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70 Best Dorm Gifts For College Students – The Complete 2024 Guide

Are you having a hard time thinking of the best dorm gifts for your friend in college? We’ve got you covered! Check out these best dorm gifts for college students.

Camryn Gruner

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College girls at their dorm room
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Know someone going to college soon? Don’t know what to get them? This article will help you find the perfect dorm gifts for any kind of person.

We’ve got you covered! Check out these best dorm gifts for college students.

Table of Contents:

Inspirational Wall Art-Gallery Set of 6 Prints

Dorm Gifts for College Girls

 1. Diffuser

Lifelines 200 ML Waves Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser – Features Cascading Mist & Colored Lights – Essential Oils Diffusers for Home – Lifelines Citrus Grove Essential Oil Blend 3 ML Included

A diffuser is a great dorm gift for the schools that don’t allow candles in the residence halls.

Not only will the essential oils leave your room smelling great, but diffusers are also helpful for stress relief and improved sleep… which we know all college students need. 

I recommend a diffuser because it’s easy to store and has a lot of benefits for your health, aside from making your room smell good.

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2. Photo Clip String Lights.

LECLSTAR LED Photo Clip String Lights

These clips are the perfect dorm gift since most people like to have reminders of their friends and family back home when they move into new dorms.

But, the small dorm space can get in the way of where to put your pictures. These string lights allow you to utilize your wall space and put your most special memories on display.

Not to mention, they also add much-needed lighting to your space. String lights were a godsend when I went to college! They made displaying my pictures easy and left an elegant feel to my room. 

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3. Acrylic Makeup Organizer 

DreamGenius Makeup organizer,3 Pieces Acrylic Cosmetic Display Case, Vanity Storage for Dresser,Bathroom,Countertop, Jewerly ,Lipstick,Brush Holder with 4 Drawers,Clear

When you move into college, storage is always questionable. This acrylic makeup organizer is the perfect way to ensure everything you need has a designated space.

It has compartments for every kind of makeup product and will not take up a lot of space on your desk. I bought an acrylic makeup organizer for college and continue to use it in my bedroom at home.

It makes it easy to keep everything organized and in one place, making it the perfect dorm gift for the person you know that loves to get a little extra glam every once in a while!

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4. Area Rug

Ophanie 6×9 Area Rugs for Living Room, Large Big Grey Fluffy Shag Fuzzy Plush Soft Carpets, Floor Shaggy Rug for Bedroom, Gray Carpet for Kids Boys Girls Dorm Nursery Home Decor Aesthetic

An area rug is a great dorm gift idea for anyone! College dorms usually have cold, tiled floors.

Make your room feel more inviting and warm by putting in an area rug!

They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and are an easy way to spruce up any dorm room.

I had an area rug in my dorm room, and it brought the whole room together! Not only did it save me from walking on cold, tiled floors all the time, but it also brought a warm feel to the room.

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5. Delicates Laundry Bags

CCidea 5 Pack Mesh Laundry Bags For Washing Delicates,Underwear,Bra,Shoes,Lingerie, Swimsuit, Dress, T-Shirt,Coat, LargeHeavy Duty Travel Laundry Bag

Laundry bags for your delicates are a very helpful gift to give to a college student. Some schools have older machines that could seriously mess up your clothes, so why take the risk?

We all hate having tangled bra straps after they come out of the laundry machines, and these bags are supposed to help prevent that from happening.

I wish I had these when I was living in my dorm. I’ve had delicates that were permanently ruined from my school’s washer and dryer, and maybe these bags could have prevented that from happening. 

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6. Styling Tool Holder

mDesign Metal Hair Care & Styling Tool Organizer Holder 3 Sections Bathroom Vanity Countertop Storage for Hair Dryer, Flat Irons, Curling Wands, Hair Straighteners Light P…

A dorm room will likely not have surfaces that are safe for holding hot styling tools on them. Therefore, this gift is useful for someone who enjoys doing their hair and needs the perfect place for their tools to cool safely.

I’ve never had one of these holders, but I feel like that will change soon. It’s a sleek, stylish design that serves such a great purpose.

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7. Two In One Flashlight and Stun Gun 

VIPERTEK VTS-T03 – Aluminum Series 59 Billion Heavy Duty Stun Gun – Rechargeable with LED Tactical Flashlight, Pink

Personal safety is always important to keep in mind, but it’s not something that is easily attainable to some.

During college, there might be some late nights walking back to your dorm room alone, so why not have a device that will help keep you a little bit safer?

This flashlight also serves as a taser, so if you are ever in an unsafe situation you can use this device to your advantage.

I bought a taser before going to college just to feel a little safer. There were so many nights I would walk back to my dorm from the library alone, and having a taser in my backpack gave me extra comfort just in case.

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8. Jewelry Organizing Mirror

Giantex Lockable Standing Jewelry Armoire with 14 Auto-on LED & Full Length Mirror, 14 LEDs Jewelry Mirrored Cabinet and Storage Organizer with 2 Drawers, 4 Angles Adjustable (White)

A jewelry organizing mirror is a great dorm gift for the person in your life that loves to accessorize.

Not only does it provide a full-length mirror, but it’s also the perfect place for all of your belongings that you don’t want to overtake your desk.

This mirror holds your jewelry in addition to shelves and drawers for other items like makeup, perfume, nail polish, or sunglasses.

I would buy this gift because it would have come in handy for me in my dorm living days. If you know anyone like me who has way too much stuff and nowhere to put it, this is the perfect dorm gift for them. 

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9. Plush Throw Blanket

The Connecticut Home Company Throw Blanket, Soft Plush Reversible Faux Fur and Sherpa, Warm Thick Throws for Bed, Comfy Washable Bedding Accent Blankets for Sofa Couch Chair, 65×50, Beige

When you go to college, you absolutely need an extra blanket.

Sometimes the heating doesn’t work, and other times a throw blanket can simply add to your decor. Either way, I see it as an essential dorm gift.

I always have an extra throw blanket handy, which is why I think it’s a great item to gift to someone else. It’s cute and serves a purpose.

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10. Homesick Scented Candle

Homesick Scented Candle, Connecticut – Scents of Nutmeg, Lemon, Eucalyptus, 13.75 oz

Living away from home is a big adjustment for most students entering college. With this dorm gift, they can bring a piece of home with them.

These candles are designed to remind people of the scents of their home states, bringing comfort when they feel homesick.

I think these candles are a great way to bring some comfort to those who will have a difficult time being away from home.

Even if they aren’t having trouble, I think it’s still a cute keepsake to have in your room.

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11. Bathrobe 

Bathrobe

Communal bathrooms are not always a fun experience in college, but the worst part is having to trek through the hallways in a towel.

Some people are not comfortable being that exposed to strangers, making a bathrobe a great dorm gift. Not only is a bathrobe just a nice item to own, but when it comes to college, it’s also useful.

I used a bathrobe in my dorm days because it made me feel more comfortable made my routine easier by taking away the worry of my towel falling down in front of my roommate. 

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12. Coffee Mug Warmer 

Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer for Coffee and Tea, Portable Cup Warmer for Travel, Office Desks, and Home, Black

Coffee is great, until your hot cup becomes cold, and you have to leave the office to find a microwave or stove to heat it up.

If your coworker is a hot coffee drinker, consider gifting them this mug warmer. It is perfect for any office or home!

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13. Manicure Set

ZIZZON Manicure Set 18 in 1 Professional Pedicure Set Nail scissors Grooming Kit with Leather Travel Case Pink

A manicure set is a great dorm gift to have lying around. In college, there is not always easy access to a great nail salon, so you have to improvise.

This kit comes with every tool you need to keep your nails looking clean and healthy.

 I know I am someone that enjoyed doing my own nails when I was living in a dorm. Without a car to get me to a salon, I took it upon myself to get a small kit like this that had every tool I needed.

It is easy to travel with on the go and ended up saving me some money. 

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14. Record Player 

Byron Statics Vinyl Record Player, 3 Speed Turntable Record Player with 2 Built in Stereo Speakers, Replacement Needle, Supports RCA Line Out, AUX in, Portable Vintage Suitcase

If you’ve been searching for a vintage-style gift for seniors, you can never go wrong with a record player.

This portable turntable transmits to a Bluetooth speaker that can connect to a device. 

The built-in handle makes it easy to carry around, so they can create the perfect ambiance from anywhere.

I’d suggest also picking out a few records to get their collection started if they don’t already have one!

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15. Adult Coloring Book

Adult Coloring Book : 60 Stress Relieving Animals Designs: A Lot of Relaxing and Beautiful Scenes for Adults or Kids

Adult coloring books are entertaining to have in a dorm room. If you know someone that enjoys coloring their free time, this is a great dorm gift for them.

These coloring books are intended to help relieve stress and bring a sense of relaxation, and every college student could use both of those things.

It may sound silly, but I loved using an adult coloring book in my dorm. It was a simple way to pass the time when I didn’t want to leave the room, and certainly made me feel more calm.

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16. Laptop Sleeve

Arvok 15-15.6 Inch Laptop Sleeve Multi-Color & Size Choices Case/Water-Resistant Neoprene Notebook Computer Pocket Tablet Briefcase Carrying Bag/Pouch Skin Cover for Acer/Asus/Dell/Lenovo, Black

A laptop sleeve is a great gift for any college student. When you’re walking to and from class every day, you need a way to protect your laptop.

You never know when it could start raining, and there’s always the chance of accidentally dropping it, so a laptop sleeve will help prevent damage to your computer.

 I recommend this gift because it’s an inexpensive way to ensure the safety of your technology.

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17. Gloves 

RIGWARL 32F – 65F Upgraded Gloves for Cold Weather Waterproof, Winter Gloves for Men Women with Touch Screen, Drving Gloves for Runing Hiking Walking Skiing Snow (112 Black, L)

Gloves are a must for anyone going to school in a place with colder weather.

Walking to and from class doesn’t seem like a big deal, but when it’s cold, you need to protect your hands during that walk.

These gloves are great because they are not too bulky and allow you to use your phone while wearing them.

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18. Sleep Mask

Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask – Updated Design Light Blocking Sleep Mask, Soft and Comfortable Night Eye Mask for Men Women, Eye Blinder for Travel/Sleeping/Shift Work, Includes Travel Pouch, Grey

Sleep masks are a great dorm gift to give to any college student. A sleep mask can prevent frustration with roommates over lights being left on and can ensure a peaceful rest.

They block out any light and are comfortable to wear.

I would recommend this gift because you never know when you might need it. Roommates can be unpredictable, and this gift could help keep the peace in your dorm.

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19. Fake Plants 

CQURE Succulents Plants Artificial, Set of 4 Mini Artificial Succulents Desk Plant Faux Succulents in Pots Fake Succulents Plant Decor Plastic not Easy to Break

Fake plants are a great addition to any dorm room.

Taking care of real plants in a dorm room can be much more difficult, so having fake ones will keep your room looking cozy without the responsibility of keeping them alive. 

I had fake plants in my dorm because they are a cute and simple decoration that makes any room feel a little more like home.

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20. “The Comfy”

THE COMFY Teddy Bear Quarter Zip | Oversized All Sherpa Wearable Blanket with Zipper, One Size Fits All, Seen On Shark Tank, Blush

This “wearable blanket” is a great gift idea for anyone who enjoys being comfortable. This product is big, warm and cozy. Sometimes doing homework with a blanket wrapped around you is difficult, and The Comfy can keep you warm while not restricting any movement.

I would suggest this gift because it is practical for anyone. Dorm rooms fluctuate in temperature all of the time, so you need other options to keep you warm.

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Related: 50 Dorm Room Must-Haves for College Students in 2024

Dorm Gifts for College Guys

21. Bean Bag Chair

Big Joe Milano Plush, Gray

Bean bag chairs are a great addition to any dorm room. Typically, dorm rooms only come with enough furniture for you and your roommate, which leaves very little space for any guests you might have.

Bean bag chairs are a great way to fix that problem because they are small, inexpensive and a comfortable seating option for anyone.

I would suggest this gift because it’s often a hassle having friends visit your dorm room without having the space for them.

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22. Amazon Fire Stick

Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device with Alexa Voice Remote (includes TV controls) | Dolby Vision

A Fire Stick is a perfect gift for any college student who enjoys watching TV.

It’s easy to set up with any television and will provide you and your friends with multiple streaming platforms to watch your favorite shows.

I would recommend this gift to someone because it’s a great option for someone who likes to keep up with their favorite programs.

When I was in a dorm, I watched my shows on my laptop, but a Fire Stick would have been a much better option.

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23. Mini Basketball Hoop

SKLZ Pro Mini Basketball Hoop

A mini basketball hoop is a great dorm gift for any guy that likes to have some extra fun. It fits on any door, is easy to assemble and is a great way to pass the time.

I would suggest this gift because it’s a simple way and entertaining to spice up your room a little bit. 

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24. Dart Board

Franklin Sports Professional Dartboard – Regulation Size Dartboard – 18″ Inch Dartboard

A dart board is another fun addition to any dorm room. It will fit anywhere without taking up a lot of space, and is a great way to have some fun with your friends.

With this unique decoration, your room will be the place people want to spend their free time.  

I would recommend this gift for someone who likes to have game nights every once in a while. It’s a great way to pass the time and have an excuse to mess around with your friends.

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25. 100 Dollar Bill Money Flag 

Motivational 100 Dollar Bill Large Life Size Money Flag – Man Cave Wall Decor – Benjamin Franklin Dorm Bedroom Accessories – Frat House Living Room Flag – 2X5 Cool Flag for Guys Home Office

This money flag is a funny dorm gift for any college guy. Their dorm will feel like a true man cave with this interesting tapestry. It’s an easy way to decorate your dorm without breaking the bank.

 I would suggest this tapestry because it’s a unique decoration that anyone will enjoy seeing in your room. 

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26. Mens Grooming Kit

Brightup Beard Trimmer for Men – 18 Piece Mens Grooming Kit with Hair Clippers, Electric Razor, Shavers for Mustache, Body, Face, Nose and Ear Hair Trimmer, Gifts for Men, FK-8688T

This is another gift option for your brother that may be more of a gift for you. With this gift, your brother can keep up with his hair and beard maintenance at home.

He can keep up his hygiene in-between haircuts, and it’s a good way to keep his beard in order.

He may struggle at first, but once he gets the hang of it, you will no longer be forced to look at your unkempt brother.

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27. Portable Charger 

Anker Portable Charger, PowerCore Slim 10000 Power Bank, 10000mAh Battery Pack, High-Speed PowerIQ Charging Technology for iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and More

As a freshman, you can spend hours in the library or coffee shop while studying or writing an essay.

During that time, you’re listening to music, googling for help on tough assignments, and messaging friends; your phone battery isn’t going to last very long. 

You want to be sure your phone stays charged while you’re out, but carrying a bulky cord around all day is inconvenient, and finding an outlet isn’t always possible.

If you keep a portable phone charger with you, you won’t have to worry about your phone dying when you need it most.

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28. Swiss Army Pocket Knife 

Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman Pocket Knife (Red)

A pocket knife may not seem like an important tool to some, but unfortunately you don’t know that until you need one.

They’re a great dorm gift because they are small enough to bring anywhere and have everything you might need in an emergency situation.

I would suggest this gift because it is practical and comes in handy more than you might think.

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29. Hammock

Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock for Camping Single & Double Hammocks Gear for The Outdoors Backpacking Survival or Travel – Portable Lightweight Parachute Nylon SO Black & Grey

These hammocks are a great dorm gift for someone who is adventurous or enjoys nature. They provide a unique study space and are fairly easy to travel with.

The hammock comes with its own travel bag and takes a minute to set up.

These hammocks are very popular on my campus when the weather is nice. Students put them in between trees to study, nap, or just enjoy the scenery. 

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30. Hat Rack

Perfect Curve CapRack18 Over-The-Door Cap Organizer, Two Straps, Holds Up To 18 Caps, Black

A hat rack is a great way to save space in a dorm. If you know anyone that has a surplus of hats and nowhere to put them, this is a great gift for them.

They can bring all of their favorite hats to school without running the risk of a lack of space.

I suggest this gift because it can be hidden in any closet, saves space and doesn’t make your room look cluttered.

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31. Tabletop Foosball 

KICK Squire 33″ Compact Mini Tabletop Foosball Table

Tabletop foosball is a great way to pass the time with your friends. It’s easy to store, but is just as exciting as the real thing.

When you’re in college, you need to become inventive when it comes to finding new things to do, and this is a great start.

I recommend this gift to anyone who likes to be creative in how they hang out with their friends.

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32. Bluetooth Beanie

Bluetooth Beanie Hat Headphones Unique Christmas Tech Gifts

In the winter, a teenage girl is going to need a hat to keep her warm. However, she may still want to listen to music, which is why the bluetooth beanie is the perfect gift for any teenage girl.

She can stream her music through the speakers in her hat and listen to music without needing to put headphones on. This way she can stay warm while enjoying her favorite music — the best of both worlds.

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33. Portable Blender

Hamilton Beach Personal Blender for Shakes and Smoothies with 14 Oz Travel Cup and Lid, Black (51101AV)

A portable blender is the perfect dorm gift for the guy that enjoys a morning smoothie or pre-workout protein shake.

It’s not very practical to have a blender in a dorm room, so this product will allow you to have your favorite smoothies, while also adhering to dorm rules.

I would recommend this gift because it’s a useful way to indulge in your favorite drinks without having to buy new, expensive appliances.

Plus, since it’s essentially the size of a large water bottle, you can take it with you and drink straight from it.

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34. Slim Wallet

Buffway Slim Minimalist Front Pocket RFID Blocking Leather Wallets for Men Women – Cross Black

A wallet is an item that everyone needs. It is practical and helps keep all of your important cards and money organized. 

However, most traditional wallets, especially those made for men, can be bulky and impractical to use. That’s why this slim wallet is perfect for your brother.

It is small and thin, and has space for his most important cards, such as his ID and debit or credit cards. It will fit into his pocket easily and not feel too heavy or bulky.

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35. Tie Gift Set

36. Credit Card Tool

Fathers Day Gifts Guardman 11 in 1 Beer Opener Survival Credit Card Tool Fits Perfect in Your Wallet (1) Stocking Stuffers for Men Christmas Gifts Under 10 Dollars

This credit card tool is a great gift for the college student you know that likes to be prepared.

This card comes with 11 built-in tools, those of which include gadgets like a blade, a ruler and a bottle opener. It will fit right in your wallet and will be great for any kind of emergency.

I would suggest this gift because, in my eyes, you can never be too safe. 

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37. Weighted Blanket 

ZonLi Cotton Weighted Blanket 25 lbs(60''x80'', Queen Size, Brown), Best Weighted Blanket for Adults, 100% Cotton Material with Glass Beads

A weighted blanket is the perfect dorm gift for any college student to have. Not only will it keep you cozy, but the beads inside are supposed to add the perfect amount of pressure on your body, relieving any stress you might have.

I would suggest this gift because college is certainly stressful, and this is an easy way to relieve that stress. It will leave you feeling calm and will bring you a better night’s rest.

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38. Beard Bib

The Neat Guy Beard Bib Apron for Men – Bib for Mess-Free Shaving, What You Need for a Good Clean Shave, Beard Hair Catcher for Men Shaving & Trimming,Grooming Cape Apron, Holiday Gift for Him-Whit…

A beard bib seems like a must for any guy that shaves his beard. Shaving in a communal bathroom sink can’t be easy, and it’s probably even harder to clean up your mess.

No one wants to brush their teeth with your beard hair in the sink, so this gift can help you quickly gather your unwanted hair for easy disposal. 

I suggest this gift because it will make your life a little easier, and whoever you share a bathroom with will be grateful. 

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39. Personal Safe 

Safe and Lock Box – Safe Box, Safes And Lock Boxes, Money Box, Safety Boxes for Home, Digital Safe Box, Steel Alloy Drop Safe, Includes Keys- SereneLife SLSFE14

Trusting a new roommate is not always easy for people, and it often takes time to gain that trust. But, with this personal safe, you won’t have to worry about any roommate stealing your most prized possessions. 

 I suggest this gift because it will bring security to the people who have a harder time trusting strangers around their belongings.

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40.  10 Foot Phone Charger

2pack 10ft iPhone Charger, [Apple MFi Certified] Long iPhone Charger Cord 10 ft, Apple Lightning to USB Cable, 10 Foot Fast Charging Cords for iPhone Charger 14/13/12/11/13 Pro/13 Max/X/XS/XR/XS

A ten-foot phone charger may not seem like a necessity, but trust me, it comes in handy when you’re living in a dorm.

Instead of having to worry about extra power strips and a lack of working outlets, this charger will reach anywhere you need it to go, meaning you can use your phone while it’s charging no matter how far the outlet is.

 I recommend this gift because dorm rooms don’t always have enough outlets for your technology, and the ones that are there are almost never where you need them to be.

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Related: 30 Most Useful Dorm Room Ideas for Guys-The Complete 2024 Guide

Helpful Dorm Gifts

41. Microwave

Microwave

A microwave is a must-have for anyone living in a dorm. No matter what anyone says, there will be some nights where you don’t want to walk to the dining hall to get food.

A microwave is a small addition to your room that will make nights like that much easier. 

I used my microwave all of the time in my dorm. Whether I was coming home late from work or staying up doing homework, there were nights where I simply just wanted microwavable mac n’ cheese instead of walking to a dining hall

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42. Mini Keurig

Keurig K-Mini Plus Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Black

If you know any coffee lovers, this mini Keurig is a great dorm gift. It’s small, fits anywhere, and can even save you some dining dollars on cafe style coffee. 

I had a mini Keurig in my dorm that I used every morning. It was great for days where I was running late for class and couldn’t spend time waiting in line for a coffee. It made my daily dose of caffeine easily accessible in a timely manner!

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43. Plastic Organization Carts

3 Drawer Organizer Cart Black Plastic Craft Storage Container Rolling Bin Set 2

These plastic bins are a great way to make some extra space in your room. Dorm space is often limited, making it much harder to fit all of the necessities someone needs to bring to college. Instead of cutting down on things you might need, create extra space for them! 

 I used these bins in my dorm for hair care products, accessories and anything else that wouldn’t fit in my closet.

They fit more than it may seem and they are the perfect height to store under your bed, which means they’ll provide more storage without taking up extra space!

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44. Shower Caddy

Shower Caddy

A shower caddy is an essential dorm gift for anyone entering college. Most dorm bathrooms have little to no shelving in the showers, making it a hassle to store your shower necessities.


A shower caddy not only gives you a place to store all of your shower essentials, but it also makes it easier to transport items from your dorm room to the bathroom.

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45. Shower Shoes

Shower Shoes

Still on the topic of showering, shower shoes are an absolute must for anyone using a communal bathroom. These are an important dorm gift because they ensure safe and clean shower habits.


You’d hope the bathrooms get cleaned thoroughly, but just in case they’re not, shower shoes are important to help prevent stepping in something gross or preventing athlete’s foot.


I know I never stepped foot in my communal bathroom without my shower shoes. You never know what could be on those floors, and I’d heard too many horror stories to risk finding out the hard way.

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46. Collapsible Laundry Basket  

SAMMART 30L (8 gallon) Collapsible 3 Handled Plastic Laundry Basket – Foldable Pop Up Storage Container/Organizer – Space Saving Hamper/Basket (White/Grey)

Everyone should have a hamper for their dirty laundry, but a collapsible one is even more helpful.

You never know where your laundry room will be in your dorm, and just in case you have to make a long trip, you want to use a hamper that is easy to carry when full.

 I had this laundry basket in my dorm, and I loved that it collapsed. When I didn’t need it, I could collapse it into a smaller size for easier storage. 

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47. Desk Lamp

Sailstar Desk Lamp, LED Desk Lamps for Home Office, Wireless Charger Small Desk Lamp with Pen Holder, 3 Color Modes, Dimmable, CRI 85, 800 LM, Study Lamp for College Dorm Room, Adapter Included, Black

A desk lamp is the perfect dorm gift for those late-night study sessions. It doesn’t take up a lot of space and is essential for the dorm rooms that are poorly lit. 

I recommend a desk lamp, even if the person truly believes they won’t need one. It came in handy when I lived in a dorm, and mostly made it easier to respect my roommate on nights I had to stay up late.


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48. Space Saving Hangers

HOUSE DAY 6 Pack Metal Magic Hangers Space Saving Hangers Closet Space Saving Wardrobe Clothing Hanger Oragnizer, Updated Hook Design

These space saving hangers seem to truly live up to their name. If you know someone who has way too many clothes, this is a great dorm gift for them.

These hangers allow you to store 12 clothing items on each hanger, and they can hang vertically in order to maximize space in a small dorm room closet.

 I wish I knew about these hangers when I was living in a dorm because they certainly would have made my life easier.

Plastic bins came to my rescue when I needed more space, but these hangers would have been the perfect solution to my clutter problem.

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49. Command Strips

Command Strip

This dorm gift seems simple, but Command Strips are a must-have for someone moving into a dorm. Decor is an important way to make your dorm feel like a second home, but every school has certain specifications on how to hang decor on their walls. 

My school’s dorm walls were made of cinder blocks, which is why command strips came in handy. I was able to hang all of my decorations easily and without worrying about possible damage to the walls. 

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50. Dry Erase Calendar

Calendar Dry Erase Board,

In college, you will quickly learn that you need to write everything down and in a place where you know you’ll see it.


It’s easy to forget deadlines for assignments when you have so many of them, so this calendar will certainly come in handy. While planners are also helpful, I don’t think you can go wrong with a calendar on your wall that you’ll see everyday. 


 In my dorm days, I had a planner and a dry erase calendar on my wall to ensure I had all of my assignment deadlines in check.


It was much easier to organize my schoolwork on top of my work schedule, which is why I think it would be a great dorm gift for someone you know that likes to be prepared or needs help staying organized. 

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51. Power Strips

Power Strip 3 USB 3 Outlet, Desktop Charging Station 5 ft Flat Plug Extension Cord for Cruise Ship Accessories Dorm Room Plug Extender, White

Power strips are a dorm gift that can be given to anyone and will be useful to everyone. College dorm rooms don’t typically have a lot of outlets, which is why bringing your own power strips to school is so important.

With them, you will have a place to plug in all of your chargers, extra lighting and other technology.

 I had two extra power strips in my dorm room, and all of the outlets were used at all times. The extra outlets for all of your electronics are definitely needed, making it the perfect dorm gift for someone else. 

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52. Foldable Lap Desk

Fayquaze Laptop Bed Desk, Portable Foldable Laptop Bed Table with USB Charge Port Storage Drawer and Cup Holder,Lap Desk Laptop Stand Tray Table Serving Tray for Eating, Reading and Working

Lap desks are often overlooked as essentials for college students, but they are certainly a helpful dorm gift to have.

On nights where you don’t want to be stuck in the library or at your desk, a lap desk allows you to do your homework in the comfort of your bed, while giving you ample space and a sturdy surface to work on.

I know I’m someone who frequently does homework in bed, and I wish I thought to get a lap desk sooner than I did.

Instead of propping up pillows to use as a note-taking surface, a lap desk gives you a hard surface to work on with the perfect amount of space for your laptop and your notebook. 

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53. Fan

HOLMES BLIZZARD 7″ Table Fan, 2 Speeds, 3 Blades, 85 Oscillation, 20 Adjustable Head, Home, Bedroom and Office, Charcoal Matte

While every school is different, a lot of college dorms do not have air conditioning. This leaves for very hot, very frustrating summer nights.

A fan can help with that problem. Big or small, having any kind of fan in a dorm room is an essential way to stay cool on hot days.

Any fan will do, but I used this specific fan when I was in my dorm and it was a lifesaver. It was small enough to store anywhere when I didn’t need it, and it did the job perfectly. 

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54. Steamer

Conair Handheld Travel Garment Steamer for Clothes, CompleteSteam 1100W, For Home, Office and Travel,White / Blue

Steamers are a great replacement for ironing your clothes. Not only are good irons typically more expensive, but it means you need to spend the money on an ironing board and risk breaking dorm rules.

Steamers are a great alternative for keeping your clothes wrinkle free, and come at a lesser price.

I made the mistake of not purchasing a steamer for my dorm room, but I would suggest it as a dorm gift. It was a product I was consistently borrowing from my friends, and it was much easier than ironing.

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55. Bedside Shelf

OOKUU Aluminium Bedside Shelf for Bunk Bed, College Dormitory Bed Shelf Organiser Bunk Bed Table with Cable Management College Dorm Nightstand with Storage for Phone Tablet Books and More

A bedside shelf seems like a silly gift idea, but it’s one that will come in handy. It clamps to the side of your bed to give you the perfect place to hold your phone, headphones, or laptop.

This shelf is a great dorm gift for the people you know that might get a little too lazy to get up and put their things away.

 I wish I had one of these shelves for my dorm room, it would have made my life so much easier to have a designated place to leave things before bed.

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56. Personalized Duffel Bag 

57. Backrest Pillow

Reading Pillow Bed Wedge Large Adult Backrest Lounge Cushion with Arms and Pockets | Back Support for Sitting Up in Bed / Couch for GERD Heartburn Bedrest by ComfortSpa

A backrest pillow is helpful for people who like doing their homework in the comfort of their bed. This pillow allows you to sit up straight without having to lean uncomfortably on cinder block walls.

I suggest this gift because dorm beds don’t come with headboards to lean against, and regular pillows just won’t do the job.

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58. Iron Flask Water Bottle

Iron Flask Sports Water Bottle – 32 Oz, 3 Lids (Straw Lid),Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel, Modern Double Walled, Simple Thermo Mug, Hydro Metal Canteen

A reusable water bottle is a must-have for anyone living in a college dorm. Walking around campus all day can be tiring, and you need to stay hydrated.

Reusable water bottles are great for keeping you hydrated throughout the day and keeping your drinks cold.

 I suggest this gift because it is something every college student will get good use out of.

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59. Plastic Dish Set

Teivio 32-Piece Kitchen Plastic Wheat Straw Dinnerware Set, Service for 8, Unbreakable Plastic Modern Dish Set – Dinner Plate/Dessert Plate/Cereal Bowl/Cup, for Apartment Basics, Outdoor Camping,Black

Every college dorm room should have its own set of plastic dishes and utensils.

You never know when you’re going to want a microwavable meal instead of going to the dining hall, or if you and your friends want to order takeout one night.

I had a set of plastic dishes and utensils in my dorm room that I used more frequently than I thought I would.

They were perfect for lazy nights of eating Ramen noodles instead of going to a dining hall.

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60. Brita Water Pitcher 

Brita Water Pitcher

A Brita water pitcher is a great dorm gift to have lying around. It filters the tap water for you, leaving you with clean water to drink and fill in your water bottles. Not to mention, it will save you money on plastic water bottles.

I had a Brita pitcher in my dorm room that I used constantly. We never had to wait to fill up our water bottles at the water fountains and we knew the water we were drinking was clean. 

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Related: 30 Best Dorm Room Ideas You Will Absolutely Need in College

Funny Dorm Gifts

61. “Call Your Mom” Pillow

Mancheng-zi Call Your Mom Funny Throw Pillow Case, for Daughter, Son Gifts, Dorm Room Accessories Graduation Party, 18 x 18 Inch Decorative Cotton Linen Cushion Cover for Sofa Couch Bed

This is a great dorm gift for the person you know who might enjoy being away from home a little too much. It will remind them where they came from and will keep them out of trouble with their mom.

I suggest this gift because it’s a cute decoration with an important message.

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62. Alarm Clock on Wheels 

Clocky Alarm Clock on Wheels (Original) | Extra Loud for Heavy Sleeper (Adult or Kid Bed-Room Robot Clockie) Funny, Rolling, Run-Away, Moving, Jumping (White)

This alarm clock is a great dorm gift for someone who refuses to get up in the morning. Not only does it make an annoyingly loud sound, but it rolls away, forcing you to get up, shut it off and start your day.

I know this is a gift I would benefit from, which is why I would suggest it to someone else. You will never be late to class again with this alarm clock.

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63. “The Naked Roommate” Book

The Naked Roommate

This book is a funny introduction to adult life. Although it has an alarming title, it gives college students helpful tips on how to deal with issues in school, how to make friends and how to get involved on campus.

 I suggest this book because of its good reviews and the fact that everyone needs some guidance on how to be independent for the first time.

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64. LED Word Clock

SHARPER IMAGE Light Up Electronic Word Clock, Black Finish with LED Light Display, USB Cord and Power Adapter, 7.75 Square Face, Unique Contemporary Home and Office Décor Black (Black)

This book is a funny introduction to adult life. Although it has an alarming title, it gives college students helpful tips on how to deal with issues in school, how to make friends and how to get involved on campus.

I suggest this book because of its good reviews and the fact that everyone needs some guidance on how to be independent for the first time

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65. Singing Toothbrush

JoJo Siwa Brite Beatz Toothbrush Playing Light Up, Small, Music, 1 Count

Everyone needs a toothbrush to take to school with them, but this singing toothbrush will give your friends and family a good laugh.

It’s a necessity that comes with entertainment. Your friends and family will certainly have fun brushing their teeth to JoJo Siwa jams. 

 I suggest getting this gift as a funny gag gift. And hopefully it will get some use.

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66. Bed Tent 

Bed Tent Dream Tents Bed Canopy Shelter Cabin Indoor Privacy Warm Breathable Pop Up Twin Size for Kids and Adult Patent Pending PitchBlack(Mattress Not Included)

A bed tent is a funny dorm gift that could actually come in handy. It’s hard sharing a space with a stranger, and sometimes you just want some privacy. This bed tent can grant you that wish.

 I would suggest this gift because although it is funny, it can serve a very useful purpose.  

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67. Toilet Spray

Poo-Pourri Before-You-go Toilet Spray, 4 Fl Oz, Original Citrus

This toilet spray is a funny way to make sure your college friend is respectful when it comes to using a communal bathroom. Unfortunately, you will be sharing a bathroom with a lot of people, and when you need to go it can be embarrassing having other people hear or smell your business. This spray can save you some embarrassment by masking the smell. 

I suggest this gift because it is a respectful way to ensure everyone feels comfortable in the bathroom.

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68. Smartphone Neck Mount 

Aduro Phone Neck Holder, Gooseneck Lazy Neck Phone Mount to Free Your Hands for iPhone Android Smartphone

This smartphone neck mount is a great dorm gift for the lazy people in your life. You will never have to hold your phone up again, giving your arms a much needed break. You can simply lay down, prop up your phone and enjoy your show.

I suggest this gift for anyone who constantly complains about getting uncomfortable while being on their phone in bed. 

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69. Screaming Goat Figure

The Screaming Goat (Book & Figure)

This screaming goat is a hilarious addition to your dorm room. In college, there will be many times when you’ll feel like screaming, but unfortunately, you can’t do that with a roommate and neighbors you need to respect. So instead, you can have the goat do the work for you.

 I recommend this gift because it is a cute way to relieve any built-up frustration.

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70. Sneaker Slippers 

JIASUQI Slippers for Women Sneaker Slippers House Shoes for Women Leopard Size 6.5-7.5

These sneaker slippers are a funny way to keep your college friend comfortable in their dorm. They are big and warm, which will keep them protected from the cold tile floors. 

I bought these slippers for my roommate, and she absolutely LOVES them. I recommend this gift because it’s a great way to stay comfortable while looking fashionable.

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Final Thoughts on Dorm Gifts

As you can see, there are so many options when it comes to dorm shopping for someone else.

I hope you found these dorm gifts helpful, and I hope they bring some fun into your living spaces!

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