The Best College Student & Teen Stocking Stuffers You Can Get Online in 2023
53 Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Teens & College Students They’ll Actually Appreciate
In this post, you’ll find fun, cool, and great college student stocking stuffer ideas that are perfect for teens too.
Stocking stuffers (also known as stocking fillers) are small gifts that can fit into – well, a stocking.
Candy and gift cards are often the go-to’s because you just can’t go wrong with them. They’re tried and true, but also far from unique.
Finding really good stocking stuffer ideas takes a little more time…
Young adults and college students are in a transition period of life, which makes them kind of weird to shop for. The same applies to stocking stuffers for teens: figuring out what they’d really like isn’t exactly straight forward.
Even when you ask, the answer is usually unhelpful!
So to help save you some time and guesswork – I searched to the ends of the internet to find the best stocking stuffers for college students, teens, and young adults of all kinds. And here’s what I found…
53 Teen & College Student Stocking Stuffers
Overall Best Stocking Stuffers 2023
These are the stocking stuffers college students (and teens!) are hoping to get this year.
1. Personalized Mini Nutella Jars
Nutella is a delicious spread that’s loved by almost everyone – especially teens and students!
That’s why a few personalized mini jars of Nutella make perfectly sweet stocking stuffers.
And if you have someone in your life who’s a Nutella super-fan, consider giving them one of these adorable personalized stickers. It’s an added bonus that’ll make an amazing surprise!
💡 Short on time? Don’t worry, you can DIY this idea fast! Pick up mini Nutella at your local Target and then personalize it with this printable jar label.
2. Popmask Self Warming Eye Masks
Popmask self-warming eye masks provide relief and relaxation in seconds. Guys and girls in college can put one on whenever they needs a moment of peace or when classes have them feeling stressed. They’re great for power naps, traveling, and practicing meditation.
A thoughtful gift of self-care is something you can’t go wrong with! Super fun for teenagers to enjoy during a spa night at home with mom.
3. Puffer Jacket Can Cooler
If you’re cold, they’re cold –
These cute little can-sized puffer jackets and parkas not only help cold drinks keep their chill, but also brings so much joy.
The coozie’s attention to detail and quality construction make it all the more heartwarming. It’s like playing dress up with your soda or beer can!
It’s easy to see why a college student would be simply tickled pink to receive a novelty stocking stuffer like this.
4. Reusable Hand Warmers
If you want to give a practical small gift, look no further. These Reusable Hand Warmers make excellent stocking stuffers for young adults. Because when exposed to chill and cold, hands get cold fast!
Just pop these hand warmers in the microwave for 30 seconds for toasty warmth. They’re so nice to have for everything from walking to classes around campus to walking the dog to skiing and winter outings on the town with friends.
5. A Good Book or Two
Not textbooks for class – but something that can help ease the nerves about college and make the transition smoother.
Or:
You could add in a book that’s been on their reading wish list for a long time. Either way, win-win!
175+ Things to Do Before You Graduate College is a great pick. The pages contain a mix of fun activities, as well as academic tips to help set students up for success.
6. Levi’s Classic Beanie Hat
A warm beanie is an underrated necessity that all college students and young adults will appreciate big time.
Levi’s Classic Beanie Hat is oversized and chunky, which is very in style right now. It’s thick, comfy, and comes in a variety of colors to choose from. This great stocking stuffer idea will quickly become their new favorite hat!
7. Bubble Wrap Calendar
Give a college student something they can use all year round!
For many people, something about bubble wrap provides a sense of relief. It pushes that satisfaction button in the brain in a way that really hits the spot.
Whether you ever personally get a craving for this oddly specific activity or not, a Bubble Wrap Calendar is a fun and creative way to give a unique gift to someone who loooves bubble wrap. It’s proof that you don’t have to overthink it when it comes to stocking stuffers for 20-year-olds and teens!
8. Serial Killers Adult Coloring Book
Some people find that coloring books are a great way to relax, relieve stress, and enjoy as a pastime. And you’re shopping for a true crime aficionado, well, a serial killer themed coloring book is probably their idea of fun. Pair this idea with a pack of quality colored pencils, and you have a gift that’ll make a lasting impression.
This style of coloring book for adults includes hand-drawn illustrations of some of the most notorious serial killers, like Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer, to name a few.
There’re lots of workbooks to choose from, these are our top 3 picks:
9. Peanut Butter Spoon
For the young adult who’s known to eat spoonfuls of peanut butter straight from the jar – a dedicated Peanut Butter Spoon is what’s missing in their life.
The little spatula is designed to get every last bit of peanut butter out of the jar, so there’s zero waste. It’s all pros and no cons.
10. Burt’s Bees Gift Set
Burt’s Bees grooming and personal care items make nice little gifts. They’re a great way to treat someone with an experience rather than just another item.
Lip balm and an eye mask, for example, are not only an easy win but also fit well in a stocking. You could even squeeze in a small gift set like this.
In any case, it’s an excellent idea for students who are cash-poor but still want to pamper themselves with relaxing skincare.
11. Tabletop Cornhole
Cornhole (also known as Tailgate Toss or Bean Bag Toss) is a classic outdoor pastime for group gatherings. The game’s objective is to land beanbags into a hole on the opposing team’s board.
And with this miniature sized Tabletop Cornhole, college students can enjoy playing anytime, no matter the weather. It’s a great ice breaker for making new friends on campus, as well as a bonding activity for students living in the dorms.
12. Smoko Snail Ambient Light
There’s something about indirect lighting that’s just so nice. Especially in contrast to the sterile overhead lighting commonly found in dorms.
Not only is this Smoko Snail Light adorable, but the soft glow also creates a soothing cozy atmosphere. It’s the perfect addition for adding happiness to their room decor! Check out more super cute smoko lights here.
13. TONYMOLY SuperFood Mask Bowl
College girls are sure to enjoy any beauty care related gift. Bonus points for cute packaging, of course.
This SuperFood Bowl Set is the perfect sampler with six different sheet masks all designed to hydrate and refresh tired skin. Variety is the spice of life, after all.
Personally, I love TONYMOLY’s whole aesthetic. You can’t go wrong with anything from this brand – have a look at some of their other best sellers here.
14. AirPods Lookalikes
Wireless earbuds are super popular right now. However, you don’t need to pay Apple prices to treat your student to a quality pair.
Take this pair of Taotronics SoundLiberty 95 Wireless Earbuds, for example.
With an uncanny resemblance to AirPods, a price tag less than 1/3rd the cost, and RAVE reviews, these wireless earbuds are sure to please.
Buying tip: watch that page above for deals on Taotronics SoundLiberty Earbuds – if they’re under $30, it’s a GREAT deal.
15. Hidden Pocket Velvet Scrunchies
The college girl you know probably already has a million scrunchies. But these cool Hidden Pocket Velvet Scrunchies are something she probably doesn’t already own!
The secret pocket is the perfect place for her to stash keys, chapstick, and some cash while going on a run or whenever she wants to travel light without a purse. All in all, a uniquely useful stocking stuffer idea for teen girls, college girls, and honestly all girls.
16. National Parks Scratch Off Map
National Park Scratch Off Map Posters are cool college student stocking stuffers for young adults who love to travel!
Each park is hard-drawn and shaped like an octagon, making it easy to scratch with the included tool specifically designed for removing foil. You have the choice of gold or silver foil, as well as several different map sizes.
They’ll be able to scratch off destinations they’ve been to and, in turn, get excited about all the states they’ve yet to visit.
College is a time of expanding horizons and exploration. This gift idea is a fun way to feed your favorite student’s sense of adventure and to encourage them to venture out into the world.
17. Game of Phones Party Game
Interested in giving a tongue-in-cheek stocking stuffer for the teenager in your life?
Game of Phones is a card game where having your phone out is not only encouraged, but necessary. No apps needed – simply draw a card and get ready to take on challenges in the format of a digital scavenger hunt!
There’s nothing like a good game to strengthen family bonds when your college student comes home for the holidays. Plus, it’s something they can enjoy with their friends back on campus.
18. Microwavable Heating Pad
A Microwavable heating pad is a perfect gift for college students, whether they are in dorms or their own apartment.
College students have a hard time getting the rest they need. They have to wake up early, get ready, and then go to classes all day long. This often leaves them exhausted at the end of the day, and carrying a heavy backpack can easily lead to neck and back aches.
Microwavable heating pads provide the soothing warmth and comfort students need in the form of heat therapy they can use anytime. Not to mention, without having any cords or plugs that can interfere with their assignments or other school work.
From cozy neck wraps to french lavender scented plush animals, a good heat pillow is always helpful to have. Especially when you’ve been feeling under the weather or just need a little bit of warmth after a long day of class.
19. Mini Croc Earrings
I never thought I’d be saying this, but it’s true, Crocs have basically hit fashion trend status in 2023. All the cool college kids and teens are rocking them.
Which is why these Mini Croc Earrings are an amazing young adult stocking stuffer. They’re tiny and so realistic, the Croc-obsessed young adult in your life is sure to be THRILLED with them.
20. Bath Noodles
College life (and teenagehood) is often synonymous with a diet rich in budget-friendly ramen noodles. Lean into the age-old stereotype with a gift of novelty soap.
The 100% natural, vegan “noodles” enhance bath time with three delicious scents to choose from. But they also lather up nicely and double as soap, providing exfoliation and moisturization to the skin during showers.
Bath Noodles are definitely one of the more unique college student stocking stuffer ideas to give this year.
21. Apple AirTags
With Apple AirTags, misplaced items are no longer lost forever. Instead, your stuff is easily findable (nearby and far away) thanks to bluetooth tracking technology.
Most young adults are simply scraping by when it comes to money. Which is why it’s imperative that costly to replace items – like a laptop or professional camera – are protected from sticky fingers.
Plus, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan for when their keys, wallet, or backpack are nowhere to be found. I like to think of them as theft protection, and scatterbrain insurance all rolled into one.
22. Warm & Soft Alpaca Wool Socks
Socks are a classic Christmas gift college students definitely appreciate.
But skip the fuzzy socks and merino wool this year – because in comparison to sheep wool, alpaca wool is warmer and better at wicking away moisture. Go figure. Give something a little more unique by going with a pair of cozy Alpaca wool socks.
23. Shakespearean Insults Chart
William Shakespeare was a man of many accomplishments. He wrote a plethora of plays, coined the word eyeball (among others), and was apparently prolific when it came to crafting saucy insults.
His colorful jabs might have been truly stinging in the Renaissance era, but by today’s standards, they’re downright hilarious.
This unique gift will expand your student’s vocabulary in the best of ways. Just think of the amusement that will be had when they’re lobbing witty insults back and forth with roommates back at school!
A Shakespearean Insults Chart might just be the best dorm decor ever.
24. Simulated Pimple Popping Toy
A pimple popping toy might sound gross to you, but for people who love Dr. Pimple Popper, it’s really their cup of tea.
It’ll provide hours of excitement and entertainment for those who get satisfaction from a good extraction. Plus, silly stocking stuffers like this are the perfect way to get a laugh out of teens!
25. Portable Charger
Wanna give a gift that keeps on giving?
A portable power bank is an extremely useful item to have when running around campus, commuting, taking a camping trip, and traveling. They’re small enough to fit in a Christmas stocking (not to mention a backpack), about the size of an average smartphone.
It’s easy to see why college students LOVE portable chargers. All those devices they have always need charging!
26. Therapy Dough
Freudian therapy is one of the most well known forms of therapy, but it’s far from the only type out there.
Inspired by techniques used in art therapy, Therapy Dough is a tool designed to help relieve stress.
Students can use it as something to keep their hands busy during long lecture halls or tedious online classes. The therapeutic texture is soothing to play with and works as a calming distraction, similar to a fidget spinner.
However, unlike a fidget toy, Therapy Dough has the added benefit of aromatherapy and can even be used to improve grip strength. Choose from calming lavender, energetic peppermint, or uplifting orange.
27. Eco-Friendly Washable Lunch Bag
Luckies of London’s lunch bag looks just like the classic sack lunch we all grew up bringing to school.
Except their version is insulated, waterproof, and washable. And most importantly, it’s reusable and built to last.
This college student stocking stuffer idea takes “brown bagging it” to a new level and meaning. With a timeless retro style and eco-friendly qualities, it’s sure to be a hit.
College & Teen Stocking Stuffers Around $10 or Less
28. Charging Cable Protectors
Ever had a charging cable fray on you?
They seem to have a knack for fraying at the worst time possible, it can be such a hassle!
Luckily there’s a painless solution – these little things called cable savers. They extend cable life by protecting charging cables from bending too far.
With 24 pieces in a variety of different colors, I think these cable saving spirals are an excellent value. However, if you’re looking for something with a little more personality, these superhero and cute little penguins are also a great choice.
Whichever direction you decide to go, they make awesome stocking stuffers for college students and teens alike.
29. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a wildly popular card game. Gameplay is easy to learn, quick, and super entertaining. It’s the perfect stocking stuffer to send with your son or daughter when they head back to college!
They can play the game with family, roommates, and their friends back on campus. Its tons of fun for people of all ages – even picky teens will have a blast!
30. Smiley Face Car Coasters
Commutes suck. But these Smiley Face Car Coasters make being stuck in traffic just a little better. (: They’re an unexpected way to add a pop of happiness to a young adult’s everyday life.
The coasters come in a range of colors. They sure make awesome stocking stuffers for teen boys and girls. Check out more cute coaster designs here!
31. AirPods Case Cover
Whether you’re in search of good stocking stuffer ideas for 18-year-olds to 25-year-olds and beyond, this next little gift idea is foolproof.
Apple AirPods aren’t cheap, but a case cover is an easy way to add some personal flair and beef up the durability of the charging case at the same time. These Silicone Case Covers are great because they come with a handy clip-on carabiner which is really convenient. Plus, there are a TON of colors to choose from – including glow in the dark.
32. Mini Croc Shoe Charms
Crocs are the “it” casual shoe right now, and they’re incredibly popular with young adults. So if the late teens to early twenties person you’re Christmas shopping for has been known to rock a pair of Croc clogs, they’ll really get a kick out of this idea.
May I introduce Mini Croc Shoe Charms. ✨ A Croc accessory that’s a smaller version of said Croc is so meta. This is a really fun gift that will make all of their friends jealous.
I love all the random and oddly specific Croc charms available on Etsy! This Chicken Wing Croc Charm is another great example.
33. Terry’s Chocolate Orange
Snacks are always a welcome surprise for college students, and Terry’s Chocolate Oranges are a delightful Christmas treat.
If you’re unfamiliar with them, Terry’s Chocolate Orange is chocolate molded into the shape of an orange (rather than an orange dipped in chocolate). And like a real orange, the chocolate comes apart in delectable segments.
They’re definitely a blast to disassemble and munch on!
34. Wet Brush Detangler Brush
Normally, brushing your hair while wet is not recommended because hair strands are in a weakened state and are prone to breakage.
Wet Brushes are designed to combat that issue. Instead of tugging and snapping delicate strands, the brush detangles and glides through hair with ease. I’ve been using one for years, and it’s been life changing for the health of my hair!
35. Nee Doh Stress Ball
Soft, squishy, and satisfying to play with, Nee Doh is a fun fidget toy for occupying bored hands. Simply knead away to melt the stress away.
Available in a variety of styles, textures, and cool colors, college students and young adults will get a lot of enjoyment out of this small gift. Nee Doh is pretty addicting to play with!
36. Petit Bunny Gloss Bar
When it comes to stocking stuffer ideas for a college girl or teen girl, TONYMOLY’s Petit Bunny Gloss Bars are a pretty safe bet.
And not just because of the sweet packaging, but also because these tinted lip balms are actually really moisturizing. An essential for keeping chapped lips at bay during the winter months.
37. Goldfish Crackers Soap
College students will take free essentials any time! Golfishcrack Cracker Soap combines practical with a side of whaaat.
It looks just like the real thing, young adults will go crazy when they see these in their stockings! They’re such funny gag gifts and at a great price, too.
38. Mini Native Deodorant
As previously noted, everyday essentials are a big win when it comes to stocking stuffer ideas young adults love!
Mini Native Deodorants are so cute, and they come in a lot of great scents. I’m loving the humor in the holiday line up which includes Lump of Coal as a fragrance. I remember when my parents would threaten to give me a lump of coal for Christmas as a teenager haha.
39. Ramen Refrigerator Magnets
Aren’t these Ramen Refrigerator Magnets the cutest thing ever??
They’re so detailed, it’s unreal. The magnets honestly look good enough to eat. Any ramen-loving college student or foodie will be obsessed! They’ll be so excited to use the accessories on their mini fridge back in the dorms.
40. NUDE Dual-Action Breath Mints
Everyday must-haves like lip balm and mints always make great stocking stuffers for teens. Because you know, they’ll use them, and they’ll appreciate being able to their save money for other things.
Nude Dual-Action Breath Mints puts a more unique spin on that holiday tradition. Not only is the packaging eye-catching, but the way they work is super neat too!
41. Farting Magical Creatures Coloring Book
Adult coloring books have been popular for some time now. And like the cover says, magical creatures that fart are funny!
You can be sure any student with a healthy sense of humor would get a kick out of this one.
So if you need a rad gift idea for a young adult with a penchant for fantasy novels or the classic tabletop game – Dungeons and Dragons – look no further!
42. Bag of Reindeer Farts Cotton Candy
While we’re on the topic –
Nothing says holiday spirit more than a bag of delicious reindeer farts. Or as us common folk would call it – cotton candy.
This fun stock stuffer idea is sure to elicit a smile and chuckle out of the giftee.
43. Instax Mini Photo Album
Polaroids are super popular with the younger crowd. Instant film is just so much more fun and memorable than another digital photo lost in all the hundreds of others on your phone.
Instax Mini Photo Albums are the cutest thing! They make amazing stocking stuffers for teens and young adults. Perfectly sized for polaroid pictures, it’s a little something they’ll treasure for years to come.
44. Animal Lover Mini Planters
If you’re looking for a good gift idea for a young adult with a green thumb, then this might be the perfect stocking stuffer.
These lovable animal planters are perfect for small spaces and small plants (like hardy succulents). And because they’re mini planters, they’re just the right size for displaying on a desk or a window sill.
With so many animals to choose from, there’s something for every animal lover on your list.
45. Loch Ness Monster Bookmark
You may be familiar with the Loch Ness Monster, but how about Nessie Tale Bookmarks?
They make a really thoughtful gift for someone who spends a lot of time reading books, which is great because homework and reading assignments make up a big chunk of the college experience!
Help break up the monotony of page after page by gifting a Nessie Tale Bookmark. The quirky page marker will add a little extra something to a student’s everyday life. And if you’re shopping for a bookworm this holiday season, this unique stocking stuffer idea is a double win.
46. Bullet Journal
Bullet journal culture is a trend that’s here to stay – especially with college students and teens.
Bullet journaling is an open-ended way to track just about anything. Think moods, habits, schedules, goals, and more. It’s like an artistic alternative to a planner. The creative possibilities and practical applications for BUJOS are endless!
47. Paint By Sticker Activity Book
Paint By Sticker books are right up the same alley as adult coloring books. The main difference – no colored pencils required, making it more appealing to those who would describe themselves as “artistically challenged”.
This idea is a great way to get your student reconnected with their inner child – or to start creating art like never before!
48. TONYMOLY Banana Hand Milk
Here’s a young adult stocking stuffer they’ll go bananas for – TONYMOLY’s Magic Food Banana Hand Milk!
Besides being fun and cute, the banana-shaped container also fits nicely in the hand. Inside is an ultra-moisturizing hand cream that comes in two delicious scents; freshly baked banana bread and strawberry banana smoothie.
In times where excessive hand washing is encouraged, good lotion is a must-have for students.
49. Noise Canceling Ear Plugs
Whether they bunk with a roommate who snores loudly or need to tune everything out for a productive study session, this stocking filler idea will seriously come in handy for a college student.
These Noise Canceling Ear Plugs for Sleeping are a great pick because they come in three different sizes designed to fit all ear sizes. This is a good gift that’s affordable but still impactful. It’s the little things that make all the difference!
50. A Pack of Dude Wipes
Dude Wipes claim to be the slickest, thickest, & sickest flushable wipes on the market.
Give the gift of fresh butts to the college guys in your life this year. I’d have to bet this is one of the best stocking stuffers for teen boys too. Bathroom trips may never be the same for them.
51. Extra Long Charging Cable
Useful little things are some of the best stocking stuffers for college students.
Dorm beds are high off the ground, and a regular-length cable doesn’t quite cut it. There’s no doubt that 6 feet would be plenty of reach though.
A nylon braided charger cable (available in iPhone lightning, type c, and micro usb) is a great choice. It’s hardier than your average charging cord, so it doesn’t need to be babied and will last longer.
52. Scalp Massager
If you’ve never tried using one of these scalp massagers, you need to! It feels AH-MAZING!
Which is why it lands a spot on my list of stocking stuffer ideas. This gift is sure to subtlety wow.
53. Lottery Tickets/Scratch Offs
Need a gift for a college kid who’s hard to shop for? Lottery tickets might just be the ticket.
Some States do allow you to buy lottery tickets online now too! They’re a gift that can give even more at no extra cost for the giver. Odds of winning are low, of course, but the possibility is what makes them fun.
Buy a handful and see how the odds play out!
Final thoughts on stocking stuffer ideas young adults want
What do you think of these stocking stuffer ideas for college students and teens?
Amazing, or nah? Let me know by leaving a comment!
More great gift ideas:
- College Girl Christmas Gifts: 50 Most Wished For Ideas
- Top 36 Best Gift Ideas for Young Men (Unique & Cool Things Guys Really Like)
- The Practical Gifts College Students Actually Want You to Buy
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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.