Health and Beauty Essentials

The first kit to consider is a health and beauty essentials set. This can include items like Crest toothpaste, Secret deodorant, Pantene shampoo, and more, all neatly arranged in a tote bag, a must-have for any student! Personalizing this kit with your graduate’s preferred products will make it even more special.

Sweet Treats Package

No care package is complete without some sweet indulgences. Whether you bake cookies or buy them from a bakery, these treats add a personal touch. Securely pack them in a plastic container, cushioning any extra space with paper towels, and wrap the whole thing in bubble wrap for protection. Additionally, Boxed.com is a great resource for sending essential snacks and treats. Consider including snacks like granola bars, microwave popcorn, and hot chocolate mixes, as well as quick meals such as instant oatmeal and soup, perfect for busy mornings and missed dining hall dinners. Don't forget mints and gum, which are always appreciated!

Fun and Games Kit

Include some fun board games and card games in a kit; these will surely bring joy to dorm life and create memorable moments with friends.

Gift Card Bundle

Consider adding a selection of gift cards to your care package, either through physical cards or digital options. Popular choices include major retailers like Target and Walmart, coffee shops like Starbucks, and local eateries such as Subway and Panera, along with the college bookstore.

Holiday Cheer Package

Festive items can bring a sense of home to students spending their first holiday away. Small decorations like a mini Christmas tree, a desktop menorah, or Halloween pumpkins filled with candy can brighten their space. Seasonal lights in colors like orange for Halloween or green for St. Patrick’s Day can also be a delightful addition.

Get Well/First Aid Kit

Creating a compact first-aid kit is a thoughtful gesture. Fill a container with essentials such as band-aids, antibiotic ointment, and Advil, along with items like gas relief tablets and a thermometer. Including a few COVID test kits and an instant ice pack can be lifesavers, too.

Cleaning Supplies Set

Dormitories often require cleaning supplies. Assemble a kit with multi-surface cleaner, paper towels, dust cloths, and electronics cleaner. Don’t forget to add an air freshener for a pleasant scent.

Here are a few more unique ideas:

• Hometown newspaper
• Car organizer
• Magazines
• Money-filled balloons

Miscellaneous Fun Gifts

Consider adding fun items like a Mickey Mouse clock, a mini pool table, a Rocketbook notebook for notes, or recipes for favorite family dishes. A leather wallet with a little cash tucked inside can also be a nice surprise.

Decorative Touches

Personalize their space with vinyl wall decals, a digital photo frame filled with pictures from home, or movie gift certificates for a fun night in. A good pair of headphones is always a welcome addition, too.

With these creative and budget-friendly ideas, you can celebrate your graduate’s accomplishments in a thoughtful way!