Holiday gifts for those heading off to college this Fall (2021)

[Anonymous]

Looking for her specific suggestions for a kid headed off to college in the fall. Actual gifts plus stocking stuffers. Please don't suggest I look at the list at Bed Bath & Beyond, it's enormous, divided by category and too overwhelming.

What do they really need? For example, someone suggested to me a mini tool kit, a mini sewing kit. I could see the sewing kit, if they lost a button or something, but do they really need a tool kit? What else might they need?

Thinking $30-$40 range for things we can suggest to aunts/uncles, and even $200 range for things we can suggest for grandparents, and everything inbetween.

TIA

[Anonymous]

They need very little if they are living in dorms. Stuff just gets in the way and will be a pain if the kid needs to pack up quickly. You’ll need sheets, if you don’t have those, but be sure to check it the beds are twin xlong.

I think you are jumping the gun a little and can safely wait to figure out a list when you know more about the living situation. This Xmas is nine months out from next fall.

[Anonymous]

sturdy suitcases/duffel bags
basic tool kits for DIY work in the dorm room
amazon/itunes gift cards
ear pods
cold weather gear if appropriate (wind/waterproof winter jackets, gloves etc)

[Anonymous]

I would not encourage stockpiling college stuff this early. Wouldn’t a kid want Christmas presents they can enjoy now, not 8 or 9 months from now? Save that list for graduation presents.

And yes, college kids can use a good basic tool kit.

[Anonymous]

Why would you do this so early? Way to stress your kid out

[Anonymous]

In the $200 range — down comforter or pillows; noise-cancelling headphones (check Black Friday sales)

In the $30-40 range — charging station, electric kettle, milk frother (cocoa/chai), portable Bluetooth speaker

But I had a music-loving girl headed to a cold climate so YMMV.

[Anonymous]

Worth remembering that your kid could spend next fall at home, taking classes remotely. So luggage and twin XL sheets should probably wait.

[Anonymous]

https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/college-school-supplies/

[Anonymous]

Winter coat and boots of they don’t already have them. Harder to find in August when you are packing up.

[Anonymous]

Lapdesk

[Anonymous]

Small keurig. Agree with ear pods and portable Bluetooth speaker.

Nice backpack or tote depending on kid’s preference.

[Anonymous]

Noise cancelling headphones for certain.

[Anonymous]

Nothing wrong with getting college stuff in dec, especially if there's nothing your DC really needs right now. Unless your relatives are going to also get something for HS graduation.

Most of these things can be used now as well.

[Anonymous]

A stick vacuum, mini fridge, Keurig. Noise cancelling headphones, monogrammed bathrobe and slippers, towels.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Looking for her specific suggestions for a kid headed off to college in the fall. Actual gifts plus stocking stuffers. Please don't suggest I look at the list at Bed Bath & Beyond, it's enormous, divided by category and too overwhelming.

What do they really need? For example, someone suggested to me a mini tool kit, a mini sewing kit. I could see the sewing kit, if they lost a button or something, but do they really need a tool kit? What else might they need?

Thinking $30-$40 range for things we can suggest to aunts/uncles, and even $200 range for things we can suggest for grandparents, and everything inbetween.

TIA

Is this for your kid or a relative and or friend?