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The 70 Best Gifts for College Students of 2024

Practical and fun presents they will actually be excited about.

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In This Article

College Student Gifts on a Lavender background
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Real Simple / Kevin Liang

Finding the perfect present for college students—or best graduation gift for recent graduates—may sound simple, but picking one they’ll actually use can be a bit more challenging. Add ever-changing social media trends to the mix, and keeping up with Gen Z’s wish list becomes even tougher. 

Whether you’re shopping for a holiday gift or filling up a care package, our list of the best gifts for college students will make the process much easier. Below, we’ve compiled plenty of fun and useful presents for every interest and budget, including dorm essentials and stress-relief products. For expert insight, we also spoke to college TikToker Jordan Sanchez and college influencer Sammy K. Palazzolo.

Many dorms don’t have a TV, and watching a movie on a laptop isn’t exactly ideal. This mini projector allows them to upgrade their movie nights or binge-watching sessions with a fun viewing experience. Complete your gift with popcorn and their favorite movie snacks, and you have a well-rounded gift that’s perfect for a night in after a long day of classes.

It’s always hard to leave our cozy covers in the morning, but they won’t have to with this wearable blanket. Available in over 20 colors and patterns, the oversized fluffy hoodie will keep them comfy and warm all day long. 

They’ll never have to worry about their phone dying again with this long-lasting portable charger. The device is quick and powerful enough to charge an iPhone 12 battery to 50% in 30 minutes, according to the brand. And since it comes with two cables, they don’t have to worry about forgetting theirs on campus when they need it most.

Help transform their college space into a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere that reminds them of home. Available in over a dozen versions honoring specific U.S. cities, a Homesick candle will cultivate a sense of nostalgia and hometown pride from any distance. (If their hometown isn’t available, consider scents like Grandma’s Kitchen or Lake Living.)

Crafted with the brand's signature sheepskin lining, the cozy Ugg Coquette Slippers are great for slipping on to walk around their dorm or apartment. Plus, the hard rubber soles make them suitable for outdoor use, too.

Not everyone works best in the library! With a convenient phone slot and elastic note holder, this lap desk makes studying from bed a breeze. Its handle ensures easy portability, and its microbead cushion will mold to their lap for ultimate comfort. 

Elevate their cooking repertoire beyond just chicken nuggets and Easy Mac with this cookbook designed for college students. They’ll be eager to whip up delicious meals and late-night snacks featuring all of their Trader Joe’s favorites

Able to comfortably store their phone, wallet, and keys, Lululemon’s beloved belt bag is perfect for all errands and outings. The versatile fanny pack can be worn around the waist, across the body, or on the shoulder—and it will quickly become an everyday essential.

For those who aren’t exactly morning people, there’s no need to waste time or money venturing to Starbucks with this Keurig at home. With just water and a K-Cup pod, they’ll be sipping on freshly brewed coffee in mere minutes. At less than 5 inches wide, this compact single-serve coffee maker can fit on even the smallest countertops. 

Nothing’s better than a late-night shower, but nothing’s worse than a soaking wet pillow at bedtime. This genius pillowcase has a microfiber towel side that will absorb the moisture from their wet hair and an anti-frizz satin side designed for comfort. 

Homesick college students will love these twinkle string lights, which allow them to bring a touch of home to their dorm or off-campus house. They can clip up to 50 of their favorite photos with friends and family to the string, creating a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere.

Not all dorms have refrigerators, and this mini fridge from Frigidaire is a fun and cute way to keep all their favorite drinks and snacks fresh. With an interior freezer compartment, they’ll also be able to keep ice at the ready to fill their water bottles on the way to class.

For those who love to accessorize, this printed travel jewelry case is an absolute must-have. Crafted from vegan leather, the case includes multiple compartments ideal for keeping their favorite bracelets, necklaces, and rings organized and untangled. With over 20 vibrant colors to choose from and the option to add their personalized, shadow-printed monogram, this portable jewelry organizer is the ultimate custom gift. 

Everyone wants a water bottle that is both functional and stylish, and this stainless steel Hydro Flask checks all the boxes. Not only is it spillproof and sweat-resistant, but it also keeps beverages cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours. And considering it comes in so many bright colors, the water bottle doubles as a fashion statement.  

Sanchez says a comfy robe is a necessity, and this luxurious pick from Brooklinen will have your undergrad feeling like royalty, even in a dorm room. The convenient pockets, adjustable sleeve cuffs, and adjustable tie waist make it stand out from other no-frills robes.

From early morning classes to late night study sessions, coffee reigns as the ultimate college essential—and this cold brew maker will quickly become their partner in crime. They can use their favorite coffee grounds to make four servings of cold brew coffee at a time. It even includes a mesh filter to ensure that gritty grinds don’t find their way in. 

No movie night is complete without popcorn, and this micro-popper will be the perfect addition to their screening session. All they need to do is measure kernels in the marked lid, pour them into the jar, and microwave for three minutes. The popper's wide opening makes it ideal for sharing, and the borosilicate glass is easy to clean. Whether they opt to enjoy the popcorn plain, add butter, or even sprinkle some M&M's on top, their friends will be eager to come over for the next movie marathon.

Help them achieve a salon-worthy manicure from home with this adorable gel nail polish kit from Le Mini Macaron. The kit includes all the essentials: a tiny macaron-shaped LED lamp, a USB cord, a matching gel polish, a cuticle pusher, a mini nail file, and 10 gel polish remover wraps. With all the necessary elements at their fingertips, they can save money by skipping the salon while away at school. 

From holiday trips back home to short visits with friends, this lightweight duffle bag will be the perfect travel companion for any weekend getaway. Its spacious, expandable interior can accommodate all their essentials, while the inner pockets will help keep them organized while on the move. 

With great aux comes great responsibility, and this waterproof Bluetooth speaker will turn them into the go-to DJ among their friends. Because it’s so easy to tote around, they’ll love blasting their favorite music at indoor and outdoor events.

Every college student needs to eat, and an Uber gift card will allow them to have their favorite meal delivered directly to them. It’s especially great for students who don’t have a car and need a ride somewhere, too. Whether they use it for getting from place to place or enjoying something other than the food in the dining hall, this is a gift they’ll be thankful for.

If their student housing doesn't have room for a couch or beanbag, these comfy floor pillows will provide extra seating for guests beyond just their bed. Whether they opt to use each pillow on its own or stack them for a more cushiony seat, the corduroy squares will make their dorm room the go-to hangout spot.

Ever wanted to journal but didn’t know where to start? Papier’s interactive wellness journal will help them effortlessly compile their thoughts, goals, and gratitude all in one place. Available in 10 vibrant colors, the journal includes 96 pages with guided prompts and sections to make the journaling process a bit more manageable.    

Expect their competitive edge to come out with the classic game of Spikeball, perfect for playing on the campus quad. The set is equipped with a net and three balls, all conveniently packable in the provided drawstring bag. Portable and easy to set up, this gift is great to play with friends between classes.

Bring their memories to life instantly—no ink cartridges required—using this portable color photo printer. Pro tip: They can download the HP Sprocket App to customize their mini prints with borders, stickers, and other editing tools.  

Students will love showcasing their campus pride with this personalized wall art, featuring a custom map of their beloved college town. Simply select their university's city and choose from over 40 colors and three sizes for a piece of decor that they'll be eager to display in their dorm room.

Finals week stress will melt right off them with this moisturizing body lotion from Bath & Body Works. The soothing yet energizing combination of eucalyptus and spearmint oils will relax them so they’re ready to conquer the rest of the semester. 

This shredded memory foam reading pillow will provide them with a comfortable and supportive lounging experience, whether they are doing homework or watching TV. The pillow comes in two colors and three sizes (one with the option of neck support). 

There comes a time when every college student needs a good luggage set, and this carry-on bag from Beis is a high-quality pick. It’s perfect for quick weekend trips home or going out of town with friends. It comes with a weight indicator, 360-degree wheels, a bag for dirty clothes, and a TSA-approved lock.

Skincare products and cosmetics can take up lots of surface space, and this handy storage organizer will reduce the clutter. With four upper compartments, four drawers, and 12 lipstick slots, it offers enough room to store all their wellness essentials. Plus, the sleek transparent design makes it easy for them to quickly find their favorite products.

The Fujifilm Instax Camera is a must-have gift for photo fanatics wanting to cherish candid memories beyond their Instagram feed. With the camera’s macro lens, selfie mirror, and adjustable brightness, they can capture high-quality photos with ease. The bundle also includes 20 sheets of mini film for wallet-sized pictures, perfect for decorating and sharing with friends. 

Whether they’re watching TikTok videos or the latest Netflix series, college students will love propping up their smartphone or tablet with this portable mount—no assembly required.

This mask’s 100% lightproof design will help them sleep through anything, from early morning sunlight to their roommate’s annoying desk lamp. Its adjustable buckle, contoured design, and budge-proof sides will keep the mask secure, even on the most restless sleepers.

According to Palazzolo, undergrad students need a cozy sleeping space to help them decompress (especially during stressful parts of the semester). This ultra-cozy weighted blanket was our favorite during testing, so it will keep them warm and comfortable all night long. Plus, its removable cover allows for quick and easy cleaning. 

Whether they're running errands or working out on the treadmill, these well-designed, lightweight sneakers make the perfect gift for the active college student. The sneakers have a cushioned yet airy feel that provides excellent support—not to mention the diverse color selection that will have them moving in style. 

They’ll be proud to stroll around the residence hall in these cooling pajamas. Crafted with temperature-regulating Tencel, this silky set is a game changer for college students battling stuffy dorm rooms and subpar ACs. 

For those days when they want to work out but aren't in the mood to go to the university gym, these resistance bands allow fitness fanatics to break a sweat at home. The set includes three bands, each of a different weight, in addition to a carrying case for easy transport.

Amazon All-new Kindle (2022 release)
PHOTO: Amazon
Orig. $100 $69 at Amazon

Portable and lightweight, the Kindle will keep bookworms enthralled anywhere and everywhere. Its glare-free screen makes reading easy on the eyes, and its adjustable front light and dark mode setting will come in handy at all times of the day. Plus, its compact size makes it easier to fit in backpacks and totes than most paper novels, making it suitable for a quick read on the go. 

With this tri-fold lighted makeup mirror, they can get ready for a night out in their dorm room instead of a communal bathroom. It has two magnifying mirrors so they can get up close and personal and 21 LED lights to overcome dim overhead lighting. Plus, the base of the mirror has a built-in storage compartment to hold small accessories (like jewelry).

They’ll never want to take off these cozy drawstring joggers. With buttery smooth fabric, these sweats are perfect for quick errands and lazy days alike. 

Tech-savvy students will happily say goodbye to tangled headphones forever with this wireless pair. With AirPods, they can listen to their favorite playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks from anywhere. We recommend snagging a colorful silicone cover to go with the headphones so they can easily keep track of and distinguish their own pair. 

Balancing school work and a social life can be stressful, and these trendy hydro-stars are just as much pimple patches as they are accessories. Made with 100% hydrocolloid, the vibrant stars are designed to reduce inflammation and redness in style. Each smiley-face pack is equipped with 32 stars and a compact mirror for convenient application.

Whether they’re a culinary beginner or a Gordon Ramsay in the making, this four-in-one air fryer will elevate any college student’s cooking game. The mini appliance has air frying, broiling, roasting, and reheating capabilities, and it requires little to no preheating time so it’s ideal for quick, low-hassle meals. Plus, the nonstick basket and tray ensure an easy cleaning process. 

This 17-by-11-inch shelf will keep their phone, book, and water bottle easily accessible while they sleep without a bulky nightstand. Its three-clamp design attaches to furniture easily, and its lipped edge will ensure that nothing falls overboard throughout the night. 

They won’t need to choose between headphones and ear muffs this winter with this cozy Bluetooth beanie. The knit hat offers crisp sound and intuitive control buttons, providing them with easy access to their favorite tunes. 

Between a rigorous course load and a busy social life, they may not have time to pencil in self-care on their schedules. That’s where the Laneige overnight lip mask enters the mix. Available in six sweet flavors, this mask will have their lips feeling hydrated and moisturized when they wake up in the morning. 

Compact and lightweight, this mini backpack is perfect for those times when they want to carry the essentials without lugging around extra weight. Available in a handful of bright colors, the bag includes a small main compartment, a front zip pocket, and a side water bottle pocket.

Even the most forgetful college student will be able to keep track of their keys with this personalized leather key ring. Choose their favorite color and stamp on up to eight customized characters for a thoughtful gift they’ll use daily.  

Nothing sets a party atmosphere like lighting and good music, and these LED strip lights provide both. With the ability to toggle between millions of unique colors and adjust the brightness, they can create whatever vibe your college student is looking for. Available in 50- and 100-foot options, these lights are suitable for decorating dorm rooms because they stick onto walls easily with adhesive.

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a great gift for college students living off-campus. With instant access to Netflix, Apple TV, Disney+, Peacock, and other streaming services, upperclassmen won’t even miss their freshman dorm’s free cable. 

When they're feeling lazy but have places to be, this elevated loungewear set ensures a pajama feel and a presentable look at the same time. The knit top and tapered pants come in a variety of neutral, cozy colors—striking a successful balance between comfort and style.

While fashion trends come and go, flannel PJ pants never go out of style. These lightweight cotton sleep pants come in 12 colors, six sizes ranging from S to XXXL, and four inseam lengths.

An essential oil diffuser is a great way to reap the benefits of aromatherapy. This one from Innogear operates quietly and emits an ambient colored light to enhance the vibes in their dorm room. 

Pickleball is the new craze, and this set is a great gift for beginners and competitive paddle-sport players alike. It comes equipped with two rackets, three balls, and a convenient carry bag, providing all of the essentials for pickleball enthusiasts to get their game on.  

Holding their phone in their hand at all times can get annoying, and constantly taking it in and out of their bag can be equally frustrating. The Bandolier crossbody strap offers a trendy, hands-free solution for keeping their phone readily accessible. Beyond convenience, the concealed snap-cover compartment keeps their cash and cards secure in style. 

This dual-purpose carrying case will not only keep their laptop safe on the go but can also serve as a portable laptop stand. It's thin, lightweight design makes it easy to throw in a backpack or tote, while its adjustable angles ensure they achieve the best viewing experience.

With a carrying strap and eight outer compartments, this shower caddy will keep their toiletries neat and organized. The collapsible design makes it easy to store in public bathrooms and shared spaces, while the mesh material dries quickly.  

While charging cords may not seem like the most exciting gift, we promise these will be an extremely useful present. There’s nothing worse than waiting idly as your phone charges, but this lightning cable’s 10-foot length will allow your college student to charge and use their phone from almost any distance. The braided nylon material is extra durable, and the cable’s 90-degree angle helps prevent bends and rips. 

Chill nights in don't have to be boring! The Voting Game is a fun activity for every friend group, as each player anonymously votes for who is "most likely to" adhere to the task written on the card. With countless cards and scenarios to flip through, this hilarious party game is sure to keep the crew entertained all night.

No flames allowed in the dorms? No problem! This aesthetic candle warmer lamp will let them enjoy the scents of their favorite candles without the fire hazard. They can even adjust the brightness to control how quickly the wax melts.  

If they hate dealing with dripping wet hair, this hair towel may simplify the post-shower process. Crafted with microfiber, this waffle-knit towel speeds up drying time, reduces frizz, and maintains volume. And unlike DIY towel turbans turbans that fall over or unravel, this one has a convenient button and clasp, keeping their wet hair secure and out of their face.

Dorm rooms aren't particularly known for their great air circulation, but this small fan will help keep any college student cool. Its 3-foot air range is perfect for smaller spaces, while the convenient handle makes it easy to bring between rooms, Better yet, it's USB or battery operated, so they can use it without being tethered to an outlet.

Whether they're filming a "GRWM" or simply trying to keep their hair from getting splashed while washing their face, this spa headband adds a sense of style to any skincare routine. In addition to the spongey headband, the set also includes terry cloth wristbands to keep water from running down their arms. And our favorite part? It's available in over 20 colors and patterns.

Whether they're feeling nostalgic about the end of their college experience or eager to reminisce on their semester, Mixbook can transform their favorite memories into a permanent keepsake. Even better, they can create the entire book right from their iPhone.

The Ninja Creami has taken social media by storm, gaining popularity for its ability to turn frozen fruits into ice creams, smoothies, and shakes within minutes. It's the perfect appliance for a dorm room, off-campus apartment, or even for graduates looking to up their culinary game.

Most college students are not early risers, and this sunrise alarm clock will make waking up for their 8 a.m. classes a bit more bearable. The clock allows them to customize their morning routine, gently nudging them awake with calming colors and soothing sounds of their choice.

An immersion blender is probably one of the most versatile tools you can have in your kitchen. It takes up very little space, is super simple to use, and it's easy to clean—all factors that busy college students will appreciate. The student in your life will love making smoothies, soups, pancake batter, and more whenever hunger strikes. 

A high-quality yoga mat is essential for the active college student, and this yoga mat from Lululemon is one they'll be proud to carry around campus. With this mat, they'll be able to squeeze in a quick workout in their dorm, carry it with them to the gym, or go to a group fitness class with friends.

Slides are a must when you need a pair of shoes that you can literally put on as you're walking out the door. Whether they're running late for class or just walking across campus, these Cushionaire Cloud slides will help them stay comfortable wherever they go.

Keeping track of all your belongings as a college student can be hard, especially with how many places they frequent on a day-to-day basis. This four-pack of Apple AirTags will help take the stress out of leaving something behind—they'll easily be able to find their backpack, wallet, luggage, keys, and anything else they might misplace during their busy day.

Questions You Might Ask

What do college freshmen need the most? 

Aside from classic dorm essentials like a quick-dry shower caddy and shower shoes, Sanchez says there are other items she recommends for incoming freshmen.

She likes having a comfy bean bag chair in her dorm room, as it provides somewhere to do work other than her bed or desk. She also suggests long extension cords for charging, along with a step stool to reach high closet shelves.

And Sanchez’s holy grail? Heavy-duty Command hooks. While they’re great for hanging towels, she also uses them to keep track of other daily items, so her wallet, keys, and book bag are all easily accessible and off the floor. 

Palazzolo also preaches the importance of having a cozy place to rest. “I recommend doubling up on memory foam mattress covers and getting a heated blanket,” Palazzolo says. “Those two things saved me during the brutal winters and exhausting days of freshman year.”

Regarding items that aren’t necessary, Sanchez says a printer and headboard are two things students living on campus can likely do without. She notes that most dorm beds don’t allow for a headboard, and printing is easy to do at the library when needed. 

While certain essentials are good to have upon arrival, Sanchez says it can be beneficial to wait until you get to school to determine what items are truly necessary.

“Students will be like, ‘Who knows if I need this—I’ll just bring it anyway,’ and then get to campus and see that their dorm isn’t all that big,” Sanchez says. “Remember you’re not in the middle of nowhere, and you can always buy the things you need.”

What should I include in a care package for a college student?

When crafting a care package, consider a combination of both what a college student wants and what they need.

Sanchez advises first asking them if there’s anything they need to be shipped from home. Whether it be a pair of snow boots or a pack of batteries, there are often little things the student didn’t realize they would need.

To cover the necessities, toiletries and cleaning supplies are also helpful to include. Though college students may not be jumping for joy when they see extra shampoo in the box, they realistically may have forgotten to purchase it on their own. 

Since college students are constantly on the go, it’s nice to remind them that self-care and relaxation are essential. That being said, including self-care products like a candle, a face mask,  or a calming coloring book can inspire them to have a much-needed spa day. 

Sanchez says that holiday-themed gift boxes are a cute idea, as well. Festive packages, from a Halloween-inspired gift basket to a Thanksgiving bundle, will add some holiday cheer to their living space.

However, keep in mind that Sanchez and Palazzolo both suggest excluding random, space-filling knick-knacks and focusing on things college students will actually use.

Of the care packages she’s received, Palazzolo says the most useful items have been cash, a blanket, fuzzy socks, shot glasses, lollipops, instant popcorn, and holiday-themed window clings. 

And finally, food. When it comes to care packages, Sanchez emphasizes that snacks are a must. However, she warns against sending too much food.

Along with potentially attracting bugs in the dorm, she notes that keeping an excessive amount of food in their room could make students less inclined to go to the dining hall, which is a popular social setting for making friends. 

“Go for little fun treats and snacks that could never replace a meal,” Sanchez says. “I wouldn't say get your kid oatmeal or rice that they can microwave, but get them their favorite candies and things that they may not be buying themselves but you know they would enjoy.” 

Are gift cards a good gift for college students? 

While gift cards may seem impersonal, they can be great gifts for college students who are on the pickier side or are just starting to budget.

Returning items can also be a hassle at school, especially if the student doesn’t have a car on campus. “Getting a gift card is better than getting a gift that a student doesn’t need,” Sanchez says. 

If you’re going the gift card route, Palazzolo notes the importance of choosing places that the college student shops at regularly, whether it be their favorite store or a restaurant in their college town.

“I loved receiving gift cards to Starbucks, Dunkin', and Target because I would go there each week for coffee and groceries,” Palazzolo says. “Receiving gift cards to random places is not as fun or helpful because most freshmen do not have cars and are only able to go to what is within walking distance.”

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Jamie Fischer, a commerce writer for Real Simple, and updated by Camryn Dilger, an associate shopping editor. To compile this list, she gained insight from two college influencers: Jordan Sanchez, Harvard ‘24, and Sammy K. Palazzolo, University of Illinois ‘26. Sanchez created her TikTok account, @happiejordan, in May 2020 as a way to provide advice to incoming college students—since then, she shifted gears from solely giving advice to vlogging her own experience at Harvard. Palazzolo, who creates lifestyle content using the TikTok handle @skzzolno, is known for her relatable vlogs, helpful college tips, and notorious flip phone that she uses to take photos. 

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