The 59 Best Gifts For College Students Of 2024

Prep: The Essential College Cookbook

View On Amazon $17 View On Barnesandnoble.com $19

Now that parents or grandparents are miles away, a cookbook will come in handy when they need to prepare meals for themselves. The book centers around 10 basic lessons designed to get them comfortable in the kitchen, along with recipes for every meal of the day (including snacks and dessert). In addition to recipes, students will learn what items they should keep in their pantry, basic knife skills, and more.

Pairs Well With: Any Day 8-Piece College Dorm Set

SoundBot Shower Speaker

View On Amazon $15 View On Walmart $15

This Bluetooth speaker will come in handy when college students want to listen to their favorite music while in the shower. The speaker can run continuously on a single charge for up to six hours. Using the Bluetooth mic, they can even make calls while showering. It’s also safe for outdoor use, so they can bring it to the beach or pool.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

View On Amazon $25 View On Target $20 View On Lowe's $22

After a busy week, college students need a way to relax from their responsibilities. One way they can do that is by watching popular shows on different streaming channels. With an Amazon Fire TV Stick, they’ll have access to all their favorite streaming services—all they have to do is plug it into the TV. The included Alexa Voice Remote lets them use their voice to quickly search and launch across apps.

Gourmet Gift Baskets Care Package for College Students

View On Gourmet Gift Baskets $40

For an easy last-minute gift, this simple gift basket features popular types of candy and snacks such as M&M’s, pretzels, and cheddar popcorn. With this care package, college students won’t have to make any late-night runs to the grocery store. Plus, they’ll stay energized as they finish assignments. As you’re ordering the gift, you will have the option to add a personalized greeting card.

Baggu Puffy Water Bottle Sling

View On Baggu.com View On Bando.com

This water bottle sling is a stylish way for students to carry their water bottle with them to class, the gym, or just about anywhere. Similar to a crossbody bag, the sling comes with an adjustable strap that can be worn across the body or over the shoulder. No matter how big or small the bottle is, the expandable sling is designed to fit most types of water bottles. Choose from a variety of fun patterns.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera

View On Amazon $80 View On Walmart $80 View On Target $80

College is an exciting time, and this instant camera will help them capture every moment. Pictures print instantly so they can create a scrapbook or hang them along the walls of their dorm room. And due to the size, it is easy to toss in a bag for on-the-go use. If they like to take selfies, this camera is fully equipped to handle those thanks to the built-in selfie mirror. With the automatic exposure and flash control features, the photos won’t appear washed out.

Keurig K-Mini Plus Single Serve Coffee Maker

View On Amazon $85 View On Wayfair $79 View On Target $60

With a Keurig K-Mini, students can quickly make a cup of coffee before heading off to class. The coffee maker can make anywhere from 6 to 12 ounces of coffee at a time. And thanks to its small footprint, the K-Mini won’t take up too much room in a dorm or their shared kitchen space.

lululemon Dual Pouch Wristlet

View On Lululemon $48

If your college student has trouble with keeping up with their belongings, this wristlet makes for a practical and stylish gift. They can use it to store cards, hair bands, hand sanitizer, and other small items. With different styles available, you can pick one that matches their unique style or even their school colors for game day.

Threshold Wood Lattice Wall Hanging

View On Target $18

This wall decor is just what they need to add a touch of home to a stuffy dorm room. Even though it’s only available in one color, it will blend in with most dorm room styles. Wherever they choose to place it, this wall decor will elevate her room and transform it into a more inviting space.

Layron Microwave Ramen Cooker

View On Amazon $14

It’s a known fact that college students consume their fair share of ramen, and this ramen cooker will help them cook this instant meal even faster. To use, they’ll simply place the dry noodles into the draining bowl, add water, cover with the smaller bowl, and heat it up in a microwave. After the noodles are cooked, they’ll take out the draining bowl, drain the water, and place the instant noodles in the small bowl to serve. All parts are dishwasher safe, and the handle will keep them from burning their hands when they remove it from the microwave.

Beast Hydration Bottle

View On Amazon $30 View On Wayfair $44 View On Thebeast.com

Another must-have item that all college students need is a water bottle. This stainless steel bottle has double-walled insulation so drinks stay at just the right temperature. The wide opening on the vessel makes it easy to fill and drink from, while the carry cap will allow them to bring it on the go. Your student can take this water bottle to class or put it in the cupholder of their car when running a quick errand.

Ekrist Portable Charger Power Bank

View On Amazon $22

When students aren’t near their dorm room, it’s nice to have items like this portable charger to charge their devices. Whether they’re studying in the library or working out, this portable charger can quickly charge their phone. With the LED indicator lights, they will easily know how much power remains and when it’s time to recharge the portable charger. Since the manufacturer included two USB ports, they can charge two devices at the same time.

So Yummy by bella 2.0 qt Air Fryer

View On Target $25

If they have a shared kitchen space, gift your college student with this air fryer. Besides being able to cook healthier fried foods, your student can also make doughnuts and cakes. And if they don’t know where to start, the air fryer includes over 100 exclusive recipes.

Verloop Super Mix Pom Knit Slippers

View On Verloopknits.com

When it feels a little too cool in their dorm room, these cozy slippers will come in handy. Made by AAPI-owned brand Verloop, these slippers are perfect for napping, relaxing, and just trying to stay warm.

Apple AirPods (2nd Generation)

View On Amazon $89 View On Walmart $89 View On Target $90

Of course, AirPods make a great gift for college students because they can use them for different purposes, whether that’s listening to their favorite music as they work out, playing their favorite study playlist, or calling home (hopefully!).

Shipt Student Membership

View On Shipt.com

From going to events, finishing assignments, and doing other tasks, college students have a lot on their plates. That’s why a Shipt membership can help make their lives a little easier. Using Shipt, students can have groceries, school supplies, and dorm decorations shipped right to their door. And if the student prefers to shop at a certain store, Shipt has access to a wide range of retailers so they can select the one that best fits their needs.

Pairs Well With: The Essential College Cookbook

Uncommon Goods Stay Cool Adjustable Laptop Desk

View On Uncommon Goods $39

Since college students will be spending a lot of time on their laptops, a great gift idea is this laptop desk. This dual-fan embedded desk will keep their laptop from overheating while they work on all of their digital assignments. The flat-top surface provides enough room for a notebook, phone, or a drink, while the side drawer can fit other small essentials.

Pairs Well With:  Koonie Portable Desk Fan

Catstudio Collegiate Embroidered Pillow

View On Amazon $216 View On Uncommon Goods $216

Although it’s a bit of a splurge, this makes a great gift for graduating seniors who want to commemorate their time on campus. These pillows come hand-embroidered with the college logos, landmarks, and mascots. Choose from over two dozen universities, including many SEC schools.

Pairs Well With: College Cityscape Rocks Glasses

Laurel Denise Ultra Fine Tip Marker Set

View On Laureldenise.com

From notebook paper to folders and pencils, college students need a lot of school supplies to be successful in their academics. This set of 12 fine-tip markers can be used for sketching, note taking, or writing important reminders in their planner. Based in Charlottesville, Virginia, Laurel Denise has an extensive collection of planners and planner accessories to choose from.

Rayo & Honey Hand Woven Canvas Wall Hanging

View On Wayfair $97 View On Perigold.com

Besides classes and having fun, college is a great time to learn about yourself and select a profession that matches their interests. Made by Black-owned company, rayo & honey, this hanging wall decor will always remind your student that they will discover the best profession for them.

Leatherology MultiPocket Toiletry Bag

View On Amazon $170 View On Leatherology.com

Whether it’s time to head home for winter break or just the weekend, college students are sure to get lots of use out of a good toiletry bag. Like most products from Leatherology, you can personalize this one with the initials of your choice. In addition to the main compartment, there are pockets on the side of the bag for organization. And the water-proof lining protects the leather exterior from accidental spills.

Little Words Project College Bracelet

View On Littlewordsproject.com

This beaded bracelet is a nice gift for your daughter or granddaughter. She can wear the bracelet on game days, to the beach (it’s waterproof!), or even just to class. Choose from a variety of universities, including several SEC schools. Since the bracelet has an elastic band, it’s easy to slide on and off.

Anyday Dorm Set

View On Cookanyday.com

When the cafeteria is closed, they will need a way to prepare food themselves. Oftentimes, door rooms aren’t equipped with an oven, making the microwave their only option. Fortunately, Anyday cookware will allow them to make just about anything in the microwave. This College Dorm set has four different bowls of varying sizes. Students can use them to make bacon, instant ramen, rice, and other easy meals in the microwave. The steam-trapping lids keep food moist and block splatters, while the knobs vent excess steam.

Under the Seventh Ray Graduation Gift Box

View On Etsy $37

If you’re looking for the perfect graduation gift, we highly recommend this curated box. This gift box has a candle, lip balm, a bath bomb, lotion, and other fun items. When they open the box, your college student will know how proud you are of them.

Brownmed IMAK Ergo Stress Ball

View On Walmart $11 View On Target $11

Preparing for final exams is anxiety-inducing to say the least, but this stress ball can help provide some relief. Made with soft cotton and ergo beads, it can be used to alleviate stress, heal scar tissue, and even promote grip strength. It makes a great stocking stuffer, too.

Hamilton Beach Breakfast Sandwich Maker

View On Amazon $30 View On Wayfair $30 View On Walmart $30

Since college students have a busy schedule, they need appliances like this sandwich maker to create quick breakfast sandwiches. Whether they like their breakfast sandwiches with a lot of meat or vegetables, this appliance is equipped to cook all types of food. Plus, it’ll save them from spending money at the fast food drive-thru. They can even browse the Hamilton Beach website for more than 25 recipe ideas.

Papier Wellness Journal

View On Papier.com $35

Between all the projects and assignments, college students also need to practice self-care. Simple activities like taking a walk, drawing, or watching a show can help to alleviate stress. This wellness journal allows students to track their sleep and energy levels plus set intentions for each day.

Another fun feature of the journal is the six pillars of wellness. Each pillar is dedicated to a certain category of wellness such as rest, energy, movement, nourishment, etc. Once the student gets through with the journal, there’s a reflection space in the back for additional thoughts. Since the pages are undated, you can give the journal to the recipient at any point of the year. Feel free to personalize the journal with their name, too.

Pairs Well With: Laurel Denise Fine Marker Set

Brooks Brothers Stretch Supima Oxford Collar Dress Shirt

View On Amazon View On Brooksbrothers.com

Besides the fun activities, college is also a time for them to prepare for their future career by building their resume and interviewing for different jobs. One important rule of interviews is wearing the right attire, such as this collar dress shirt. With so many customizations on the Brooks Brothers website, you don’t have to worry about the shirt not fitting. Due to the material, the shirt stays virtually wrinkle-free.

Papier Joy Weekly Desk Planner

View On Papier.com $20

In college, half the battle is staying on top of important deadlines and assignments, and this planner will help college students to do just that. It is organized by weeks, and each page has a to-do list and a next week box for future planning.

Commercial Chef Countertop Microwave

View On Amazon $77 View On Wayfair $86 View On Target $100

This microwave will come in handy when they can’t access the dining hall. The compact appliance comes with a timer, a defrost option, and six presets for cooking specific foods. They can use the microwave to warm food for a late-night snack or to warm water for tea and instant coffee.

Pairs Well With: Foodle Wheat Straw Dinnerware Set

Room Essentials Mesh Shower Caddy

View On Target $6

Unless they’re lucky enough to have their own bathroom, they will need a shower caddy to take their items from their room to the communal bathrooms. This shower caddy has a mesh material that will dry in no time. There are different compartments on the bag to hold toothbrushes, shampoo bottles, floss, lotion, etc. For a bigger gift, try filling it up with their favorite bath and body products.

Pairs Well With: LM Women Shower Slippers

The Company Store Company Cotton Jersey Knit Sheet Set

View On The Company Store $123 View On Home Depot $123

This bed sheet set not only helps college students sleep better but can make their dorm room look more put together. The cotton jersey material is as soft as a well-worn  T-shirt. Choose from five different sizes, including twin and twin XL. For an additional fee, you can even personalize the sheet set with their name or initials.

Pairs Well With: Aricove Weighted Blanket

Homesick Candles Car Freshener

View On Amazon $8 View On Homesick.com

When students are miles away from home, it’s easy for them to become nostalgic. Simple items like this car freshener will remind them of home. For example, the Texas scent has notes of pine, leather, cedarwood, and more. Besides using it in their car, the student can hang the freshener on their desk or in their closet. And since there's no flame, it's safe to use in a dorm room.

Aricove Weighted Blanket

View On Amazon $80 View On Aricove.com

No matter how cold their dorm room is, this weighted blanket will help college students stay nice and warm as they sleep. Available in a variety of sizes and weights, this blanket mimics the feeling of a gentle hug. And even if the student tosses and turns at night, the blanket will remain in place. If they want to take the blanket home, they can easily roll it up and put it in the Aricove bag.

Able Carry Max Backpack

View On Ablecarry.com

Besides paper, pens, and pencils, students need space in their backpacks to store their laptops or iPads. This backpack can store devices up to 17 inches. Able Carry even offers a “two week test run,” so they can return it if it’s not the right fit.

Cure Hydrating Electrolyte Mix

View On Amazon $12 View On Walmart $18 View On Target $14

To stay focused and remain alert, every college student needs to make sure that they are eating healthy meals and staying hydrated. Students can add these drink mixes to sparkling water or bottled water and enjoy a delicious fruity drink that’s full of electrolytes. Choose from an eight-, 14-, or 200-count pack.

Katie Kime The Charlotte

View On Katiekime.com

This long-sleeved white shirt is hand embroidered in Austin, Texas, with the team slogan of your choosing. Katie Kime features many different schools in its collegiate collection. The Charlotte has a button-down collar, an oversized pocket, and a cotton-blend fabric that gets softer with each wash. It’s a great present for the soon-to-be graduate who wants to represent their alma mater in style.

Mark & Graham Leather Travel Backgammon Set

View On Markandgraham.com $99

This backgammon set is compact and comes with a travel case, so they can take it with them and use it at different places on campus. This fun game provides a much-needed break from all their responsibilities so they can relax and have fun with friends. Personalization is also available for an additional fee.

Foodle Wheat Straw Fiber Dinnerware Set

View On Amazon $37

Help stock their cabinets with this lightweight and unbreakable dinnerware. This set has everything they need, including plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. And these dishes are easy to take on the go whether they're camping or having a picnic. Plus, they’re microwave and dishwasher safe.

LM Shower Slippers

View On Amazon $13

Since a lot of students use communal bathrooms and showers, these shower slippers are sure to come in handy. They will prevent her from slipping in the shower and will protect her feet from bacteria. Even though she will need to repeatedly use the slippers, they’ll dry off quickly.

Pairs Well With: Leatherology Multi Pocket Toiletry Bag

Chamberlain Coffee Cold Brew Singles

View On Amazon $30 View On Target $19 View On Chamberlaincoffee.com

When pulling an all-nighter, this set of cold brew singles will come in handy. This variety box from Chamberlain Coffee includes five different blends, all of which can be used to brew cold brew or hot coffee. The coffee grounds are packaged inside a tea bag—all they have to do is add water.

Uncommon Goods College Cityscape Rocks Glasses

View On Uncommon Goods $38

Even after they graduate, it’s still nice to have an item that reminds them of their college campus. These rocks glasses come with hand-drawn illustrations of famous buildings and landmarks around the campus of the college you choose. And once they finish their drink, the university's logo will be revealed at the bottom of the glass.

Allbirds Women's Wool Runners

View On Amazon $98 View On Allbirds.com $98 View On Dick's $54

Whether she likes a leisurely walk in the park or a walk on the treadmill, these tennis shoes are perfect for both occasions. The premium Merino wool is soft and temperature-regulating, while the cushioned mid-soles provide ample support. Choose from a variety of stylish color options.

Wild Sports NCAA Cornhole Set

View On Amazon $115

Besides water, snacks, and stadium seats, college students will also need a variety of games for their tailgate party. You can choose from dozens of officially licensed collegiate team logos for this cornhole board. Since the set includes eight bean bags, they’ll have everything they need to play with their friends. Even if they’re attending an away game, the legs fold under and the boards can be packed up in the trunk of their car.

Pairs Well With: RTIC Soft Pack Cooler Bag

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones

View On Amazon $349 View On Hsn.com

Whether they're walking to class or studying for a test, it’s nice to have the ability to listen to their favorite songs. With these headphones, students can cancel out any noise and focus on the task at hand. Or, they can adjust the headphones to hear just a little noise from their environment. Once the headphones have been charged up, the student can listen to their music for 20 hours.

Ably Oliver Anti-Stain V-Neck Pocket T-Shirt

View On Ablyapparel.com

Sometimes elevated basics make the best gifts. This V-neck is designed to repel liquids, stains, and odors, thanks to the special linen-cotton blend and added side vents. It’s the perfect T-shirt for walking to class on those hot August days.

BESHON Power Strip Surge Protector

View On Amazon $10

Since dorms have limited outlets, purchasing this power strip surge protector will come in handy. With it, they can keep their phones, laptops, iPads, and other electronic devices charged.

Bestowe Gifting Creative Brainstorm Gift Box

View On Bestowegifting.com

Before diving into an essay or project, college students should do something to help with their brainstorming process. This gift box includes a creative journal, colored pencils, chocolate, peanuts, and other items. Students can either keep the items to themselves or share them with their friends. You also have the option to customize and purchase a greeting card for the box.

Pairs Well With: Chamberlain Coffee Variety Box Single Serve Bags

Levain Bakery Signature Cookie Assortment

View On Levainbakery.com View On Goldbelly.com

After finishing their final exams, you may want to send your college student an assortment of delicious cookies. In this box, you’ll find chocolate walnut, dark chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and dark chocolate peanut butter chip from the legendary bakery. The cookies can be stored in an airtight container or frozen if they don’t plan to eat them immediately. Then, when the student is ready to enjoy, they can pop them into the oven for a few minutes until warm and gooey.

Urban Shop Faux Fur Saucer Chair

View On Amazon $35 View On Jcpenney.com $62

Dorm furniture is just as important as school supplies. Since college students will be spending a lot of time in their rooms, they will need to have furniture to make them feel at home. With this saucer chair, they can lay back while studying for an assignment or watch TV. Plus, the steel frame is foldable, so they can store it away when not in use.

L.L. Bean Quilted Sweatshirt

View On L.L.Bean $70

This sweatshirt will help him stay warm while sitting in a cold classroom or walking to class in the winter. The quilted design is versatile enough to dress up or down, and the large kangaroo pocket is a huge bonus. Plus, it's machine washable.

Jade Leaf Modern Matcha Starter Set

View On Amazon $23 View On Walmart $20

Besides coffee and energy drinks, matcha is another great beverage that college students can sip on to stay alert as they’re working on assignments. With an electric whisk, sifter, scoop, and latte mix, they will have everything they need to make flavorful lattes in their room. If they don’t have much experience with making matcha, there’s no need to worry. With the instruction booklet, they’ll learn how to use different devices and will have access to different matcha recipes.

Simple Designs Metal Desk Lamp

View On Amazon $14 View On Walmart $14 View On Target $15

Most college students have to stay up late to finish their assignments, so a desk lamp will allow them to see without disturbing their roommate’s sleep. This lightweight desk lamp has a flexible hose, so they can angle the light where it’s needed most.

RTIC Insulated Soft Cooler Bag

View On Amazon $99 View On Walmart $85 View On Target $115

Another essential item that college students need at tailgates are insulated cooler bags, and this one from RTIC is our overall favorite. The cooler will keep drinks and snacks cool for 24 hours, and it comes with a durable shell. Besides tailgates, college students can also use the bag when they’re camping, at the beach, or at a picnic. The cooler even floats in water, which makes it ideal to use at the pool. We also suggest buying the student’s favorite drinks and snacks beforehand and placing them in the cooler for a fun presentation.

Be Wished First Day of College Necklace

View On Etsy $49

Since the first day of college can be stressful, it’s important to let her know that she can handle any challenge that comes her way. This simple necklace can be worn with any outfit. You can choose from three different finishes, and you have the option to add her name. It comes packaged in a ready-to-gift box that can be shipped right to her.

Koonie Portable Desk Fan

View On Amazon $16

This portable desk fan will help them stay cool and save space in a small dorm room. Whether they’re laying down in their bed or working on an assignment, this fan can easily be moved to different parts of the room. The fan speed can also be adjusted.

Hello Fresh Gift Card

View On HelloFresh

Instead of ordering pizza or fast food, students can make healthy meals using a Hello Fresh gift card. Each meal comes with all the ingredients they need and step-by-step recipes, making it a great gift to help them get more comfortable in the kitchen. To let the student know that their gift is on the way, you can add the recipient’s name, email address, and a personal message to the order.

Iris USA Clear View Plastic Storage Bins

View On Amazon $45 View On Walmart $45 View On Target $52

Every college student needs storage bins or containers to place their items in when they’re headed home for the summer. These boxes come in a variety of sizes, and can be used to store clothes, school supplies, purses/bags, shoes, and more. And since they are transparent, it’s easy to see what’s inside.