This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Emerson chapter.

As the holiday season approaches, family members may have begun asking you that big question: “What do you want this year?” We’re getting to the age where the newest toy doesn’t thrill us anymore, so what do college students really want and need?

1. Food

The same thing that is used to bribe college students into showing up for meetings is also a great holiday gift. After a semester of dining hall food and ramen noodles, most college students would love a nice dinner out or a grocery store gift card.

2. Transportation tickets

Students who live far away from their campuses know the struggle of trying to find the money to visit their families around the holidays. If only someone would chip in to help cover the costs…

3. Money

Money is always a much appreciated gift for a college student, even if it’s not able to be wrapped up with a bow. It’s a versatile way to pick up textbooks or pizza, or to have a night out.

4. Gift cards

Maybe grandma isn’t so thrilled to see her money go toward your latte habit. Gift cards are a great way for family members to fill up their student’s wallet while steering them towards more “sensible” buying habits.

5. Toiletries

It may sound boring, but not having to purchase shampoo or toothpaste for an entire semester is a thrilling prospect for a college student. Fill up that stocking with tissues and pain relievers, please!

6. Household Supplies

For new apartment dwellers who don’t really know what to buy to take care of their home besides air freshener, toilet paper or a new vacuum are super helpful ideas.

7. Décor

College students’ apartments and dorms are notoriously bare and/or mismatched. Try gifting some décor that matches their taste to make their space a little homier next semester.

8. Little luxuries

There are so many things true “grown-ups” purchase day to day that college students really have to think about. Beauty products, chocolate, books, candles or magazines are some examples of small presents that can mean a whole lot.

9. Opportunities

Collegiettes are always trying to find opportunities to further their careers and broaden their horizons. Giving a student the opportunity to network or attend a meaningful event by buying tickets or providing transportation could end up being the gift of a lifetime.

9 Practical Gifts College Students Really Want This Holiday