Gifts for Someone Starting College This Fall
Practical over sentimental. Things they'll use every week, not just once.
Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable Charger — 10000mAh
A slim 10000mAh power bank that fits in a jacket pocket and charges a phone 2-3 times — the gift that ends the anxiety of a low battery before a long lecture or study session. Anker's reliability record makes it the recommendation every electronics subreddit reaches for when asked about power banks; the 10000mAh capacity is the size r/college members say is actually used without feeling heavy.
“The one reliable rule of gift-giving: anything that makes them look more serious at what they love will be received with disproportionate gratitude.”
Travelwise Large Shower Caddy Tote — 7 Pockets, Mesh Bag
A shower caddy with mesh pockets for drainage, a hook for hanging on shower stall bars, and enough space for shampoo, conditioner, soap, and a razor — the solution to shared bathrooms that no freshman thinks they need until they're carrying things to the shower in their hands. The mesh construction means nothing holds water and everything dries between uses.
Sony WF-C500 Truly Wireless Earbuds — IPX4 Water Resistant
Wireless earbuds with 20 hours of total battery life (5 hours per charge + 3 additional charges from the case) and enough ambient noise reduction for library studying — the Sony model that consistently shows up in 'best earbuds under $60' recommendations because the sound quality and battery life compete with headphones twice the price. Essential for dorms where the roommate's schedule is always out of sync.
LapGear Home Office Lap Desk — Device Ledge, Wrist Rest
A lap desk with a raised device ledge that holds a laptop at a readable angle while sitting on a bed or couch — the solution to the ergonomic problem that most freshmen develop in the first week when they realize their desk is inconvenient for long sessions. The wrist rest and surface area are large enough for a 15-inch laptop with room for a notebook.
Command Large Picture Hanging Strips — 14-Pack
Damage-free wall strips that hold photos, posters, and lightweight shelves without nails or residue — the answer to dorm walls that can't be marked and lease agreements with damage clauses. Command strips are the near-universal solution to dorm decoration; the 14-pack version handles a full room setup without running out.
Fork it. Make it yours. Share before their birthday.
Friends claim items. No duplicates. No awkward conversations.
