As the semester comes to an end, I’m sure a lot of incoming college freshman (or anyone living on campus) are already thinking about what they’ll need for their years at college. Making a Christmas list is one of the most exciting ways to wind down during finals season. As someone who remembers the mix of excitement and stress that came with getting ready for my first year, I know how overwhelming it can feel. I remember the Christmas of my senior year when all I wanted were fun things, but I realized I had to prioritize what I needed instead of what I wanted. Between trying to figure out what’s essential, what’s worth the money, and what will actually make dorm life easier, it’s easy to get lost and confused. That’s why I’ve put together a list of practical (and still fun) gift ideas to help future you, while also giving current you something to look forward to during the rest of high school.
Mattress topper
A mattress topper isn’t exactly something you’ll use during high school, but future you will thank you for asking for one now. After living in the dorms for two years, I can say that the twin XL mattresses are not very hotel-like. A good mattress topper changes the stiff dorm beds into something that is actually comfortable and will help you sleep better and adjust faster to college. Although it can be a bit pricey, it’s one of the best investments you can make for your dorm.Â
Twin XL bedding
Adding to making your bed comfortable, ask for a good set of sheets. Good quality bedding can make a huge difference when you’re adjusting to dorm life, especially during the early mornings when you have to get up for an 8 am or the late nights when you’re up studying in bed. Lots of websites offer dorm bedding bundles that fit a twin XL mattress and can save your family a lot of money, while also making it easier to coordinate your setup and stick to a theme you might want. Whether you prefer something soft or cool, investing in a good set of sheets and a comforter you actually like will make your dorm feel a little more like home.
Noise-cancelling headphones
Noise-cancelling headphones are a lifesaver when you’re living in a dorm. Whether you’re studying with loud neighbors, trying to focus at the student union, or sharing a room with someone who snores, a good pair can make all the difference. They can help block out any sort of distraction so you can stay productive or listen to something while trying to sleep. Speaking from experience, my headphones saved me during long nights.Â
Extra-long extension cord
Dorm rooms never seem to have enough outlets, and the ones they do have are usually in the most inconvenient places that you can never reach. An extra-long extension cord gives you the flexibility to plug in all of your essentials wherever you need them without having to rearrange furniture or stretch cables across your room. It’s one of those small, inexpensive gifts that becomes a must-have. Everyone wants to make their dorm comfortable, and being able to be flexible and put things exactly where you want them definitely makes a difference.
A desk lamp with charging ports
Like I said earlier, you’re going to want as much access to outlets and charging ports as you can get. A desk lamp with built-in charging ports is perfect for late-night study sessions when your roommate is sleeping and it’s 2 am. It gives you good lighting without disturbing anyone and makes it easy to keep everything charged while you work. It’s a simple and small upgrade that will make a huge difference in your dorm!
Water bottle
A good insulated water bottle is something you’ll use every day on campus. As a 20-year-old, I know all the good water bottles are a fan favorite for people our age. Whether you’re walking to class, going to the gym, or hanging out with friends, it’s always important to stay hydrated. During my freshman year, I had a cheap water bottle that never kept my ice frozen, and it became my worst enemy. The summer before my sophomore year, I got myself an Owala, and I’ve had it ever since. Everyone has that favorite water bottle that they may or may not be loyal to, and hey, I get it, but I highly recommend an Owala. I have a 32-oz water bottle that will keep my ice frozen for days, and I truly believe this is the most hydrated I’ve ever been in 20 years. Invest in a good quality water bottle because I promise it does make a difference.
Slippers
A good pair of slippers makes living in a dorm way more comfortable. They’re perfect for walking around your room, heading to the bathroom, or just keeping your feet warm. Trust me, no one wants to put on sneakers or their shower shoes just to make a quick trip around the dorm hall. It was always nice to just slide on a pair of slippers when I would walk to the water fountain or down to the front desk to grab my DoorDash.
Comfy chair
Let’s be honest: college desk chairs were never designed for comfort. When you have hour-long study sessions or a 10-page paper to write, you don’t want to be uncomfortable. A comfy chair gives you a place to relax and study that isn’t your bed. Whether it’s a soft lounge chair or a foldable saucer chair, having a separate spot to read, hang out, or watch a show makes your room feel much more livable. My roommate and I both had comfy chairs, and we’ve spent hours in them.
Gift cards
Gift cards are a simple and easy gift for anyone, but they’re extremely useful for a freshman or any college student, for that matter. Whether it’s for groceries, Starbucks, DoorDash, fast food runs, or just an Amazon gift card, these give students the flexibility to get whatever they need when they need it. They’re even more helpful during those first few weeks when you realize you forgot something random, like a pair of scissors or tape (which I somehow always forget).
BGSU merch
Lastly and most importantly, get some BGSU merch! You’ll find yourself spending a lot of time at Falcon Outfitters wishing you could buy everything in sight. Some merch is a must for Falcon Fridays, football games, or just when you need a comfy sweatshirt. Hoodies, mugs, blankets, and more make great gifts for college students. Just when you think you have enough, you’ll realize you don’t! You can never (and I mean NEVER) have too many BGSU sweatshirts and shirts.Â
Transitioning into college can be the most exciting chapter of your life, but also the most overwhelming. But trust me, having the right things can make the first few months feel a lot easier, and getting these things for Christmas can take a lot of stress off your plate! No matter what you’re focusing on, these gift ideas are designed to help future you start strong while giving current you something to enjoy now. No matter what ends up on your Christmas list this year, remember that college is a fresh start, and it can be fun preparing for it all!