Whether it's for family or friends, shopping for Christmas gifts is one of the hardest tasks. No one knows what they want, and many times you'll get the "I don't care, I really don't want anything" response. It can be stressful and time-consuming trying to figure out what someone else may want.
The good thing about college students is that many of us may not necessarily want anything, but we NEED things in order to survive the crazy college experience.
Here are 30 fun and practical gifts for college students that are wanted/needed:
1. A winter coat
Walking to class in the winter is one of the true tests of survival. Having a good coat can not only keep you warm, but also keep you in a better mood.
2. A strong umbrella
Another necessity to staying warm and dry.
3. A sturdy backpack
For carrying all your books, calculator, pencils, pens, water bottle, snacks, phone charger, computer, and basically your entire life.
4. A Polaroid camera
This is such a feel-good gift, and t's always fun to look back on all of the memories you've made.
5. An insulated water bottle
It's important to stay hydrated throughout the day!
6. Gift cards
Cat food doesn't always sound good, and every once and then you'll find yourself craving Chipotle and Panera.
7. Picture frames
They're fun ways to show off your pictures and also decorate your room.
8. A 6 ft. phone charger cord
You'll thank me later for this idea.
9. Socks
]They're like little sweaters for your feet!
10. Headphones
Nothing better than solid headphones like Beats for those times you just want to close your eyes and jam to some music.
11. Amazon Prime subscription
Not only does this cover free two-day shipping on almost any product you can think of, it also gives you additional perks like TV, movie and music streaming, free e-books, access to Twitch and more. Gift membership costs $119 a year, but with Prime Student college students get 6 months free and pay just $59 a year after, which makes the deal even sweeter.
12. Bluetooth speaker
Late night jam sessions will never be the same again.
13. Flask
Great for both genders. Some of them even come in different shapes and colors to fit your personal styles (this bracelet flask for women is especially unique).
14. Adult coloring books
School can be stressful. What's a better way to relax than color in a neat coloring book (or an amusing, irreverent one)?
15. Beer pong table
Most college students love a good game of pong, but very little have the proper table setup (cups not included.)
16. Netflix or Hulu subscription
Let's face it... college students are prime for procrastinating.
17. Portable phone charger
Perfect for sports games, trips home, and when you're too lazy to plug your phone into the wall.
18. Baby red solo cups
Shots shots shots!
19. A fuzzy blanket
College dorms can be drafty and cranking up the heat only makes you spend more on your heating bill.
20. Spikeball
When the weather gets warmer and you don't feel like studying anymore, go outside and play a quick game with friends.
21. Sneakers
Yes, wearing those cute wedges you just bought will complete your outfit, but no, they are not useful when you sleep through your alarm and have to sprint to class.
24. A rain jacket/windbreaker
If you live in the Midwest like me, you can relate to the struggles of pop-up rainstorms and monsoons every now and then. Plus, with the unpredictable weather, a rain jacket is easy to throw in a backpack or tie around your waist.
22. A car
Having a car on campus can be a true blessing. Every once in a while you have those days when you just need to leave campus and go do something different.
23. Unlimited data
Sure campus has free WiFi, but that doesn't mean it works 24/7. Also, if mom and dad expect their child to constantly call grandma that means they're going to need a lot of minutes.
25. Money in general...
Parents are already spending thousands of dollars supporting their kid through college, but "pocket cash" is always a need. Extra cash will come in handy when you're hungry at 2 am, want a cool t-shirt from your favorite campus club, or need coffee to keep you energized.
Christmas is considered one of the happiest times of the year. Why not make someone else happy by getting them one of these awesome gifts?!
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