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BEST Gifts to Give as a College Dorm Present

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When moving in to college dorms, there are a lot of different things students need, and a lot things you can get them in addition as a college dorm present. There are a lot of presents that can be very useful to students regardless of whether your student is a college freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior. One big problem with dorm rooms is their size, so a lot of these items can help save and maximize space in dorm rooms. 

Packing lists for dorm rooms can seem overwhelming and it can be hard to tell what items you need to pack for your dorm. But of all the electronics and useful items you need, the ones that make this list are high in quality, functionality, and affordability. You can find some amazing items on this list to enhance your college dorm and maximize your move-in experience. 

Saving Money for College Students

Before your college student leaves for the dorms, encourage them to spend and save wisely. One very easy way to save money is signing up for SoFi banking. A high yield savings account is free and earns money as opposed to a traditional savings account. We use SoFi banking and make 4.5% on our savings account, we put these returns towards our kid’s college fees. Our kids also sign up for SoFi accounts at 18 so they can start earning on their money as well. We also encourage our kids to sign up for Rakuten and Ibotta to save on every day online and in person purchases. This list of discounts and freebies for college students will also help your emerging adults save a ton on things they need.

College Care Package Ideas

While you are preparing your student for college, make sure you check out our article on ideas for college care packages. Show your child some love by checking in on them with a care package!

Before the list of college dorm present ideas, I want to share a few ideas for college essential ideas to go along with your present. Remember that college students to do not typically have space for dishes, so disposable and earth friendly dinnerware is so helpful. High protein snacks such as Old Trapper Beef Jerky are a must for when the cafeteria is closed. College is also the first time emerging adults are buying their own personal care items. While a teen at home might not be excited about something like laundry detergent sheets or witch hazel wipes, someone living on campus might be thrilled to get essentials along with a present.

Best Ideas for a College Dorm Present

The following ideas are great gifts to help outfit your child’s first dorm room.  This list will grow, so make sure to come back to check for other presents ideas for your college student!

Portable Electric Tea Kettle

  • COMPACT & DUAL VOLTAGE: Fits in small spaces and quickly boils up to .6 L/20 oz. of water anytime and anywhere that requires 120VAC or 220 to 240VAC. Easily change voltage requirement by using switch on bottom of unit.
  • SIMPLE TO USE: One-touch button to begin boiling and LED indicator lets you know the kettle is powered On. Highly efficient concealed heating system with Auto-Shut Off and Boil-Dry Protection for safe, worry-free use.
Buy it here

Expander Extension Cord

With limited power outlets in your dorm, the perfect college dorm present is an expander. The one I’ve linked here is an especially good option because it connects to the outlet with a flat plug. This allows you to make use of outlets from behind furniture. It also includes USB and USBC charging ports in addition to regular outlets so you can charge any and every sort of device you like.

Buy it here

Mattress Topper

Just because college dorm rooms come outfitted with a mattress, doesn’t mean that mattress is comfortable. Many college students want to get a mattress topper. However a lot of mattress toppers on the market are pretty expensive. This one that I have linked here is not only an affordable option, but also a quality one. Whatever mattress topper you choose, make sure you get the right size for college dorm beds. (Twin XL)

Buy it here

Desktop Organizer 

Desk space is hard to come by in dorm rooms, so this organizer desk tray is a lifesaver. Not only can you use it to better store and charge your devices, but you can sort papers without using up valuable surface space.

Buy it here

Desk Organizer Tray

College dorm desks are notoriously small, so students need to make the most of the drawer space they are given. That is why it’s no secret that any type of organizational tool this the best college dorm present you can get your child. This desk organizer is small enough to fit just about any dorm desk and has several separate compartments for different school supplies.

Buy it here

Desk Lamp 

This desk lamp is an amazing option for your dorm room. Having a desk lamp is absolutely necessary for your dorm. When one student is up cramming for an exam, having a desk lamp helps roommates respect each others sleep schedule. Apart from the roommate courtesies, this specific desk lamp has several features that especially cater to college students. It has several different light settings that vary in warmth so you have the option to reduce blue light exposure at night. And it also has charging ports to help charge all your devices. While all college students need a desk lamp, this one is the perfect college dorm present.

Buy it here

Uber Gift Card

The majority of college student’s don’t yet have their own cars, so Uber is a must for getting around. Even for students that have their own cars, students are sometimes safer when taking a ride home. Between that and saving money with ride shares there are so many reasons why Uber Gift Cards are a fantastic college dorm present for new college students.

Buy gift cards here

College Dorm Gifts

We hope you found the perfect gift to make your college dorm room perfect. Make sure you check out our other articles for parents of college students like our college care package article. Stay tuned for updates and more recommendations and items.

College Care Package Ideas

College Care Package Ideas

Until Next Time ~ Kate
Categories:  Gift guide

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