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A college care package should be a carefully curated, personalized gift box filled with fun and practical items you send to your hard-working student. Before we dive into WHERE to find the perfect items, let's talk about WHAT usually goes into a care package. We recommend the following staples:
- Savory snacks
- Sweet snacks
- Personal care products
- School supplies
- Entertainment
- Small gifts
Best places to buy snacks for a college care package?
Snacks are a must-have for any care package. They provide a quick energy boost during late-night study sessions or a tasty treat between classes. One of the best places to buy snacks is at a local grocery store or supermarket. They offer a wide variety of options, from chips and cookies to granola bars and dried fruits. You can also consider purchasing healthy snacks online from Amazon, which often has special deals and discounts, but be wary that a lot of snacks come in bulk packages.
- Trader Joe's
- Whole Foods
- Aldi
- Sprouts
- Dollar Tree has a lot of junk food, but you can find some healthy gems for rock-bottom prices if you do some looking.
- Sierra, along with any of the other brands part of the TJX Group (HomeGoods, TJMaxx, and Marshalls) have small snack sections, but many good choices for healthy snacks at great prices.
Look for snacks labeled non-GMO and be sure to avoid packages with disclaimers within the nutrition facts that state that bioengineered ingredients were used in the item's creation.
Best places to buy personal care products for a college care package?
Personal care products are essential for students to stay clean and fresh while away from home. You can find a great selection of personal care items at drugstores or pharmacies. These stores offer everything from shampoo and body wash to toothpaste and deodorant. Another option is to check out online retailers like Amazon or Sephora, which have a wide range of personal care products and often offer free shipping or discounts for college students.
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Target
- Ulta Beauty
- Bath & Body Works
- Dollar General
Where to buy school supplies for a college care package?
School supplies are always in high demand for college students. Whether it's notebooks, pens, or highlighters, they are essential for taking notes and staying organized. The best place to buy school supplies is at a local office supply store like Staples or Office Depot. They have a wide selection of products and often offer student discounts. If you prefer online shopping, Amazon school supplies are affordable and, believe it or not, you can score school supplies for competitive prices on eBay.
- Staples
- Office Depot
- Family Dollar
- Walmart
- Big Lots!
- Five Below
Where to buy small gifts for a college care package?
Including small gifts in a college care package can bring a smile to any student's face. When looking for small gifts, consider visiting local gift shops or boutiques near the college campus. These stores often have unique and personalized items that can make the care package extra special. Online marketplaces like Etsy are also great options for finding handmade or customized gifts that will show your thoughtfulness.
- Michaels
- TJMaxx
- Game Stop
- Hallmark
- Goodwill
- Barnes & Noble
Remember, the best place to buy items for a college care package ultimately depends on your budget, convenience, and personal preferences. Consider exploring different options and mix and match items from various sources to create a well-rounded care package that will make any college student feel loved and supported.
Now that you know where to go, check out our blog College Care Package Essentials for more specific item ideas for snacks, personal care items, school supplies and gifts.