Better Than Ramen: 20 Awesome Holiday Gifts for College Kids

The life of a college student is not easy — there are term papers, sleep depravation, beer bong hangovers, the trying-not-to-hear-your-roommate-snoring-while-you’re-studying aggravation, the subsisting on endless cups of ramen noodles, and the dealing with the ensuing MSG-induced anxiety attacks (or maybe that was just me?).

Let’s face it, even though they’re almost fully-fledged grown ups, there is probably no family member more deserving of some holiday gifting love than a college kid. Before long, they will be on their way back to campus having swiped Mom’s last roll of TP. But let’s take a moment to indulge them anyway, shall we?

This cinema-grade, panoramic "point-of-view" action camera makes film school practically obsolete, and the entry-level price tag is nice, too. Think of all the adventures they can capture with it.

What every coed needs: super cozy slippers for lounging at the quad. Plus, every student needs a cute foot cover for padding back and forth from the communal bathroom to their dorm room.

These wireless, Bluetooth-enabled headphones come in an array of fun colors, and the ear cups are extra cushy for extended listening. Study sessions have never been so stylish.

This retro alarm clock from the master timepiece makers at Newgate has style for days and will ensure your college kid doesn’t miss morning trig ever again.

Give the gift of Zipcar! The car-sharing company is now available in more than 500 universities. What beats wheels when you want ‘em? Certainly not fruitcake.

This chunky-knit beanie with a cute pompom topper is ideal for Rilke-loving lit students. Hey, they need something to help them bear the cold while walking to class!

"Vibes speak louder than words." Yup, this tote has perfect messaging for exam time. Plus, you can fit everything from your textbook to your chapstick to your wallet in this bag.

So soft and luxurious — better pair the blanket with the alarm clock above or they might sleep in.

No cable? No worries: This TV gives you access to 4,000 streaming channels. They'll have a hard time leaving the dorm to go out with this TV calling their name.

Spare the earth another paper cup and cram your way through finals at the same time! This adorable Kate Spade Thermal Mug is perfect for coffee, tea, and everything in between.

Because deep down we are all still a kid at heart — or, in this case, a friendly monster with googly eyes. It's the perfect way to relax after a day spent in the library.

A coffee maker, toaster oven, griddle all in one — what more do you need?! (Well, a mini fridge would be great too, actually, if you want to be really nice.)

An all-enveloping coat you can sleep in and wear to class — leisurewear nirvana! Plus, the roomy hood is convenient for tuning out when you need a moment.  

In the digital universe, the iPad pro is the ultimate gift that keeps on giving. Pair it with a Smart Keyboard for total note-taking mastery.

Beat school stress with some quality skin care. This Kiehl's starter kit gets guys on the right path, so they can look and feel great.

A stylish agenda for keeping track of important things (like the next school break). Features day-to-day sections plus at-a-glance calendars and a pocket inside the back cover holds paper mementos.

Who doesn't love a badass gym bag?

This heathered pullover basic sweater will get so much wear, as it works almost all school year. (Let's just hope it gets washed, too, at least once a semester.)