It’s hard to believe summer is coming to an end and back to school season is just around the corner! As quickly as summer always seems to fly by, there’s something I still love about the fresh start of a new school year, even though it’s been years since I’ve stepped foot in a classroom.

With college kids leaving for campus over the next few weeks I wanted to pull together a few ideas for a little care package to start the new school year off right. As a college student, getting unexpected mail was always so exciting and surprising your favorite student with these goodies is sure to make their day.

A few ideas on what to include:

Notebook & Planner: Even in the days of laptops and iPhones, I’m a huge believer that nothing beats physically writing something down! Help her stay organized in style with a few cute notebooks and a planner that will make keeping track of assignments and deadlines fun throughout the school year.

Candy & Gum: Little treats can go a long way. Stock a pouch with a few of her favorite sweet treats for her dorm room or while she’s on the go. A vinyl or canvas pouch is also a great way to keep small items organized within her bag, from pens and highlights to headphones and room keys.

Canvas Tote: From textbooks to weekend tailgate supplies, a canvas tote is perfect for carrying everything she needs across campus. They’re lightweight and machine washable, plus space saving for even the smallest of dorm rooms.

VISA Style Everywhere Gift Card: With last minute formals and theme parties, college tends to be full of occasions where a new outfit can really come in handy. Having a VISA Style Everywhere gift card on hand will make shopping as easy as can be – the Style Everywhere card can be used at any boutique, shoe store, department store, and online fashion retailers everywhere Visa debit is accepted.

Desk Supplies: Help her stock up for studying with a few new desk supplies (the brighter the better!). From new pens and highlighters to Post-Its, she’ll have everything she needs at her fingertips for when it’s time to hit the textbooks.

Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important while you’re on the go and an insulated stainless steel water bottle will keep water cold for hours, plus is leakproof so she can toss in her bag without worry.

Lip Balm & Nail Polish: A little pampering can go a long way to relieve the stress of the school year and its busy schedule. Include a tin of lip balm and a few new nail polish shades as a pick me up.

Do you have any friends or family headed back to school soon? What are some of your favorite items to include in a care package?

This post was sponsored by Gift Card Mall and as always, all opinions are 100% honest and my own – authenticity is a top priority and I only partner with brands I truly love. Thank you for supporting the brands that partner with Pretty & Fun!