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    49 Graduation Gifts That Are Absolute Must-Haves For Incoming College Students

    We got you covered from the dorms, to the dining hall, to those dreaded early morning classes.

    1. An Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K that'll bring them thousands — literally thousands — of streaming channels, movies, and shows, as well as live TV, news, and sports.

    an Amazon fire tv stick 4K
    Amazon

    The remote is Alexa-compatible so they can use voice commands to find something new to watch, launch an app, search for a movie, or even order a pizza! Their old remote could never!

    Promising review: "Works great. Not hard to set up. I was able to put the channels I subscribe to up top so I just click on them or use the mic. I also realized it's easier to go to the channel that you want and then search by voice once there. For instance. Voice search from the home page for Guy Fieri brought up one season of one show. When I went to my Amazon Prime channel first and did a voice search from there, I found a least five shows of his. Anyway, it's a great improvement on the old Roku I had." —susan l. s.

    Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in five configurations).

    2. A cold brew maker if they've been meaning to work on their coffee shop spending habits. Once they've poured their coffee grounds into the filter, add water to the container, submerge the filter in the water, and screw on the airtight lid. Store it in the fridge for 12–24 hours, and their coffee will be ready for consumption. Plus, they'll really need it when they're pulling all-nighters, studying for finals and writing term papers.

    a diagram showing a model brewing the coffee
    model pouring coffee from the pitcher
    Amazon

    It can brew a quart (4 cups) and store hot coffee. It also has an airtight lid that can keep their coffee fresh for up to two weeks.

    Promising review: "I am a college student and I work full time so I live off coffee. Due to this I have very little time and money to spend on coffee. I found myself spending hundreds a month on Starbucks just because it's convenient but with this I am able to buy my favorite coffee grounds and prep my morning coffee in advance." —Abbie H.

    Get it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in two sizes).

    3. A cushioned lap desk with a built-in mouse pad and phone slot that'll make it more comfortable for them to work away from their desk. Now they can minimize their workspace and be freed from the confines of their bedroom.

    Promising review: "I’m a college student and I use it ALL the time! It is a must have if you like to do work or play pc games in bed or on the couch. It’s good quality, cute, comfortable, and functional." —Lauren

    Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in seven colors and a wrist rest option).

    4. An Instax instant camera to capture all of their favorite moments from their college experience. They'll enter this new time in their life with the opportunity to capture moments that can last a lifetime!

    the Instax camera in white with batteries, camera and strap displayed on a bedspread
    photos of a dog

    The camera has an LED flash, "High Key" mode to take brighter pics, and a selfie mirror! 

    Promising review: "Such a fun camera! I got it at the end of the summer to take to college with me and document my adventures. It worked great all semester, never had any problems with it! The picture quality isn’t as good as my phone, but my iPhone is pretty hard to beat. Overall, it’s a great camera!" —Hannah

    Get it from Amazon for $67.25+ (available in nine colors).

    5. A Porter Bowl with a lid so they can eat their lunches on the go, especially if they become quite the busybody. It also makes a perfect cover for those times when they might want to take their leftovers from the dining hall. I mean they're paying for the meal plan so they might as well get the most out of it — right?!

    green porter bowl full salad
    Amazon

    Promising review: "This bowl is fantastic! It's very well made and feels great in your hands. It has a great functional design as well as a sleek modern look. Works great for lunches or storing leftover food in the fridge. Highly recommended!" —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $20+ (available in six colors, and in plastic and ceramic versions.)

    6. A set of eye-popping fine-point pens that'll help them take some of their best notes. Keeping everything color-coded and neatly organized can help them work quickly and memorize more information. I wouldn't be surprised if they cracked the code to figuring out which study methods work best for them in no time!

    Promising review: "I love these pens. I literally just ordered a second batch of them because I'm a medical student studying for Step 1 and am taking many handwritten pages of notes. The colors are great and don't bleed and the pens feel great in my hand! There's a fine enough point to them you can write incredibly small if you need to! I highly recommend." —henela

    Get a set of 18 from Amazon for $7.64.

    7. Or, a set of 72 high-quality Prismacolor colored pencils, because they're definitely gonna need them if they're taking courses like chemistry, biology, anatomy, or art courses. These colored pencils are super pigmented and go on paper as smooth as buttah. 

    Promising review: "If you've never used these then you really don't know what you're missing. I first encountered these in my art classes in college about 14 years ago. Basically these are 'color pencils' that almost seem like you're using a marker (without leaving moisture on the paper). They make a brilliant color and are a great addition to any artist's collection. Don't be scared by the price, there is definitely a reason they are higher than normal pencils." —ahoffoss

    Get it from Amazon for $57.51+ (available in two quantity packs).

    8. A rotating digital alarm clock with features that make it a charger, a mirror, and a nightlight. Now, they can be up and at 'em just in time for their dreaded 8 a.m. class!

    Promising review: "I love this TikTok clock. Here’s another 'TikTok/BuzzFeed brought me here' post. The clock is adorable and a modern thin clock that doesn’t look cheap, even though it is." —Tanita Gaither

    Get it from Amazon for $20.33+ (available in six colors).

    9. The ever popular Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer to effortlessly take their hair from cute and curly to having a bombshell blowout! Hopefully it'll make getting ready for class a lot easier, since it's literally a brush and a hair dryer all in one.

    Check it out on TikTok here!

    Promising review: "I saw a TikTok about how great this product was and I was in need of a way to dry my hair that wasn't just me sitting in my towel for an hour lol. Super easy to use and it comes with 3 settings - low, dry, or cold. I usually do low and can get my hair decently dry in 15 mins. My fave part is that it brushes through my hair sooo easily and now I don't have to dry then brush - it's a 2 in 1!" —karen

    Get it from Amazon for $39.89+ (available in four styles).

    10. A lightweight, faux-leather tote so versatile, it can be worn in any season and can carry everything they'll need for the day. If they want to stop carrying backpacks around, then they should give this simple, yet fashionable everyday tote a try.

    Model with camel colored tote bag
    reviewer image of inside pink tote, showing pocket and space for belongings

    Promising review: "I LOVE this bag. I work fulltime and also take a full load of college classes online. I use this bag for my school stuff: tablet or laptop, textbooks, syllabus/coursework, pens/highlighters, and a notebook. It holds a LOT. For my purposes, the fact that there are no internal dividers is a plus. It's lightweight but deceptively sturdy. The straps are the perfect length. The color is exactly what I wanted. I was nervous because omg the price?! How could a bag this inexpensive be decent quality? It is, though. I LOVE it and will probably buy it in several more colors." —Kindle Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $12.29+ (available in 160 colors and two sizes).

    11. A milk frother that is sure to take their cappuccinos, lattes, and hot chocolate to the next level. Give the milk a nice spin and watch it turn into silky luxurious foam.

    a milk frother
    mug of frothy milk

    Two AA batteries required but not included.

    Product review: "It makes coffee and chocolate milk so much better! I bought this one after having a different brand (also purchased on Amazon) for about a year. I was never impressed with the other one, but never got around to replacing it. I really wish I had sooner, because this one blows the other one out of the … water, or should I say milk? Also the extra few bucks to have the stand is totally worth it. No more mess all over the counter. I may even purchase another because I bet it would make really good scrambled eggs!" —Sarah

    Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in 47 colors).

    12. A personal Magic Bullet blender that'll keep them from buying smoothies so often. They can make salsas, slushies, ground coffee, and more! It's also compact, so they won't have to worry about it taking up a lot of shared counter space.

    the magic bullet blender
    a gif of the magic bullet in action
    a mango drink in the party mug, placed beside the blender
    Kaila Browner/ BuzzFeed

    It comes with a 250W motor base, a cross-blade, a tall cup, a short cup, a party mug, two lip rings, two Stay-Fresh resealable lids, a to-go lid, and 10-second recipe guide. 

    Usually the Magic Bullet has a silver base, but you can get one of the three blender wraps to jazz it up. Just use the code "EXPRESSION" at checkout and decorate your Magic Bullet with one of these colorful vinyl wraps!

    I personally enjoy making thick fruity drinks — mango lassi is my absolute favorite dessert drink to make. The Magic Bullet size and storage options are super convenient. If I make a salsa, I can just cover it with one of the to-go lids and pop in the fridge, until I'm ready to use it again. This is definitely a great blender for anyone who hates washing dishes, or for anyone who has never owned a blender — this one is a great starter.

    Get it from Amazon for $39.88.

    13. Sweat-wicking biker shorts reviewers say stop their thighs from chafing while they run, work out, and do yoga. Plus, these sustainable compression shorts will stay in place no matter what activity they'll be doing or how much they'll be walking on campus. 

    front-facing view of model wearing black shorts
    a different model posing in plum colored shorts
    Girlfriend Collective

    Girlfriend Collective follows sustainability practices such as using old water bottles, fishing nets, and other recyclable materials (that pollute the ocean) to create wearable items. Their packaging is also 100% recycled and recyclable.

    Promising review: "I’m so happy with these. They are just long enough that they don’t ride up (so less potential for chaffing) when I’m hiking or running. The material is so soft but stays firmly in place. My thighs are a bit thicker, so the biking shorts are a little more ideal for running. But I wore these on a hike the other day, got some sun on my thighs, and would do it again.  Also, they give my butt a nice little lift." —Heather C.

    Get them from Girlfriend Collective for $48 (available in sizes XXS–6XL and in six colors).

    14. The new AirPods Pro for those moments when they need to drown out the world and maybe listen to music, watch math tutorials, or even catch up on their favorite shows. By saying "Hey, Siri" they can ask for their favorite podcast, make a call, and even reply to texts without breaking their concentration from studying.

    the airpods in their case
    the airpods in its packaging

    They come with noise-cancelation abilities, spatial audio, sweat and water resistant,  adjustable volume, and up to 30 hours of battery life.

    Promising review: "I love these and I would recommend these. They give you feel of first generation AirPods but at the same time newer. They are shorter then first generation. I would recommend these. I love the audio, the quality and the battery life is incredible compared to the other generations." —Jalen

    Get them from Amazon for $159.

    15. Or, a set of affordable, highly popular (seriously, these have over 227,000 five-star reviews) wireless Bluetooth earbuds so they can be their most productive selves. The earbuds are stored in a self-charging case and can be worn while they study, exercise, clean, travel, and more. They definitely need these if they want to listen to something entertaining while they work.

    Promising review: "These are the greatest headphones ever! I saw them on TikTok months ago and added them to my wishlist. I got a new phone that doesn't have the headphone port so I decided it was time to finally buy them. They are amazing and I probably won't ever take them out of my ears! 😂" —Katlyn D Arnold

    Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in five colors). 

    16. A cable knit pillow cover that'll bring their room soft vibes. Just add the cushiest pillow inserts for a nonstop comfy cozy feel.

    grey, white, and beige pillows on a couch
    Paragraph Shoppe/ Etsy

    Paragraph Shoppe is a small business based in New York that sells sweaters, hoodies, pillow covers, blankets, and more!

    Promising review: "I love my cable knit pillow cover! It makes my bed 10 times cozier." —Lindsay R.

    Get it from Paragraph Shoppe on Etsy for $24.99 (available in four colors).

    17. And a satin pillowcase capable of helping keep their hair hydrated and tangle-free. Cotton pillowcases strip hair of its moisture and can cause bedhead. Now, they can actually have a good night's rest knowing that their hair will be protected from any damage a cotton pillowcase would cause. Plus, it'll be such a nice touch to their dorm room. 

    two stacked pillows encased in a cream pillow case
    two pillows encased in a cream satin pillow case on a bed
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I use in my college dorm and I love that they are wrinkle free, extremely soft and easy to care for because, let’s be honest, washing machines are not convenient at college." —kelly y.

    Get a set of two from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 30 colors and five sizes).

    18. An electric heated blanket to keep them warm and snugly while they take a little power nap in between classes. It features 10 heat settings and a 10 hour auto-shutoff function. It also comes with a pre-heating function so they can get a snack and refill their water bottle while the blanket heats to their preferred temperature.

    a heated blanket on a bed
    Amazon

    Promising review: "Solid product; zero issues. We absolutely love the dual zones as it allows two temperature controls for two very different people. Ha! The cords are of ample length to reach around the bedsides, which I appreciate. This is a total winter game changer. ... I only wish I bought this years earlier when I was living with crappier heating conditions (poorly insulated old houses, crappy forced air heating with broken ducts, illegal warehouse conversions with meager heat, etc.) If you have someone in your life in cold weather and mediocre heating circumstances, THIS IS THE GIFT FOR THEM!!" —Earth Freak

    Get it from Amazon for $44.87+ (available in five colors and four sizes).

    19. And a reversible quilted comforter set for the indecisive folks or the ones who like to switch it up every now and then. It'll be sure to keep them toasty during the winter, and cool in the warmer months. Now they don't have to worry about buying a comforter specifically for the winter time — it's great year round!

    pink and grey reversible comforter set
    Amazon

    The set comes with one comforter and two pillow cases.

    Promising reviews: "The weight and thickness of this is perfect. It stays cool in summer and warm in the winter. I've had it for about a year. I wash it regularly and it's still just as good as when it arrived. It's impossible to lay down with this blanket and not immediately want a nap. The comfort is unmatched. I'm going to buy a second one, just in case something happens to the first!" —J. R. Hart

    "So happy I ordered this comforter! I grew up with down comforters and while I still love them I was looking for something more cost effective and this is perfect. It keeps me super warm during cold winter nights but it's not too heavy. It looks great and gives my bed that classic puffy, comfy look I love. My son loves it as it's nice and soft, and perfect for snuggling into. It washes well and fits into a normal sized washer, which is a huge plus since in the past I've had to go to a laundromat to wash my comforters. I use it without a comforter cover and it's held up well to my dog and her nails. Would recommend to anyone who's looking for a cost effective, comfortable comforter." —Cheyenne Savanna

    Get the king size set from Amazon for $56.09 (available in nine colors and four sizes).

    20. An adjustable desk organizer to make stacked piles look a lot less like cluttered junk. It can create more room for their laptop, textbooks, and anything else they need to be productive in a mess-free workspace.

    desk organizer storing several items
    a different desk organizer holding items

    Some assembly is required and tools are included.

    Promising review: "Well.. Well.. This storage decoration is extremely functional and could extend its length to fit your needs! It is quite a piece of art placed on the desk.. with ample spaces for stationeries and stack of “books." It is easy to assemble and much easier with the drill to fasten the screws in and you could control to have the screw heads flush with the wood pieces. It is quite sturdy and great product!!" —Frankie A. Y.

    Get it from Amazon for $24.88+ (available in five styles).

    21. Mented Gloss, because they need a nice shade that can go with any look. The buildable color means they can go from neutral to eye-popping in just a few swipes.

    model wearing a nude shade
    model wearing a berry shade
    Mented

    Mented is a Black-owned and woman-owned company! All lip glosses are vegan and cruelty-free. The models are wearing three coats so do one or two to get a sheerer, more natural look.

    Promising review: "While it's not often that I wear lipstick or gloss during these times of wearing masks, when I am home I am never without it! This lip gloss is wonderful. Not sticky and lasts! It's made me feel much better and put together, even though I'm home more!" —Kristine

    Get it from Mented for $11.25 (originally $15; available in seven colors) or from Amazon for $15 (available in seven colors and in two multi-pack options).

    22. A gratitude journal to help them set goals, stay focused, and remain grateful. They'll be entering the adult world and it can be extremely frustrating, so it's great to have something like this to keep frustrations at a minimum and to help avoid becoming overwhelmed.

    the cover of the gratitude journal
    a page from the gratitude journal

    Promising Review: "I have been using a gratitude journal since January and I absolutely love it! I truly feel like it has helped me start the day off with gratitude, and a focus on goals for the day. I notice throughout the day now I really pick up on the moments that are great, even if it's just driving down a beautiful road in my car listening to my favorite song. Since I have been practicing for a few months now, it is easier to reflect on the positive moments of my day before bed. If you want to shift your mindset to see the good in each day, be thankful for what you have, and have a more positive outlook, you should get this journal." —Erin S.W.

    Get it from Amazon for $19.59+ (available in 20 colors).

    23. A pair of fleece-lined joggers if they're always cold and need something to keep their legs nice and warm. Try pairing them with an oversized sweatshirt and they'll look and feel super cozy for an early class! 

    Reviewer wearing the light gray sweats
    The inside of the joggers: a thick white fleece

    Promising review: "I'm very happy with these warm pants. My house is very cold in the winter, and I am very cold in the winter. A few reviewers commented that the fit is weird. It is not. These are sweatpants, and with a thick lining; what did you expect? They are very comfortable and warm. They are stiffer than regular sweatpants because of the lining. But they are sweatpants — meaning they were never meant to make you look like a fashion queen. Just imagine curling up on the sofa with hot chocolate and a friendly cat during polar vortex in your fleece lined pants. Nice and cozy!" —Angela Thompson

    Get it from Amazon for $38.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL, seven colors, plus styles without the sherpa lining).

    24. An Anker portable battery pack because doing classwork, watching videos, and scrolling social media can drain their battery. All they have to do is plug the power bank cord into their phone.  They'll have the power to completely charge their phone at least twice — before needing to charge the battery pack.

    The power bank
    Amazon

    Promising review: "Lifesaver! Beyond happy with this purchase. I toss it in my purse and I’m ready to go. I even have friends and family constantly asking to use it because it charges devices so quickly." —Ashley M.

    Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in four colors).

    25. Or, a potable charger that doesn't require a cord to work. It's slim, compact, and they can still use their phone while it charges. They just need to attach the magnetic battery to the back of their phone for an instant power-up. 

    a side view of the purple charger, showing the USB-C port, power button, and battery life lights.
    a model using the charger while it's attached to their iPhone 12
    Amazon

    The snap-and-go feature of this charger is made for all versions of the iPhone 12 and AirPod cases. It also comes with a USB-C to USB-C cable. If your giftee has a different model iPhone, you can just grab the matching lightning cable so it works for them!

    Promising review: "Seriously — All of their products lately have been exceptionally great. The quality of this device feel premium, great battery life, holds onto my 12 Pro Max like a champ, even through the case! Bravo!" —Dev

    Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in three colors).

    26. A compact air fryer for quick and easy meals they can make in their room. This will certainly come in handy if there are no microwaves in their dorm, or if their floor has a shared kitchen. 

    The air fryer in black, featuring an analog timer, round temperature dial, and convenient handle for removing the basket
    Amazon

    Promising review: "YOU NEED IT FOR YOUR DORM ROOM!!! I got this as a gift and I am sad I didn’t think about this my freshman year. I legit can cook anything and it is so easy to use. For the price I paid, I would say this product is my most prized possession. All of my friends use it because it’s so convenient since I eat a lot of pizza rolls and chicken nuggets. It’s super east to clean and cooks everything super fast." —Maria

    Get it from Amazon for $48.97+ (available in five colors).

    27. An essential oil diffuser that also features a Bluetooth speaker and functions as a humidifier. They can enjoy scents and lights to help keep them calm while working.

    The diffuser with soft orange light emitting mist
    Amazon

    According to Johns Hopkins, you may want to avoid diffusing oils around larger groups and young children because of the side effects of different oils.

    Promising review: "Cute and efficient. I love this diffuser. I can put nice scents in the air and listen to music all at the same time. It's no Bose system, but it has good sound." —Martina

    Get it from Amazon for $13.91+ (available in two colors).

    28. And, an essential oils set featuring six aromatherapy scents: eucalyptus, tea tree, orange, lemongrass, lavender, and peppermint. They can set the mood with their favorite scent or combine two or more to create custom smells. 

    Read more about aromatherapy and stress and tension at Johns Hopkins.

    Promising review: "I love these to go with my daughter's oil diffuser and humidifier. She is in college and these oils help her with colds, sleeping, and destressing." —Jennifer H.

    Get them from Amazon for $7.98

    29. An acrylic personalized wall calendar that'll keep them organized and add to their dorm decor.

    an acrylic wall calendar that has space to fill out a two-week schedule, reminder, meal planner, and notes
    Acrylic Sign Art/ Etsy

    Acrylic Sign Art is a small business based in Washington state that sells acrylic calendars, dry erase items, and magnetic calendars.

    Promising review: "Great gift for my niece who just moved into her first place. High quality product. Matches any decor. Would purchase from again." —m beach

    Get it from Acrylic Sign Art on Etsy for $24.90+ (available in five sizes and three marker sets).

    30. A pair of fluffy crisscross slippers, because those fire drills are stressful and literally happen out of no where. Now they don't have to scramble to find something to put on their feet in the case of an emergency. 

    reviewer wearing the slippers in leopard print
    reviewer wearing the slippers in white

    Promising review: "Bought these to wear around my college dorm and hall! They're so comfortable! Highly recommend." —Angelina

    Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in women's sizes 4.5–10.5 and 14 colors and patterns).

    31. A fiber art tapestry they can use as a fun decor option to add bold colors and various textures to their dorm room.

    Multi-textured knit and tassel macrame wall hanging in man colors
    Amazon

    Promising review: "This wall hanging came exactly as pictured. It's absolutely beautiful. You can tell that a lot of care went into making the product. Thank you!" —Brittany

    Get it from Amazon for $39.20+ (available in three styles). 

    32. A Keurig K-Mini coffee maker so they can stay awake during their 8 a.m. course. The cafe lines are already super long in the morning, so it would be best if they brewed their own before they left for class.

    The coffee maker in light blue
    reviewer's slim light blue keurig on their counter

    Need some coffee to go with? Try this variety pack of 60 K-Cups ($41.99) or these reusable K-Cups ($13.95) for a low-waste option.

    Promising review: "It’s the PERFECT size for my dorm room. Super pretty color and super cute. Nothing bad to say about this product. Shipped quickly and works great. Can’t wait for my 2 a.m. essay coffees with this bad boy!" —Mary

    Get it from Amazon for $82.39+ (available in six colors).

    33. A gel nail polish kit complete with 16 colors that'll help save them money if nail appointments are out of the budget for now. This kit comes with a base coat and top coat so they can get salon results without leaving their room. 

    buzzfeed editor kayla suazo showing her nails painted with gellen nail polish
    Kayla Suazo / BuzzFeed

    This set comes with 16 gel polish colors, a base coat, and a top coat. It does not come with a UV lamp (which you will need!), so try this reviewer-loved option from Amazon for $29.99.

    Promising review: "Long before quarantine days I was a nail salon regular. Once lockdown really hit, I realized I needed to take my manicure ~into my own hands~. These Gellen gel polishes give salon-quality results at home. Truly, I can get a full two weeks without peeling/chipping/breaking. The amount of $$$ I have saved..." —Kayla Suazo, former BuzzFeed Shopping editor

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in seven kit styles).

    34. An Amazon-famous thickened-down jacket for anyone who will be facing harsh winters during their time on campus. It will keep them warm and fashionable as they go from class to class.

    buzzfeed editor maitland quitmeyer wearing the coat in green captioned
    maitland wearing the coat  with her hands in the pockets captioned
    Maitland Quitmeyer / BuzzFeed

    Be sure to check out our write-up of this reviewer-loved coat!

    Promising review: "Very warm and cute. I am actually obsessed with this jacket. I stopped a woman on the street to asked her where she got hers. I immediately ordered one. I wasn't sure what size to get so I ordered the small and medium. I am smaller on the top so actually the small was better because I could open up the zippers on the side." —Susan Alexander

    Get it from Amazon for $149.99+ (available in 13 colors and sizes XXS–5XL).

    35. A deck of playing cards your favorite Potterhead will surely love. They'll revisit their childhood when they play their favorite card games with nostalgic characters: Harry Potter (duh), Hermione, Albus Dumbledore, Professor Snape, Tom Riddle (IYKYK), and more!

    36. A mini projector so they won't have to lug a heavy TV into their dorm during move-in week. It comes with an adaptor that can connect it to their phone and laptop. Now they can really sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! 

    a reviewer holds up the small yellow and white projector
    a reviewer shows the projector showing Netflix on their dorm room wall

    Promising reviews: "Small package but big results...The picture is crisp and the sound is great, perfect swap for my old Walmart projector. I recommend this for college dorms that have limited space for a TV." —Floyd B.

    "The picture quality and brightness is best when the lights are fully off. In order to connect the projector to your MacBook Air, you will need a USB-C to HDMI connector. You will also need two AAA batteries for the remote. The ability to change the picture size is amazing and it is the perfect addition for a dorm room!" —Jess

    Get it from Amazon for $69.99.

    37. A mini fridge that's the perfect size for hiding under a lofted bed. They can keep their snacks and drinks safe from roommates with sticky fingers, and they can store their more expensive skincare products inside.

    the 10L mini fridge with the fractal pink and gold door
    the fridge open showing two shelves inside and a door shelf filled with food llike yogurt, hummus, and butter.
    Amazon

    BTW, reviewers say this fridge is quiet too! No worries about loud noises while they're trying to sleep.

    Promising reviews: "It fit perfectly in my dorm room. Perfect for small compact things like yogurt and any fruit you might have." —Erriyana Moore

    "I love this fridge! Perfect size for all my cosmetics and it was something so didn’t even realize I needed. It keeps my products good for longer periods of time and gives that nice cooling sensation after washing your face and putting on the cosmetics. It is also SILENT! cannot hear a peep from it. It also travels well and stays cool!" —Alexandra Holsapple

    Get it from Amazon for $79.99 (available in eight colors and two sizes).

    38. A nonstick mini electric pot with an included spatula, a simple solution for the students who's dorm doesn't have a kitchen and who aren't allowed to use hot plates. They can make meals like pasta, eggs, oatmeal, soup, and more.

    a gif of the pot being turned on and used to make eggs
    Amazon

    Promising reviews: "I have two kids in college and they love these pots. My daughter has cooked everything from ramen to pancakes to perfection (according to her lol). My son also loves this thing. Great, multi use buy!" —197500000 

    "My daughter just finished her first year living in a dorm at university. I asked her to recommend a dorm room essential for me to give as high school graduation gifts, and she right away said a 'hot pot'. She also knew this one was the fave amongst the dorm students, so I highly recommend this one as Student tested and preferred!" —Thyra

    Get it from Amazon for $44.99+ (available in four colors).

    39. A thumb book page holder to keep books open without creasing the spine. They can even get theirs personalized with their name on it. This might be extremely helpful for the students who are renting textbooks and plan on returning them at the end of the semester. 

    a person holding tan page holder between book pages
    Three personalized page holders in red, dark wood, and tan that are personalized with the names Michael, Jennifer, and Emily
    Idea Wood Company / Etsy

    Idea Wood Company is a small business based in Ukraine that makes beautifully handmade wood gifts such as necklaces, bookmarks, cord organizers, and more.

    Promising review: "Beautifully made. The engraving is really well done & the wood is smooth & perfect. Very pleased!" —Ihnurse62

    Get it from Idea Wood Company on Etsy for $5.79+ (available in three different types of wood).

    40. A backrest pillow filled with memory foam that'll help them to stop slouching, and lounge comfortably. Whether they're watching a movie in bed or chilling on the floor, they'll be able to enjoy their downtime even more!

    A blue and grey stand up pillow with arms and a handle on the top.
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I bought this based on other reviews. There are cheaper products you can buy, but this one is quality. You get what you pay for. I was skeptical because it comes in a small box, and when you unwrap it the foam is compressed, and it looks like garbage. However, after you take the time to fluff it up and let the foam expand, it is amazing. Don't be fooled! I am actually using it as I write this review. A+ product." —Meghan R.

    Get it from Amazon for $39.50+ (available in three sizes and in grey and navy).

    41. A Tile Mate for the student who always misplaces their belongings.  If they place one in their bag, their wallet, or even on their keyring, they'll be able to use their phone to uncover the missing item's location. Now nothing will ever truly be lost.

    the Tile Mate on a set of keys, beside a phone with the open Tile Mate app
    Amazon

    Promising review: "My boyfriend loses his keys, wallet, and phone at least three times every single day. I wish I was exaggerating... I love the man, but I was over it. So I ordered these. The wallet size is super thin, similar to a credit card so it'll fit in the slots. The keychain is small enough that it's not bothersome. The app is easy to set up and use, and he can register me as a user too. The alarms are super loud so there's no doubt about the direction in which the thing is hidden, and you can push a spot on the Tiles to reverse-search for your phone too! So these two items covered all three of the commonly misplaced items." —Carley

    Get it from Amazon for $21.95.

    42. A microwavable plush wrap filled with dried French lavender for those who have painful cramps or enjoy snuggling with stuffed animals. These cuddle buddies can also be used as cold therapy tools and spa gifts. It's literally the gift that keeps on giving!

    Promising review: "I received the pig as a Christmas gift last year because I suffer from chronic migraines. I loved it so much that I bought one for each member of my family and they just love them as well! I highly recommend picking up one for yourself, however; you better get one for everyone in the house otherwise they will just steal yours." —Tara Gilbert

    Get it from Amazon for $25.50.

    43. Or, A portable heating and vibrating belt that can provide relief from menstrual pain. It uses a combination of heat and vibration to help them get through that time of the month. Because the belt is cordless, they'll be able to move around campus and hopefully get things done.

    two heating and vibrating belts
    a model wearing the belt
    My Obi

    The Artemis belt is programmed with three heat settings and two vibration settings. It comes with a USB charging cable and can last up to five hours in one charge. The belt is completely silent unless you use the vibration setting — obviously. The sound can be compared to the vibration of a cell phone.

    This belt is seriously a life saver! I get horrible cramps — like sleep on the cold bathroom floor, horrible. Right before the pain got too bad, I snapped on the Apollo belt, turned the heat up to the highest level, and turned on the first vibration setting. Within about 10 minutes, my cramps lessened and I was able to continue working (instead of writhing in pain like I usually do). It also feels wonderfully on my back too! 

    Get it from My Obi for $84.

    44. planner, which has over 5,000 positive reviews, comes with daily, weekly, and monthly pages to keep them on track with all of their to-do list items. There are also lined pages for venting, writing ideas, or expressing gratitude. Now, their hectic schedule won't stop them from remembering all of their tasks.

    A model at a desk looking at the planner
    A reviewer's planner pages with all the sections filled out in colorful ink

    There are also special spaces to note your achievements and how you want to improve. Basically, it takes all of the thoughts that are zooming around in your head 24/7 and turns them into something organized and productive. Do I hear a sigh of relief?

    Promising review: "The Panda Planner is exactly what I've been looking for in my organization and scheduling with work and college. I love that it has monthly, weekly, and daily pages to have big picture goals and motivations. It helps me focus in on the week and daily actions to accomplish the big picture stuff. The little things that it has for the daily/weekly reviews is awesome for moral boosting and keeping on top of your goals. I love the leather bound style with the band that keeps it closed. It looks very professional and the size is great to carry around. I like the way the pages feel and the book overall feels very clean. I would like to see a few more motivational quotes throughout the planner either about simplicity or positivity etc. Other than that, this is a phenomenal way to keep yourself in charge of your life and proactively working to achieve your goals.." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $19.97+ (available in three colors and in more colors here).

    45. An arched full-length mirror, a splurge-worthy purchase that will add a touch of modern elegance to their dorm room. This single item can make their space (and their future selfies) look 10x better.

    a full-length mirror leaning against a wall
    Amazon

    Promising review: "Even more lovely than the picture. Has a hint of old world styling that perfectly complements a contemporary home. Perfection." —Alli

    Get it from Amazon for $109.99+ (available in two colors and sizes). 

    46. An ultra soft faux fur rug sure to make their room look expensive. They might also feel like they're having a luxurious morning every time their feet land on this fancy faux fur.

    faux fur rug beside a bed
    Amazon

    Promising review: "Good runner rug for college bedroom. Soft and plush. The feathers come off at the beginning a little but stop after one wash. (So, Wash once before use if you want) I like it!" —Itachi

    Get it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in eight colors and five sizes). 

    47. A faucet filter attachment because the water can be disgusting in the dorms. It only takes a couple of minutes to set up and will be well worth it! They shouldn't have to wash their face and brush their teeth with cloudy water.

    filter on bathroom sink faucet
    water coming out of the filter

    Promising review: "I love this! I was looking for a sink attachment that wasn't too bulky and would fit on my college house sink. My sink water used to smell like chlorine and was irritating my face but after installing this, my skin is soft, supple, and smooth! The installation process is a little confusing and there is still a tad leak with mine, but I do not mind too much and for the price I wont complain. Highly recommend!" —Amber R.

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in three styles and two replacement pieces).

    48. And a shower head with a filter to help remove impurities like chlorine, heavy metals, and more that can damage their hair and skin. It features five spray modes and will have them feeling so fresh and so clean!

    shower head filter
    a working shower head

    Promising review: "Probably one of the best purchases I've made for my college apartment. Switching from well water to city water was super harsh on my hair and skin. My hair was breaking off so badly that I had to cut about six inches of my hair off to even it out. My skin was dry and breaking out. Overall, hard water was doing me terribly — not to mention the very strong chemical smell. I had to get my roommates dad to help me install it, but it wasn't difficult and it has been so worth it. Two weeks with this and my skin is almost clear, my hair is so much softer, and it doesn't feel brittle and gross. I am beyond happy. Also an honorable mention for the multiple settings on this thing. It's really nice after a long day." —Dalanna R.

    Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in two colors).

    49. A super cute doormat that'll wish them a magical day — a little something to help them have a great morning!

    a doormat with a purplish mushroom that reads
    Cindy Hughes Design/ Etsy

    Cindy Hughes Design is a small business based in Indiana that sells unique doormats.

    Promising review: "Great quality and size and so cute! The mushroom is more of a purple color (I thought it was going to be pink from the online picture) but that didn’t bother me. Love my new doormat!" —Kelly O.

    Get it from Cindy Hughes Design on Etsy for $41.50+ (available in three sizes).

    Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.