Christmas Gift Ideas for College Students on a Budget

By Abigail Reyes on December 19, 2013

As a college student on a college budget, it can be challenging to figure out how to afford gifts for your loved ones this Christmas. With textbooks to buy and fees to pay, who could blame us! Yet even though college students don’t have a lot of money to spend, we still want to give nice presents to our friends and family because it’s fun, and it feels good to give.

An important tip is to take advantage of sales in advance. Also, think about what you could get someone that has meaning or special for both you and them. Consider inside jokes, favorite colors, favorite animals, favorite activities, and hobbies. And most importantly, remember that the perfect gift comes from your heart, not your pocket.

What can a financially responsible, but broke, college student give this Christmas on a college budget?

Inexpensive jewelry: These days you can get really cute and inexpensive jewelry at stores like Forever21. They have the cutest pairs of earrings, necklaces, and rings for under $5.

Socks: There are so many fun options to choose from. You can get the fuzzy ones, the ones in crazy colors and silly patterns, and even socks that light up!

Winter essentials: Everyone loves a cute scarf, or a cute beanie and a nice pair of gloves.

College-themed gifts: Take advantage of on-campus sales and buy your loved ones a college-themed keychain, coffee mug, or t-shirt.

DIY gifts: Make your loved one something yourself! Can you take awesome pictures? Are you a painter? Can you bake delicious cookies? Maybe you can write a poem or a song for a loved one. Not only will you show off your skills, but you’ll also show the recipient that you put true thought and effort into their gift.

A framed picture: Give your friends or parents something memorable, such as a picture of both of you having fun together.

Give the gift of time: If money is especially tight for you, but you have some time to spare over break, then give the gift of time. Plan a nice walk with your loved ones, hang out with an old friend, or offer to babysit for your parents.

Give an experience: Take your parents to a local comedy show, or a musical. Or, if your mom has always wanted to go hiking, take her hiking. She will remember a great experience with you more than any gift!

Books: Check out the bargain section at the bookstore, and you are sure to find your book-loving friend a great novel or self-help book.

Simple is OK: Your gifts definitely don’t have to be large and expensive to be meaningful. Even a simple little gift can make someone’s day. Most people will understand that as a college student you are on a budget and money is tight for you. What really counts is the thought behind your gift, and not the price tag. So don’t put too much pressure on yourself! And remember that part of the fun of giving gifts is making/looking for them.

 

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