7 Genius Things to Send In a College Care Package for a Student You Already Miss — from Toiletries to Healthy Snacks


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Somehow you can’t believe this day has come even though you always knew it would: the day you dropped your baby off for their first official day as a college student and their new life as an independent grown-up-in-training. Whether you were inconsolable or absolutely elated to see them fly the nest, one thing’s for sure: you started missing them the moment you drove away.

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Believe it or not, they miss you too. Campus life can be a balancing act for kids living on their own for the first time without your support while juggling classes, homework, a social life and maybe even a part-time job. That’s why a college care package is not only a warm and welcome gesture, but it can also be a necessary boost to help them thrive.

College care package ideas run the gamut, and you know your child best. What’s going to make their face light up when they see it? Maybe it’s a snack they can only get from home or a tech item they forgot to pack. It could simply be a restock of their favorite toiletries or a creature comfort, like a super cozy set of pajamas to wear for an all-night study session. Here are a few brilliant thought-starters starting at just $7. The college care package itself? Priceless.

That’s It. Mango Blueberry Mini Fruit Bars

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You know they’re snacking their little hearts out late at night. But what exactly are they snacking on? They’re going to reach for whatever’s there so make sure it’s something both nutritious and delicious. Target has a slew of organic, individually wrapped snack options that require no refrigeration and travel well in a college care package. One of our favorites is That’s It mini fruit bars. They use only real fruits, and that’s it. This 10-pack will go fast, so thankfully it’s less than $1 a bar.

That’s It. Mango Blueberry Mini Fruit Bars – 10ct/7oz

Price: $8.99

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PajamaMania Cotton Flannel Long Sleeve Button-Down Pajamas

Winter’s going to come — and with it, cold, drafty dorm rooms where all-night cramming sessions will occur. Toss some hot chocolate mix and marshmallows in a box along with these “cozy, breathable” PajamaMania flannel pajamas made of 100 percent cotton. The brand offers a few fun patterns including cats, cardinals and this holiday-friendly red-and-white print that pops.

PajamaMania Cotton Flannel Long Sleeve Button-Down Pajamas in Cranberry Star

Price: $29.99

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Room Essentials Neon ‘Good Vibes’ Wall Sign

Keep the good vibes going all semester long for your own bright light with this Room Essentials neon wall sign from Target that adds a dose of cheer to their dorm. The LED-lit decor is easy to hang on the wall and is powered by an included USB cord. “Super fun way to light up a room,” wrote a fan.

Room Essentials Neon Wall Sign White

Price: $25

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Harry’s Razors Set with 5 Razor Blade Refills

It’s been a couple of weeks, so the old razor he packed in his bags must be dull by now. This razor set by the popular Harry’s is the whole kit and caboodle, with the razor handle, five blades, a blade cover and a bottle of shave gel. Save him a trip to the store and help him save face, too; no reason not to show up for a first date looking put together now.

Harry’s Razors Set with 5 Razor Blade Refills, Travel Blade Cover, 2 oz Shave Gel

Price: $19.99 $16.97

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Downy Infusions Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets, Calm, Lavender & Vanilla Bean

Doing their own laundry, possibly for the first time, requires a schedule and discipline. The right beautifully scented supplies help too. So consider sending over some detergent pods as well as this treat: lavender- and vanilla-scented dryer sheets by Downy. A little aromatherapy can be good for the nervous system and for warding off homesickness.

Downy Infusions Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets, Calm, Lavender & Vanilla Bean, 160 Ct

Price: $6.97

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Anker Portable Charger, 313 Power Bank

They’re running around campus,  trying to make it to class and other appointments on time and possibly not always finding the time to juice up their cell phones along the way, but if they get into the habit of charging this Anker portable charger every night, they’ll be able to charge up their phone fully more than twice while on the go. It’s a lifesaver from a respected brand. One student wrote, “I am starting my first semester of nursing school and since I will live in hospitals/on campus I really needed a way to charge my devices and this baby delivers. It fits great in my book bag and charges quickly. I can get 1 full charge of my galaxy S20 Ultra and my iPad with 1 charge.”

Anker Power Bank (PowerCore Slim 10K)

Price: $21.99 $12.97

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Room Essentials Patterned Angular Geometric Jacquard Faux Shearling Throw

A sense of style can be surprisingly comforting. It also gives your kid a chance to really express their individuality. Give them a head start —  and keep them comfy on lonely nights —  with this chic geometric faux shearling throw by Room Essentials that’s made for dorm life but is stylish enough  to transition to their first adult apartment too. “Super soft, good size and very pretty color and design,” one shopper wrote.

Room Essentials Patterned Angular Geometric Jacquard Faux Shearling Throw

Price: $15

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