Last Updated on October 18, 2025 by Alexandra Markin, Dip.Mgmt.St.
As someone who loves gift giving, a thanksgiving care package is one of my favorite things to put together this time of year and I always have lots of new ideas for college students.
As a college student myself who’s been lucky enough to both send and receive care packages, I know they’re a thoughtful way to brighten anyone’s day no matter where in the world they may be studying.
Whether you’re sending one to a friend, family member or fellow student, this post is full of creative yet thoughtful ideas make their Thanksgiving holiday extra special.
From comfort food favorites to fun and festive finds, I’m sharing my favorite Thanksgiving care package ideas for college students that feel both cozy and intentional for even their busiest college days.
21 Ideas to Include in a Thanksgiving Care Package for College Students
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Seasonal Thanksgiving Treats & Snacks
Add a little seasonal flavor to your box with Thanksgiving-themed treats and snacks in single-serve portions – perfect for tucking into a bag for students on-the-go.
1. Starbucks Gift Card
Give the gift of pumpkin spice lattes: perfect for study sessions, coffee dates or just because with a Starbucks Gift Card.
2. Reese’s Mini Peanut Butter Cups
Individually wrapped in gold foil, Reese’s Mini Peanut Butter Cups are perfect to sprinkle into your box loose or put in a candy jar.
3. Microwave Popcorn
Watching their favorite holiday movie or motivational study show wouldn’t be complete without a bowl of microwave popcorn, and mini bags are the perfect sized treat.
4. Caramel Corn
Caramel corn is a great festive alternative to regular popcorn.
5. Trail Mix With Seasonal Flavors
Dried cranberries and apples in trail mix add the perfect Thanksgiving flavors in a healthy snack to throw in a bag when checking off fall bucket list items such as hiking or leaf-peeping.
6. Hot Chocolate Mix
To me, a steaming mug of hot chocolate always feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
7. Spiced Apple Cider
A mug of apple cider is a great way to spice up a chilly late-night study session.
8. Nightly Night Tea
Unwind after a long day of study with a cup of nighty night tea, specially formulated to help with sleep. I like to pair my tea with my favorite night time hobby: puzzles.
Cozy Cold Weather Comforts
Give your care package a warm, homey touch with cold-weather essentials that make studying on chilly days a little cozier.
9. Base Layers
Also know as long underwear or long johns, wool base layers (a top and pants set) are perfect for attending outdoor fall activities, especially in colder states.
I have 2 sets of base layers and I’m actually able to enjoy the outdoors now as I get cold easily. They’re worth every penny!
10. Fuzzy Socks
I love pulling on a pair of cozy, fuzzy socks anytime I study, read or watch my favorite show.
11. Cozy Loungewear Set
A loungewear set is one of my favorite things to study in. It’s cozy yet still makes me feel put together.
Self-Care & Wellness Boosters
12. Lip Balm
Lip balm is always needed in every purse and study bag. Stay seasonal by including colors like orange, red or brown.
13. Satin Hair Scrunchie
An oversized satin scrunchie is great for sleeping, studying or putting up your hair on the go.
14. Advil Cold & Flu
It’s cold season in more ways that one! Help them be prepared by including some Advil Cold & Flu tablets. This is my miracle drug when I’m sick – I highly recommend it!
Seasonal Items
From cute décor items to scented candles, this is where your Thanksgiving care package ideas for college students really shine.
15. Thanksgiving Glass Candy Jar
Perfect to hold mini Reese’s, small home baked goods or candy, a Thanksgiving-themed jar with an airtight bamboo lid can be reused year after year.
16. Pumpkin Spice Candle
Warm up their space with the delicious scent of a pumpkin spice candle.
17. Mini Pumpkin Décor
Mini pumpkins are the perfect addition to study desks for a cheery Thanksgiving feel.
Personal & Thoughtful Gift Ideas
18. Notebook
A notebook is perfect for bullet journaling or recording their thoughts, and is always well received among college students. I buy Paperage dotted notebooks on repeat because of their quality and color selection.
19. Chocolate Chip Cookies
Mini chocolate chip cookies are always a classic in care packages, no matter what time of year!
20. Baked Goods
Wether baked or bought, including bakery items in your Thanksgiving care package is a thoughtful idea for college students who may not have time or resources to make these for themselves.
21. Handwritten Note or Card
No care package is complete without a personal message to express your care and encouragement.
Thanksgiving Care Packages: A Little Something to Be Thankful For
At the heart of it, the point of Thanksgiving is to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives, whether that means gathering with loved ones, giving back or simply letting someone know you’re thinking of them.
A care package might seem like “just a gift,” but it carries so much more meaning. It’s a reminder of caring and connection, no matter what the distance.
A thoughtful box can make a big difference in someone’s week – especially during a busy semester.
What would you include in your Thanksgiving care package? Share your favorite ideas in the comments – I’d love to hear them!
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