University students are simultaneously the easiest, and most difficult people to shop for.
On one hand, they generally don’t really ask for much, which can be incredibly frustrating. On the other hand, there are countless practical gift choices for them that are universally loved and appreciated.
Of course, catering to your individual giftee’s needs is essential, but if you’re struggling to find a starting point, I’m here to help (or at least try to).
Home
If your giftee has left home or will be leaving home to study, home decor is definitely a great option.
Logically, their own money will first go to the necessities, so try and think outside the box and get them things that they wouldn’t necessarily buy themselves.
Fake plants, candles and general decorative items are great choices that are also cost effective and DIYable.
Pictured:
Kmart Candle Holders ($3-7)
Kmart Artificial Plants ($3-25)
Glasshouse Tahaa Mini Candle ($18.95)
Tech
Tech can be hit or miss depending on the person and what they already have, so again, try and think outside the box with this one.
Hard drives and headphones are always useful and will be appreciated, but you can also have a lot of fun with it-think drones, underwater cameras, and fitbits- this way, you’re providing them with opportunities for social activities.
Pictured:
Beats Headphones ($139.95-$499.95)
Organisation
Staying organised is one of the toughest parts of being a student and many of us *cough* me *cough* struggle quite a bit once the motivation starts to decrease.
Luxury planners, stationary and other organisational tools are really helpful and can make lovely gifts if you cater to the individuals’ needs.
Pictured:
Kikki K Large Textured Leather Personal Planner: Black ($79.95)
Text Books
I know what you’re thinking: ‘Claire… who wants to receive a text book for Christmas?’, but just hear me out.
Text books will always be one of the biggest expenses for any student, and finding the money to pay for them every semester can be incredibly stressful.
Book Depository is a great site which carries text books, fiction, and non fiction books at discounted prices, and is one of the student worlds’ best kept secrets. A gift card to this store or the particular students’ University book store will be extremely valuable once uni kicks off next year, and can make an excellent practical addition to any other item on this list.
At the end of the day, regardless of the cost, any giftee will be happy to receive anything, and practical gifts quickly become their favourites once they enter adulthood. So student gifting really is as simple as having a think about their circumstances and trying to fill a need.
Until tomorrow, ;).
