Are you going off to college? Or is someone you know going off to college? Check out college freshman gifts to get for your student!

This guide includes a list of college freshman gifts that are actually useful as an incoming student.

I remember my freshman year when I brought too much stuff on-campus. 

And I was in a triple, so you can imagine how much I had to squish into a tiny space. These college freshman gifts are much needed for any student going off to college.

You will find a lot of inspiration from these gift ideas below!

This post is all about college freshman gifts that are actually useful.

College Freshman Gifts

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1. Laptop Desk

This one is a must! I never thought I needed one until I got this as a gift. This was a total game-changer! I used to place my laptop on a pillow on top of my lap, but it frequently heats up or slides around.

 

After receiving a laptop desk, I felt so much more freedom on my hands.

 

I can adjust my position on the bed without my laptop sliding off, my laptop was not heating as much, and I was able to write on the laptop desk!

 

And I can’t tell you how many times I have done my work, watched movies, and sped through lectures all in my bed.

 

I recommend getting one with a wrist rest so your wrists are in the correct position and you don’t feel uncomfortable using it for a long period of time.

 

This laptop lap desk with cushion is similar to the one I currently have.

 

It has a place to put your wrists and also adjustable for different heights for viewing.

 

Give your freshman this gift and they will be sure to love it! 

 

2. Planner

No matter if you’re team digital or team paper, a planner keeps you so much more organized.

 

If you know your freshman loves digital planners, opt for a large desk spread for them to write important dates.

 

This wirebound academic year planner with flexible cover comes in two sizes and two editions.

 

I have used the Blue Sky Day Designer planner and loved it. It contained daily, weekly, and monthly spreads with to-do lists. 

 

 One con is that it is a bit bulky so keep in mind what sizes you want to carry around.

 

If they are into the paper route, get them a planner that includes daily, weekly, and monthly views.

 

Try to keep it lightweight and minimalistic so they are not carrying a brick to class.

 

3. Water Bottle

If they don’t have a sturdy water bottle, this is the time to give them one!

 

I recommend getting one that is durable, multifunctional, and sleek.

 

From my experience, I have seen and heard so many water bottles knocked over during lectures so get a sturdy one to endure constant abuse.

 

Choose one that is multifunctional like keeping liquids cold and hot for over 8 hours. Sometimes a warm sip of coffee towards the end of the day can really bring you back to your senses.

 

Also, pick one that is sleek or simple so it stays trendy all school year.

 

I have been using the hydro flask standard mouth bottle with flex cap since high school. 

 

It was super popular when I was in 10th grade and I got it from a beach promotion by Hydro flask.

 

After using it, I love it more than regular bottles since it keeps my water fresh and cool.

 

4. Snack Bundle

If there is something that you must get, I recommend getting a snack bundle for your student.

 

I can’t remember how many nights I have been snacking on just something, chips, trail mix, dried fruit packs, granola bars, crackers, any food while in my dorm.

 

College will be busy. It will be hectic and sometimes we can forget our meals.

 

I recommend purchasing high protein, high energy snacks to keep them energized and healthy throughout the day.

 

This snack box variety pack care package includes different brands of chips, cookies, candies, bars, pretzels, and crackers in various sizes.

 

I always have cravings at late night and sometimes all the dining halls are closed, so a snack will always be appreciated.

 

5. Squishmallow/Large Pillow

 

These stuffed animals are pretty popular with teens and college students.

 

It is becoming a collection hype and many students have them.

 

I have a Hello Kitty one from my best friend and I admit it is super duper soft! 

 

Great to cuddle with or use as a punching bag.

 

I admit I have a lot of pillows in my dorm, but it makes me feel so nice and happy.

 

This is one of the cutest college freshman gifts to give to someone if they love collecting Squishmallows or are new to them.

 

6. Yoga Mat

 

I admit that I did not exercise everyday even when I had a yoga mat. BUT! 

 

Having a yoga mat laid out in your dorm really makes you just squeeze in one or two stretches or planks each day.

 

When I have it laid out, it pushes me to see it and workout a bit.

 

If I have it curled out in the corner, I always slack off because I have to unroll it and lay it out.

 

Purchasing a yoga mat for your child can push them to add some exercise each day when they can’t go to the gym.

 

This extra thick ½ inch yoga mat provides more support, comfort, and stability when you are doing your workouts or exercises.

 

Opt for thicker mats over thinner ones so your elbows won’t hurt when you do planks.

 

There are also many options available at your local Ross or Marshalls if you want a more affordable option.

 

7.  Automatic Toothbrush

This. is. Such. a. Awesome. Gift. I can’t go back to handheld toothbrushes anymore.

 

Automatic toothbrushes are perfect for college students when they just woke up and are still groggy from sleep.

 

Not only do they have a 2-minute timer, but you just need to twist your hand around.

 

It cleans your teeth so well and protects against cavities way better than a normal toothbrush.

 

This Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 Rechargeable Electric Power Toothbrush has a 14 day battery life and cleans up to 7 times more plaque than your regular toothbrush!

 

Consider purchasing one for your student to go off to college.

 

I got mine in high school and have not turned back. This is also awesome for anyone with braces as it can reach harder nooks and crannies than the regular toothbrush.

 

8. Steamer for Clothes

   

College is the time filled with socializing, career fairs, and club meetings.

 

If your college student needs a set of nice clothes, a steamer will keep their outfits wrinkle-free and pristine.

 

Leave a good image in front of recruiters and leave a good impression. 

 

This 700 watt, 240ml capacity steamer for clothes has great reviews on Amazon and is the top seller on the list.

 

I recommend purchasing a steamer with high reviews, many pictures, and good ratings to ensure that you buy a suitable one.

 

9. Laundry Hamper

Living on-campus means that your student will take care of clothes themselves.

 

This laundry backpack with shoulder straps and mesh pockets is convenient for college students.

 

They can place their laundry detergent, fabric softener, and dirty clothes all in one.

 

Instead of lugging a large laundry hamper to the laundry room, they can carry everything on their back.

 

This laundry backpack also comes in a variety of colors to choose from to best suit your student.

 

A hack is to do your laundry on Fridays and Sundays since most students will be out to events, clubs, or parties.

 

10. Portable Shower Caddy

Limited space is constantly an issue for students living in dorms and apartments.

 

With multiple suitemates and roommates sharing bedrooms and bathrooms, it is necessary to have an organizer for toiletries. 

 

This portable mesh shower caddy with 7 pockets is great for carrying all the essentials needed in the bathroom.

 

I had this for college and it saved my shampoos, body wash, and shower items from sitting on the nasty ground.

 

A caddy holds so much from body scrub to face wash, shampoos to body wash, soaps to razors and brushes. 

 

Have all your items in one place and save precious floor space.

 

This is one of the most useful items in this college freshman gifts list.

 

11. Shower Slippers

Since we are on the topic of shower essentials, these bathroom shower slippers are a must in college dorms.

 

I would not dare to enter the bathrooms without my bathroom slippers on.

 

You never know if someone has foot fungus or bacteria infections and you definitely don’t want to step in someone else’s hair.

 

Shower slippers are a simple way to save you from all those issues and prevent you from slipping in the bathroom.

 

I recommend bringing two pairs of slippers-one specifically for showers and one for working around in your dorm or apartment.

 

Get in the habit of wearing slippers in dorms to prevent bacteria transmissions, debris, and cold feet.

 

12. Portable Charger

 

If you notice that your student uses their phone a lot and they run out of battery quickly, consider getting them this portable charger power bank to last them the entire day and more.

 

It is easy to forget to charge their phone if they have classes early the next day and forget the night before.

 

Having a portable charger eliminates their worry looking for a charging port when they can charge it right where they are at. 

 

Make sure you purchase a power bank that has the port for your phone model.

 

13. Hanging Closet Organizer

Living in dorms means having itty-bitty closets.

 

Fret not as this 6 shelf hanging closet organizer is perfect for organizing your child’s clothes.

 

I confess, I have been guilty with these organizers.

 

They are so convenient that I lay out my worn outfits and future outfits here.

 

I organized my each shelf:

• Worn outfit
• Socks
• Bras and sports wear
• Camis and tank tops
• Hats and headwear
• Future outfit
• Thicker sweaters 

 

Notice how I have 7 sections instead of 6? Well, the closet organizer I had were hooks instead of velcro wrap so I had extra space on the top.

 

I would place my one day worn shirts there to wear again a few days later.

 

This not only helps the environment by washing less, but also saves you planning for a future outfit.

 

14. Towel Set

It is crucial to switch up your towels every one to two weeks to keep them fresh and clean.

 

This particular set of 8 cotton spun towels are great for college.

 

It is very easy to forget about washing your towels when you have a million other things to worry about in college.

 

Bringing a set of towels can help you alternate when you need to wash the other towel.

 

I recommend hanging your towels in open-spaced areas to let any humidity dry out and stay clean.

 

15. Bedside Tray

If you sleep on the bunk bed in your dorm, this bedside tray will save you from walking up and down your bunk.

 

You can place a drink, your phone, a bedside lamp, a book, and a snack here.

 

I lived on the upper bunk my freshman year, and a bedside tray was so convenient.

 

It became my mini storage area for loose items.

 

I would place my sleep mask there, hair ties, water, phone, etc. It was so useful to stash items that I did not want to go down the steps and place.

 

16. Pepper Spray

Going to a new place can be fun, but also scary.

 

This pepper spray key chain has over 100,000 ratings on Amazon and includes 25 bursts of pepper spray towards attackers.

 

Stay safe and protect yourself whenever you are walking alone.

 

You should be alert on public campuses since anyone can enter the premises.

 

It is always to be over prepared than underprepared and in this case a pepper spray can save you from attacks, burglary, or assault.

 

This is one of the most important college freshman gifts that you can buy to protect your student from danger.

 

Interested in learning more about must-have essentials for your first year? Check out Must-Have College Freshman Survival Kit.

 

17. Sheet Set

 

If you haven’t bought a set of sheets yet, consider this twin xl 3 piece sheet set for college.

 

Make sure you know the dimensions of your bed, but usually college dorm beds match twin xl sheets.

 

I went and got a full set of comforters, pillow cases, sheet sets for freshman year.

 

Also, make sure you wash your sheets every once in a while. 

 

A tip is to wash your pillowcases, sheets, and towels whenever you go do laundry so you don’t have to go on multiple trips.

 

Keep your bed fresh and clean by consistently washing your sheets.

 

18. Reading Pillow

 

I don’t know about you, but I love to stay in my bed a lot. It’s my place for watching shows, reading books, going over lecture notes, and zooming.

 

I used to pile two regular pillows behind my back for support, but having a reading pillow really changes the game.

 

It supports your back, nice to rest in, and elevates your body.

 

I am a total sucker for these pillows and they are a staple in my family.

 

Even when it’s time to pack and go home for the summer, these pillows are awesome at home.

 

I recommend placing a smaller pillow in front of the reading pillow before you lean down for added support.

 

This is one of the best college freshman gifts for couch potatoes out there!

 

19. Laundry Set

                       

Ok, we are back to discussing laundry.

 

Here are a few things that I recommend for college students: Tide PODS 81 count laundry detergent and mesh laundry bags for lingerie.

 

These two items make your laundry trip breezy and easy.

 

Tide pods are my secret weapon when dealing with dirty clothes. Instead of lugging a bottle of detergent, I just grab one or two tide pods and I’m ready.

 

PLACE your undies and bras in mesh bags. Do it!

 

Protect your delicates and bonus: these can be used in the dryer too!

 

Hack: after you place your clothes in the wash, set a timer and go do your daily activities.

 

This is better for everyone. I have seen cases where people don’t come back until late for their laundry.

 

Not only does this take away precious time from others who want to do their laundry, but it is also bad for your clothes.

 

The longer your clothes are trapped in that mini, moist environment, there will be a smell. 

 

As bacteria and mold form, this smell will linger and it is difficult to dry it.

 

This means that you need to redo your laundry which will suck big time since you are wasting money and time.

 

20. Desk Organizer

I like to keep my desk pretty open and clear to work with so I recommend getting a desk organizer.

 

By the end of the day, there are usually writing supplies, skincare products, and scrunchies strewn on my tabletop.

 

Having a desk organizer can keep things contained and moved to the far corner so it won’t distract you. 

 

This desk storage organizer can hold stationary, skincare products, or makeup.

 

Get one that is all-in-one so you have everything in one place.

 

Interested in learning more about surviving freshman year? Check out The Ultimate College Freshman Guide that You NEED to Know.

 

21. Makeup Mirror

This is one of my most used items in college and I still have it with me.

 

It is really convenient to have a mirror to put on skincare, curl your eyelashes, or check your hair.

 

I recommend this trifold vanity mirror with LED lights that allows you to experience the ultimate princess feel.

 

It saves space and easily slides away when you are not in use. I am guilty for never folding it and just having it out since I always use it before I go to class or after I shower.

 

It is better to fold your mirror as it can collect dust, especially when you have windows opened.

 

22. Wrap Blanket

I don’t know about you-but having a burrito or pizza blanket for college?

 

Hit me up!

 

This double sided food throw blanket comes in a burrito, cookie, waffle, or pizza option.

 

There’s also a variety of sizes to choose from to wrap you up all the way.

 

I think this is a super adorable gift for college since it can be a conversation starter with your suitemates.

 

There might be a con though-I might have dreams about food when I go to sleep. 🙂

 

This is also one of the cutest college freshman gifts to give on this list!

 

23. Fan

If the place you are going to is going to be hot, I definitely recommend getting a fan for your dorm.

 

Since you would be cramped with others, it is going to get hot quickly.

 

This Air Circulator Fan has over 40,000 ratings on Amazon and offers bursts of cool wind.

 

There are three different speed settings and can pivot around.

 

What caught my attention, however, was 25% quieter. Yes, having quiet fans when you need to take a nap is so much better than a loud rattling one.

 

You also won’t be distracting to your roommates if you live with any.

 

24. Power Strip

This is a must have on my list because I have so many things that I need to charge!

 

I always have my phone charger in a spot, my laptop charger staying permanently, desk lamp sometimes, blow dryer occasionally, and headphone charger rarely. 

 

They take up a lot of spots so having a power strip with multiple outlets while protecting against overcharge is important.

 

This power strip with 4 usb ports and 8 outlets has all the room for your college charging needs. 

 

Depending on how far your wall outlet is, you can pick from three lengths to accommodate the distance.

 

I love how there is a rubber footpad that prevents the bottom from slipping and sliding. 

 

It is super annoying to put double sided command strips on power strips to prevent them from falling off, so this is a great feature.

 

25.  Face Mask Skin Care

College can be stressful at times and you need to take a break once in a while.

 

This 24 combo pack of facial mask sheets helps with hydrating, redness, soothing, anti aging, and anti wrinkle.

 

I got this a couple months ago and have been through ¾ of it.

 

You can tell that I haven’t been using them consistently.

 

But that feeling when you finish showering and place one on it gives you some coolness.

 

My favorite part is taking it off and patting your skin so the product gets absorbed into it.

 

Doing a facial mask has many benefits like relaxing, giving your face a break, and putting vitality back.

 

This is perfect for after midterms and finals, anytime you need to go out, or just when you feel like you need one.

 

These college freshman gifts are sure to make your student prepared and ready for their first year!

 

This post was all about college freshman gifts that are actually useful.