100+ Wonderfully Thoughtful Ideas For A College Care Package
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The Best DIY College Care Package Ideas
As you ponder what to include in a thoughtful college care package, you’ve landed on the perfect page for inspiration! Your student will surely appreciate the variety of ideas we’re about to share.
Care packages are an excellent way to show your loved one that you’re thinking of them and missing them too. In a sense, they’re like a warm hug in a box – a tangible expression of love and support.
Sending surprise mail from home can be a wonderful pick-me-up for college students feeling homesick. Who wouldn’t love receiving a care package filled with feel-good treats that bring a smile to their face?
The beauty of care packages is that they don’t have to be elaborate or complicated. The simple act of making someone’s day (or week) can be incredibly rewarding and easy to achieve.
What should I include?
As you consider what to include in a care package for college students, keep in mind that they’re still developing their independence and aren’t yet established adults. Sending everyday essentials can make a significant difference in their daily lives.
By packing items like razors or dryer sheets, you’re essentially giving your child one less expense to worry about. For cash-strapped college students, this relief is truly appreciated!
While tuition fees might be out of reach, a thoughtful care package can still have a profound impact. The key is to strike a balance between fun and practical items.
When selecting treats for your recipient, don’t overlook the importance of including some everyday essentials. These little things we often take for granted can greatly enhance a college student’s quality of life.
To help you get started on creating the perfect package, I’ve compiled over 100 care package ideas specifically tailored to college students.
100+ Ideas for a College Care Package
Self Care
When it comes to college life, stress is a common companion. However, incorporating self-care into your daily routine can significantly alleviate these feelings of anxiety. Including some thoughtful items in care packages can go a long way in promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. Some fantastic additions include scrunchies, which have made a stylish comeback, mud masks that provide an intense detoxifying experience, sheet masks for hydration and nourishment, Epsom salt baths for muscle relaxation, bath fizzers that offer a calming soak, sugar scrubs for exfoliation and skin softening, microfiber hair wraps for effortless styling, CBD-infused lotions, balms, or salves to ease tension, nail polish for a quick pick-me-up, and neck pillows for a cozy nap. Additionally, multivitamins and hair, skin, and nails vitamins can provide an extra layer of support for overall well-being.
Comfort
Surround your students with a sense of comfort and relaxation by incorporating these warm and fuzzy ideas into your teaching approach.
One way to do this is by using sensory stimulation. For instance, you could bring in heated blankets or provide plush Snuggies for students to snuggle up in during quiet time or while reading.
Another option is to create a cozy atmosphere through clothing. Consider allowing students to wear lounge wear, such as sweats or pajama pants, on certain days or during special activities.
Finally, add some warmth to your classroom by providing slippers for students to wear. Not only will this keep their feet warm, but it can also help them feel more grounded and focused.
Snacks & Treats
When it comes to sending care packages to college students, it’s hard to go wrong with snacks and treats that bring back memories of home cooking. As students juggle busy schedules and limited cooking facilities, convenient snacks are a huge hit. So, what do you know about your student’s snack preferences? Throw in their favorite goodies! If you’re known for whipping up homemade treats, those would be perfect additions too.In addition to personal favorites, here are some popular snack and food ideas that are sure to please:Kind bars, protein bars, RXBARS (a great option, but maybe not always budget-friendly), Larabars, Cliff Bars, and Boom Chicka Pop – my personal favorite bagged popcorn. Instant Oatmeal Cups with added protein are another hit, as well as Brookside Chocolates (send when the weather’s cooler to avoid melting mishaps).Other crowd-pleasers include jerky or jerky bars, Squeezable Applesauce for on-the-go munching, Lenny & Larry’s Complete Cookies, Barkthins (just be mindful of melting issues), Pumpkin seeds, Fruit snacks, and Dried Chili Mangos (Trader Joe’s is the place to find these tasty treats!).Fruit Leather, Portable Soup for those chilly winter months, Nut Butter Packets for a mess-free snack, Dang Coconut Chips (the absolute best!), Cheddar Crisps for keto dieters, Granola, Pretzel Crisps, Harvest Snaps, Popchips, Seaweed Snacks for healthy munching on-the-go, Nuts, Pocky, and of course, Candy – your student’s favorite kind can really brighten their day! Theater box candy is the perfect addition to a care package. And don’t forget gum or mints to round out the snack fest!
Homemade Food Ideas
In the world of baking, there’s no shortage of sweet treats that bring people together. From classic favorites like cereal bars and rice krispie treats, to healthier options like banana chips and trail mix, these recipes are perfect for satisfying your snack cravings or sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re in the mood for something no-bake like cookies or homemade bread like banana or zucchini loaves, there’s a recipe out there that’s sure to please. So why not start your journey with some awesome cereal bar recipes, followed by no-bake cookies, homemade bread, trail mix, and of course, rice krispie treats? The possibilities are endless! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our 200+ yellow gift ideas perfect for a box of sunshine.
Drinks
While not everyone may start their day with a cup of coffee, most people have a favorite beverage they enjoy on-the-go. For those who don’t drink coffee, there are plenty of other options to satisfy their cravings. And when it comes to sending treats in the mail, these ideas are as easy as can be.
Consider gifting hot cocoa, tea, or instant coffee packets like Starbucks VIA for a quick pick-me-up. Other popular options include Mio, Crystal Light, and Hawaiian Punch Packets – all of which can be easily mailed to friends and family. And why not throw in a special mug or insulated tumbler to make the gift even more thoughtful? With these ideas, you’ll have everyone’s taste buds covered.
Fun Things
Adding a touch of fun and relaxation to a care package is a thoughtful gesture that college students will surely appreciate. Among the goodies, adult coloring books are a hit for their stress-relieving benefits and nostalgic appeal. Other fun inclusions might be bubble wrap for impromptu popping sessions, slime for creative play, or squishy stress balls like a cute cat figurine. For more adventurous types, consider adding a portable hammock for impromptu lounging, a wireless speaker for jamming out to favorite tunes, or wireless earbuds for a hands-free listening experience. To show school spirit, include a shirt from the college or their favorite team. And why not get into the holiday spirit by tossing in an ugly Christmas sweater for them to rock near winter break?
Dorm/Apartment
Dorm rooms and first apartments can often lack personality, making them feel dull and uninviting. To help college students bring some excitement to their space, consider sending thoughtful care packages with unique decor items. Here are a few ideas: Air fresheners in the form of scented beads or essential oil sprays can provide a pleasant aroma without breaking fire safety rules. For a more functional gift, consider a pocket printer that allows students to print photos from their phone. Other fun options include string lights, a felt letter board with a humorous message, and a cinema light box for added ambiance. For a touch of nature, consider sending small plants like succulents, air plants, or cacti, which are low-maintenance and easy to care for. A small salt lamp can also add warmth and coziness to the room. If you really want to get creative, consider sending macrame wall decor, which is currently trending. Finally, don’t forget about practical items like blackout curtains to help students sleep better and holiday decorations to make their space feel more festive.
Good Books
A thoughtful book gift can bring joy and entertainment to a college student’s downtime. Consider sending one that has been on their reading list for a while, giving them something to look forward to outside of academics. Alternatively, if they’re navigating their freshman year, a book that offers guidance and support can help alleviate nerves and make the transition smoother. If you’re looking for some great recommendations, here are a few books that have proven helpful: The Ultimate College Survival Kit, Stuff Every College Student Should Know, 175+ Things to Do Before You Graduate, and College Hacks. These resources provide valuable insights and practical tips for students as they adjust to college life.
Personal Care
When venturing out independently for the first time, it’s easy to overlook certain essentials in your packing process. As a college student, you may not have the financial means to purchase everything on your list immediately. Little luxuries like dental floss might fall by the wayside due to budget constraints. That’s where thoughtful gestures from loved ones can make all the difference. Practical items such as razors, deodorant, and body wash or soap are always a welcome addition in a care package. In fact, my own experience with receiving Method body wash on my birthday showed me just how much joy these small gifts can bring. Similarly, makeup wipes can be a lifesaver when sharing communal bathrooms, allowing for quick cleanups with ease.
Cleaning
When it comes to cleaning supplies, even the essentials can feel like a stretch on a college budget. However, having the right products can make all the difference in keeping your space clean and comfortable. For me, there’s something nostalgic about coming home to freshly laundered clothes that smell like Gain. It’s a small indulgence that brings back memories of simpler times. In reality, though, it’s not just about the laundry detergent – it’s about having the right tools for the job. Take Tide-to-go, for instance. This portable solution has been a lifesaver for me in more situations than I can count. And let’s not forget Wet Ones for those impromptu messes, Disinfecting Wipes that make quick work of cleaning up spills, Laundry Pods that simplify the washing process, and Laundry Scent Boosters that allow you to customize your fresh laundry experience with scents reminiscent of home. Then there are Dryer Sheets or Dryer Balls that keep your clothes soft and static-free, Wrinkle Release Spray that eliminates the need for ironing, and Keychain Hand Sanitizer that keeps germs at bay when soap and water aren’t readily available.
Get Well Items
When your child is feeling under the weather or you want to take preventative measures against illness, having a well-stocked medicine cabinet can be a lifesaver – especially for college students who may not have access to a car or a lot of money. A few essential items that can make a big difference in keeping your child comfortable and healthy include bandages for minor scrapes, Yin Chiao herbal tablets that are renowned for their ability to prevent sickness during cold and flu season, cough drops to soothe a sore throat, tissues to blow their nose, Emergen-C vitamin supplements to boost their immune system, lip balm to keep their lips moisturized, over-the-counter medication like Excedrin or Tums to alleviate headaches and heartburn, and extra warm socks to keep their toes cozy. Of course, every child is different, so it’s also a good idea to stock up on anything else that your child finds particularly comforting when they’re feeling unwell.
School Supplies
As you consider how to support your college student, it’s essential to ensure they have a well-stocked arsenal of school supplies. No one wants to be caught off guard without a crucial tool when working on an assignment. Fortunately, the items listed below are sure to find a use – either with your student or their peers who may also benefit from them.
A few essential supplies include pens and pencils for note-taking, a planner to help manage time effectively, highlighters to emphasize important information, notebook paper for writing notes, notebooks for in-depth learning, index flash cards for quick referencing, and sticky notes with flags that are perfect for studying. Don’t forget Sharpies for adding the final touches to projects.
By providing these must-haves, you can help your college student stay organized, focused, and productive throughout their academic journey.
Personal Safety Devices
When sending care packages to college students, it’s natural to avoid thinking about potential safety risks. However, being proactive can bring peace of mind for both you and your student. A thoughtful inclusion in these packages could be a personal safety device. While no one likes to consider the worst-case scenario, having these devices on hand can provide a sense of security. Consider gifting items like pepper spray, tasers, or self-defense keychains – sturdy options like the latter can be particularly reassuring.
Other Useful Things
If you want to elevate your care package game, consider adding these unique items that cater to the practical needs of college students.
A Tile tracker is an ingenious gift for keeping tabs on misplaced essentials like keys, wallets, backpacks, and more. The related blog post provides 5 genius uses for Tile trackers in a college setting.
For a stationery solution, consider gifting a charging station perch that offers additional outlets, surge protection, and a phone holder. This thoughtful addition ensures devices stay charged while keeping them organized.
Another practical gift is an extra-long charging cable, which tackles the age-old problem of outlets being too far from the bed. Say goodbye to tangled cords and hello to hassle-free recharging.
Of course, cash or gift cards are always appreciated, as they provide a tangible boost to a college student’s budget. It doesn’t have to be a significant amount – even an extra $10 can make a world of difference in managing daily expenses.
Conclusions on College Care Packages Ideas
When it comes to assembling thoughtful care packages for college students, these ideas provide a solid starting point. However, we’re eager to hear about your go-to items and experiences. Please feel free to share your favorite treats, trinkets, and treasures that bring joy to both the giver and receiver in the comments below!
More gift ideas for college students:
As the seasons change, it’s time to think outside the box (or care package) for loved ones. Whether you’re a college student looking to brighten up your dorm room or a parent wanting to send some love to your kid away at school, these 22 Easter-themed care package ideas are sure to bring joy. From sweet treats to fun games and activities, we’ve got the perfect collection of goodies to make any Easter basket feel like a treasure trove.
What to Put in a Care Package
Meet Charlie Lake, a seasoned blogger and expert on all things college life. A 2015 graduate with a wealth of knowledge to share, Charlie is the co-founder of College Life Made Easy, a student lifestyle site dedicated to making the college experience less stressful and more successful. Her expertise has been featured in major publications such as Redfin and College Ave Student Loans, among others. As a seasoned blogger, Charlie regularly writes about topics including college tips, organization strategies, scholarships, dorm room ideas, and creative DIY projects like Halloween costumes and care packages. With her book ‘175+ Things to Do Before You Graduate College’ under her belt, Charlie is the ultimate guide for navigating the ups and downs of campus life.