Must-Have Christmas Gifts For College Girls: 50 Fail-Proof Ideas
College Girl Christmas Gifts You’ll Wish You Thought of First
These are the gifts for college girls that literally everyone LOVES to get.
Thinking of gift ideas for college students can be a bit of a challenge…
…but finding the perfect gift for a college girl is in another league of its own. Guesswork is always the hardest part of holiday shopping!
I mean, what do you get a girl for Christmas in college? That’s the million-dollar question when you’re not sure what to get. And especially so when you have no idea where to even begin.
To solve that problem:
I’ve rounded up all the best ideas into one ultimate list. There’s a mixture of practical things that are always appreciated by struggling students and things she’ll just really enjoy. Not only that, but I also made sure to include ideas that fit every budget.
Here are 50 Christmas gifts ideas for college girls that you just can’t go wrong with this year.
In a rush? These are the top 6 most popular picks.
- Best in Cozy: Bombas Merino Wool Socks
- Best in Self-Care: Self-Warming Eye Masks
- Best in Practical: HUANUO Multifunctional Lap Desk
- Best in Style: Lululemon Define Jacket
- Best in Tech: Sony XB13 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
- Best Under $25: 175+ Things to Do Before You Graduate College
IN THIS GUIDE, WE’LL LOOK AT:
- Cozy Gift Ideas
- Self-Care Gift Ideas
- Practical Gift Ideas
- Stylish Gift Ideas
- Dorm/Apartment Gift Ideas
- Popular Tech Gift Ideas
- Fun Gift Ideas
- Good Gifts for College Students Under $25
Best College Girl Gifts 2022
Cozy Ideas
Bombas Merino Wool Socks
In the cold, layers are a college girl’s best friend. Socks may be a cliché Christmas gift, but honestly, kids in their late teens and early twenties appreciate them SO much.
Bombas socks are my favorite socks ever. They are my go-to gift idea that never disappoints. Whenever I gift someone a pair of Bombas, they always tell me that all other socks are ruined for them because Bombas are just that good.
Plus for every item purchased, Bombas donates the top 3 most requested clothing items to shelters: socks, underwear, and shirts. College students are particularly conscious consumers so this idea is a total double-win.
I basically live in Bombas Merino Wool Socks all winter long. They’re super soft and comfortable, I own so many pairs haha. Any college girl will absolutely love these socks! They’re seriously life-changing. And if you haven’t tried them, do yourself a favor and get a pair for yourself too.
Warmies Marshmallow Boots
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Ultra soft, microwavable warming boots? Yes, please!
My feet are cold all the time, and I know I’m not the only girl who has this problem. Warmies Marshmallow Boots are the gift that keeps on giving.
They’re perfect for when it’s chilly out and you just can’t seem to warm those toes up. She’ll love how luxurious they feel!
Oversized Blanket Hoodie
Made with sherpa fleece, Oodie's oversized blanket hoodies are the epitome of comfy. I mean, what’s not to love about soft, roomy loungewear? I have one and it’s definitely amazing!
The Oodie comes in a wide variety of fun colors and cute patterns, which makes it easy to find one that suits her personality and interests. Not only will a girl in college be over the moon with this gift idea, but all her friends will demand to know where she got it too!
Calming Weighted Robe
Weighted blankets have become popular in recent years, and for good reason. People who use them enjoy a wide variety of benefits, including:
- lower anxiety and stress levels
- enhanced sleep quality
- and improved mood
Any college girl could use more of that in her life! A Weighted Relaxation Robe is a unique go-to gift idea that’ll soothe all her school worries and melt the stress away.
Not sure which size to get? The general rule of thumb is to start with one that’s 10% of your body weight.
Hygge Gift Box
Hygge is a Danish word and a cultural concept, it epitomizes comfort and contentment captured during the colder months. It’s a mood that describes the feeling you get when curled up with a good book on a snowy day or drinking hot cocoa by the warmth of a fire.
Beautifully packaged and hand packed with love, this Hygge Gift Box is an idea that works for every kind of college girl. It has a wonderful assortment of things that will help her capture that mood of comfort when she’s away from home at school.
Comfortable Loungewear Set
Everyone has those lazy days where putting on jeans is just way too much work. Give the gift of comfy with this women’s two piece loungewear set that’s so comfortable she can live in it. I love this particular set because it’s the best of both worlds!
It’s soft and relaxing to wear, but still flattering enough for a college girl to wear out while running an errand or two should the need arise. Better yet, there are a bunch of cute colors to pick from! If you’re not sure what color she’ll like best, know that neutral colors are big this year.
Colorful Tea Latte Kit
The only thing better than a warm drink on a cold day? A warm drink with a beautiful presentation.
With this colorful tea latte kit (choose from pink, matcha, and golden latte), she’ll be able to enjoy barista-worthy without having to make a coffee shop run. It’s a perfect gift idea for a college girl who appreciates the more aesthetically pleasing things in life.
Soft Reversible Heated Throw
Once winter hits, staying warm in the dorms can be a real challenge. The same can be true for students living in apartments, too. Minimizing the energy bill becomes a priority when you don’t have a lot of wiggle room in your budget.
Solution: heated throw blanket!
Having one of these makes the colder months much more bearable. It’s comfy, cozy, chic, and something she’s sure to love. If leopard print isn’t her style, this Westinghouse heated sherpa blanket has great reviews, and it’s available in a handful of neutral colors.
Ideas for Her Self-Care Routine
Skin Renewing Masks
You can never go wrong with pampering gift ideas for college students! Face masks are easy on the wallet but still feel luxurious, plus it’s something any girl would love to get.
This set of skin renewing masks has an assortment, so you don’t even have to worry about which ones to pick.
Mood-Elevating Light Therapy Lamp
A light therapy lamp, or a happy lamp, is a great way to combat the winter blues.
Sunlight is essential to our body’s well-being. Getting an optimal amount of sunlight in the winter can be a struggle, though.
A lightbox can help students who deal with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and depression as it eases the symptoms. It can also increase energy levels, and make you feel better in general.
This tablet-sized lamp is compact and portable enough to go anywhere.
Clinique Glowing Skin Essentials Set
If the college girl you’re shopping for is all about skincare, you know she’ll appreciate a gift that keeps her skin looking good.
This Clinique Glowing Skin Essentials Kit has everything she needs to her skin hydrated and happy at school.
Self-Warming Eye Mask
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College students are ethical consumers, so they really value gifts from small brands – like Popmasks.
Their self-warming eye masks provide relief and relaxation in seconds. A girl in college can put one on whenever she needs a moment of peace or when classes have her feeling stressed. They’re great for power naps, traveling, and practicing meditation.
A thoughtful self-care gift is something you can’t go wrong with!
Garmin Venu Smartwatch
Girls in college are all about combating the dreaded “freshman 15”. The Garmin Venu Smartwatch can help her keep track of her health with ease – it’s one of the best fitness trackers on the market. This is the personal smartwatch I use, and I gotta say, I LOVE IT. So many helpful features, and the battery life is amazing!
Plus:
Fitness is a key part of feeling and doing your best at college. Regular exercise has been shown to improve memory and attention.
BUDGET PICK: The Xiaomi Mi Band is a fantastic fitness tracker alternative at an extremely good price. It uses a military-grade sensor and has a battery life of up to 20 days.
Wind Down Relax Kit
This Wind Down Relax Kit is a wonderful way to indulge without needing to visit a spa. It’s definitely on the wish list of a girl who’s feeling overworked!
When you’re going to school, stress is quite often part of the equation. Give a college student something she can use to chill out. After all, she’ll need to relax at least some of the time to be successful.
Which is why a Wind Down Relax Kit makes a perfect gift. Uniquely luxurious with a variety of relaxing goodies to fit every mood, this Christmas gift idea is sure to please.
Practical Ideas (Things She’ll Use ALL the Time)
Multi-Functional Lap Desk
College students spend a fair amount of time working on a laptop and doing homework by hand. And sometimes, you just wanna work in bed!
Make it easier for college girls to tackle homework by gifting them a lap desk. It’s a game-changer for productivity!
Nearly Indestructible Hydro Flask Water Bottle
Drinking water is in, and Hydro Flask water bottles are majorly in.
A reusable water bottle is extremely useful when you’re all over campus. Kids in college love that it’s better for the environment and their wallets in the long run.
The durability of a Hydro Flask is what makes it stand out in a sea of water bottles. These bad boys can take a beating and live to tell the tale.
A Hydro Flask is a buy it once, have it for life thing. It comes in a huge variety of colors, so there’s something for everyone. Not to mention, the free shipping is nice, too.
Theragun Mini Massage Gun
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Nothing beats a good massage!
Students who’ve been neck-deep in a project and are left with sore shoulders afterward know what I’m talking about. That’s why a Theragun Mini Massage Gun is an ideal gift for a college girl.
She’ll find lots of use for it on a regular basis, and she can share it with her friends at school, too.
BUDGET PICK: Vybe Pro Muscle Massage Gun.
Philips SmartSleep Sunrise Wake-Up Light
Some college students are morning people, others are night owls. And sometimes, the dreaded 8am class is the only option.
Make mornings and waking up in general more pleasant by gifting her a top-rated Philips SmartSleep Sunrise Wake-Up Light. I have one of these, and it seriously makes a world of difference. Instead of hitting snooze and immediately falling back asleep, I wake up and actually get up with the help of this gentle wake-up light. I can’t recommend it enough!
Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack
Fjallraven backpacks have a reputation for being amazing. The construction quality is meant to hold up to a lifetime of use.
The backpack comes in a HUGE selection of colors which is part of why it’s so popular. It combines practical with fashionable.
The classic size is great for everyday use, but it is on the smaller side. Fjallraven makes laptop-sized bags, as well. Either option is a surefire pick for Christmas!
P.S. Yellow is a VERY trendy color with girls this year.
Stylish Ideas
Lululemon Define Jacket
If you’re gift shopping for a college girl, chances are that Lululemon is at the top of her Christmas list. They’re known for making high quality athleisure apparel that looks good on everyone. And LuluLemon's Define Jacket is one of their best sellers.
It’s cute, comfy, oh-so-flattering, and comes in a variety of trendy colors. The versatility of the jacket is what makes it so great. Cruising around campus, headed to the gym, layered for added warmth in the winter, you name it – this jacket will have a college girl feeling confident in her own skin!
However, if you know she’s more of a hoodie wearing gal, you might opt for Lululemon's Scuba Oversized Half-Zip Hoodie – another favorite the fans can’t get enough of. Or if you’re lucky enough to snag a LuluLemon Everywhere Belt Bag (the fleece bags in particular, are basically collector’s items), she will be utterly obsessed with the gift. The belt bags are insanely popular this year, and because of that, they sell out super fast.
Honestly, though, a college girl would be downright THRILLED to receive any of those three Lululemon pieces.
Custom Birth Month Flower Necklace
Sometimes the occasion calls for a personalized gift to show her how special she is to you. This Custom Birth Month Flower Necklace is the kind of gift a girl going to college will not only love wearing but also treasure as a keepsake.
It’s dainty and the prettiest little thing! Choose between silver, gold, and rose gold to find a metal that matches her style best.
Weekender Overnight Duffel Bag
A weekender bag is the stylish cousin of a duffel bag. It’s just right for short trips or impromptu overnight getaways.
If you’re looking for a useful gift for a college student, this one hits the mark, and she’ll love the look of it!
Cool 90’s Oversized Tee
Fashion is cyclical, and the 90’s are back in full force. A trendy Oversized Graphic Tee from the Midwest Sun is a gift idea a college girl will fall in love with right away.
A quality shirt with a cool graphic design is something she’ll enjoy wearing year after year. It’s a staple piece for her wardrobe, and it will quickly go into heavy rotation. She can dress it up for going out or wear it for comfort on cozy days in.
Dainty Zodiac Constellation Bracelet
College girl Christmas gifts that incorporate one of her interests (astrology in this instance) are sure to get a smile.
These astrology constellation bracelets are beautiful, and there’s one for every zodiac sign. It’s a perfect idea for the girl you know who’s all about horoscopes and moon signs!
Related Video: How to Make a Sunshine Box Care Package Any College Girl Would Love
Ideas for Her Dorm/Apartment
Unique Succulent Planter
Succulents are everywhere right now. Besides being downright adorable, they’re pretty easy to care for.
This makes them perfect for adding a little greenery to dorm rooms or small spaces. Plus, small cute plants are fabulous gift ideas for girls in college.
This cute succulent plant pot is such a unique idea! Baby Necklace Crassula or Donkey Tail succulents are great picks to create the hair-like effect with this type of planter. Or you can always peruse your local nursery and see what catches your eye!
Outlet Extender With USB Ports
One of the struggles of living in a dorm room is never having enough outlets. Between all the things a college girl and her roommates have to charge – well, the lack of sockets gets old fast.
But this Outlet Extender with USB Ports is an elegant solution to that problem.
It transforms one outlet into 12 electrical sockets and 3 USB ports (1 USB-C), plus its surge protected. The shelf on top is a nice addition, too as it’s a great spot to rest your phone on while it’s charging. All in all, this practical gift idea will be a HUGE improvement in her life.
“Good Vibes Only” Neon Sign
If you really want to WOW her this Christmas…
This 'Good Vibes Only' neon sign is one of the best Christmas gifts for college girls. I swear she will flip over it, it’s so cool!
Neon lighting is very trendy and a fun way for her to create a vibe for her living space. You could even get a custom neon sign of her name or a phrase she loves. The best part is it’s not actually made of neon glass, but instead LED tubes that mimic neon. So no need to worry about the sign getting too hot.
Succulent Garden Candle
While we’re on the topic of succulents…not everyone has a green thumb or enjoys taking care of plants.
Your college girl may appreciate this dreamy succulent garden candle more than a plant she has to keep alive.
With 40 hours of burn time, the candle still provides a bright pop of greenery, and it sure is neat looking. It’s definitely a decor statement piece for her digs on (or off) campus!
Popular Tech Ideas
Wireless Charging Tray
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Have you ever misplaced something important and went into a panic while trying to find it? It’s not fun and can be so frustrating.
The last thing a college student needs is for her wallet, phone, or keys to go missing before she has to head out for class. The best way to prevent something like that is to have a catch-all tray for the important stuff.
This linen wireless charging tray is not only utilitarian but also very sleek and chic! A girl in college is sure to be impressed with its understated luxurious look.
Clutch Ultra Skinny Portable Charger
So much of school work is being done digitally these days. Phone and laptop batteries just can’t keep up! Running out of juice partway through the school day is a real pain for college students.
It’s easy to see why a Clutch portable charger is extremely handy to have. With 3000 mAh, the battery is large enough to charge devices several times over before needing to be recharged itself. Even better, it weighs only 2 oz and is no thicker than a few stacked credit cards, it’s the opposite of big and bulky,
Which means it’ll actually fit in notoriously tiny girl jean pockets. This gift for college girls will get you a big THANK YOU!
BUDGET PICK: Charmast 1000 mAh Quick Charge Battery Pack isn’t as quite as small, but it’s still conveniently sized and a great option.
Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Headphones
Wires just get in the way! Bluetooth headphones allow for complete freedom of movement.
…or at least as far as the Bluetooth signal will reach.
Still:
Listening to music wire-free is SO nice for college girls who are working out, finishing school projects, or just cruising around campus. Not to mention, noise canceling functionality makes a huge difference when it comes to minimizing distractions.
Bose QuietComfort headphones are some of the best out there.
BUDGET PICK: All that said – Anker's Soundcore Q30 headphones are highly-rated and much more budget-friendly. I personally own a pair of Soundcore headphones and love them, the battery life and sound quality is fabulous!
Sony XB13 Bluetooth Speaker
When they’re not in class, college kids are all about streaming their favorite music, podcasts, and audiobooks. The right tunes can make all the difference during study and hangout sessions with friends.
Sony's XB13 Bluetooth Speaker is the latest and greatest in lightweight, ultra compact speakers. Practically life proof and with 16 hours of battery life, it’s a stellar gift for a 20 year old college girl. Even better, it comes in 5 trendy colors, so you can pick one that fits her style best.
Waterproof Kindle Paperwhite
Kindles are popular with avid readers. An endless library is at your fingertips with one sleek device.
The newest model is waterproof and glare proof making it a slam-dunk gift idea. With it, she won’t find reading textbooks for class quite so arduous.
Kodak Ultra Mini Pocket Projector
When you’re living in the dorms, space is half the battle. Kodak's Ultra Mini Pocket Projector is a life-changing gift idea for college girls.
It instantly improves her viewing experience when it comes to streaming shows and enjoying movies with dorm mates. Plus, it’s small enough to take on-the-go, such as to a friend’s apartment or on a weekend trip out of town. She’ll wonder how she ever lived without one!
Echo Dot with Clock
Amazon Echo devices are an all-in-one virtual assistant. They can be used to play music, listen to audiobooks, making to-do lists, send voice messages to other Echo devices, and more.
The new dot with a clock adds even more function. Any college student would be excited to receive one for Christmas this year!
Fun Ideas
Things They Don’t Teach You in School Party Game
An excellent gift for a college girl is a party game she can play with her friends.
Things They Don't Teach You in School is a trivia based game that’s sure to be a huge hit with everyone involved!
Instax Mini Link Smartphone Printer
Maybe you’ve heard about the VSCO girl trend, maybe not. All you need to know is that Polaroid pictures are a thing (again).
But not because scrapbooking made its way back into the mainstream. No, girls just like to hang them on walls to create cute gallery walls.
Instax's Mini Link is a cute handheld device that prints Polaroids from any smartphone is sure to get a YAY!
Fish Bag Earrings
Aren’t these fish in a bag earrings cute? They give off nostalgic vibes of playing fair games as a kid.
They’re so unique and fun to wear. This gift idea is sure to make a splash with a young woman in college!
Good Gifts for College Students Under $25
Makeup Erase 7-Day Set
View on the Makeup Eraser View on Urban Outfitters
Makeup Erasers are the sustainable equivalent to makeup wipes. The specially made microfiber cloths erase all makeup – including waterproof mascara – with just water!
They work SO well, I swear by them for my evening routine. A 7-Day Set of Makeup Erasers is easily one of the best college girl gifts because she’ll use it on the daily. There’s lots of super cute sets to choose from, including Disney Villains, Smileys, and Peachy Clean to name a few!
175+ Things to Do Before You Graduate College
Due to the rise of the FOMO phenomenon, students can feel pressured to “do it all” during the time they spend at college.
But this book understands that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all definition of college success. Instead of trying to cram every possible activity under the sun into these formative years, 175+ Things to Do Before You Graduate College helps young adults figure out what’s most important to them and how to make it happen.
A good book is one of the cheap gifts for college students that doesn’t seem cheap. It’s a bit of condensed wisdom that a student is sure to appreciate whenever they need guidance!
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Party Game
Looking for a unique gift idea?
This party game is just what you’re looking for. It’s a party game that’s fun for people of all ages. A college student will get a kick out of it from the name alone.
adidas Originals Crew Socks
Socks are a thing college students look forward to on Christmas day. Because, hey, new socks without holes!
This adidas Originals Crew Socks 3-Pack is a great pick for a college girl. She’ll enjoy the comfort and the on-trend bright colors.
Bob Ross Heat Changing Mug
All college students agree that Bob Ross was a cool guy.
Which is why this 'self painting' mug is a guaranteed hit on Christmas day.
Hidden Pocket Scrunchies
The popularity of scrunchies has risen in recent years, and college girls are rocking them around campus. These hidden pocket scrunchies are a uniquely useful gift idea and one of the best gifts for college students under $25.
Whether she’s going for a run or simply wants to go out without having to lug around a purse, these scrunchies will come in handy. They have just enough space to store essentials like keys, cash, and chapstick.
Burt’s Bees Gift Set
When it doubt, go with something from Burt’s Bees!
It’s a gift idea that works for virtually all college girls. A little pampering gift set goes a long way without being expensive.
Harry Styles Car Air Fresheners
Harry Styles is one of the most popular heartthrobs among young women. So it’s within the realm of possibility the college girl you’re shopping for has been obsessed with Harry Styles since his One Direction days.
Give her the gift of these amusing car air fresheners so she can take her favorite crush with her wherever she goes!
Pacifica Perfume Set
Who doesn’t like smelling good?
This Moon Moods Perfume Set by Pacifica is a wonderful sampler and perfect for gifting to a girl in college. She’ll get to try a variety of scents and maybe even discover her new favorite.
Good Days Start With Gratitude Journal
A gratitude journal is a thoughtful Christmas gift for a college girl.
With the new year right around the corner, it might be just what she needs. It has daily prompts to inspire self-reflection.
Air Plant Terrarium Kit
No matter whether she’s living in a dorm room or her first apartment, a college girl is sure to adore this pink air plant terrarium kit!
The great thing about air plants is they’re super low maintenance. It’s a perfect little gift to bring some greenery and all its benefits to her space.
All Natural Himalayan Salt Scrub
High-end beauty care items don’t really fit into your average college student’s budget.
A special body scrub is a thoughtful gift she’ll enjoy. It’s a luxe treat for her that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Hands-Free Stand for Phones & Tablets
Here’s another little gadget a girl in college will find useful:
A stand to hold a cell phone or a tablet. Multi-tasking, while studying and doing homework, will become so much easier for her.
Elegant Leather Bullet Journal Notebook
Bullet journals are a popular way to get organized.
They’re like a more opened ended version of a planner. Because a BUJO is basically a notebook full of blank pages, so they can be used for just about anything.
They’re a great little gift for students!
Check out the best cheap bullet journals or my top college planner picks for more ideas.
Paint by Sticker Masterpieces
Everyone is all aboard the adult coloring book bandwagon. Its rise in popularity is due to evidence that it has health benefits.
A 2017 study found preliminary evidence that coloring reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety. Pretty cool for a childhood pastime.
This paint by sticker book is a unique take I’m loving. It makes coloring outside of the lines a thing of the past! The gift is a nice way for a college girl to unwind at the end of a long day.
Gift for college girl final thoughts
This concludes the list of 2022 Christmas gifts for college girls. Give one of these ideas this year, and you’re sure to put Santa to shame.
Do you have any other great college girl gift ideas? I’d love to hear what’s been the biggest hit in your experience!
More idea lists:
- 39 totally rad graduation gifts for guys
- The best care package ideas for college students (100+ ideas!)
- OVER 200 cute yellow things to put in a sunshine box
- 70 Realistic New Year’s Resolutions Ideas You Can Actually Accomplish
Pin it for later 📌:
Fail-Proof Christmas Gifts for College Girls
About Charlie
Charlie is the co-founder of College Life Made Easy and author of the book 175+ Things to Do Before You Graduate College. She’s a 2015 graduate who teaches overwhelmed students and parents of students how to confidently navigate the whole college thing. As a former broke college kid, she’s passionate about helping students develop the skills they need in order to thrive (instead of just survive), stress less, and actually enjoy the full college experience.