The 32 Best Gifts for College Freshmen They'll Actually Use

Contrary to popular belief, most college students wouldn't mind an ~upgrade~ from their usual Ramen noodle dinner or worn-out backpack. College freshmen will need a lot of stuff to get them ready for the next four years, from dorm supplies to everyday items. And prepping for college can be super expensive, so any useful gifts will be really appreciated. So now is the perfect time to get that college (or soon-to-be) student in your life a gift that gets them excited for what's to come.

Small gestures can go a long way, so consider upgrading their dorm room coffee maker or gifting them a cookbook full of easy and fast recipes. You could also surprise them with a manicure starter kit that'll help them save money or a bedside shelf to keep their space tidy and cute. To make it easier for you to find the perfect gift, we’ve put together a list of 32 practical yet thoughtful gifts for the college-bound kid.