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Does anyone else struggle to curate a wishlist of things they actually want for the holidays? I’m not just talking about a link to the most trending item (that will be forgotten by the new year), but things that you’ll actually use daily. (Unfortunately, I’ve fallen victim to asking for gifts that I forget about once February approaches, and I know I’m not alone.) It’s important that, as college students, we make the most of the gift-giving season and ask for things that we’ll put to use all year round. So, this year, let’s ditch those add-to-cart impulses, and instead put intuitive needs on our wishlists.
As college, we’re constantly in need of something. But when the holiday season comes around, those items tend to get forgotten. But the reality is, those little things you’d never think to ask for can actually make for your next go-to-item next semester. From organization products to anxiety-reducing blankets, there’s a world of useful gifts to ask for — ones that keep on giving throughout the year!
Since we all need a little pick-me-up during the holidays, I spoke with college students about the holiday 2025 gifts college students actually have on their wishlists this year — or ones that they’ve been given in the past that they love. So grab your phone or computer, get cozy, and prepare to share some links to your family and friends to make for the best gift-giving season yet.
Here’s what they had to say.
Storage Cubes ($18)
“They helped me organize my clothes efficiently and store them while living with more limited space. It makes keeping my room clean easier.” – E.V., 20.
Frigidaire Ice Machine ($93)
“[This is] the luxury I never knew I needed.” – Lily, 22
iPad ($300)
“I think an iPad is super beneficial in being an A+ student and I don’t know how I could do without it.” – Alyson, 19
Weighted Blanket ($52)
“They’re especially useful during stressful exam weeks or long semesters when rest is hard to come by.” – Trinity, 21
Rug ($60)
“Dorm carpeting is often dirty, in poor aesthetic taste, and easily encrusted with dirt and other debris. A rug makes your small dorm space look more homey and comforting, while also being functional and picking up less debris than the dorm room carpet.” – Ella, 19
Kodak PixPro Digital Camera ($120)
“It’s an investment, but a nice camera can be used for life. I want to create mementos of my experiences in college, and a camera is the perfect way to capture the time I spend here.” – Stella, 20
Hydrojug Water Bottle ($40)
“I believe a good water bottle is essential for college life, to help keep you hydrated through long classes, gym sessions, and campus events.” – Trinity, 21
Whiteboard ($15)
“I can colorfully visualize the information I’m studying on a larger surface.” – Desiree, 20
Activewear Set ($39)
“It was so nice having a cute coordinated set as a go-to when I didn’t know what to wear to class.” – Lily, 22
Suede Tote Bag ($62)
“[These are] lightweight, versatile, and stylish enough to double as everyday bags.” – Trinity, 21
Electric Hand Warmers ($15)
“Having electric hand warmers will help keep my hands warm even during the cold months when walking to class.” – Anna, 19
