The 70 Best Gifts for College Students of 2024

Purshe Mini Bluetooth Projector

$60 at Amazon

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.

The Comfy Original

Orig. $55 $50 at Amazon $50 at Zappos View on Thecomfy.com

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. 

Anker 523 Power Bank

$26 at Amazon View on Anker View on Dailysteals.com

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.

Homesick Chicago Premium Scented Candle

Orig. $38 $30 at Amazon $38 at Nordstrom

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.)

UGG Coquette Slipper

$120 at Amazon $120 at Nordstrom $120 at Zappos

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.

LapGear Designer Lap Desk

Orig. $35 $30 at Amazon $30 at Walmart $35 at Best Buy

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. 

The I Love Trader Joe’s College Cookbook

Orig. $20 $13 at Amazon

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. 

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

$50 at Amazon $38 at Lululemon

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.

Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker

Orig. $100 $60 at Amazon Orig. $90 $60 at Target Orig. $89 $79 at Walmart

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. 

DryZzz Satin Towel Pillowcase

$36 at Amazon View on Dryzzz.com

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. 

Twinkle Star Copper Fairy Lights

$15 at Amazon

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.

Frigidaire Retro Compact Fridge

Orig. $180 $158 at Amazon $199 at Wayfair $134 at Home Depot

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.

Mark and Graham Small Travel Jewelry Case

$40 at Markandgraham.com

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. 

Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle

Orig. $40 $27 at Amazon Orig. $40 $33 at Walmart $28 at REI

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.  

Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe

$99 at Amazon View on Brooklinen

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.

Takeya Cold Brew Coffee Maker

Orig. $25 $23 at Amazon View on Takeyausa.com Orig. $28 $17 at Kohls.com

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. 

Ecolution Micro-Pop Popcorn Popper

$13 at Amazon $10 at Walmart View on Ecolutionhome.com

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.

Le Mini Macaron Mini Gel Nail Polish Kit

$38 at Amazon Orig. $38 $33 at Target $38 at Ulta

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. 

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

$215 at Nordstrom View on Dagnedover.com $215 at Crate & Barrel

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. 

Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Speaker

$149 at Amazon Orig. $150 $110 at Target $150 at Best Buy

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.

Uber Gift Card

View on Amazon $100 at Walmart View on Uber.com

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.

Urban Outfitters Washed Corduroy Floor Pillow

$49 at Urban Outfitters

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.

Papier Joy Wellness Journal

Orig. $35 $32 at Amazon $35 at Papier.com

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.    

Spikeball Standard 3-Ball Kit

$70 at Amazon $70 at Walmart View on Sunandski.com

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.

HP Sprocket Portable Photo Printer

$80 at Amazon Orig. $130 $80 at Target Orig. $96 $80 at Walmart

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.  

Amy Elizabeth Artwork Personalized University Map

$38 at Etsy

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.

Bath & Body Works Stress Relief Body Lotion

Orig. $16 $15 at Amazon

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. 

Linenspa Reading Pillow

Orig. $40 $30 at Amazon View on Linenspa.com

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). 

Béis The Carry-On Roller

View on Beistravel.com

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.

Ikee Design Acrylic Jewelry & Cosmetic Organizer

Orig. $14 $13 at Amazon

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.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera

Orig. $90 $85 at Amazon $120 at Walmart $100 at Newegg.com

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. 

GoDonut Original Phone Stand

Orig. $20 $15 at Amazon View on Godonut.com

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.

LKY Digital Sleep Masks for Side Sleeper

Orig. $16 $10 at Amazon

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.

Threshold Microplush Weighted Blanket

View on Target

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. 

Hoka Clifton 9

$145 at Nordstrom $145 at Zappos $145 at Hoka.com

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. 

Eberjey Gisele Short PJ Set

$138 at Nordstrom $90 at Zappos $125 at Zappos

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. 

Renoj Resistance Bands Set

Orig. $30 $15 at Amazon

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 Kindle

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. 

Weily Lighted Makeup Mirror

Orig. $26 $23 at Amazon

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).

Aerie OFFLINE OTT Fleece Jogger

Orig. $55 $39 at Ae.com

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. 

Apple AirPods (3rd Generation)

Orig. $169 $130 at Amazon $170 at Target $185 at Walmart

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. 

Starface Hydro-Stars

Orig. $15 $13 at Amazon $15 at Target $15 at Walmart

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.

Instant Pot Vortex Mini Air Fryer Oven Combo

$59 at Amazon Orig. $89 $78 at Walmart

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. 

Sidekiix Bedside Shelf

Orig. $40 $20 at Amazon

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. 

Blueear Bluetooth Beanie

Orig. $20 $17 at Amazon

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. 

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

$24 at Amazon Orig. $24 $15 at Walmart $24 at Sephora

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. 

Fjallraven Kanken Mini Classic Backpack

Orig. $80 $54 at Amazon $80 at Nordstrom $67 at Zappos

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.

SbriStudio Personalized Leather Keyring

$20 at Etsy

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.  

Ksipze Color Changing Lights

Orig. $20 $10 at Amazon

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.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K

Orig. $50 $44 at Amazon $50 at Target $43 at Walmart

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. 

Free-est by Free People Freya Sweater Set

$128 at Nordstrom $128 at Freepeople.com $128 at Revolve

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.

L.L.Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Sleep Pants

Orig. $50 $37 at Zappos $50 at L.L.Bean

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.

InnoGear Essential Oil Diffuser

Orig. $20 $14 at Amazon Orig. $26 $23 at Walmart

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. 

JP WinLook Pickleball Paddles

$60 at Amazon

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.  

Bandolier Emma Crossbody Phone Case

$119 at Amazon View on Bandolierstyle.com

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. 

Moft Laptop Carry Sleeve

$60 at Amazon View on Moft.us

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.

Attmu Mesh Shower Caddy

Orig. $11 $10 at Amazon

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.  

Exeric Nylon Braided iPhone Charge Cable

$10 at Amazon

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. 

Buffalo Games The Voting Game

$20 at Amazon $11 at Target $15 at Walmart

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.

Marycele Candle Warmer Lamp

Orig. $46 $34 at Amazon

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.  

Act+Acre Microfiber Hair Towel

$30 at Sephora View on Actandacre.com $30 at Skinstore.com

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.

Honeywell Turbo on the Go Personal Fan

Orig. $14 $13 at Amazon View on Honeywellstore.com

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.

Zkptops Spa Headband Set

Orig. $10 $8 at Amazon

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.

Mixbook Photo Book

$10 at Mixbook.com

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.

Ninja Creami Ice Cream Maker

Orig. $230 $200 at Amazon $200 at Target $230 at Kohls.com

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.

Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock

Orig. $200 $170 at Amazon Orig. $200 $170 at Nordstrom $170 at Best Buy

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.

Vitamix Immersion Blender Bundle

View on Vitamix.com

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. 

lululemon The Lightweight 5mm Yoga Mat

$84 at Lululemon

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.

Cushionaire Feather Recovery Cloud Slides With +Comfort

Orig. $40 $25 at Amazon $40 at Walmart View on Cushionaire.com

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.

Apple AirTag 4-Pack

Orig. $99 $84 at Amazon $100 at Target View on Verizon

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.