30 Essentials We Should All Send Our Kids To College With

30. Diffuser

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An aromatherapy diffuser offers a tranquil and calming atmosphere in your kid's hostels. It is a thoughtful addition that encourages more extended moments of relieving stress and contributes to their well-being. Apart from all these, a diffuser helps, especially in cold weather, especially during the fall season. It will help to keep the skin moist and avoid dryness.

29. Small portable whiteboard

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You've heard that a vision board helps one visualize their dreams and that most of them come true. Isn't that right? This is the same with students. A whiteboard will help your college kid conceptualize ideas, conduct brainstorming sessions, and engage in interactive study sessions. This versatile tool fosters a more immersive and engaging learning experience that promotes better understanding and retention of your child's learning.

28. Reusable utensil kit

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A reusable utensil set comprising a stainless steel straw, fork, knife, and spoon may offer a nudge towards adopting eco-conscious behaviors while reducing plastic consumption. Offering such essentials to your college kid encourages them to make sustainable choices in their daily routines. It eventually contributes to environmental well-being and raises awareness about the impact of disposable materials on the planet. It also enhances their need to improve their cooking skills and healthy eating habits.

27. DIY Repair Kit

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Furnishing your college kid with a fundamental repair tool kit containing vital items such as a screwdriver set, pliers, and measuring tape can empower them to manage minor repairs effectively. Before your kid leaves, make sure they know how to use the tools to make necessary adjustments within their living environment. This practical toolkit promotes self-sufficiency and imparts valuable hands-on skills that contribute to a well-rounded campus experience. It also enhances their security since they don't have to call in a stranger to fix minor repairs in their space.

26. Photography essentials

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Students with some skills, such as photography, should be encouraged to enhance their skills. Therefore, providing your college kid with a camera, or a versatile tripod can spark their passion for photography and help them capture their cherished campus memories. These tools empower them to experiment with angles and compositions, ensuring they can freeze moments in time creatively and precisely. Some of these skills can even lead to a side hustle they can earn from.

25. Indoor plants

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For your college kids room décor, you can incorporate some indoor plants that will be great for the beauty of their rooms. Indoor plants like succulents or air-purifying varieties can liven up their living space, thus improving air quality. They can also add a touch of nature to the surroundings. If they are nature lovers, you can ask them what they want for an indoor plant and offer what they suggest.

24. Outdoor gear

                  

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Your college kid will eventually do some outdoor activities while in school. Therefore, gifting outdoor equipment like hiking boots, a camping hammock, or a portable grill can serve them well. It is wise to encourage them to participate in outdoor activities for their mental and physical well-being. The outdoor gear will encourage your kid to explore and enjoy recreational activities.

23. Wellness essentials

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Some of the methods one can use to maintain their well-being are by use of meditation apps or relaxation guides. Providing a subscription to such apps or some guides can encourage your college kid to stay healthy. Consider adding a yoga mat to support their mental health and encourage them to reduce stress during their college journey. You can also ask them what helps them manage stress and consider getting them that.

22. Travel essentials

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Traveling is inevitable when your college kid is in school. They will go on school trips during breaks or visit friends, among other traveling adventures. Therefore, you should consider some traveling essentials to streamline their traveling. Offering some things like a suitable travel adapter, a toiletry kit, and a strong backpack are some of the travel essentials you can consider.

21. Safety items

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Making sure that your college kid is safe isn't some form of paranoia or being too overprotective. It simply means you care. Therefore, providing some safety items like pepper spray, a personal alarm, or a portable door lock will keep you at ease and enhance your child's security. This is also essential if your kid lives alone or in shared spaces.

20. A portable charger or power bank

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Many students at this age spend much time on their phones or laptops. This means that they will need to keep charging their devices regularly. So if you would love to contact your college kid regularly, a portable charger or power bank can ensure their devices stay charged even on the go. These items can also ensure they are well-connected in places with limited access to power outlets.

19. Fitness equipment

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You might have noticed that your child doesn't like exercising, but surprisingly, many of them will start doing so once they are in college. Providing your college kid with fitness equipment like resistance bands or yoga mats is an excellent idea. Also, consider adding some gym clothing to the list of fitness equipment. Doing this can encourage them to work on their physical well-being in college.

18. Art supplies

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You have probably seen your kid's art and creativity hobbies. If your kid is interested in arts, you can treat this as a chance to present them with a gift they will love, either art supplies or craft materials. Try to get them something that suits their needs and quenches their art and creativity thirst. If they are into music, get them something they've always wanted.

17. Reusable water bottle

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As a parent, you are not in a position to keep reminding your kid to drink water. Therefore, a reusable water bottle is an efficient and environmentally friendly method always to remind students to stay hydrated in college. Get them to choose a bottle they will love using. You can get a cute or sporty design for your college kid. All in all, staying hydrated is essential for focus and well-being.

16. Laundry products

          

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Your child is going to do regular laundry on their own in college. Therefore, equipping them with laundry essentials such as detergent and fabric softener can help them when doing laundry. In addition, instructions on how to do laundry will help them become more independent and maintain clean and fresh clothing. Doing their laundry is also one way of helping them to become aware of their responsibilities without relying on anyone.

15. Cooking essentials

                   

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Equipping your child with cooking essentials like a microwave, some cooking utensils, and some easy-to-make recipes can greatly encourage healthier eating habits. This is especially important if they will not share an apartment with their peers. Instead of spending lots of money eating outside, they can cook at home. You can also ensure they have enough groceries and other food to cook when in school.

14. Self-help resources

                  

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College is a time of transition and adjustment for many students. During this time, you can provide essential resources such as self-help books. Offering them information on where they can have proper counseling services is also a good resource. You can also provide information about local support groups around their college to help your kid navigate the emotional challenges they may experience.

13. Bus pass or bike

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This is another essential to ensure your kid has before they join college. If you are still determining the transport means they will use, consider contacting the school first and asking about the information. If the college is in an area with reliable public transportation, providing a bus pass can help them navigate the city more easily. Alternatively, consider getting them a bike that can offer a convenient way to get around campus or the nearby areas.

12. Health Insurance Information

            

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Health insurance information is so important, but many tend to ignore it. If your kid doesn't have one, you can consider getting one before enrolling in college. Ensuring your kid has access to their health insurance information is crucial in case they need medical attention in school. It keeps you and them feeling safe and ready if a health need arises. You can keep the information among the other essential documents they may have.

11. A bag

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It might seem like an obvious one, but many need to remember. A sturdy and comfortable backpack comes in handy when carrying books, laptops, notebooks, and other essentials. It helps keep their belongings safe and easily accessible throughout the day. For a backpack, consider asking them to come along as you shop so they can choose what they love, and you are guaranteed that they'll use it.

10. First aid kit

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Now that you are not with your college kid, you may need to get them a first aid kit because accidents can happen. Ensure they know how each piece of equipment in the kit works. A good kit should include painkillers, nail clippers, antibiotic ointment, stain removers, hand sanitizer, and more. Fortunately, you can get these tools and create a kit that suits your kid.

9. Noise-canceling headphones

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Headphones are a necessity when it comes to learning in college. Your college kid will need these while they study in the dorm, bus, coffee shops, and coffee shops. They will allow them to learn even in a noisy place. They can also use them when meditating, de-stressing, or wanting to sleep without the noise around them. You can let them choose the types of noise-canceling headphones they would like.

8. Desk lamp

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You might not think it necessary, but a desk lamp is a college essential. It is a must-have for those late nights your child might spend working on their term papers. Having ample lighting at their desk is better than having to strain their eyes while they burn the midnight oil. A desk lamp will allow them to study at night without having to switch on the main lights and wake the rest of their roommates.

7. Confidential papers

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What are those essential documents your college kid needs? Are these documents ready for college entry? Before your child heads off to college, have papers like their social security card, driver's license, or ID card, and all their banking information ready and packed. Pack their essential documents in a different bag. Without them, your student won't be able to register or pay for anything.

6. Shower tote

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A shower tote is a small bag in which you put all your bathing products. With such a bag, you don't have to carry all your bath products with your hands. Something may end up dropping. To save your college kid from such embarrassment, consider getting them the shower tote. It's a handy and responsible way to keep all their bathing stuff together and avoid accidents.

5. A pair of flip flops

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Dorm bathrooms are normally shared and might not be cleaned regularly, so in most cases, they may be so unhygienic to walk in barefoot. Therefore it's a good idea for your freshman child to have a pair of flip-flops to wear when they take a shower. These will not only keep their feet safe from the yucky bacteria, but they will also help them walk around the dorm. Fortunately, flip-flops are both easily available and very affordable.

4. Bath towels

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At home, you might share some family bath towels  with your freshman, but they can't do the same with their roommates, right? Therefore, it's a good idea to get them their own set of towels and bedsheets. Bath towels are a bit bigger than your ordinary face towels; they typically measure around 35" x 60" compared to the usual 27" x 52". Due to their size, bath towels are so good at concealing the body, thus allowing your freshman to avoid accidentally showing too much after they get out of the shower.

3. A personal computer or laptop

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A personal computer or a laptop is an essential tool for college work. Most students at this age may already have one. However, If your child still needs a computer, consider getting one as they join college. There may indeed be computer labs on campus. However, they're only sometimes open, and your student will at one time need a computer for their schoolwork. They may also need it for connecting with friends as well.

2. Hangers and racks

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Most first-year students might end up leaving their clothes on the floor. It is what most kids their age would do, and getting them to organize their clothes can be a battle. However, it's a good idea to pack clothes on hangers and racks. You might be surprised that living independently tends to make them more responsible. Having hangers and racks helps keep their space organized.

1. Alarm clock

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Now that you won't be around, ensure your new college student doesn't miss morning classes by sleeping in. Ensure that they have an alarm clock. Many students at this age tend to stay up late at night but find it hard to wake up early enough. You often have to wake them up, but now let an alarm clock do the job for you. Surprisingly when they're on their own, they'll respect it.