When your friend group decides to do a "Secret Santa" and you end up with the person that you know the least, have no fear! This list of gifts will work for any college-aged gal or guy and will ease your pre-holiday stress.
Fuzzy socks
You can find these at almost any store for less than $3 each. Grab two or three pairs with different designs, and I promise you, your friend will get plenty of use out of them.
Scented candles
Even though most college students live in dorms where candles are off-limits, they're still perfect to have at home over winter break, and.. who really follows the rules anyway?
Chocolates/candy
Unless your friend has a strong hatred of candy or is a complete health-junkie, no one could ever be upset receiving a box of chocolates for Christmas.
A homemade CD
CDs may not be as practical anymore, but that adds an artsy edge to them. Find out your friend's favorite bands and make them a mixtape that they can cherish with nostalgia fifty years down the road.
A framed photograph of you two
Not only does this make for cute dorm room decor, but it holds sentimental value as well. To add even more flair, take a sharpie and write a sweet message on the outer edge of the frame.
Hot chocolate mix
Hot cocoa is a winter staple. Go get your hands on one of those Swiss Miss variety packs, mini marshmallows, and candy canes, and your gift will be complete.
A salt lamp
I received a salt lamp as a gift and have been using it almost every day since. They give off calming vibes — great for a studying atmosphere — and are just simply beautiful. Makes for the perfect desk decor!
Winter gloves/hats
If you live up north, gloves and hats are a necessity. You can never have too many pairs, especially in multiple colors.
Mugs
I have not met anyone that does not have a plethora of cups and mugs. So, help your friend add to their collection! As a bonus, I'd recommend filling it with tea bags, Hershey kisses, or any other small treats they'd enjoy
Coffee or tea assortments
This is a great accompaniment to the mug! Most college students are addicted to caffeine, so why not boost their addiction and get them more? (In all seriousness, flavorful assortment packs can be found at Macy's for a really good price!)
Bumper stickers
Even if your Secret Santa person doesn't have their own car, bumper stickers can be placed on mini fridges or pinned to bulletin boards. Plus, they give you the chance to personalize your gift to truly adhere to your friend!
Phone cases
Anyone who says they don't need a new phone case is lying. It's always so much fun to switch between a few.
PopSockets
PopSockets, although not really a new trend anymore, are still a super fun gift to give and receive — even more so with the ability to customize them!
Journals
Whether you're buying a regular lined journal or a simple "One Line A Day" journal from Amazon, just add a matching pen and you're good to go. Everyone can use a little extra paper.
A calendar
Calendars are such underrated gifts. With the new year just around the corner, Christmas is the perfect time to get someone a new calendar! You can personalize one with photos on a number of different websites, like Chegg or Snapfish, or you can buy mini tear-off calendars on Amazon!
A fuzzy blanket
If you want to take this one step farther- buy a heated, fuzzy blanket and your friend will never stop thanking you.
Slippers
Slippers are such a versatile gift that you can buy literally anywhere (just make sure to find the softest pair).
Pajamas
PJs are something that are always on sale this time of year — try to get some with little reindeer to get in the Christmas spirit!
Board games
Not only will your friend be able to use these games with other friends and family, but if you get them a game that you both enjoy, you can play it together after ripping off the wrapping paper!
Hand lotion/chapstick
Yes, it may feel like you're constantly getting chapstick and hand cream from grandma every holiday, but let's be honest — it feels nice having smooth skin and lips and not having to pay for it ourselves.
Cookie mix in a jar
You can fill the jar yourself, or buy one premade, but either way it's a super unique gift that you can use with your friend.
Laptop stickers
Almost everyone on a college campus has laptop stickers. And, if your friend doesn't, kick-start their collection.
College apparel
No one can have enough college merch. Even better, is your friend apart of Greek life? If so, letters are always an enjoyable gift as well.
A reusable water bottle
Something you can also fill with sweets and treats, Target and Walmart sell reusable water bottles in all sorts of designs — no need for a fancy, expensive hydro flask. Not only is it a cute gift idea, but it's also a great way to help save the planet!
A book that reminds you of them
If your Secret Santa isn't a big reader, this is still a kind gesture that they'll truly appreciate. Being told a book reminds someone of them may be enough persuasion for them to try cracking it open and reading it.
Air plants
Even if your friend doesn't have a green thumb, these little guys are truly hard to kill. Plus, they make for lovely decorations.
OR if you're really desperate...
You can give your friend money folded into a cute origami design! This may seem unoriginal, but the little figurines you can create gives it a super sweet personal touch. Just Google some designs and get folding!
10 Ways To Celebrate Christmas With Your New College Friends