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Even your shopping fairy godmothers here at Cosmo can admit that college students are a whole different breed when it comes to gift-giving. Of course, they'll love anything that’s viral on TikTok or some sort of Taylor Swift-themed present but let's be realistic for a moment, they probably will appreciate (slash are dying for) a useful gift that'll come in handy in their day-to-day even more. Ahem, like something that they need/want but wouldn't buy themselves...
The best gifts for college students are your tech gadgets, home appliances, organizational tools, and self-care items of the world. You heard it here first! Think: a pocket-sized safety device, a smart notebook, a tiny space heater, a tool set, and practical things of that nature. Don't get me wrong though, the occasional stylish athleisure outfit, makeup/skincare bundle, or cute home decor piece would also be deemed as an ~essential~ to them—but that's neither here nor there! You know what would win them over!
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Below, 57 functional college student gifts that'll make this chapter in their life a hell of a lot easier—from chic dorm finds to Amazon favorites they'll love even after graduation.
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Towel Warmer
A towel warmer will make their tiny box of a dorm feel a lil bit more, ahem, elevated. Before they hop in the shower, they can put their towel in this—and after a few minutes, it'll feel like one of those warm, cozy spa towels. They can even use it for bathrobes, blankets, and pajamas.
Cloud Slides
Pillows for their feet. That's it. That's the gift! These lightweight slippers—with a thick, cushy sole—are stylish and easy slip-on shoes they can throw on whenever.
Core Reusable Smart Notebook
Get this: It looks like a regular notebook on the outside (spiral and all!) but it's a smart notebook on the inside. They can use it to jot down class notes and ideas, as a journal, or as a to-do list with all its included templates. It pairs easily with traditional work platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, OneNote, and more for a seamless workflow.
Cell Phone Stand with Bluetooth Speaker
Multitasking just got easier for them! This phone stand has a built-in Bluetooth speaker so they can watch videos or listen to music on their phone hands-free. It'll be perfect for those long days when they're working from their desk for hours and need a little bit of entertainment.
Emotional Support Pickle
College will be some of the hardest and most stressful years of their life. And I promise you something as simple as an emotional support pickle is going to lift their spirits (even if it's just a little bit) when they're struggling. I mean, how can you not smile at this cute thing?!
Soft Lap Desk Pillow
Trust, a portable lap pillow with armrests and an ergonomic fit will make working from their bed or couch a much more comfortable experience. It'll help with back support and relieve any aches and strains. This one even comes with built-in pockets!
Printed Royal Sherpa Throw Electric Blanket
Why get them a plain ol' blanket when heated blankets exist? This option comes with four heat settings and a foot pocket. It's perfect for the chilly months ahead or when the dorm building’s heating system could use some TLC!
500-Watt Ceramic Small Space Personal Mini Heater
Sometimes a thick sweater or a fluffy blanket may not cut it in those cold dorm rooms/apartments. They'll be so thankful for this mini heater that'll warm them up quick. They can put it on their desk, nightstand, shelf, or other small space.
Skincare Fridge
Their drinks, non-perishable snacks, and skincare need a home. And a mini fridge small enough to fit in a corner on their floor or desk will do the trick. This one even has a mirror on the door so they can use it to do their makeup! Talk about space-saving!!
Personalized My Life Story - So Far
Whenever they wanna document moments in their life, they can use this special journal that's formatted like an autobiography. It consists of different prompts to help them put these memories from pen to paper. And they'll have tons to write about in their college years!!
AirFly SE Iridescent Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter
Once this gadget is in their possession, those plane rides home will be so much easier and more manageable. It plugs into the headphones port of airplane TVs and lets them connect their wireless headphones to the TV (i.e. no more being forced to use those crappy earbuds airlines give you to enjoy in-flight entertainment…).
Funny Studying Shirt
You never know, a cheeky shirt like this may be what they need for some extra motivation when they're buried in the books.
the fall duos
Gifting a college student luxury makeup might make you their favorite person ever. And I betcha they've had their eye on this blush and lip tint set from Hailey Bieber's beauty brand.
Sheet Mask Pack - Let’s Get Sheet Faced
Coming from someone who used to be a college student, the power of a face mask will do wonders at the end of a busy day. This set comes with 14 face masks that target different skin concerns.
Ramen Cooker Set
The food options are scarce in college living, unforch. But this ramen cooker set will make it easier for them to whip up their go-to, effortless meal. They just need water and a microwave, and boom, their noodles await!
Embroidered College Pillow
Chic college merch can be rare to find! Enter: This gorge pillow with a bunch of cool details about their college embroidered onto it.
Dual Pouch Wristlet
Something a college student will always love? A two-in-one sitch. For example, this wristlet with two pouches (one to hold cash/cards and the other for keys and small miscellaneous items) is ideal for someone like them who's on the go all day.
Starbucks $10 Gift Cards (4-Pack)
College students and caffeine go hand in hand. So you can only imagine what a pack of Starbucks gift cards would mean to them…
Portable Cordless Heating Pad
Whenever they're feeling sick, experiencing cramps, or they have a bad stomach ache, this cordless heating pad will come to their rescue. With three heat levels and three vibration modes, they can customize it however they please. It buckles up and sits on the lower body like a fanny pack—aka they don't have to be horizontal to have it activated!
Ring Gen3 Heritage - Silver
It's no secret that college can be quite a stressful time in someone's life. With this smart ring, they can keep tabs on their sleep, activity, stress, heart rate, and more—which can be beneficial as they manage their busy college lifestyle. Plus, its sleek and simple design will go with any sort of outfit.
Ivy 2 Mini Photo Printer
If they ever wanted a printed version of a photo they took from their phone, this portable, travel-friendly printer will do the job. They can connect it to their smartphone and/or tablet via app and it'll print out as many copies as they'd like. (And let's BFFR, all their friends will be wanting a pic of their own to take home!)
The Original Personal Safety Alarm
Keep them safe with this easy-to-use personal safety alarm. If they ever feel uneasy when they're walking through campus or around town, they can activate it by removing the top pin and a loud siren and flashing strobe light will go off. It can fit in most pockets, purses, and backpacks.
Custom Neon Sign
Trust us on this one: They'll love a neon sign in their dorm room. You can personalize this one with their name or a cute saying.
Electric Lunch Box
A portable electric lunch box is perfect for the days when they've got a jam-packed schedule filled with classes, extracurriculars, and study breaks. This mini Crock-Pot will keep their meals fresh and warm so they can eat on the go.
Makeup Brush Cleaner Machine
Cleaning their makeup brushes has never been easier. All they gotta do is fill it with water and turn it on, and it'll do the work for them! This will be super convenient and stress-free especially if they live in a dorm with communal bathrooms.
Expanded Adventure First Aid Kit
I betcha a first aid kit is something they forgot to add to their college shopping list. This box comes with ointment packets, different size bandages, ibuprofen, and more.
Tool Set 25pc Pink
Moving out means they might be left to do some handy work on their own! Make sure they've got everything they need to get their Bob the Builder on with this cute toolbox featuring the necessary basics.
Large GLWTRTTR Portable Mirror
A vanity mirror with great lighting is a necessity for their GRWM routines. This foldable style will fit comfortably on their desk without taking too much space. They can even fold it up and store it when they're not using it so it's not eating up their limited real estate.
$230.00 at etoilecollective.com
Press On Nails
Realistically, they probably won't have much time to get their nails done with how busy they'll be. So you can imagine how game-changing press-on nails will be for them!
Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler
Sure, these viral Stanley cups may be considered ~basic~ by some, but trust me on this one: this insulation is no joke. Seriously, it’ll keep their water cold for hours and help them drink more throughout the day.
Soft Lounge Sleep Set
The perfect matching pajama set does not exi—. This ultra-soft set will keep them comfy during study sessions (or just while binge-watching their favorite show).
Hydro-Lock Overnight Lip Mask
Sometimes, that dorm air is unforgiving to the skin. Help give 'em a fighting chance with this ultra-hydrating overnight lip mask that'll quickly become the fave part of their night routine.
AirTag
Listen, sh*t happens, things get lost! It's part of being a college student. But if they tend to lose their valuables every other day, having an AirTag is a simple solution to knowing e-x-a-c-t-l-y where they left their wallet.
Mini Projector, Upgraded Bluetooth Projector
Nothing's worse than splitting your computer screen between school work and your fave TV show. That's why this mini projector will be an instant hit on their hall. After all, who needs a TV when you've got an empty wall?!
2nd Version Essential Oil Diffuser
Sometimes, candles aren't allowed in dorms (lameee), but honestly, not wanting an open flame around students is understandable. Luckily, they can get all the same good scents and vibes with this adorable oil diffuser.
Kindle
If they love getting lost in the latest fantasy novel that went viral on TikTok or like to revisit the classics, a Kindle will be an instant hit. Not only can they get access to tons of titles and audiobooks, but it's super lightweight, so they can take it wherever they go.
Dustbuster QuickClean Cordless Handheld Vacuum
Forgotten crumbs, mysterious dirt, and everything in between are no match for this powerful handheld vacuum.
e-Gift Card
Out of all of these gift ideas, an Uber gift card is the one that's 1000% guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser. After all, who doesn't love some money to go towards ride shares or getting meals delivered straight to your door?
Tazz Platform Slipper
Anyone who has experienced an 8 a.m. lecture all the way across campus knows that they're a special kind of misery—but they’re not as bad when your feet are cushioned by furry goodness that'll take you straight from bed to a desk.
Women Hoodie Set
This moss green sweatsuit has the magical power to get even the sleepiest college student out of bed and off to class to show off their ‘fit (bc it’s just that cute).
Portable Safe
This lil portable safe will keep their valuables, uh, safe while living away from home.
The Five Minute Journal
College is full of events—the good, the bad, and the scary. A college student sometimes needs a place to let it all out. This journal takes five minutes each morning and will have them start each day on the right note.
Plush Sherpa Robe
When they're not in class and just in their room chillin', they'll be living in this super soft robe.
Recipes Every College Student Should Know
An easy cookbook that has recipes for healthy snacks, meals, and desserts will get their culinary skills goin’.
Microwave Popcorn Popper
Whether they're pulling all-nighters or hosting movie nights, having something to snack on is key. And this microwavable popcorn popper will change the game.
Amber Book Reading Light
For the times they've gotta hit the books in the middle of the night and their roomie is sleeping feet away from them: This reading light will be their saving grace. It's got four different light modes—50 percent amber, 100 percent amber, 50 percent warm white, and 100 percent warm white—to choose from depending on where they're at.
AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Treat your giftee to some serious noise-canceling headphones. They're great for walks to class, focusing in the library, or just relaxing in the dorm.
Restore 2
Waking up on the wrong side of the bed? Couldn’t be us! This device will transform anyone’s sleep routine and eliminates abrupt alarms (the roommates will thank you too). The Hatch Restore 2 is an alarm clock, noise machine, and sunset lamp all in one and has hundreds of soothing soundscapes and gentle alarms.
nstax Mini 12 Instant Camera - Blossom Pink
Polaroids aren’t going away anytime soon! They’ll love having this mini Instax around to document their college years.
Hailey Leather Crossbody
This chic accessory is the epitome of fashion and function. Part wallet and part phone case, the crossbody is a foolproof (and cute!) way for them to carry their essentials. Plus, it comes in a bunch of different patterns, so it’s sure to fit anyone’s aesthetic.
Fruit Babies Bestsellers Kit
Gen Z skincare girlies love Glow Recipe—trust me. This set of serums will leave the skin feeling totally hydrated and refreshed.
Custom Pearl Princess Necklace
If you want to gift the college student in your life something cute and personal, this custom pearl necklace is adorbs.
60 LED High Power Rechargeable Clip Light
If they're attending Zoom University, have online collaborations, or an online internship, they need this video conferencing light.
Cloud Comforter
A plush comforter will be a game changer in their lives, especially if it's extra breathable and ideal for all seasons.
Premium Scented Candle, Los Angeles
Give them a little piece of home with a candle inspired by their home state or city. Each one includes distinct scents representative of each state; this one features notes of “honeysuckle, lavender, and violets with hints of grain fields.”
Porcelain Tea Mug with Infuser and Lid
Coffee not for them? A pretty mug made for sipping hot tea will be their go-to whenever they need a little pick-me-up.
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