This holiday season is a great opportunity to get started on purchasing items for your soon-to-be college freshman, especially since they will be needing a ton of expensive items. So, here are 12 useful gifts!

1. Daily Planner

Lilly Pulitzer and Kate Spade have great planners. They're not only cute, but will keep anyone organized.

2. School Apparel

Opening a gift with their school logo will excite any soon-to-be freshman.

3. Phone Pocket

Every student gets an ID that will become their life. Easy access to their room key/ dining swipe/ building access key will make their life that much easier.

4. Printed Pictures/ Photo Albums

This sentiment will make anyone smile, especially if they're feeling homesick at college. You can create your own personalized ones on websites such as shutterfly and snapfish.

5. Throw Pillows/ Cozy Blankets

Everyone loves to cuddle up with a warm blanket! Why not get a pillow to go with it?

6. Personalized Mug

Take a look on Etsy for a mug that features the cast of their favorite show, or even their initial.

7. Papasan Chair

Most colleges only supply a desk chair and those can get uncomfortable very quickly. Plus, these fold up and can be stowed away.

8. Rug

A small rug for underneath a desk is a great investment. Not only does it keep feet warm, but it makes the space feel more like home.

9. White Board

Whether it is a white board for their door, or a white board for scheduling, these will come in handy in any occasion.

11. Side Caddy Storage

Having to climb into a lofted bed can be incredibly annoying, but with a side tray or caddy, they will have a place to put things without having to leave their bed.

12. Bed Bath and Beyond Gift Certificate

If none of these ideas work out, a gift card to the college superstore Bed Bath and Beyond will forever work. This store has anything and everything an incoming freshman might need. Plus, you know they will appreciate it no matter what.