The Best Stocking Stuffers for Teens and University Students
'Tis the season to spread cheer, and what better way than with getting stocking stuffers for your university student that they will actually use and appreciate? They've outgrown cheap plastic toys and will love gifts that make student life easier and more enjoyable.
Why Stocking Stuffers Matter
One of the best parts of Christmas for me is watching my grown-up children excitedly opening their stockings on Christmas morning. Now that they're older, they even make one for me, which is a lovely surprise.
A well-thought-out stocking can bring joy and practicality, ensuring your student starts the new year on the right foot.
Top 12 Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Students
Here's a list of practical, cheap and fun stocking stuffer ideas that will put a smile on the face of your teen, young adult, college or university students.
1. Fun Stationery
Add a touch of practicality to their stockings with useful stationery. Useful and quirky stationery is a great way to make revision easier and study sessions more enjoyable:
For those with a great sense of humour, check out these unique notebooks from wtfnotebooks.co.uk. UK delivery only, with a US store available).
2. Energy-Boosting snacks
Late-night study sessions need fuel! Instead of sugar and chocolate, try stocking them up with a stash of energy-boosting snacks:
Gluten-free, lactose-free snack options
Cereal bars or protein balls
Nuts and dried fruit
Find more healthy snack ideas here.
3. Student Essentials Bundle Surprise
Add a little magic and make your student's life easier with our From High School to Uni Student Bundles. It includes the essential university packing checklists, step-by-step guides, recipe books, and a handholding guide to navigate life on campus!
It's the gift that keeps on giving!
4. Sweet Treats
Everyone loves chocolate! M&Ms, gourmet chocolates, or personalised sweet jars make perfect stocking fillers. Consider including dark chocolate for an antioxidant boost.
5. Stress Relief Gifts for Students
Keep Calm and Carry on!
Does your student suffer from anxiety or stress? Or have they lost their mojo recently and need a bit of a boost? University life can be stressful, so add a little relaxation to keep them calm and happy:
Aromatherapy roll-ons for calming anxiety
Sleep masks for better rest
Self-care journals to boost mental health
Miniature plush toys for a comforting sensory experience
6. Scratching Your Head?
Name one student who hasn’t always secretly wanted one of these gadgets! A scalp massager for deep tingling relaxation, stress relief, and improved blood circulation to get those neurons firing again!
A scalp massager isn’t just for relaxation — it improves circulation, relieves stress, and can even promote hair growth. A great small gift with big benefits!
7. Like Putty In Your Hands
Made from latex-free silicone, therapeutic putty is used to strengthen the muscles of the hand and forearm by stretching it, pinching it, kneading it, squeezing it, and separating it.
Great for:
Anxiety relief
Focus and concentration
Hand and wrist exercises
Particularly helpful for carpal tunnel syndrome from constant typing on a laptop, ADD (to help concentrate in the classroom or as a fidget tool when completing assignments), or as a stress reliever to soothe muscles and calm the mind.
8. Mental Health and Wellbeing Book
Written by a specialist in adolescent mental health and emotional wellbeing, this book is full of activities, questions, colouring, and journalling pages, to write and reflect, read snippets of wisdom and advice, as well as sketch or colour to reduce stress.
Follow @PookyH on X (Twitter) or on YouTube for regular mental health tips.
9. Skipping Rope
A compact, fun and effective way to stay active. Skipping is a great fat-burning, de-stressing exercise for students who want to stay fit without the expense of joining a gym.
This tangle-free adjustable skipping rope is the perfect size to stuff into a stocking and is a great portable exercise tool that your student can practice anywhere.
10. Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration is key for concentration and overall health.
A BPA-free, insulated water bottle will keep drinks cold or hot for hours, ensuring students stay refreshed throughout the day.
11. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Whether for studying, commuting, or working out, noise-cancelling headphones are a practical and much-appreciated stocking stuffer to facilitate focused study sessions.
The Ultimate Guide to University
This must-have book is more than just a guide—it’s a student’s best friend. It covers everything from preparing for university to thriving on campus, with expert advice on student life.
The tips in this book helps students navigate the ups and downs of university life, from preparing for departure to living on or off campus, guiding students step-by-step through the practical, real-life challenges they will discover at university.
Get your copy here!
Bonus Tip: Gift Cards
If in doubt, gift cards are always a winner. Options include:
Supermarket vouchers
Coffee shop gift cards
Amazon or bookstore gift cards
Streaming service subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify, etc.)
Happy gifting! 🎁🎄
Make this Christmas extra special with thoughtful stocking stuffers that students will love and actually use!
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