Christmas Gift Ideas for College Students: What They Really Want

When Christmas rolls around, so does the gift-giving season. But when you're looking for Christmas gift ideas for college students, you want to give them stuff they actually want.

Use these Christmas gifts for college students to get them the things they didn't even know they needed.

Gifts for the Cool Kids

When you want to give cool but useful gifts, consider the following:

1. Echo Dot. The advancement of artificial intelligence is making life a little bit easier on every level, and Amazon's Echo Dot is helping college students get work done. From learning a new language to reading audiobooks, this cool personal assistant helps college students save time on their studying sessions.

2. Knocki. Knocki is the quintessential gift for the cool kid who's too busy studying for exams to answer the door. This smart device makes it easy to turn any ordinary surface, such as a table or a wall, into a remote for your software or devices. Just attach the device to your door, and Knocki will send a message to your phone when someone knocks at the door.

3. Ostrich Pillow. As a college student, getting enough rest is as important as getting work done. With the Ostrich Pillow, scholars can get some peaceful shut-eye even when sitting upright.

4. SmartHalo. For the cycling college student, knowing where to go is essential for making it to class on time. SmartHalo turns any bicycle into a smart bike and offers GPS capabilities from the handlebar while enhancing safety.

Affordable Gift Options That Won't Break the Bank

You don't have to break the bank when you're trying to shop for the perfect Christmas gifts for college students. Here are some affordable options for gifts that college students can appreciate:

1. Hedgehog cardholder. Help college students stay organized at their desks with this quirky and inexpensive cardholder. It's useful for holding mail and important note cards in one place that you won't forget thanks to its cool design.

2. CATS poster. College students who love Broadway and furry friends with claws will appreciate a cool CATS poster. It's affordable and a great way to pay homage to an original masterpiece.

3. Weekender. Opt for a cool duffel bag from Target that college students can carry on impromptu trips.

Want to get affordable gifts for everyone on your list? Check out these cheap gift ideas.

Non-traditional Gifts for the Non-traditional Student

While these gifts may be non-traditional for the average college student, they can make life a little be easier:

1. Leather cord wraps. Everyone needs to be organized, and it's important that college students keep their cords under wraps. Instead of opting for the standard wiry cord wraps, upgrade the look with some sturdy Saddleback leather cord wraps.

2. Grown-up blanket. For the college student who's ready to take "adulting" seriously but still needs to enjoy their nap time, take your pick of these cozy blankets.

3. Sheet masks. Every college student needs a way to unwind and relax. Sheet masks are the new craze that can help them do it, and they make the perfect gift when bought as a set like the sheet mask sets from Beauteque.

4. Vacation. Take relaxing to the max, and surprise your college student with a vacation. Don't forget to check their school calendar to ensure they are off during the dates you schedule the trip.

Give 'Em What They Want

Don't waste time on gifts that college students won't use or won't want. Follow this gift guide for some cool ideas to get you started with finding gifts college students will love this holiday season.