Gifts & Must-Haves

Jul 18, 2017

The cool (and affordable!) essentials on every college kid's wish list

By: Style at Home

Everyone knows college isn't the most glamorous chapter in one's life. It's a time for eating on a budget, traveling on a budget and living in general on a budget. So, naturally, a college kid's home decor isn't of top priority.
But, limited funds aren't about to stop anyone from dreaming of their ideal pad, and attaining sweet living quarters may not be as out of reach as one may think.
We've rounded up some cool essentials just about every college kid would love to have. The best part? They're realistic items that are 1) practical and 2) affordable.

1. A comfy bed set

A cozy bed set will ensure you get a good sleep every night. And what's cozier than a duvet made from t-shirt cotton?

Cotton T-Shirt Jersey Duvet Cover in Cream, Urban Outfitters, US $119-$179.

2. An e-reader

Save yourself the back aches (and massage therapist bills!) from lugging around all those heavy textbooks and invest in an e-reader. It's especially essential for any English majors out there.

Kobo Aura H20 with ComfortLight Pro, Kobo Books, $200.

3. String lights

Lend your space a whimsy atmosphere with a string of lights. It's basically the quintessential college home accessory.

Lilac Tinted Globe String Lights in White, Urban Outfitters, US $42.

4. A good sound system

This one's a little pricy, but totally worth it.
Whether you throw a lot of parties or need to listen to music while you study, a good sound system is essential, and it's something the whole household will love.

SoundLink Revolve+ Bluetooth Speaker in Lux Grey, Bose, $330.

5. Coffee mug

Start your day off right by drinking your fuel (coffee) from an empowering mug.

Ceramic GRL PWR Mug, Urban Outfitters, US $12.

6. Alarm clock

Newsflash: The clock on your phone isn't totally reliable. Ensure you don't miss a class — or at least a final! — by opting for a good backup, like an old school alarm clock.

Newgate Clocks Covent Alarm Clock in Cream, Anthropologie, US $38.

7. Laundry basket

An easy what to keep your room tidy (or at least, somewhat tidy) is by investing in a laundry basket. Keep this stylish one in the corner of your room, chuck all your dirty clothes into it, and lug it to the laundromat (read: mom and dad's) at the end of the week.

Sun Stream Basket in Silver, Anthropologie, US $108.

8. A desk that's a two-fer

Chances are space in your dorm or shared home is limited. Get through it with ease by opting for pieces that double as two-for-ones, like this desk that can also be used as a vanity.

South Shore Vito Collection Makeup Desk with Drawers in Pure White, Walmart, $237.

9. Pretty notebooks

Everyone knows that pretty desk essentials make studying so much easier. And this mystical set feels just right.

Alliteration Set of 3 Notebooks in Agate and Purple Black, Indigo, $15.

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