76 Best Gifts for College Students in 2024

College can be both an exciting and anxiety-inducing experience. Nevertheless, the right thoughtful gift can go a long way toward easing the burden of living on their own and make the life of your college student just a little bit better. Much like newlyweds, college students are marked by the unique characteristic of being dead broke, so anything you can offer to help them learn to cook, be a better host, furnish their apartment, or simply help them get a good night’s sleep is worth its weight in gold.

Below, we’ve compiled an extensive list of gifts for college students that will address all these concerns and more. You’ll find gift ideas for the studious student, his active counterpart, the burgeoning chef, the bookworm, and so much more. No matter where your college student’s interests lie, there is always an ideal gift to help them make the most of this new chapter in their lives.

List of Gifts for College Students

Whether you need a gift for a boy or girl, this list should definitely help you out. Simply scroll through and pick out your favorite gift or gifts!

1. College Cookbook

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($12.92 at the time of publication)

It is an unfortunate fact that most college students don’t know how to cook. Sure, they’ll have access to the dining halls for the first year, maybe the second year as well, but after that, their survival becomes entirely their own responsibility. Fortunately, if they can follow the directions to put together a piece of IKEA furniture, they can definitely follow a simple recipe. There are a lot of cookbooks out there tailored specifically for college students. The authors of these books understand the three most important facets of a college recipe: simplicity, nutritional value, and affordability. They compile recipes that combine these elements to make the simplest, healthiest, most cost-effective meals that will keep the burgeoning chef well-fed and teach them the joys of cooking on their own.

2. Mini Fridge

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($124.99 at the time of publication)

Most dorm rooms do not come equipped with a full-size fridge, unless things have seriously changed in the last five years. Nevertheless, college students need a place to store their snacks and leftovers they stole from the dining hall. A mini-fridge is a great gift that most college students really couldn’t do without, and it will allow them to stock up on brain foods like ice cream. Most mini-fridges are actually super affordable as well, so it’s not going to cost you an arm and a leg just to give your college student a place to store their perishables. If you’re feeling especially generous, you could even get them two mini-fridges: one for the food, one for the beer.

3. Blender

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($79.00 at the time of publication)

When it comes to maintaining your health, experts agree that the most important thing–even more than working out–is eating the right foods. Eating healthy can be particularly difficult in college, especially if you have a meal plan because somehow the burger bar always looks better than its salad counterpart. If you’re looking for a way to get the proper nutrients with a minimal amount of effort, smoothies can be a great solution. And if you’re going to make smoothies, you’ll need a good blender. There are a lot of blenders to choose from, but you’ll probably want to go for one of the ones that is designed especially for smoothie-lovers in mind. These blenders are sized according to typical smoothie portion sizes, and are powerful enough to blend together whatever power-foods you choose to add, whether that be fruits, vegetables, or even nuts.

4. Portable Grill

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($54.99 at the time of publication)

If you know a college student who enjoys grilling, consider gifting them a portable grill. For one thing, given the small size, it’s a much more practical option than a full-size grill, especially for someone who’s probably going to move several times in the next few years. A portable grill also takes up less space than a full-size version, and it makes the perfect addition to their tailgating accouterments. Some models are more compact than others, and you can even find portable grills that fold up into a suitcase-like box, complete with a handle and everything, making them the best option for the student who likes to tailgate or host regular cookouts at the park or beach.

5. Rocketbook Smart Notebook

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($29.97 at the time of publication)

We may live in the digital age, but some of us are still a little old school. If you know a college student who still likes to write by hand, the Rocketbook Smart Notebook is a perfect gift for them. The Smart Notebook combines the best elements of modernity and antiquity by allowing you to take notes by hand, then scan them directly to the Cloud using the Rocketbook app, so you never have to worry about misplacing them. Lastly, the pages are made of special paper designed to be wiped off after use, so not only is the Rocketbook the perfection combination of modernity and antiquity, it’s environmentally friendly as well.

6. Homesick Candles

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($29.95 at the time of publication)

Even the most independent of college students are prone to the occasional bout of homesickness. A great solution for the student who finds himself unwittingly longing for the homeland is a State-Scented Candle. The State-Scented Candle is exactly what you think it is: a candle made to smell like a specific state. Homesick.com makes candles for all fifty states, each blending together a batch of state-specific smells that will have your college student feeling like he’s back at home in his own bed in no time. They also have candles for a number of major cities as well, so you can get even more specific if the need arises.

7. Care Package Subscription

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($39.95 at the time of publication)

It seems like there’s a subscription service for everyone these days, and college students are no exception. A college care package subscription is an amazing gift that will keep your student well supplied with an abundance of snacks and energy boosters. Most care package subscriptions are food-based, which makes sense, but you can find a variety of theme boxes tailored to specific purposes. For example, if your student has exams coming up, you can opt to send them an exam care package that includes a months’ supply of brain food. Or, if they like to stay active and healthy, you can send them a workout package with protein-heavy snacks that will give them a great boost to their energy and personal fitness. There are box options for just about any situation, and you know the college student in your life will love it, because really, who’s going to say no to free food?

8. College Hacks

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($13.50 at the time of publication)

What could be a more perfect gift for a college student than a book? Only this is no ordinary book. Rather, it’s a book filled with useful tips and tricks that will make any college student’s journey much easier, not to mention cleaner. Inside, you’ll find advice on everything from how to keep your room smelling nice without having to do laundry, to how to remove a disgusting stain from your shirt just in time for an interview. College doesn’t have to be nearly as difficult as everyone makes it seem, provided you have the right guidance to help you along the way.

9. First Aid Kit

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($14.99 at the time of publication)

When I was in college, I didn’t know a single person who had a first aid kit. Now that I think about it, it’s kind of a wonder that any of us survived. A first aid kit is a great gift for a college student not just because it may literally be a life-saver for them, but also because I guarantee you they won’t think to get one for themselves. These days, you can find first aid kits for a pretty good price that are still incredibly comprehensive. They don’t just include your basic painkillers and bandaids, but also burn gel packets, moleskin (for blister prevention), and aluminized rescue blankets, and that’s just to name a few.

10. Personal Safe

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($69.05 at the time of publication)

For many college students, moving away means they’ll be responsible for themselves for the first time in their lives. There’s a lot to keep track of for a new college student, so any gift that alleviates some of that pressure is sure to be a good one. A personal safe a great gift for a college student that, like the first aid kit, they almost certainly won’t think to get for themselves. It’s also a great way for parents to put their own worries at ease since they know they’re kid’s passport won’t get lost in the shuffle of textbooks, notes, and other dorm room clutter.

11. Projector

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($299.99 at the time of publication)

Everyone needs a way to watch their favorite tv shows and movies, and sometimes a laptop screen just doesn’t cut it. If you’re looking for a screen that amounts to more than a laptop and less than a full-size tv, a projector might be just the happy medium you need. And for college students in particular, being saddled with a big tv can not only be an expensive endeavor, but one that they’ll come to regret when moving day rolls around. Luckily, there are some very good projectors on the market with picture quality to rival that of the best tv’s. The other advantage to a projector is that it takes up far less space than a tv, making it a breeze to move and even take over to a friend’s house for movie night.

12. Keurig

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($79.00 at the time of publication)

It’s astonishing that we’ve come this far without talking about coffee. Never was there a more essential staple to a college student’s diet. The beautiful thing about a Keurig, as opposed to a regular coffee maker, is the fact that it makes only as much as you need at any given time, so there’s no extra waste. Keurigs are also lower maintenance and have more settings than your standard coffee maker, making them an all-around more versatile machine. You can also find models that include an auto shut-off setting, which will turn the Keurig off after a few hours of idleness. Not only does this save energy, but it also greatly reduces the chances of leaving it on and unwittingly burning down the apartment or dorm.

13. Wireless Phone Charger

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($10.95 at the time of publication)

Whether we like it or not, we’re pretty much dependent on our cell phones these days, and that’s probably even more true for college students than it is for most people. So much of college life relies upon having reliable access to an Internet connection that having your cell phone run out of battery practically constitutes a national emergency. Okay, maybe it’s not that severe, but you get the idea. A wireless phone charger is one of my favorite gift ideas for college students because it eliminates the need for pesky cords that tend to wander off into the nether, and all you have to do is set your phone on top of it and never worry about the battery running out again. It also doesn’t hurt that wireless chargers are surprisingly affordable. You can pick up a good one for about ten bucks.

14. Portable External Hard Drive

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($66.99 at the time of publication)

Modern technology has been a godsend for college students, allowing them to type up and organize their assignments with more ease than ever. However, the fragility of that same technology brings its own risks and limitations. It’s easier to damage a laptop or tablet beyond repair than most of us would like to admit, so having a good external hard drive is definitely a smart decision for anyone with important files that they can’t afford to lose. It’s also an especially good gift for film and photography students, or anyone that’s going to use more hard drive space than their computer has available.

15. Stun Gun

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($21.99 at the time of publication)

Although college is the highlight of most young peoples’ lives, it’s an unfortunate truth that it can also be a dangerous experience. A stun gun might seem a bit unconventional, and maybe a bit like overkill compared to a standard bottle of mace, but the truth is that it never hurts to be prepared. And considering the fact that stun guns are way cheaper than you’d think, it almost becomes a no-brainer. You can also find models that include a flashlight, as well as other safety features that you don’t want to be caught without. It’s worth noting that a lot of states don’t allow just anyone to carry a stun gun, but if your college student lives in one of the states that does, a stun gun makes a great gift.

16. Giant Bean Bag Chair

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($145.00 at the time of publication)

When your college student moves away, it’s important to do everything you can to help them make their dorm or apartment into a regular home away from home. A giant beanbag chair can be a great and comfy addition to an apartment, perfect for movie nights or late-night chill sessions, whether your college student is a loaner or likes to play host. And on a more general note, furniture is a college student’s dream gift, since it can be very expensive, and bean bag chairs are no exception. The other great thing about a bean bag chair is that of the furniture options, it is one of the lighter choices, which your college student will very much appreciate on moving day.

17. Toaster Oven

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($34.99 at the time of publication)

A toaster oven is an often overlooked staple of a college student’s kitchen. For one thing, they’re extremely versatile. In addition to toast and bagels, you can also use them to make pizza, paninis, and cookies, to name just a few. They’re also a great alternative to microwaves when it comes to heating up food. The radiation in microwaves tends to kill a lot of good nutrients when heating up food, making the toaster oven a healthier option. You can find toaster ovens in a lot of different sizes, including compact models that are more suitable for those tiny college apartment kitchens.

18. Tupperware

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($28.99 at the time of publication)

A college student can never have too much Tupperware, so it’s always a safe bet if you’re having trouble deciding what to gift them. Tupperware is an especially great gift for college students who like to meal prep, but it’s a pretty useful thing to have no matter who you are. If you are going to go the Tupperware route, don’t skimp. Get them the good stuff that is both microwaveable and comes with latches on the sides. These kinds of Tupperware are superior not just because they won’t explode in the microwave, but also because the lids don’t get all bent out of shape. This means they’ll last longer and keep the food fresher.

19. A Set of Mini Planters

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($15.97 at the time of publication)

There’s nothing like a few houseplants to spruce up your place of residence, not to mention the added benefits of improved air quality, quality of living, and a generally positive effect on your mood overall. A set of mini planters is a charming gift for a new college student that will give them the power to make their dorm or new apartment feel like home all on its own. We suggest mini planters specifically just because they’re ideal for lower-maintenance plants, particularly succulents. However, they can also be used to grow small flowers, herbs, or anything else your heart desires and that you can conceivably keep from dying of thirst.

20. Ostrich Pillow

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($99.00 at the time of publication)

When it comes to sleep, scientists agree on two things: One, getting enough sleep is essential to a functional brain, and two, college students do not get nearly enough sleep. It’s true that college students have a lot to contend with, what with homework, partying, working part-time, partying…you get the idea. Between all those priorities it can be difficult to find the time to get a proper amount of sleep, which is where naps come in. I don’t know a single college student who doesn’t count napping among their favorite pastimes, so you really can’t go wrong by gifting them an Ostrich Pillow. It will help them pay off their sleep deficit by shutting out distractions and providing some quality shut-eye that will leave them refreshed and ready to get back to the old college grind.

21. Sectional Skillet

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($29.38 at the time of publication)

This is one of those kitchen appliances I wish I’d had when I was in college. It’s a skillet divided into sections so that you can cook separate foods at the same time without them mixing with each other. Most college students live in apartments with tiny kitchens, and often there isn’t room for more than one pan on the stove. But with a sectional skillet, you can cook all the food you need at once, saving you time and effort, especially since you only have to clean one pan! It’s also a great way to regulate the amount of food you cook. Since you can really only fit one or two portions at a time in the pan, there’s no risk of making too much food and ending up with a lot of leftovers that will most likely just get thrown away anyway.

22. Amazon Prime Membership

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here (price varies at the time of publication)

Amazon is a lifesaver in college. It allows you to get the materials you need to be delivered directly to you without having to set foot out your door (except to pick up the package, I guess), saving you time, effort, gas, and money. Even so, a standard Amazon account pales in comparison to what an Amazon Prime account has to offer. Not only do you get free two-day shipping, but Amazon Prime also includes Amazon’s streaming service, a discount at Whole Foods, and exclusive deals accessible only to Prime Members. The best thing about getting an Amazon Prime Membership for a college student is that the Prime Student discount is a full 50% off, which is amazing value considering all the perks that come with it.

23. Printer

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($89.89 at the time of publication)

Unless your dorm happens to be next door to the library, it can be a real pain to trudge all the way across campus just to print out a two-page essay. Having your own printer can be very convenient, particularly on those days when you inevitably fail to get up early enough to make that pit-stop at the library before class. If you’re thinking of getting a printer as a gift for your college student, it’s a good idea to do a bit of research before you buy. Not all printers are equal, and the better models, while more expensive, will last longer and save you and your college student money in the long run. That being said, you still don’t have to break the bank over a decent printer. You can find lots of reliable models for less than a hundred bucks.

24. Cookware Set

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($115.98 at the time of publication)

Every college student should learn to cook, but most won’t take the leap without a little encouragement. So why not give the college student in your life the encouragement they need in the form of a cookware set? Most cookware sets are pretty comprehensive, and they include all the basic pots, pans, spoons, and other utensils your college student will need in order to get well on their way to becoming a master chef. You don’t want to go overboard and overwhelm them with a ton of new equipment they don’t know how to use, but a basic cookware set will go a long way toward getting them to come out of their cooking shell

25. White Noise Machine

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($49.99 at the time of publication)

Getting a proper amount of sleep is absolutely essential to a healthy brain. Unfortunately, it can be hard for college students to get a good nights’ sleep for a variety of reasons. For one, college dorms can be very noisy places, and I don’t even want to talk about frat and sorority houses. A white noise machine may be the perfect solution for the college student looking for a way to block out any noises preventing them from getting a proper amount of shut-eye. We’ve already talked about the power of naps, but the truth is there’s no real way to make up for those extended hours of REM you lose out on if you’re kept up all night. So by gifting them a white noise machine, you’re not only getting the college student in your life a welcome present, but you’re investing in their wellbeing as well.

26. Grow the F Up

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($13.46 at the time of publication)

There are a lot of things about adult life that it seems like we should have learned while we were kids, but somehow a lot of these lessons just seemed to slip through the cracks. Fill in those gaps by getting the college student in your life Grow the F*ck Up, a book that will tell you what your parents and school should have taught you a long time ago. Inside, you’ll find a multitude of useful life lessons that will help you figure out your identity, change a car battery, balance your checkbook, and many other useful skills. With Grow the F*ck Up as their guide, the college student in your life will be ready to take life by the horns in no time.

27. Laptop

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($192.65 at the time of publication)

Whether they don’t already have one, or just need an upgrade, a new laptop is an insanely generous gift for a college student. A better computer can make all the difference when it comes to getting homework and research done in a timely manner, and by the same token, an old and slow computer than make college life a living hell. Obviously, there are tons of different laptops with a multitude of features, so it’s probably worth running the idea by the giftee first. Yes, it will ruin the surprise, but it will ensure that you get them a model that they’ll both like and be able to get the most use out of. If they don’t have a laptop and you’re willing to spend the money, a laptop is easily one of the best gifts for college students.

28. Non-electric Portable Washing Machine

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($52.50 at the time of publication)

Okay, this gift idea is kind of crazy, but hear me out. It’s a portable washing machine, hand-cranked, so there’s no electricity involved, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to a normal washing machine. There are a lot of passionate college students out there, so this could make a great gift for one who wants to be as environmentally conscious as possible. If the college student in your life has any road trips in their future or aspirations of living out of a van, a portable washing machine may be downright essential. It’s an unconventional gift, but one that will save the user a ton of money on the electricity bill and conserve thousands of gallons of water at the same time.

29. Headphones

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($199.95 at the time of publication)

I’m not sure I would have survived my college experience without headphones. They were essential for avoiding all human contact as I walked across campus to my various classes, and they came in especially handy when dodging those people who stand on the corners and try to give you a little tiny bible. But all jokes aside, almost everyone wants to be able to listen to music whenever they can, whether its when they’re studying at the library, or chilling at their dorm and don’t want to disturb their roommate. A nice pair of headphones will also last a long time, so it’s worth investing in one of the better models if you are planning on giving them as a gift.

30. Bike Safety Lights

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($12.99 at the time of publication)

A bike can be one of the best ways to get around a college campus, not to mention a much more efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly alternative to a car. While a lot of college students have bikes, surprisingly few have the proper safety lights and stripes they need in order for cars to see them in the dark. Gifting the college student in your life a set of bike safety lights is the perfect way to ensure that they will be visible and safe on the road. I would suggest throwing a bike helmet in there as well, but if I know anything about college students, it’s that most of them wouldn’t be caught dead in a bike helmet.

31. Dish Set

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($29.99 at the time of publication)

Whether they’re still living in the dorms or moving into a new apartment, chances are your college student could use a set of dishes. While it can be cost-effective to own just one of each type of dishware, it quickly becomes a chore to have to wash them at every meal. Better to have multiple dishes so they and their roommates can let them pile up in the sink, as is dictated by true college tradition. Dishes are another opportunity to spice up the aesthetic of a new college apartment, which is bound to be pretty barebones considering nobody living there has extra funds to spend on decorating.

32. Pizza Box Oven

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($89.99 at the time of publication)

This pizza box oven is a really unique gift idea that will make a useful addition to any college student’s dorm or apartment. All it is is an oven designed to look like a pizza box, so it’s super compact in addition to being aesthetically pleasing. You can use it to cook or heat up frozen pizzas, obviously, but there’s no reason you can’t use it for any food item that will fit inside. It’s the perfect alternative for a student without access to a full-size oven, but still has a craving for frozen pizza. It also comes with a booklet containing a pizza dough recipe and over 40 topping suggestions, so they can even show off their pizza-making skills and more than likely become the most popular kid on the dorm room floor.

33. Toolbox

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($79.99 at the time of publication)

For the college student moving into his or her first apartment, a toolbox is a perfect gift. It provides them all the tools they need to get well on their way to becoming the resident handyman or woman, and will help them traverse the harsh terrain that is home repair. It also encourages them to start becoming a little more self-sufficient, and hopefully keeps them from calling the landlord every time a lightbulb needs to be changed. You can find some pretty comprehensive toolboxes on Amazon for a decent price, so you won’t be breaking the bank by getting it as a gift.

34. Shower Beer Koozie

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($9.97 at the time of publication)

Sometimes the best cure for a hangover after a crazy night out is…well, more beer. A shower beer koozie is the perfect gift for the college student who values efficiency in their routine. With a shower beer koozie, the college student in your life can achieve ultimate multitasker status by cracking open a cold one and washing off the previous night’s bad decisions at the same time. It will also take their pregaming game to a whole new level, since they can freshen up and get a head start in the race to black-out drunkenness all at once.

35. Amazon Echo Dot

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($34.99 at the time of publication)

There are a lot of smart speakers floating around these days. If you aren’t too concerned about the CIA listening in on what are sure to be some very intellectual discussions, you might consider getting such a speaker for the college student in your life. The Amazon echo dot takes the cake for a smart speaker that combines the best functionality and affordability (the most recent model comes in at just under $35). And if they combine it with an Amazon Unlimited music subscription, they’ll have access to over 50 million songs and never again have to worry about recruiting the college radio guy to DJ their house parties. The Amazon echo dot is also compatible with most popular music services, so you aren’t just restricted to what Amazon has to offer.

36. Reusable Straws

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($5.99 at the time of publication)

Environmentally friendly is the new sexy, and when you whip these reusable straws out at your next house party, you’ll be sure to impress all your eco-friendly guests. I admit, the idea of a reusable straw sounds gross at first. However, these straws are made of silicone, so you can just throw them in the dishwasher for a thorough cleaning. They’re a perfect solution for the college student who doesn’t like to dispose of too much plastic. They’ll also save them money in the long run, since they won’t have to keep buying plastic straws over and over. Reusable straws also come in a variety of colors, so they actually have some aesthetic appeal as well.

37. Kindle Oasis

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($249.99 at the time of publication)

If you’re lucky enough to have a college student who likes to read, don’t hesitate to get them a Kindle. There will never be a time in their lives when reading is more important, and yet there will also never be a time when they have less space for books. Having a Kindle gives you the ability to keep an entire library in your back pocket. They are also a far superior alternative to reading on your smartphone, as the e-ink technology looks exactly like the pages of a book. This means no blue light that will then interfere with your sleeping patterns. Amazon has really perfected their e-reader with the latest edition, the Oasis. It’s ultra-light and comes with an ergonomic handle so you can hold it with one hand. Between that and the light warming setting that matches the shade of the screen to the ambient light of your surroundings, there’s just no better way to read.

38. Wireless Mobile Photo Printer

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($86.94 at the time of publication)

Polaroids are still a fun novelty these days, but there’s no getting around the fact that they have their limitations. They can only take so many photos at a time, for one thing. Luckily, modern technology has a solution for everything. Say hello to wireless mobile photo printers, tiny machines that connect to your phone via Bluetooth and allow you to instantly print off any photos you snap during your night out. They’re perfect for creating instant memories, and they can print far more photos than a traditional polaroid. Moreover, they’re just a cheaper option than paying for a service to print your photos, and even though you’re limited to one size, the quality will be just as good as a professional printer.

39. Apple Airpods

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($169.00 at the time of publication)

Apple Airpods combine the best of headphones and hands-free speaking devices. They’re low maintenance (aside from the case charger, you don’t have to mess with any cords), they stick in your ears like magic, and the sound quality is incredible. Airpods do run a little more expensive than some other wireless earphones, but there’s no beating the sound and voice quality you’ll get with the Airpods. Especially for those who prefer a good old fashioned phone call to texting, Airpods are the only way to go. And if you do get these as a gift for the college student in your life, who knows, they might even call you.

40. Fitbit

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($122.75 at the time of publication)

There’s no better time than college to start thinking seriously about your health. If you know a college student who seems to be dreading putting on that freshman fifteen, give them some electronic motivation in the form of a Fitbit. With a Fitbit, they’ll be able to track how many steps they take per day, as well as the number of calories they’ve burned. A lot of Fitbits and similar devices also track your sleeping patterns, which can be helpful for developing a consistent sleep cycle. The overall biggest advantage of a Fitbit is that your college student will carry it with them wherever they go, a constant reminder to take care of themselves.

41. Cards Against Humanity

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($25.00 at the time of publication)

No college apartment is complete without Cards Against Humanity. There’s no better way to break the ice than to put the absolute worst parts of yourself on full display for friends and strangers alike. Cards Against Humanity has the unique ability to bring a roomful of people closer together by reminding them that they’re all equally human. There’s a decent chance your college student already has Cards Against Humanity, so be sure to ask before you get it. If they do already have it, you can always supplement it with one or all of the numerous expansion packs that have come out since the game’s inception, so they can horrify themselves and their friends in a plethora of new ways.

42. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($79.95 at the time of publication)

College students love to be able to take their music with them wherever they go, so you can’t go wrong with getting them a waterproof Bluetooth speaker as a gift. There are plenty of non-waterproof speakers to choose from, but as the waterproof ones don’t differ at all in terms of price or sound quality, you may as well just get the most bang for your buck. You can easily find a good waterproof Bluetooth speaker for less than $100. Besides that, it never hurts to have a speaker you can feel comfortable bringing to a pool party, or to the common on a rainy afternoon.

43. Blazer

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($49.99 at the time of publication)

Personal appearance is crucial to making a good first impression, something college students have to worry about more than anybody else on the planet. A good blazer has the power to tie a whole look together and take an outfit from good to great in the blink of an eye, making it a welcome addition to any college student’s wardrobe. Blazers are also blessed with incredible versatility. They can go with pretty much anything, so whether your college student will be attending a dance, a party, or a job interview, a blazer is sure to come in handy for making that all-important good first impression.

44. Water Bottle

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($42.95 at the time of publication)

If you’re worried that your college student might be a little careless about their hydration, put your mind at ease and get them a water bottle. I didn’t drink nearly enough water before I got one, but all it took was to have a water bottle with me to remind me to wet my whistle every once in a while. There are a lot of water bottles to choose from, of course, but there are water bottles and there are water bottles. The latter will keep your water cold for over twenty-four hours, and are usually made of metal, keeping them durable so they’ll last a long time. The best water bottles can be relatively pricey, but when it comes to your college student’s well being, no price is too great.

45. Laundry Bag with Backpack Straps

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($13.99 at the time of publication)

One good thing about living in the dorms is that they almost all have onsite laundry rooms. The bad thing about living in the dorms is that the laundry room is almost always in the basement, meaning you’ll have to lug three months’ worth of laundry down god knows how many flights of stairs (yeah, yeah, elevators are a thing, but where’s the fun in that?). A laundry bag with shoulder straps will make that journey easier, if not exactly a walk in the park. And if you’re willing to put in the effort, you could even pass on the elevator and take the stairs, which will eliminate the need for a workout.

46. Key, Wallet, and Cell Phone Locator

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($34.99 at the time of publication)

Losing track of your valuables can be an absolute nightmare, and not to offend anyone, but college students aren’t exactly the model of personal responsibility. If your college student is prone to misplacing his things, get him a set of key, wallet, and cell phone locators. Each pack of locators comes with several receivers that you can attach to any object, including your wallet, keys, and phone, but also your laptop, backpack, and anything else you don’t want to lose track of. Once you download the compatible app, the receiver beams its exact location back to your smartphone. Even for the more misplacement-prone of college students, a locator will ensure that they never lose track of a valuable object again.

47. A Superior Pillow

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($59.99 at the time of publication)

We’ve talked about sleep a lot on this list, but that probably only underscores its importance to a healthy mind and body. One of the best ways to ensure a good night’s sleep is to invest in a good pillow. Pillows have a bigger impact on your sleep cycle than you might think. The wrong pillow can leave you with a stiff neck or a sore back in the morning, and cause a lot of mid-sleep tossing and turning that interferes with that crucial REM cycle. There are a ton of good pillow options out there, and the best ones even come with additional fluff that you can stuff into the pillow to reinforce its cushiness. This is also a really safe gift (because really, who’s going to say no to more pillows?), so if you’re having trouble deciding what to get your college student, a pillow is a good way to go.

48. Daily Habit Planner

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($31.99 at the time of publication)

College students have a lot to do and a short amount of time in which to do it. Between homework, classes, a job, extracurriculars, and of course socializing, it can be a challenge to make time for all the things they need to get done. A daily habit planner is a solid gift that will encourage your college student to set his or her priorities in order and establish a good routine that will allow a sufficient amount of time for all their numerous responsibilities. It’s also a good way to kickstart their discipline, which of course is the secret to good habit-making.

49. Extra-Long Phone Charger

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($34.99 at the time of publication)

Phone chargers have a nasty habit of being just a little shorter than you’d like them to be. They also have a tendency to get bent and frayed, exposing the wires, which is not only dangerous but reduces their ability to charge your phone properly. An extra-long phone charger makes a great gift for college students and will be a welcome addition to their bedroom, kitchen, or living room. Most extra-long chargers are also encased in a more durable material than your standard phone charger, so they’ll last a whole lot longer and you’ll get maximum use out of them.

49. Weighted Blanket

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($69.90 at the time of publication)

Weighted blankets have become one of the most popular sleep-aid devices over the last few years. The blanket contains several layers of material to give the blanket a little extra heft, so that when you wrap yourself up inside it automatically triggers within your brain a feeling of safety and security, making for a calmer mind and better night’s sleep. Despite the increased, weighted blankets are still designed with temperature control technology, so you can use them pretty much any time of the year, except perhaps the middle of summer. And since they’ve become so popular, you can find pretty much any design you’re looking for at any one of the numerous retailers.

50. Wine Subscription Box

Buy or Read More on Amazon Winc (price varies at the time of publication)

College is a great time to begin diversifying your tastes, and that’s especially true when it comes to wine. There are so many different kinds of wine that it can be intimidating for even the burgeoning wine lover to know where to start. A wine subscription box takes care of the choices for you, sending a brand new selection of wine every month based on your preferences and taste profile. You can be as vague or specific as you want, plans are flexible and designed with the goal of helping you discover your favorite wine. A wine subscription box exposes you to a broad variety of adult grape juice, refines your pallet along the way, and leaves you with the wine knowledge you need to become the wine expert in residence among your friends

51. Rapid Ramen Cooker

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($8.99 at the time of publication)

On the other end of the health spectrum, we find Ramen noodles. But what Ramen lacks in nutrition, it makes up for in tradition, for what is the college experience without a healthy dose of Ramen every once in a while? The best way to prepare your Ramen by far is with a Ramen cooker. The Ramen cooker eliminates the need for pots and strainers, making for a no muss, no fuss Ramen cooking experience. You just put the Ramen in the cooker, add the appropriate amount of water, stick it in the microwave, and you’re on your way to a disgustingly cheap, incredibly delicious meal is less than three minutes.

52. Roku

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($80.97 at the time of publication)

Your college student may not leave home with much more than a pillow, suitcase, and several pairs of shoes to her name, but sooner or later she’ll begin becoming a real adult and acquiring some new possessions of her own. She’ll almost certainly get a tv at some point, and when she does, she’ll need a way to stream her favorite shows and movies. A Roku is one of many streaming devices on the market, but they’re one of the best in terms of the range of features they offer as well as the ease of use. The Roku interface is easy to navigate, and they have the option to download all your favorite streaming apps, including Netflix, Amazon Video, Hulu, and many more. It basically turns your television into a single-device entertainment center all on its own.

53. The World’s Softest Blanket

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($24.99 at the time of publication)

It is a generally accepted rule that unless one lives in Australia, one can never own too many blankets. If your college student has chosen to attend school at some silly place like Minnesota, where they get feet of snow every year, you might want to send them along with an extra blanket or two. It takes some looking into to find the best blankets on the market, but there is no getting around the fact that some blankets just bring a whole new level to the softness game. It’s worth taking the time to find the blanket that will make it as difficult as possible for your college student to get out of bed in the morning.

54. The Adjustable Bag

Buy or Read More on Uncommon Here Goods ($149.00 at the time of publication)

Finding the right size bag to bring on a trip can be a challenge. It can also be super annoying to keep accumulating bags of different sizes, which then take up all the extra space in your closet. With the Adjustable Bag, all these problems become moot. The Adjustable Bag expands or contracts to three different sizes, and can shapeshift into ten different configurations. You could use it as your plane carry-on one day, then attach the adjustable backpack straps and take it camping the next. Despite being malleable, the materials are sturdy and will hold up over extended periods of time and intense use. No matter where you’re going or what you’ll be doing, the adjustable bag is your all-in-one packing solution.

55. The Hungover Cookbook

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($19.99 at the time of publication)

When you wake up the morning after an intense night of partying with the worst hangover you’ve ever had in your life (except for the one you’ll have next week, of course) the last thing you want to do is work for your next meal. The Hungover Cookbook contains dozens of comforting, yet very simple recipes that if they won’t take away the splitting headache entirely, will help you cure those hangover blues. But The Hungover Cookbook is so much more than just a cookbook. It also contains clever witticisms, quizzes for determining the type of hangover you have, and other useful side notes that will help you analyze and understand your hungover state of mind.

56. Pressure Cooker

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($79.00 at the time of publication)

I do not exaggerate when I say a slower cooker literally saved my life in college (okay, maybe I do exaggerate, but I do feel that I would have been much hungrier without it). Nowadays, you can find pressure cookers that also double as slow cookers, making it a great two-for-one gift that will keep your college student well-fed for the foreseeable future. There’s no better feeling than coming out of an intense study session to find a home-cooked meal hot and ready to scarf down. Pressure cookers are designed to save you as much time and effort as possible, doing all the work for you while you finish cramming for that final exam. Pressure cookers are also one of the most versatile of kitchen appliances, useful for cooking meat, rice, vegetables, soups, stews, and really anything your heart desires.

57. Microwave Popcorn Maker

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($15.87 at the time of publication)

Popcorn is practically a staple crop on college campuses. It can be hard to beat a good bag of microwave popcorn in terms of flavor, but sooner or later you have to face up to the fact that that buttery goodness is not doing your body any favors. Luckily, there are healthier ways to make popcorn that when combined with the right oil and seasoning, don’t have to be any less delicious than their bagged counterparts. A microwave popcorn maker is a good alternative. These silicone popcorn makers are superior to electric or stovetop versions, not only because they are lower maintenance, but they require the dirtying of fewer dishes as well. A microwave popcorn maker serves as the cooker and the bowl all at the same time, so you can enjoy movie night knowing that you’ll only have one dish to clean in the morning.

58. Slipper Socks

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($37.40 at the time of publication)

Sometimes you need something less bulky than a slipper, but warmer than a regular sock. Fortunately, such an invention exists and it’s called, you guessed it, a slipper sock! Slipper socks are essentially a wool-lined upgrade to your sock drawer. They won’t take up as much space as a pair of slippers, and they’ll be more comfortable to wear since they’re form-fitting. It’s the perfect, efficient, all-in-one solution to your cold-feet woes. If you aren’t sure what gift to get the college student in your life, you really can’t go wrong with slipper socks. And since it’s their first time living away from home, they’ll need something to help them stay extra-cozy.

59. Bottle-Opener Belt

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($43.45 at the time of publication)

If you’ve ever found yourself on a bottle opener scavenger hunt at a party, a bottle-opener belt might be just the gadget you need. It’s pretty self-explanatory, not much more than a belt with a bottle opener built into the buckle. That might sound bulky, but the design is sleek and doesn’t add any extra weight to the buckle itself. You can find bottle-opener buckles in a ton of different colors and styles, so you can be sure you’ll find the one that best goes with your wardrobe. Fair warning, the belt does need to be undone, if not entirely removed, in order to effectively use the bottle opener, but since this is a list for college students, we figure that shouldn’t be a problem.

60. Camera

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($819.00 at the time of publication)

Smartphone cameras are better than ever and continue to improve with each new phone upgrade. Still, they have a limited range of features that will never match up to the capabilities of a real digital camera. If your college student is a photography enthusiast, or just a very dedicated capturer of memories, a camera is a fantastic gift. If you’re willing to splurge a little, the best models, while pricey, offer some pretty incredible features that can make even a first-time photographer look like a professional. However, you don’t necessarily have to go big or go home. There are plenty of mid-range cameras to choose from that will be more than sufficient for the needs of your college student, provided they aren’t using it for professional purposes.

61. Swiss Army Knife

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($104.98 at the time of publication)

There are numerous household and day-to-day problems that are easily fixable with a simple tool. A swiss army knife is practically a miniature, all-in-one toolkit that will keep you prepared to tighten the screw in the dorm room radiator, clip those pesky loose threads off your backpack and clothes, and it can even be used for self-defense, should the need ever arise. After all, survival isn’t just for the wilderness. Having a swiss army knife is basically the equivalent of carrying around a small toolbox in your pocket, and it’s one of those things that should be counted as an essential among every college student’s belongings.

62. Tumbler Set

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($19.99 at the time of publication)

If your college student (over 21, of course) is an old soul and possesses an accompanying desire to conduct his social activities in style, a tumbler set makes a great gift. A good set of tumblers ensures that he can show off his sophistication and put his days of sipping fine whiskey out of a red solo cup behind him. It’s also a good gift for the college student who likes to play host, although you’d have to own an unreasonable number of sets in order to have enough tumblers to accommodate any sizable group of people. Nevertheless, tumblers are a great thing to have on hand if you find yourself enjoying a quiet night in with your friends.

63. Scented Candle

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($36.00 at the time of publication)

College students aren’t exactly known for their impeccable hygiene. While it wouldn’t be fair to label every single one of them a slob, there’s no denying that your standard college dorm possesses a certain, less-than-pleasant aromatic quality. A scented candle is not only a thoughtful and very useful gift for a college student, but it also serves as a not-so-subtle reminder that they should maybe consider showering more than twice a week. It makes an especially great gift for your college roommate since you’ll presumably get to partake in the pleasures of a nice-smelling room

64. Fire Extinguisher

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($19.97 at the time of publication)

When I moved into my first apartment, it was a full year before we got a fire extinguisher. Considering I had a roommate who had a bad habit of leaving the stove on, it’s a wonder the whole apartment complex didn’t burn down. A fire extinguisher is not only an amazing and necessary gift but one that will put your own mind at ease and allow you to rest easy knowing that your college student has yet another line of defense against potential disaster. And the best thing is, you can order one on Amazon and have it shipped straight to your college student’s apartment door, all at minimal cost to you.

65. Robot Vacuum

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($199.99 at the time of publication)

Between the million-and-one things a college student has to worry about, vacuuming more often than not gets pushed to the bottom of the priorities list. However, with a robot vacuum, the college student in your life will never have to worry about vacuuming again. It’s basically like having a maid that you don’t have to pay. The robot vacuum will have the floors spic and span by the time you get back from your classes, and more than just being a cleaning device, a robot vacuum is just a great way to eliminate one of those menial tasks that would otherwise take up precious minutes of your busy day.

66. Desk Organizer

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($27.97 at the time of publication)

There’s a lot of college students out there who could stand to be a little more organized. If you know such a college student, get them a desk organizer. It’ll give them a place to put all those stray pens, pencils, notebooks, and other academic paraphernalia that’s been cluttering up their desk for the past semester. While some students like it messy, there is no shortage of studies indicating that organization has a huge impact on one’s mindset. When we live in a well-organized environment, we actually reduce our stress levels and anxiety. So not only is a desk organizer useful, it actually has health benefits as well.

67. Bed Sheets

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($13.99 at the time of publication)

You’ve been a college student before, or even if you haven’t, you’ve been in your early 20’s before, so you’re well aware of the hygienic shortcomings of that demographic. One such shortcoming is the tendency to leave the same sheets on your bed for months at a time. This is a problem that can be easily remedied simply by the presence of a spare set of bed sheets. Most college students probably won’t take the initiative to acquire an extra set on their own, which is why bedsheets make such a great gift. It’s also great if you can get them a set for summer and a set for winter, so they have the appropriate bedding with which to combat those cold nights.

68. Sturdy Carry-On

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($49.99 at the time of publication)

For parents sending kids to college for the first time, it’s always a good idea to gift them a sturdy carry-on bag. After all, if you want them to come visit for the holidays, its best to enable them with a carry-on that is small enough to be convenient, but sturdy enough to protect their belongings. Getting your college student a carry-on is one of the best ways to ensure that they’ll remember you exist after they move away. That, and a care package now and then doesn’t hurt either. The gift of a carry-on is also a thoughtful gesture that will encourage them to get out and see some of the world.

69. Travel Mug

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($14.67 at the time of publication)

College students like their caffeine, and it’s always nice to have a way to transport your liquid energy boost. Whether they’re a coffee guy or a tea gal, a travel mug will get the job done when it comes to taking their caffeinated beverage of choice to go. It’ll also keep it nice and piping hot, which is very important if they are to be sustained long enough to grab a refill from the cafeteria during their lunch hour. A travel mug is a particularly good gift for students who have a commute, or who live in a cold environment and often find themselves trudging through the snow on their way to classes. Don’t think about it, just keep feeding their caffeine addiction. It’s their heart rate, not yours.

70. Sewing Kit

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($7.99 at the time of publication)

If you’re sending a kid to college, it won’t be long before they discover the joys of living on a student budget. If you want to avoid them coming home every time they need to patch a pair of jeans, nip that habit right in the bud and get them a sewing kit for their next birthday. You can pick up some very detailed sewing kits on Amazon that include everything you’ll need for all your patchwork endeavors. These kits come with scissors, around ten different colors of thread, needles, safety pins, measuring tape, and so much more. Considering you can get all this for less than ten dollars, a sewing kit makes an affordable and endlessly useful gift.

71. Coasters

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($14.49 at the time of publication)

For the college student moving into their first apartment, a set of coasters is always a welcome addition. God knows that the coffee table they found outside the dumpster on moving day has and will see more than enough hardships in its lifetime without adding water rings to the mix. When it comes to coasters, consider searching around for some options with a little more character than your standard marble squares. For instance, you can find coasters shaped like little tiny 45 records, or with the faces of the presidents on them. Little touches like those can have an outsize impact on the homey feel of a college apartment.

72. Watch

Buy or Read More Here ($135 at the time of publication)

A good watch says something about the wearer. For one thing, it shows that they are someone who values their time. For another, it displays their sense of style, which in turn communicates a sense of confidence and self-assurance. As a gift, a watch also has the ability to feel like the marker of a milestone, sort of like the passing of a torch. It’s a gesture that says, “Good job. You’ve made it this far. You’re an adult now. Don’t mess this up,” or something along those lines. There are a multitude of watchmakers to choose from, but MVMT stands out from the competition due to their highly stylish minimalist designs and affordable prices.

73. Classpass

Buy or Read More on Classpass Here (price varies at the time of publication)

If you know a college student who likes to be active, or one who has expressed a desire to get out more, Classpass may be a perfect gift. It essentially functions as a gym membership, but rather than granting you access to a single gym, the Classpass service allows you to choose from hundreds of participating gyms. For one monthly fee, you can hit the gym for your regular workout, stop by the yoga studio to get in touch with yourself, all before giving your best shot at the boxing gym next door. Classpass combines all your workout needs into a single monthly subscription, whether you’re looking to get in a regular workout or try your hand at a new sport every week.

74. Electric Scooter

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($419.99 at the time of publication)

Electric scooters may be super annoying, but that’s really only true if you’re not the one riding the scooter. Jokes aside, electric scooters are an incredibly easy, not to mention environmentally friendly, mode of transportation that will (maybe?) ensure the rider is never late to class again. They can be fairly expensive, but the best scooters are efficient and built to last. The good ones also come with warranties should anything happen. If you do get this as a gift, you might want to throw in some safety lights and light strips as well, since scooters aren’t necessarily the easiest thing to see in the dark.

75. Allbirds Shoes

Buy or Read More on Allbirds Here ($95.00 at the time of publication)

One can never have too many shoes, but few shoes will measure up to the perfection that is Allbirds. To start, they’re made of all-natural materials. The fabric of Allbirds shoes is spun from the wool of New Zealand sheep. The laces are made out of recycled plastic bottles (don’t ask me how that works). Allbirds provide the wearer with one of the most comfortable walking or running experiences of their lives. And not only that, but put these on and you’re practically a walking advocacy program for the environment. And if you’re thinking all this eco-friendly ethos means a higher price tag, think again. Allbirds are actually no more expensive than your average running shoe. So given the option, there’s really no reason no to go for them.

76. Birchbox Subscription

Buy or Read More on Birchbox Here (price varies at the time of publication)

College is a time for experimenting with your looks and self-care. A Birchbox subscription allows you to sample an endless supply of beauty products so that you can find the ones that best suit you. The way it works is you sign up, fill out your beauty profile, and Birchbox ships a monthly box of beauty goodies directly to your door. Boxes contain a variety of skin and hair products from both mainstream and niche suppliers. Once you’ve found a product you like, you can order a full-size version from the Birchbox website for a fraction of the price you could get at a standard retailer.

Related Posts

Gifts for Writers

Gifts for 18 Year Old Girls

Stress Relief Gifts