College students love receiving care packages from home. They are tangible reminders of how much they are loved and missed, and they bring a little bit of home to someone who may be far away. Plus, everyone loves receiving packages!
Here are some care package ideas for things that college students will appreciate. You may want to pick a theme and go with it or combine ideas from several areas for a truly one-of-a-kind surprise.
In this post:
1. Food
Always a big hit, food gifts can be personalized to match a student’s specific tastes. You might want to send a batch of their favorite homemade cookies, or a supply of a favorite item that may not be available in their college town. Prepackaged snack foods, such as popcorn, cereal bars, trail mix, and the like are also good to have on hand. With the cold weather fast approaching, you might also want to help them stock up on flavored coffees, hot chocolate, or teas.
2. Gift Cards
With the advent of gift cards, providing specialized gifts to those far away has never been easier. Send gifts cards for businesses, such as Starbucks, Subway or even Pizza Hut so they can order vegan pizza. You can use the internet to find out which establishments are within a convenient travel distance for your student.
3. Green College Care Package
In today’s eco-conscious world, green college care package ideas are not only thoughtful but also immensely beneficial for both the student and the planet. Consider assembling a package filled with sustainable essentials that every college student needs. Start with reusable items like a stainless steel water bottle, a bamboo cutlery set, and a set of beeswax wraps for sustainable food storage. Don’t forget personal care items such as biodegradable toothbrushes and shampoo bars, which are both eco-friendly and space-saving.
You can also include a few packets of organic, non-GMO seeds for herbs or small plants, encouraging a connection with nature even in a small dorm room. This green care package sends a powerful message of love and care, not just for the student, but for the environment as well, promoting a lifestyle of sustainability and conscious living that can last beyond their college years.
4. Holiday Decorations
A little décor can add holiday cheer to the drabbest of dorms, but kids might not think to purchase these items on their own. Think simple and space-efficient. String lights, wall and door decorations, a tiny tree. If you have little ones at home, handmade snowflakes or holiday drawings are also good ideas. For a special touch, send a favored holiday item from your student’s childhood. This piece of nostalgia will feel like a little bit of home.
5. Scrapbook Supplies
If you have a creative kid who likes taking pictures but doesn’t have time to create scrapbooks from scratch, try pre-made scrapbooks and pages. Throw in some photo paper, and encourage your child to capture university life on these pages. Try places like Michael’s Arts and Crafts for tons of scrapbooking ideas and supplies. Remember, to keep it simple. Or, create a scrapbook at home, chronicling events your child may be missing, and send it to them at school. This way, they can feel a part of what’s happening at home.
Bonus: Other College Care Package Ideas
Restock laundry supplies by sending detergents, dryer sheets, and most importantly, quarters. If your child doesn’t have a first aid kit, pack up basic medical supplies such as bandages, first aid creams, pain relievers, and the like. Most students wouldn’t think to purchase these items until they are needed. Bath items, such as new toothbrushes, razors, body washes, and shampoos in soothing scents, are also fun to receive.
