Back-to-school gifts for college students

Heading off to college is a big deal. For many, this is their first real taste of independence, a chance to figure out who they are away from mom and dad, and the entry point into a new phase of life. For as exciting as this all is, it can also be overwhelming. Back-to-school gifts for college students must expertly bridge this gap: Equal parts practical and fun, logical and thrilling. What follows is our gift guide for those gearing up for college. There's a big emphasis on tech and gadgets, plus cozy and heartwarming items to help them feel at home.

Owala FreeSip

Best for hydration

Hydrate to dominate, that's what we always say. The Owala FreeSip features multiple ways to guzzle down H2O — tip it back to chug, or take your time via the internal straw. A locking top means it won't spill in the bottom of a bag and it comes in a bunch of fun different colors.

Long-distance touch lamps

Best for keeping in touch

Feeling homesick is the worst. Help give your college student a little serotonin boost each time they spot their glowing lamp. Each time it lights up, it's because a loved one has touched their corresponding model. Available in up to six linkable lamps.

Echo Show

Best for staying connected

The family video chat just got an upgrade. The Echo Show is one of our favorite smart home devices, thanks in large part to the integrated motion tracking, excellent speakers, and great camera quality.

Levoit Air Purifier

Best for stinky spaces

College dorms and cramped apartments mean that things can get stinky (and germy) real fast. This air purifier from Levoit filters allergens, smoke, pet dander, and more in spaces up to 255 square feet.

LoveSac

Best for hanging out

Bean bag chairs get a massive upgrade by way of these super-comfortable seats from LoveSac. Made from repurposed foam, they come in a range of sizes and cover options, are a great conversation starter, and will help your student feel super snuggly while reading, studying, or just hanging out.

Clothing Steamer

Best for looking sharp

Job interviews, first dates, and other occasions that require clean, neat clothes will benefit from this handheld steamer. Easily eliminates wrinkles, plus it's small enough to pack in a suitcase if necessary.

Brooklinen Down Comforter

Best for getting cozy

The last thing you want is for your college student to be uncomfortable — or worse, homesick. Help them take some coziness from home by gifting a plush, ultra-cozy comforter from Brooklinen. Available in three different weight options (lightweight, all-season, and heavyweight) and a range of mattress sizes.

Laptop Backpack

Best for being on-the-go

Going from home to school to work without much downtime can be pretty common for college students. A nice laptop bag that doubles as an all-around backpack can help them feel prepared for every part of their day. We love the double pockets and roomy side pouch that's perfect for a water bottle.

Sony Earbuds

Best all around earbuds

Out of all the wireless earbuds we've tested, this pair from Sony is our favorite. The buds have great sound quality, excellent noise cancellation, and a secure, comfortable fit. They're a premium product that make for an excellent gift (since no college student is going to buy these for themselves.)

Dyson Cordless Stick Vacuum

Best for keeping clean

Add this Dyson cordless vacuum to the list of "everyone wants this, but almost no one will buy it for themselves." What's great about this model is its versatility. Go from a more traditional vacuum that can handle floors and ceilings, then collapse it down like a handheld that's great for couches and cars.

Keurig K-Café Barista Bar

Best for caffeination

Late-night study sessions, early morning lectures, and too much fun with friends are sure to put your college student in a sleepy state almost constantly. The Keurig K-Café Barista Bar makes for a great gift because it doesn't take up much space but can make a range of beverages using the compatible K-Cup pods.

Apple Watch

Best for being on time

Sometimes a watch is just a watch. In the case of the Apple Watch, it's also a fitness tracker, health monitor, and a way to stay on top of communication when synced with an iPhone. We're big fans and gave the watch our coveted Mashable Choice award in 2025.

Loop Dream

Best for getting some sleep

Made with silicone and memory foam, these noise-cancelling earbuds from Loop are designed specifically for sleep. College can be loud — especially if you have roommates — so these can make a huge difference in your student's quality of life on campus.

Hatch Restore Alarm Clock

Best for a gentle wake up

If your college student has ever mentioned wanting to chuck their smartphone into the ocean, then this would be an excellent gift. The Hatch Restore is an alarm clock that utilizes soft lights and white noise to help create a screen-free bedtime (and wake-up) routine.

Bose QuietComfort Headphones

Best headphones for studying

Earbuds are great — and we've included some here — but when it comes to studying, nothing beats a pair of over-the-ear cans. These ones from Bose will keep your student in a cone of silence, and let everyone on the outside know that it's time to focus.

iPad

Best for iPhone stans

Give your student access to all their apps and entertainment, but on a much bigger screen with an iPad. Makes FaceTime calls back home to mom and dad a little bit more enjoyable, and is a great travel companion.

AeroGarden Harvest Lite

Best for going green

If your college student likes to cook, then this is about to be their new favorite gadget. The AeroGarden allows them to grow things like herbs, lettuce, and more in a hydroponic set-up that removes the need for any soil. This model (the Harvest Lite) is scaled down, making it great for dorms and apartments.