Reviews Gifts
Written by Andrea Bossi, Alexis Berry, Elena Matarazzo, and Remi Rosmarin
Updated
2023-12-14T21:13:19Z
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When you're shopping for a college student, there are a few different product categories to consider. College students want a gift that's functional yet cool, fits in their dorm room or apartment, and makes their lives easier. The best gifts for college students satisfy all this and more.
We've rounded up a list of the best gifts for college students to help you out this year. During the holiday season, we're seeing our readers gravitate towards one gift in particular in this guide. The collegiate pouches from Uncommon Goods are most popular right now, allowing the college student in your life to show their school spirit and stay organized for their classes.
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A pouch that shows off their school spirit
Uncommon Goods Collegiate Pouches
If they're all about school spirit, go for a gift that celebrates all of the little things that make their college a special place. These pouches do just that. Each pouch features a woven design that was handdrawn with input from each school's community (alumni, fans, faculty, etc.) to make sure it accurately encompasses the essence of that place. It's a super cute way to store cash, toiletries, or any other trinkets with a touch of campus pride.
A mini Keurig that fits into their dorm room
K-Mini Single-Serve Coffee Maker
College likely involves a lot of caffeine, and they're not always going to be able to trek to the dining hall or local coffee shop in the late, late hours of finals prep. Help them out with this mini Keurig, which is tiny enough to fit into even the smallest dorm room kitchens.
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A gift card for meals outside of the dining hall
Uber Eats Gift Card
No matter how good their dining halls are, chances are they're sick and tired of being on a meal plan. An Uber Eats gift card will let them indulge on something new and exciting to eat every once and a while. If they go to school in a more remote area where Uber Eats isn't accessible, go for a gift card from a local restaurant instead.
A great pair of headphones
Apple AirPods Max
Long days in the library call for a pair of great headphones to stay in the zone. The Apple Airpods Max have noise cancelling technology to drown out the background noise, a cushiony design for comfort, and come in a variety of fun colors.
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A silk eye mask
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask
For the nights when their roommate needs to stay up late studying, this silk eye mask will help them get some quality rest.
A nourishing lip treatment
Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment
College kids are always up to date on the latest trends. Any beauty-obsessed student is sure to have heard the hype about Rhode's replenishing lip treatment that works like a balm but looks like a gloss.
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Staple tees for everyday wear
Cuts is the perfect brand for college students who value both style and comfort. With their high-quality clothing, Cuts offers a range of essentials that are versatile and easy to wear. Whether you're rushing to class or hanging out with friends, their pieces are designed to keep up with your busy college lifestyle. From their signature T-shirts to their cozy sweatshirts, Cuts combines modern aesthetics with premium fabrics for a perfect blend of style and comfort. Upgrade your wardrobe with Cuts and experience clothing that is tailored to your needs as a college student.
A cactus toilet plunger and brush
ALLOBUB Cactus Toilet Plunger and Brush
This Cactus Toilet Plunger and Brush Set is a fun and practical gift for college students. This set features a cute cactus design that adds a touch of whimsy to bathroom cleaning. The cactus design not only brings a playful element but also serves as a functional handle for easy grip and use. It's a great gift idea to make cleaning more enjoyable and stylish for college students as they maintain their own living spaces.
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A phone case with a powerful message
CASETiFY Self-Love By Mirrors Reflect You Phone Case
The mental health-focused phone case by CASETiFY is a gift that goes beyond just being a phone accessory. It serves as a symbol of support, encouragement, and advocacy for mental health. By using this phone case, college students can carry a reminder of the importance of prioritizing their mental well-being and promoting self-love. It also acts as a conversation starter, allowing them to engage in meaningful discussions about mental health with others.
An air fryer for the snack lover
Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven with ClearCook
Shop at Kohl's
Air fryers are all the buzz for how they can turn just about anything into a warm, crispy delight. Plus, they save a ton of time, which every college student can appreciate. Instant makes some of the best on the market today, the Vortex Plus snagging the top pick in our guide to the best air fryers.
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A versatile yet compact iPad Mini
iPad Mini 6th Generation
If you visit a college campus today, you'll probably see iPads all over the place — and for good reason. These slim rectangular boxes make notetaking, reading, Netflix, and leisure drawing easy to do all in one place. The iPad Mini (2021) is our favorite small iPad, making it perfect for stashing away on their commute to class.
If they already have an iPad, you can think about getting them an Apple Pencil ($129), which will level up their gadget even more.
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A savvy suitcase for traveling on holiday breaks
Away The Carry-On
Away's popular suitcase deserves the hype. Its hard shell is lightweight but durable, its 360-degree spinner wheels make for seamless traveling, and its external (and ejectable and TSA-compliant) battery pack included can charge a smartphone five times over. Find our full review here.
We also recommend Calpak for other luggage options.
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A helpful air purifier
HoMedics TotalClean 4-in-1 Air Purifier
For college students living in a traditional dorm room, a breath of fresh air is more than welcome. This air purifier creates cleaner air no matter how small the space is, clearing pollen, dust, smoke, pet dander, mold spores, and germs for easy breathing. Bonus points: It has an auto shut-off timer, a built-in night light, and a three-year manufacturer's warranty for optimal satisfaction.
A sunrise alarm clock for a gentle, phone-free wakeup
Hatch Restore
Using your phone as an alarm clock makes it a lot more tempting to start scrolling on your phone first thing in the morning, which isn't the healthiest habit. A sunrise alarm clock can help your student have a much better start to their day than immediately checking emails or scrolling on Instagram. The Hatch Restore is a great sunrise alarm option with a ton of special features.
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A reusable film camera
Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera
The Kodak Ektar camera is a great gift for college students who have an interest in photography or want to explore film photography. The Ektar camera is known for its exceptional image quality and vibrant colors. It provides a manual shooting experience, allowing students to learn and experiment with different settings and techniques.
A pickleball paddle
VINSGUIR Pickleball Set
Pickleball is easy to play and a great way to get some exercise while enjoying downtime after classes. This set includes two paddles, four balls, and a carrying case, so they can play with friends or practice their swing on their own.
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A cozy fleece
Everlane The ReNew Fleece Oversized Half-Zip
If they are usually rolling out of bed right into their morning classes, a cozy fleece is exactly what they'll want to wear while doing it. With an oversized silhouette, this one will envelope them in warm, plush comfort.
A lamp that melts candles without lighting them
Luzdiosa Candle Warming Lamp
If they're worried about setting off the dorm fire alarm, get them this chic lamp instead. It slowly melts candle wax to activate the scent — and all without needing to light the candle itself.
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A custom necklace to celebrate their birthday
Birthdate Co. Birthdate Pendant
A perfect birthday gift for any astrology lover, this custom necklace includes four gemstones and crystals (chosen for their birth date) embedded in a gold or silver pendant, along with their birthdate, zodiac sign, and initials engraved on the back.
A cozy pillow for the dorms
Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow
Make sure they're optimizing their sleep with the best pillow. Thanks to the shredded memory foam, they'll get the support and comfortable "sinking in" sensation of a traditional memory foam pillow, but none of the excessive heat or firmness that can be a problem with solid foam.
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A sweet plant care package
Succulent Bar Shop Hang in There Care Package
This sweet care package includes a wooden card with a cute message, a succulent with a planting kit, and a pot, all to remind the college student in your life that you're thinking of them. You can make the gift even more special with optional add-ons, from face masks and bath bombs to candy and notepads.
A guided journal to keep them organized
BestSelf Self Journal
For any college student with a big goal in mind (even if that goal is just being more organized), this sleek planner will help them get far. It lasts for 13 weeks, making their goal feel more approachable while also helping them set a new journaling habit.
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Chic and shatterproof plastic wine glasses
Sophistplate Modern Stemmed Wine Glass
For the 21 and up college students who want to make their space feel a little more adult, these reusable plastic wine glasses from Sophistiplate are a great place to start. They're BPA-free, top-rack dishwasher-safe, and sure to make whatever they're sipping feel a little more sophisticated. And they don't have to worry about breaking fancy glasses.
Plants they'll be able to take care of
The Sill Succulent Assortment with Planters
If they're looking to spruce up their dorm room, this trio of potted succulents will make a wonderful gift. Not only will the plants bring life to the often drab dorm setup, but they're easy to care for and virtually impossible to kill.
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Pants that look put-together, but feel like pajamas
Lululemon ABC Jogger
There's nothing wrong with wearing pajamas to class, but these pants– with a classic jogger fit and stretchy, breathable fabric– are certainly an upgrade.
A reusable sandwich bag
Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Bag
College means lots of library snacks or quick meals between classes. These eco-friendly, reusable, and leak proof bags make packing a lunch easier than ever.
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A scratch-off self-care checklist
Uncommon Goods 100 Things to Do For Your Wellbeing
This scratch-off poster is a checklist of 100 things any college student can do so support their mental health, whether they're studying for midterms or missing home. The squares include everything from "visit your favorite spot" to "ask for help with a difficult task" and serve as a mindfulness reminder even after they've scratched them all off.
A small travel photo printer
Fujifilm Instax Mini Link Bluetooth Photo Printer
Mini portable Bluetooth printers make turning iPhone photos into tangible memories quick and easy — which is especially convenient for decorating their room. All they'll have to do is download the app (which has Photoshop Elements and internal features like themed collages).
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A Trader Joe's-inspired cookbook
"The I Love Trader Joe's College Cookbook" by Andrea Lynn
If there's one place you hear all these Gen Z'ers talking about, it's Trader Joe's. This quirky cookbook contains 160 easy recipes for busy (and usually broke) college students, drawing from some of the brand's favorite ingredients to create mouth-watering hors d'oeuvres, party-worthy appetizers, and nourishing meals.
Does your student prefer to cook with the air fryer? Check out this equally nifty "I Love Trader Joe's Air Fryer Cookbook."
A powerful and portable speaker
Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3
Whether they're hanging with friends in the quad or getting ready for a party, good music is essential to the college experience. That's why a great speaker will serve them well. The WONDERBOOM3 is a great option for its quality sound, portability, and waterproof and dustproof construction, which ensures it can withstand any college antics.
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A long-lasting backpack
Herschel Little America Backpack
Typical backpacks are perfect for school, but what about everything that happens outside of class? Having a sturdy backpack that's well-suited for traveling and job interviews helps a ton. Herschel's Little America is a great option because it's versatile, sturdy, and stylish. Another popular model is the Dagne Dover backpack ($215).
If the student is a tote person and doesn't touch backpacks, the Longchamp Le Pliage Shoulder Bag ($155) is a staple for students and young workers alike.
An interview ready fit
College is full of big meetings, presentations, and nerve-wracking interviews. For days when sweatpants aren't an option and something more formal is needed, these are some great options for women's staples. We've also created a list of our personal favorite workwear stores for women and menwith the best styles to buy from each one.
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A silicone mold for a soothing ice roller
Silicone Ice Mold for Facial Beauty Ice Roller
Gua Sha facial tools and rollers have become a super popular way to reduce facial puffiness, soothe redness, and de-stress. This silicone ice mold is easy to use, small enough for a mini fridge's freezer, and can be filled with everything from simple water to coconut milk and aloe vera for a relaxing skincare boost.
A fun card game for nights in and parties
What Do You Meme? Game
College students today are of the meme generation, so this game will be highly appreciated. This set includes 75 of the funniest memes plus 360 caption cards to make the wonkiest combinations for a game during study breaks or chill wine nights. If they already have the game, you can also grab them some expansion packs.
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A statement hair tie
Kitsch Dinner Scrunchie
There are few accessories that can pull together an outfit and make it look chic, even if it involves sweatpants. Kitsch's massive dinner scrunchies are the perfect accessory to add an easy, fashionable touch to their look.
An instant camera for instant memories
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Camera
For the digitally-native Gen Z-ers, going analog with an instant camera is not only totally retro, but exciting. Sure, they probably are already documenting every moment on their camera roll, but actually taking and printing a photo out makes for memories they'll never forget.
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A steady supply of healthier snacks
Thrive Market 1-Year Membership
College students live off good food and snacks. Gifting a subscription to Thrive Market means access to healthier snacks that can help them feel more energized and focused.
A cult-favorite tumbler
Hydro Flask 40 oz. Wide Mouth Water Bottle
This HydroFlask will keep cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks hot for up to 12, perfect for everything from water to late-night coffee.
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A taste of home delivered to their door
Goldbelly Restaurant Meal Kits
Goldbelly makes it possible to satisfy their most specific and nostalgic cravings no matter where they live in the US — a cheesecake from Junior's, deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati, and more. Browse the iconic gifts section for inspiration.
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An aroma diffuser to set the mood
Grove Collaborative Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser
An aroma diffuser delivers calming, in-home aromatherapy and is a great fragrance option for dorms where candles usually aren't allowed. This one from Grove Collaborative diffuses essential oils for up to five hours at a time, has LED light options, and elegantly blends into any room thanks to its minimalistic ceramic design.
If you're looking for more diffusing options, check out our guide to the best essential oil diffusers.
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An inexpensive way to get the iced coffee they love at home
Takeya Patented Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker
If the student you're thinking of drinks coffee — and there's a very good chance they do — having access to one of the best cold brew contraptions will be a gift that keeps on giving. A cold brew machine means you can go 4-5 days in a row without brewing another pot. It's also easy to clean. Find a full review here.
A waterproof speaker that can bring the bass
JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth Speaker
A Bluetooth speaker is a must-have: It helps set the mood for study nights and brings the party to life whenever they're hosting. JBL's Flip 5 speaker has vibrantly booming bass, lasts for up to 12 hours without a charge, and is waterproof.
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A bottle or two of famous toilet sprays
Poo-Pourri Toilet Sprays
Whether they're in a community bathroom or a private one, odds are they'll be sharing it with a roommate. These Poo-Pourri toilet sprays use essential oils and plant-based ingredients to eliminate bathroom odor before it begins.
A pair of wireless ear buds
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) with Charging Case
If you're after the title of their favorite relative of the year, here's a good place to start. AirPods are both easy to use and functional as well as trendy.
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A comfy Patagonia pullover they'll rely on
Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T Pullover
It's a good bet that many of their peers will also have this Snap-T pullover from Patagonia. This and the Better Sweater are long-held favorites, and both are comfortable classics that they'll no doubt come to rely upon.
A microwave-safe ramen cooker for stressful or time-crunched nights
Rapid Ramen Cooker
There will be plenty of late nights filled with cheap and tasty ramen. If they're going to eat it anyway, at least let them make it quickly and perfectly every time.
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A Brooklinen gift card for really nice sheets
Brooklinen Gift Card
Few things sound as nice as comfortable, beautiful sheets they don't need to buy for themselves. Brooklinen is one of our favorite startups to shop at, and we ranked its sateen cotton sheets as the best luxury sheets you can buy.
A book about making the most of their 20s
"The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter — And How to Make the Most of Them Now" by Meg Jay
The decisions you make in your 20s can greatly impact the rest of your life. The best defense is a good offense and your grad should know now, before any life-altering events crop up, how to get the most out of their "defining decade."
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A candle to remind them of their favorite place or hometown
Homesick Location Scented Candle
If they're away from family or friends, a reminder of home is a wonderful thing to have around. Make sure to check the rules of their dorm or living situation before buying them a candle.
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A monogrammed leather shave bag
Leatherology Small Shave Bag
The dreaded truth of college is that you'll most likely need to schlep your shower belongings to a communal area if you live in the dorms. Grab them a leather shave bag that they'll use for years to come.
If you're looking for a chic aesthetic, Dagne Dover also makes a great neoprene toiletry bag named the Hunter (from $45) that's built to accommodate makeup. If they have a lot of toiletries, you'll probably want to get the large size for $65.
Andrea Bossi is a freelance writer at Insider Reviews who primarily covers beauty and style. She is also a published poet and Forbes contributor who covers music, especially, hip-hop and r&b. If she's not writing, you can probably find her exploring on her bike, trying new vegan recipes, or dancing with friends (virtually, for now). Although born and raised in Chicago, she went east to study Cognitive Neuroscience and a minor in African American Studies at Harvard. Between what she studies and what she writes about, it's clear Bossi remains fascinated by the ways in which so many things are unexpectedly connected. Follow her on Instagram at@BossiBBor Twitter at@Bossi147
Alexis Berry is a freelance content writer specializing in product reviews. Alexis has a B.A. in Creative Writing from Columbia College Chicago. Her work has previously appeared in Allium, A Journal of Poetry and Prose, Hair Trigger, Punctuate. A Nonfiction Magazine, and Unpublished Magazine. She is a lover of fantasy fiction, a good hike in the woods, and, of course, writing. Say hi to Alexis at lexy.writes@outlook.com or through LinkedIn.
Associate Editor, Reviews Archive
Elena Matarazzo is an associate editor for Insider Reviews. Initially joining Insider as a producer, she changed gears to join the Archive team in the fall of 2022. Outside of work you can find her listening to a podcast, walking her dog, and scrolling through Yelp to find her upcoming meal. Prior to joining Insider, Elena worked in podcast sales and political media. With a degree in journalism and minors in gender studies and political science, Elena is constantly thinking about the intersection of media, technology, and culture. At Insider, Elena hopes to use her expertise to shed light on the next best thing.
Commerce Reporter
Remi is a former reporter for Business Insider's affiliate commerce team, Insider Reviews. After graduating from Colgate University with a degree in Creative Writing and Political Science, Remi joined Business Insider to help readers find the best products worth buying. Since joining the team in 2018, Remi has reviewed hundreds of products and interviewed founders of industry disruptors, such as direct-to-consumer startups Koio and Absolut Art. She specializes in women's lifestyle, but loves to learn about any and all products that add value and excitement to our everyday lives. Say hello at rrosmarin@businessinsider.com. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.
You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here.
Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@businessinsider.com.
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