It’s always bittersweet sending off our daughter to another year at college. While we are always excited for her, we are also sad knowing we will miss her presence at home every day. But I do look forward to sending her care packages from home throughout the year. Here are some great ideas for sending a fall college care package to your favorite scholar!
College Care Package: 7 Ideas
Every September, the college sends out information about purchasing pre-made college care packages. They are available to commemorate various events throughout the academic year such as move-in or final exams. While this is certainly an option, I much prefer to craft my own. Creating a college care package is fun to do, can be completely personalized, and is so appreciated!
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Choose one or a combination of these 7 thoughtful ideas that I know your students will love to receive:
Idea #1: Snacks
Include their favorite homemade treat or maybe purchase some good quality chocolate from a local candy store. Healthy snacks also make great gift ideas. Even their favorite soft drinks (my daughter loves LaCroix Pamplemousse) will work!
Idea #2: Gift Cards
What college student doesn’t need some extra cash? Gift cards for area restaurants, national book stores, and local stores may not be the most unique gift but they will definitely be used!
Idea #3: Activities
If your son or daughter enjoys a particular hobby, send something you know they will enjoy. Some ideas include drawing pencils, planner supplies, reading materials, or playing cards.
Idea #4: Photo Gifts
Family photos, personalized mugs, and picture frames always make great gifts. If you are sending a birthday gift, maybe splurge on a new instant camera or a mini photo printer.
Idea #5: Room Decor
Changing up their room decor every season is fun and festive. Decorative string lights and other seasonal items can really make their dorm room inviting. I especially love paper napkins with fun designs. In fact, I include a set in every care package I send!
Idea #6: Self-Care
College students need TLC, especially when they are feeling under the weather or are studying hard for exams. Cozy socks, a new bathrobe, or a throw blanket can give extra comfort. Face masks, soap, shaving cream, and other toiletries will remind them to take some time out of their studies for some much-needed self-care!
Idea #7: Plants
A little bit of green makes a room come alive! Live plants and fresh flowers improve air quality too!
Have fun decorating your care package! Use tissue paper or shred when packing your items. Colorful wrapping is another nice touch. And don’t forget to include a hand-written card or note!
College Care Package: Inspiration
Last year my daughter shared space with three girlfriends. I think it is always nice to send a little something for all of the roommates to enjoy. Since they share a common area with a television/DVD player, I thought it would be fun to host a Halloween Movie Night. I chose a fun (not scary!) movie along with popcorn and theatre-type packaged candy for each of the girls.
Also included were 4 skin facial masks, some Halloween-themed napkins, and a few decorated pumpkins to set the mood. Extra candy from a favorite local candy shop completed the care package!
If you have a son, the package contents can easily be adjusted. Maybe swap in a different movie. Instead of facial masks, some shaving cream in orange packaging might be fun.
Scented room sprays are another great addition since most colleges do not allow candles in the dorms. My daughter loves using her diffuser. I plan on purchasing these fall-scented essential oils and surprising her with them when she comes home for a visit!
You will be so happy when you hear how much your son or daughter enjoyed receiving their care package! I think a gift from home can really brighten up your student’s day.
Please share your ideas you have for a college care package in the comments below!
