Great American-Made Gifts For College Students
With the holidays approaching, we have gifts, sweet treats to look forward to, and a visit from the college students. All the not-so-young kids choosing their paths for the future are home to visit and unwind after a long semester, and we know you’re excited to see them!
Just because we’re happy to have them back doesn’t mean we’re not scrambling for gift ideas. Kids are easy—they see a toy online, and they need to have it.
College students, though, are coming into adulthood and have their interests and lives ahead of them. That’s not something essential gift guides prepare you for. That is why we put together a set of the best American-made bedding and other items for you to choose from that your college student will love!
For many students, college is the first authentic taste of independence after high school. Some college students may be self-efficient and thrive off this newfound freedom, while others struggle to find their place. Whatever it may be, a gift from the heart will always mean the most.
Show You Care with American-Made Gifts
Gifting is about thought and appreciation. No matter what you’re giving or who you’re giving to, the important part is giving with the best intentions.
While many college students are on their own for the first time, they may need more necessities or essentials. Things like bedding, kitchenware, or even luggage are thoughtful gifts that show you care.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of the five best gifts to buy a college student—to help you shop for American-owned companies, and to help you find practical gifts that a college kid would love.
Authenticity 50
Bedding is a necessity that only some consider. Sure, a blanket, pillows, whatever—but did you know there are many different types of sheets and pillowcases? Thread counts, cotton blends, and so many different things to consider when shopping!
Authenticity 50 is an American-owned brand specializing in bedding and bath goods, like towels, sheets, and pillows.
They’ve been featured on ABC World News and the Los Angeles Times. Best of all, their heritage blankets are the 2022 Good Housekeeping Best Blanket award winner!
- Founded in 2015
- Based In Vancouver, WA
The best gift, though, would be their signature sheets. College students can sleep peacefully on these light and airy sheets that keep them more relaxed in the summer yet warmer in the winter.
These sheets are made in the United States from the farm to your bed. They’re grown on American soil, woven in Georgia, and then hand-sewn in New Jersey.
Not only does this product support local American businesses, but it’s also a comfort all college students will appreciate. The signature sheets are available in twin and twin XL sizes, meaning it’s a perfect gift for college kids who want to make their college dorms feel a bit cozier. Pair it with a weighted blanket, and you have the perfect holiday gift!
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Roam Luggage
Everyone needs a sturdy suitcase, but college students may need it more than anyone, given their travels.
While most students stay in the state when picking a university to attend, they still stay in dorm rooms on campus, meaning they have to move all their things in and out each year.
Roam Luggage specializes in suitcases that are not only built to order but built to last.
- Founded in 2017
- Based in New York, NY
Every college student needs a large carry-on, whether for a spring break getaway or just feeling a little homesick. The hardshell design is durable and lightweight, making it the perfect carry-on for any trip, long or short.
Everything from the wheels to the handles is entirely customizable, which means your college student can have a carry-on just as unique as they are.
Roam’s carry-on makes the perfect gift for any student, no matter the reason. Whether it’s to help them pack up for school or to study abroad, these carry-ons are waterproof and made from recycled materials.
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Red Land Cotton
Nothing feels better on the skin than pure cotton. American-grown spun and sewn cotton is precisely what Red Land Cotton intended to provide to fellow Americans. It’s a simple luxury that we appreciate and use daily.
- Founded in 1983
- Based in Moulton, AL
And now, this gift can be given to the college kids in our lives to give them a taste of home. After all, what’s better than stepping out of the shower and drying off with a fresh, clean towel?
Red Land Cotton towels are on another level of excellence. Their cotton bath towel sets make the perfect gifts for anyone, especially college students that are on their own for the first time and need their linens.
Their towels are the only two-ply bath towels made in the USA! They’re soft, more durable, and more absorbent than most towels.
This is an excellent gift for a college student. Each set has two towels, two washcloths, and two hand towels. The best part is that you can choose between towels or bath sheets if you prefer towels the size of a throw blanket!
Whatever you choose, you’re still getting a durable set that will last your college student quite some time.
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Solmate
Socks may seem like an ingenuine gift at first, but to college students who have to walk across campus in the winter to get to class, thick socks are perfect! Plus, it’s still more personable than a gift card by itself.
Solmate is a company that makes the coziest socks possible. The fun patterns and matching accessories like hats and scarves take fun, fashion, and warmth to the next level. This company initially started as a small business run out of a house by a woman that believed whacky and mismatched socks were best.
Solmate prides itself on ethical and sustainable business practices, which means its business keeps American families in mind. All employees are paid a living wage and receive great medical benefits.
Not only does Solmate fight to keep America beautiful for future generations, but they strive to support hardworking families like yours!
- Founded in 2000
- Based in Portland, Oregon
Their nutmeg crew socks not only support our country but also show your support for the college student you give them to. These socks are warm and comfortable but machine washable, meaning they’re ready for whatever life throws. The design of the nutmeg socks is also available in different sock styles, as well as beanies and scarves.
Trekking across a college campus can take a lot of preparation work. Bunding up and facing the elements for a quiz or silly project is the reality all college students face. Help keep their toes warm and dry with a pair of Solmate socks so they can keep their mind occupied with the study sessions yet to come.
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Heritage Steel
Cooking in the dorms can be a tricky situation. Most dorms are lucky enough to have communal kitchens, though it’s not uncommon for upper-level students to have apartments. Plus, relying on the dining hall food isn’t always the most innovative option.
Cooking for yourself is an important skill, though it requires the right tools—like Heritage Steel. Students can only handle so much microwave popcorn and instant ramen before they start craving home-cooked meals again.
- Founded in 1983
- Based in Clarksville, TN
Heritage Steel makes quality cookware that stands the test of time. It’s durable, sleek, and perfect for all cooks, from beginners to home experts.
For any college student looking to build up their supply and take meals into their own hands, the five-piece essentials set is exactly what they need.
It’s a set of three pans with two lids forged from the highest quality stainless steel. All items are oven-safe up to 800 degrees and come with a lifetime warranty. Even the rowdiest of college students can depend on this durability!
We know this would make an amazon gift, from the warranty down to the stay-cool handles included on each piece.
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