Christmas for the College Kid

This is a guest post by Carly Kiba, a self-proclaimed dork that loves all things music. After moving from her parent’s home in Ohio to Pennsylvania with her fiance, she jumped head first into adulthood to create a frugal and fulfilling life.

Moving away from home can be both scary and exciting. Most of us have been there and remember how it feels to walk into the new space with not much more than a suitcase of clothes and a dream. You may have a child, or someone close to you that may recently be experiencing this same thing. This can offer a challenge this holiday season for gift ideas, especially when they might need so much, but you are on a limited budget. Don’t worry! We’re here to help ease those worries and help you with a few last minute ideas just in time for Christmas.

Getting in the Christmas Spirit

If your child has recently moved into a dorm or new home, their space may be lacking in festiveness. Filling it is last on their minds when they have other living costs to manage. While most kids aren’t worried about putting up a Christmas tree or stringing lights; these simple things will provide a feeling of home and comfort. So, let’s start with the tree. If they do not have one, that’s a good first choice. You can find trees at most retailers such as Walmart and Lowes. They supply the choice of both pre-lit and non, assorted colors and sizes ranging from 32″ to 6.5′ for $40 and under. Keep in mind that if the tree is not pre-lit, it would be polite to provide lights as well.

Now once the tree is taken care of, either by you or if they have one, they may need ornaments. These can be purchased and/or handed down. If you have some extra ornaments you don’t mind letting go of, perhaps a childhood favorite, considering giving those first. This will provide a nice personal touch. If you would prefer to purchase ornaments you can find them in all ranges of shops from second-hand stores, mall shops and retail stores. Most single ornaments can range from $1-$10 depending on location and style. You can also find sets of balls or other assortments for under $20 at most stores. If you are crafty, another option is handmade ornaments. However, if you are not crafty, but still wish to provide something a little more “put together,” a wonderful option is a cookie cutter. Just simple take a holiday shaped cutter, tie a piece of ribbon to the top and it becomes an instant ornament!

Aside from the tree and lights, most all other decorations range under $20 as well. These can range from wall hangings, window clings and table decorations. The options are many and easy to find at most stores and shops. In all cases, whether with ornaments, table top or other decorations, try to keep things mid-size and non-breakable. Since you don’t know where they may be placed or the kind of condition they may be kept in, delicate things may not be practical.

Gadgets and Gizmos

Most college kids want that new iPod or game system this year, and can leave a nasty mark in the budget. Fortunately, there are second-hand electronics stores like GameStop. These places can become your best friend this holiday season. These locations offer gently-used games, game systems and accessories for less than what you might find at other retailers. The amount differs depending on how new the product is from release, but you have the comfort of knowing that they will not sell anything that isn’t playable or usable, and you can always ask to look at it before purchasing. They also offer trade in discounts as well as new products if you prefer. While GameStop and places like it do not offer some items, like iPods, you can find MP3 players for the fraction of the cost that are very similar in function, such as the Samsung S3 4GB MP3 and Video Player ($69.99) as well as the SanDisk Sansa Fuze 4GB MP3 Player ($59.99).

If they are asking for a digital camera, electronic stores offer a wide range of styles and prices ranging from 3.1 megapixel camera for $42.99 to 9.0 megapixel camera for $69.99. Most websites are offering special holiday pricing, including shipping deals to make it to you in time for Christmas. Stores will usually offer insurance on the product for a small additional fee. Ask if they offer it on the particular product if they do not suggest it at the time of purchase. This is always a good idea for higher-end items in case of it breaking or malfunctioning.

Household Items

There are a lot of items that a college kid may need for their new space as far as appliances and household accessories go, but it’s important to remember what they will get use out of and the size of the space it is fitting in. Keeping in mind small and practical, some good choices here can include bedding sets, small appliances and other kitchen or bathroom items. If you do not know specifics about room size, stick with items that are universal and will go with something they might already have, such as Mainstays 200-thread count sheet sets, 3-piece towel sets or Simply Basic 12-piece Sampler Bath and Body Care Set. These products can be found in an assortment of colors, scents and size choices.

If you know they have a larger space to accommodate some smaller appliances or furniture, choice items would be items like coffee pots, blenders and small tables or chairs. The smaller items will tend to cost less and also take up less space. Depending on the individual, these gift ideas can include GE 5-cup digital coffee maker, Parsons end table or student desk, chair and lamp value bundle. Again, these and similar products come in a wide choice of colors and sizes.

Hopefully we’ve helped you add a few things to your shopping list and kept a few less worry lines off your brow. No matter what the budget or who the individual, try to keep in mind that it’s not totally impossible! Remember these simple pointers before making any purchase, practical, long term and fun, and when all else fails, gift cards! They may seem impersonal, but it’s a great way to show them you were thinking of them and also give them the freedom to get exactly what they want.

And remember, Have a safe and happy holiday season!

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