67 Gifts For College Students They'll Definitely Need And Use

Lots of Cash

It's not tacky, it's thoughtful. The college student in your life will appreciate cold, hard cash just as much as any gift you could buy them. That way, they can spend it on textbooks, groceries, tuition, and booze, obviously.

$105 .95

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#2

The Adulting 101 Book

For everyone out there who learned advanced algebra but doesn't know how to use an iron. Adulting 101 will provide college students with all the life hacks and advice they didn't get in high school or that mom forgot to tell them.

$10 .05

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#3

Master Lock Small Combination Safe

Dorm room theft is a real thing. This small combination safe will fit easily under the bed or in a desk to help the college student in your life keep all of their valuables safe from that crazy guy down the hall.

$19 .97

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#4

The 5-Ingredient College Cookbook

Convenience is king when it comes to cooking for college students. This cookbook will help the student in your life break out of their Ramen noodle phase and try out some super simple, but still nutritious, recipes instead.

$8 .27

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#5

100 Things To Do Bucket List Scratch Off Poster

This scratch-off bucket list will help the college student in your life make the most of their best years. Climb a mountain, go skydiving, and take a cross-country road trip before you're reduced to 10 vacation days a year.

$29 .50

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#6

1001 Things Every College Student Needs to Know

This little guide is full of tips and life hacks that every college student should know, whether they're in their first year or rounding out senior year. They'll learn everything from taking out student loans to doing their own laundry.

$5 .51

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#7

Make Your Bed Book

This book is based on a famous graduation speech from Navy SEAL Admiral William H. McRaven. It'll inspire the college student in your life to be faithful in the little things, like making your bed and checking in on friends, to make the most of their next four years.

$11 .43

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#8

Relaxation Waterfall Fountain

Unfortunately, stress is just a part of the college experience. This waterfall fountain produces a beautiful, relaxing sound that will help your college student find their calm when it all feels like too much.

$26 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#9

HyperChiller Iced Coffee Maker

Some like it hot, but the smart kids know that the best coffee is cold! The HyperChiller takes a cup of coffee from piping hot to perfectly chilled in 60 seconds, no ice required.

$22 .32

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#10

The Alarm Clock Rug

Ruggie, the original alarm clock rug, is designed for the chronic oversleeper. Its alarm won't stop chiming until it senses pressure from the feet, forcing you up and out of bed - which is an especially difficult feat for the roommate with the top bunk!

$94 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#11

The Bedside Shelf

The BedShelfie will clamp right on to your college student's bed frame to hold their coffee, phone, and personal belongings while they're reading or studying... or binging Netflix. No judgment here!

$34 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#12

Privacy Pop Bed Tent

The average dorm room is approximately the size of a shoebox, so this pop-up bed tent is a must-have for those times when you need to forget that your roommate exists.

$129 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#13

TruBrain Nootropic Drink

This Nootropic drink is quite literally brain food. Designed by neuroscientists to boost brain functions like memory and focus, one bottle will help the college student in your life stay alert through taxing classes and intense study sessions.

$89 .00

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#14

A Mini Fridge

Even though dorm rooms don't have a lot of space, a tiny fridge can go a long way. This one can also serve as a warmer, perfect for those time when your favorite college student brings back some of Mom's leftovers.

$34 .49

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#15

BestSelf Journal & Planner

College is crazy busy - there's no way around it. This journal/planner combo from BestSelf will help the student in your life juggle all of their many responsibilities while checking in on their mental health and wellbeing.

$35 .01

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#16

A Stylish Backpack

A backpack is a college student's best friend, so make sure they have one that's as stylish as it is functional. These classic canvas bags from Feskin are designed to fit a laptop and books while still being slim and lightweight.

$27 .55

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#17

The Tortilla Blanket

Make a college student's wildest dreams come true: turn them into a burrito. This giant Tortilla blanket is made of super-soft flannel so it's sure to keep them warm and cozy. Pro tip: it's also available in a waffle or pizza version.

$19 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#18

Life Hacks Calendar

This two-for-one gift serves as a day calendar, but also provides a daily life hack or tip that'll help a college student stay sane and organized. It comes on a tiny stand that will make a great addition to a dorm room desk.

$15 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#19

Photo Clip String Lights

These beautiful LED string lights come with wall hooks and photo clips to help the college student in your life create an awesome piece of dorm decor. They can attach all their favorite prints of their family, their friends, and their dog, of course.

$14 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#20

The Rapid Ramen Cooker

There's no shame in the ramen noodle game - especially if you're using one of these ramen cookers. All you need is water, your favorite noodles, and a microwave to prepare a dish that will actually impress your friends.

$9 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#21

A Basic Tool Kit

Every real adult needs a toolkit! This starter pack from Cartman comes with everything a college student will need for basic repairs. But don't worry, they'll still probably call Mom or Dad and ask them how to fix things.

$20 .69

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#22

LapGear Pro Lap Desk

Studying is bad enough, so don't make yourself get out of bed for it! This lap desk will snugly hold a laptop or tablet, a mouse, or keyboard to make dorm life more comfortable.

$39 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#23

Wrinkle Removing Clothes Steamer

A steamer makes a great gift for a new college student since it's way more portable and easier to use than an iron. This mini version will hardly take up any space in their dorm room and will help them keep their shirts nice and wrinkle-free just like Mom likes them.

$29 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#24

Jackery Portable Phone Charger Battery

This portable iPhone charger is great for college students to carry in their car or backpack in case they are ever in a pinch. It'll charge their phone at 2x the speed of a normal charger.

$24 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#25

Cookies, Candy, & Snacks Care Package

They probably won't admit it, but every college student gets homesick once in a while. Send them a care package of their favorite snacks to help satisfy those late-night study session cravings.

$29 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#26

The Hungover Cookbook

This very practical guide will teach the college student in your life how to come back from a long night with food and nourishment. It makes for a great gag gift, but it's also got some very helpful tips.

$6 .31

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#27

Heated Microwaveable Booties

A lot of college students are paying their own utility bills for the first time, and suddenly, keeping the heat on 78 seems a little excessive. These microwaveable booties will keep their feet warm while they relax after a long day of classes.

$33 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#28

Seneo Wireless Charging Pad Station

Outlets can sometimes be in short supply in college living spaces. This wireless charging pad, designed to charge devices like Air Pods, an Apple Watch, or newer smartphones, will add some serious efficiency to the dorm room.

$16 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#29

Shower Squid Caddy

Every college student needs a shower caddy for the dorms, but the Shower Squid takes it to another level. This cute design is super functional since it helps you get the most out of all your bottles and doesn't take up much space.

$34 .95

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#30

Moon Lamp Night Light

This amazing moon lamp will serve as super-awesome dorm decor, but also as a much-needed nightlight for when your favorite college student is trying to climb out of their lofted bed. Its texturized surface, made by a 3-D printer, mimics the actual topography of the moon.

$30 .49

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#31

A Quick Drying Shower Caddy

This mesh shower caddy is designed to be quick-drying so that it won't drip all over the dorm room. Plus, its sturdy handles come in several fun colors and patterns.

$8 .98

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#32

Portable Ping Pong Set

Ping Pong is always a good idea. This portable set includes two paddles, two balls, and an expandable net in a carrying case so that the college student in your life can practice their table tennis skills anytime, anywhere. Maybe even in the library?

$19 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#33

Do Your Laundry or You'll Die Alone

Figure it out now to avoid getting dumped later! This cheeky book shares everything your mom "would have told you if she thought you were listening," from laundry advice to health tips to finances.

$12 .44

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#34

A Portable Laptop Cooling Pad

The college student in your life can power through those all-nighter study sessions, movie binges, or video game marathons thanks to the help of this portable cooling device that'll keep their laptop running at full speed ahead.

$27 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#35

Therapeutic Weighted Sleep Blanket

Getting cozy and getting quality sleep in a new place can be tricky. A weighted blanket, designed to treat restlessness, help with insomnia, and bring calm to anxiety, will come in handy for the college student in your life.

$34 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#36

Anker Soundcore Noise Cancelling Headphones

These noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones will help provide a peaceful night of sleeping or studying, no matter how loud the party next door is or how loud your roommate is snoring.

$39 .97

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#37

Homesick Candles

They say that smell builds the memories of all senses, so a Homesick candle is a perfect way to give a college student some comfort when they move away. Each state has its own unique scent, like this New York candle that smells like a fall afternoon in the Adirondacks.

$39 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#38

Low Maintenance Succulent Plants

Plants are a great way to liven up tiny living spaces, but don't assume a college kid is going to be faithful about providing water and sunlight. Succulents are low maintenance (a.k.a hard to kill) and make great home decor.

$9 .98

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#39

The Comfy Blanket Sweatshirt

It's not lazy, it's smart. This oversized blanket sweatshirt has a super soft sherpa lining, so you'll stay warm while your arms stay free for a night of partying, er, studying.

$38 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#40

Clocky The Alarm Clock On Wheels

This invention is pure evil, but if you know a college student who's prone to oversleeping, Clocky is the gift for them. This perfectly annoying alarm clock will jump off a nightstand and move across the room so that you have no choice but to get out of bed to turn him off.

$58 .00

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#41

Laptop USB-C Docking Station

This cord docking station is something that every college student needs, but no one thinks to buy. It'll accommodate all of their device's cords and keep their desk space from looking like a tangled mess.

$79 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#42

Electric Heated Coffee Mug Warmer

This mug warmer will find a perfect home on the desk of a college student who can't get enough coffee, and can't get it hot enough. They'll choose their ideal drink temperature and the plate will maintain it all day.

$39 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#43

To-Do List Notepad

It's basically impossible to survive college without a planner or to-do list. This notepad is broken down into four categories, tasks, errands, correspondence, and notes, to help your favorite student stay on top of all of their new responsibilities.

$8 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#44

Q&A A Day College Journal

This special college edition of the Q&A A Day journal is designed to help capture the "best years of your life" at-a-glance. It's filled with quick prompts to help students jot down a daily paragraph that will compile to become a tribute to their awesome college experience.

$28 .75

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#45

Under Bed Storage Organizer

The key to living in a shoebox-sized dorm room? Creative storage solutions. These narrow, under-the-bed organizers are perfect to hold extra clothes and shoes for when the college student in your life inevitably fills up their tiny closet.

$14 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#46

Sonic Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush

While you'd hope that a college kid has mastered dental hygiene before leaving home, it can't hurt to give them a little motivation in the form of a high-quality electric toothbrush. It even has a timer to remind them to brush for two full minutes.

$19 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#47

Echo Dot Smart Speaker & Alarm Clock

An Echo Dot device from Amazon makes a great gift for anyone in a new space, but this version that doubles as a dependable alarm clock is a must-have for college students. They can listen to music, call home, catch up on the news, AND make sure they're never late for class.

$59 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#48

Hatch Restore Smart Alarm Clock

It’s really important for college students to get good sleep and this miracle alarm clock can help them rest well on both ends of the sleep-wake cycle. At bed time, they can use white noise and a blue-light free lamp to doze off. In the morning, they can be awoken by gentle noises and a simulated sunrise.

$99 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#49

Anker Universal Charger Cable

This three-in-one universal charging cable is designed to charge all of your college student's devices without taking up too much of that precious outlet space. It's also super fast and durable to provide quick charges for years to come.

$16 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#50

PhoneSoap UV Light Smartphone Sanitizer

College kids love their phones, but so do germs. This case will charge their phone while disinfecting it using UV light to help them fight off the bugs spreading around campus.

$63 .95

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#51

Samsonite Freeform Luggage

For traveling to away games, spring break trips, and most importantly, going home to visit mom and dad, a college kid needs high-quality luggage. This 24-inch spinning suitcase from Samsonite is easy to maneuver and is just the right size for week-long trips.

$167 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#52

Essential Oil Diffuser With Oils Set

Home is where the diffuser is. Even if your home is shared with 500 other college students. This diffuser and its accompanying set of six oils will bring some serious relaxation, zen, and focus to dorm life.

$28 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#53

Hamilton Beach Glass Electric Kettle

Know a college kid who prefers tea to coffee? This electric, a.k.a. dorm safe, kettle will make the perfect cuppa and provide some much-deserved relaxation for your favorite student.

$24 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#54

Keurig Mini Coffee Maker

Fact: it's impossible to survive college without coffee. This mini Keurig will fit easily in a dorm room and will serve up the perfect cup every morning. And afternoon. And night.

$79 .95

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#55

USB Powered Desk Fan

This cooling desk fan will plug right into your favorite college student's laptop to help keep them refreshed and alert while studying. And, since it's less than five inches tall, it's easy for them to carry around in their backpack.

$28 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#56

I Will Teach You To Be Rich Book

This book, from personal finance guru Ramit Sethi, will teach the college student in your life how to pay off student loans, negotiate a raise, and save for emergencies. Just make sure the get-rich-quick advice doesn't work too well - you don't want them dropping out!

$10 .17

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#57

Cards Against Humanity Card Game

A party game for horrible people - like college students. Cards Against Humanity is like an X-rated version of Apples to Apples, and it's a great way to make new friends while also letting them know you have a pretty messed up sense of humor.

$29 .00

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#58

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

Honestly, nobody needs hydration more than a college student. Hydro Flasks are available in lots of different sizes and colors so the student in your life can carry them across campus, to the dining hall, and to the gym.

$51 .08

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#59

JBL Charge 3 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

A portable, waterproof speaker is like a one-way ticket to being the life of the party. The college kid in your life can use it in the shower, for study tunes, or yes, at the parties, since it's super durable and has great sound quality.

$99 .95

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#60

Kindle Paperwhite

An e-reader makes the perfect gift for a student for two reasons: it'll save a ton of space in their dorm or their backpack, and buying e-books instead of paper books will save them money! The Kindle Paperwhite will store up to 32GB. That's a lot of reading material.

$159 .99

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#61

Ninja Air Fryer

College isn't the easiest time to learn how to cook since you're also balancing classes, studying, and a social life. An Air Fryer makes a great gift since it's super easy to use, plus it's a healthier alternative to actual fried food.

$79 .98

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

#62

Amazon Gift Card

If you're stumped on what to give a college student or high school grad, an Amazon gift card is fool-proof. They'll have all sorts of last-minute needs pop up once they get on campus, and they'll have you to thank for helping them out.

$25 .00

Price may change. Check the merchant site for current pricing.

Check it out

This may be an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.