
18. Amazon Prime Membership
With an Amazon Prime membership, students can get free two-day shipping on millions of items. That means no more scrambling to find last-minute supplies for projects or waiting in line at the campus bookstore. In addition to convenience, Prime membership gives students exclusive deals and discounts. And with Prime Video and Music, they can stream their favorite movies and TV shows and listen to ad-free music. So, if you are looking for a gift that will make a college student’s life easier, an Amazon Prime Membership is a great choice.
19. Noise-Canceling Headphones
College can be a noisy place. Between roommates, classes, and extracurricular activities, it is easy for students to feel overwhelmed by the constant hustle and bustle. Noise-canceling headphones can be a great way to help college students focus and stay on task. By blocking out external noise, these headphones allow students to study in peace or take a break from the chaos of campus life. They also make a great gift for students who are juggling multiple obligations. Whether your college student is studying for exams, working on a presentation, or just trying to get peace and quiet, noise-canceling headphones can help them stay calm and focused.
20. Sleep Eye Mask
College is a time of late-night studying, early-morning classes, and all-nighters. It is no wonder that there are students end up with dark circles under their eyes. A sleep eye mask can be a great gift for any college student who is struggling to get a good night’s sleep. By blocking out light, the eye mask helps to promote relaxation and deeper sleep. In addition, a student can use the mask to relieve headaches and migraines. The use of an eye mask can also help to reduce under-eye puffiness and wrinkles.
21. Ring Light Kit
A ring light kit is a great gift for a college student. It can help them take better pictures for their social media accounts, help them see better in low-light situations, and even help them rig up a makeshift lighting setup for video calls and Zoom meetings. A ring light kit typically consists of a small, portable light source that sits on the camera (or phone) and casts a ring of light around the lens. This creates a more evenly lit picture without harsh shadows. It is a great way to step up your photo game, whether you are an aspiring influencer or just want to look your best on your next Skype call. And because they are so compact and easy to use, ring light kits make great gifts for college students who are always on the go.
22. Portable Charging Kit
Juggling classes, homework, and extracurricular activities can make it tough to keep track of everything – let alone find the time to recharge devices. That is where a portable charging kit comes in handy! A portable charger is a great gift for any college student who is constantly on the go. Most portable chargers come with multiple USB ports, so the student can charge multiple devices at once. Students can use them to charge laptops, tablets, and even smaller electronic devices. Plus, with a portable charger, the student will never have to worry about running out of power – or being caught without a charging cord!
23. Flameless Candles
Flameless candles are a great gift for a college student. They provide the perfect ambiance for studying or relaxing, and they are safer than traditional candles. Flameless candles come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect match for your recipient’s personality. Most flameless candles also have a timer function, so the student can set it and forget it.
24. Shower Caddy
A shower caddy is an essential item for any college student living in a dormitory. This simple carrier holds all of the items needed for a shower, including soap, shampoo, and a towel. Not only does it keep the student’s bathroom supplies organized, but it also makes it easy to transport everything to and from the shower area.
25. Indoor Herb-Growing Kit
An indoor herb-growing kit allows college students to grow fresh herbs right in their dorm room or apartment, giving them a healthy way to relieve stress and add flavor to their meals. And unlike other gifts, an herb-growing kit does not require much space or maintenance, making it perfect for even the smallest of apartments.
26. Magic Bullet Blender
A Magic Bullet Blender is a great gift for any college student who loves cooking or wants to start cooking more. It is small and compact, so it does not require much counter space and is easy to use and clean. With a Magic Bullet Blender, a college student can make quick and healthy meals, like smoothies and soups, in just minutes. It is also great for making snacks, like dips and sauces.
27. Roadside Assistance Kit
A roadside assistance kit is a great way to show your college student that you care about their safety. No one wants to be stranded on the side of the road, but it can happen to anyone. A roadside assistance kit can help a college student get back on the road quickly and safely. It should include items like jumper cables, a flashlight, flares, and a first-aid kit.
Thank you for reading! The views and information provided in this post do not reflect Post University programs and/or outcomes directly. If you are interested in learning more about our programs, you can find a complete list of our programs on our website or reach out directly!
Please note jobs and/or career outcomes highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs or career outcomes expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s program and their outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions advisor.