We’ve made your list and we’re checking it twice. We’ve scoured the sites and stores to find dorm room gear, media accessories, books, and more that’s perfect for the future college student, or as a fun surprise for your favorite college student who is home for the holidays.

The best part? Each one of the 10 items on our gift guide is less than $50!

Listen in Style
Ear buds are essential, especially when you’re on the bus around campus and want to avoid hearing people talk loudly about their crazy weekends. Among the many choices is Wicked Audio’s candy-colored Jaw Breakers line, for $19.99. They’re available at stores such as FYE, Fry’s Electronics and Verizon Wireless.

Bath Basics
Liven up your bathroom, especially if you have to share with someone, with this Roxy Go See Dots Bath Rug ($19.99) from Bed, Bath and Beyond. It’ll give any dorm room a more modern and mature style that is still really fun. There also are bath accessories, towels, and bedding in the same line, if you want a look that’s all put together.

Non-Required Reading
Two books caught our eye on this year’s holiday must-read list. One is all about Lady Gaga – titled simply Gaga (by Johnny Morgan, $24.95) – filled with photos of the pop star and her jaw-dropping outfits.

Then, your favorite “The Hills” fan might love to get Lauren Conrad Style, in which the student-turned-clothing designer shares tips about her trendy looks (by Lauren Conrad with Elise Loehnen, $19.99).

New Notebooks
Sure, you may do most of your studying and socializing on the computer, but embrace paper a little bit, even if it’s just for doodling or jotting down quick notes, or if you want to journal about your freshman year. Moleskine’s collection of soft-cover notebooks comes in sets with two different shades of colors (like green and lime, blue and navy, pink and rose, etc). Its Volant line of notebooks range from $5.95-$17.95, depending on the size.

Lunch Box
The childish superhero and Barbie lunch boxes need to remain at home. But this stylish Bento Box ($14) from London-based black + blum provides a sleek way to carry your lunch to campus, especially if you’re watching your budget or trying to keep away from the Freshman 15. It will hold sushi as well as pasta, rice and other favorite foods, and the fork clips on, too.

Pillows with a Purpose
The Giving Collection Pillow Covers feature inspiring phrases and come with a charitable effort. For every one sold, PBteen will donate $5 to a variety of organizations, from Do Something to the Student Conservation Association to the Surfrider Foundation to the Special Olympics. Our favorites are XOXOXOXO, Dream Big, and Love Your Ocean ($29).

Save Some Space
Neat freaks can’t resist plenty of items from The Container Store, and we know college is all about making the most of a small space. So one useful but chic item is its flip flop and sandal holder ($12.99) that uses a grosgrain ribbon to hold your spring and summer footwear.

An Adult Sippy Cup
A must-have college accessory is a reusable water bottle like that from Camelbak, sold at Dick’s Sporting Goods, REI, Bass Pro Shops, and bookstores around college campuses. It’s an eco-friendly and healthy decision all in one, especially if you want to stay hydrated during back-to-back classes or on your hike through campus. The limited edition bottles for Water.org – co-founded by Matt Damon – cost $18.99-$24.99, and about $10 of every purchase goes to provide clean water for people worldwide.

The Ultimate Drink Holder
Target’s beverage tub is perfect for late-night parties and study sessions, or honestly, if you just need something to throw your clothes or other items into if all you want to do is fall into bed. The steel tub ($14.99) comes in a variety of colors, such as red, pink, teal, and green.

–Lori Johnston