Finding the best gifts for college students might sound easy at first, but things have changed since the last time you were in school. To make sure we’re on top of what’s actually cool (including what's blowing up on TikTok) and useful for their unique lifestyle, we got wish lists straight from college kids themselves.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift for a teenage girl who likes to decorate every inch of her dorm room, a practical present for a teen guy living in an off-campus apartment for the first time, or a small pick-me-up for someone who’s feeling homesick while they're studying abroad, these thoughtful ideas are bound to be a hit with the zoomers on your list. Better yet, plenty of them are cheap presents to help you stick to a budget. So sit back, scroll, and prepare to earn “favorite relative” status.
The best gifts for college students, at a glance
Best Overall: BrüMate Pour Over 20 Ounces Travel Coffee Mug, $45
Best for Her: Vuori AllTheFeels™ Legging, $98
Best for Him: Clinique Razor Ready Routine Set, $55
Most Useful Gift: Anker 622 Magnetic Battery, $35
Best Under-$20 Gift: e.l.f. Perfect 10 Eyeshadow Palette in Nude Rose Gold, $10
Best for Dorms: The Pura 4 Smart Fragrance Diffuser, $50
Best for Apartments: Hatch Restore 2, $170
Best for Freshman Year: Etsy College Gift Card Book, $28
Best for Studying Abroad: Apple AirPods Pro, 2nd Generation, $219
Looking for more gift ideas? Check out our roundups of the best gifts for women and the men in your life—including the best gifts for husbands and boyfriends. If you have no idea where to start, check out gifts for people who have everything.
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