Christmas Gift Ideas 2024: The Student Edition for Thoughtful, Budget-Friendly Gifting

Handmade and Thrifted Treasures

Giving a gift that you’ve made yourself or found second-hand adds a unique touch that shows you’ve put in effort. Here are some ideas that are easy on the wallet but big on thoughtfulness:

1. DIY Hot Chocolate Jars – Create a little winter indulgence with homemade hot chocolate jars! Fill a jar with hot chocolate powder, mini marshmallows, and crushed candy canes. Wrap it with ribbon and add a tag with “Just add hot milk!”—a perfect cosy gift for any housemate.
2. Vintage Finds from Charity Shops – Head to local thrift stores or charity shops near your student accommodation, like those close to the city centre, and look for vintage finds like quirky mugs, books, or mini frames. Combine a framed photo with shared memories to make it extra special.
3. Homemade Candles or Soaps – Making candles or soaps is surprisingly simple. Pick up some wax or soap bases, add scents, and pour them into thrifted jars. It’s a thoughtful, handmade gift that brings a little comfort into your friends’ homes.

Gifts for your Housemates

If you’re sharing a place with friends, giving a gift everyone can enjoy is always a win. Here are some great ideas for student houses:

1. Board Games for Housemates – Card games like UNO, Exploding Kittens, or classic board games are perfect for group fun over the holidays. Games like Herd Mentality and P for Pizza are quick, easy to learn, and perfect for sharing laughs with your housemates.
2. Festive Mug Sets – A cosy hot drink in winter is a must, so why not gift a mug set for the house? Add a few tea bags or instant coffee sachets, and voilà—a simple, thoughtful present that everyone can use.
3. Fairy Lights or Small Décor – Thrifted or budget-friendly fairy lights add instant warmth to any room. They’re perfect for making your university accommodation in Exeter feel festive or personalising common spaces for a cosy vibe.

Experiences and Subscriptions

Experiences can be just as valuable as physical gifts, and they don’t have to break the bank! Here’s how to give experiences without overspending:

1. Streaming Subscription Credit – Give the gift of entertainment! A Netflix gift card or credits for a few months will be appreciated by anyone looking for some downtime. (Perfect for those Netflix binge sessions in your Leicester uni accommodation with friends.)
2. Thrifted Magazine Subscriptions – If you know a housemate’s hobby, a magazine subscription is a personal and affordable gift. Isubscribe offers options like Cosmopolitan or FourFourTwo, often with student discounts.
3. DIY Cinema Night Kit – Create a mini cinema kit with popcorn, sweets, and a list of recommended holiday films. You and your friends can make a tradition of movie nights—especially cosy in your student accommodation or student studio during winter!

Why Project Student is Perfect for Celebrating Christmas with Flatmates or Friends

Living in a Project Student accommodation means you’re in a prime spot for festive fun and cosy gatherings with friends. Whether you’re in Exeter university accommodation at  Verney Street Studios, student accommodations in Leicester like The Oval or Hops House, or accommodation for students in Coventry, each Project Student property is designed for comfort, community, and convenience. With inclusive bills and great social spaces—from chill-out rooms to gardens—Project Student properties make it easy to celebrate Christmas right at home. So grab some festive treats, gather your friends, and enjoy the season without any of the hassle.