How to Create the Best University Student Onboarding Kit
Jun 25, 2025
/
Educational
Univeristy of Utah
Introduction
10 Branded Items Students Will Actually Use (and Love)
Let’s be honest, no one’s excited about getting a folder full of flyers and a random pen.
The first week is your opportunity as a school and university to make a great impression on your newest students. The best onboarding kits are practical, fun, and actually useful. Here are 10 branded items that students won’t just toss—they’ll actually want to keep.
Rubik's Cable
A Charger That Does Everything
Students carry a ton of tech. This cable has swappable tips for USB-C and Lightning, so it works with pretty much everything. It charges fast and even syncs data.
Why it’s great: It’s the kind of cable they’ll keep in their bag and use every day.
Relax Stripe Socks
Comfy Socks for Campus Life
Cold lecture halls? Chilly dorms? These soft, cotton-blend socks are perfect for staying cozy and stylish. The stripes give off a cool, retro vibe without being too much.
Pro tip: Add your school’s branding, logo, or mascot for a custom feel.
Spiral Sticker Journal
Not Just a Notebook
This one’s fun. It has lined pages, a glossy cover, and even a sheet of custom stickers. Students can personalize it however they like, great for notes, planning, or doodling.
Why it works: Everyone loves stickers and making something their own.
Created Co. Cold Cup
Hydration, but Make It Cool
This cup keeps drinks cold (or hot), doesn’t sweat, and fits in cup holders. It's stylish, practical, and great for water, smoothies, or coffee.
Why they’ll love it: It’s reusable, looks amazing, and feels premium.
Puff Puff Laptop Sleeve
A Cozy Home for Their Laptop
This padded sleeve protects their laptop and has a fun, puffy-jacket look. It fits easily in a backpack and has a velcro flap for easy access.
Why it stands out: Way cooler than a plain black case.
Paperzen Weekly Planner
Stay on Track, Stay Chill
Made with recycled materials and a reusable cover, this planner helps students keep up with classes, deadlines, and events. Simple and eco-friendly.
Bonus: 5% of sales support DonorsChoose.com, which is pretty awesome.
Push Pop Phone Wallet
Holds Cards. Pops for Fun.
Stick it on the back of a phone to hold cards, and it doubles as a fidget toy. Great for stress relief during a long class or study session.
Why it’s a hit: This wallet offers convenience and stress relief in one tiny package.
Message Cards
Say “Welcome” the Right Way
A small card with a nice and welcoming message goes a long way. Say hello, include a campus tip, or share a QR code to your student app or events calendar.
Why it matters: Cards can make the kit feel thoughtful and personal.
Bulldog Clip Lanyard
The Must-Have for ID Week
Students need a lanyard for orientation badges, dorm keys, and IDs. This one’s sturdy, easy to customize, and has double clips to keep things from spinning around.
Why it’s useful: They’ll wear it all week, and probably all year.
Nike Utility Speed Backpack 2.0
Go Big with This One
Want to wow students? This sleek Nike backpack is durable, made from recycled materials, and fits a laptop, water bottle, and more. It even has a pass-through strap for travel.
Why it’s awesome: It’s not just a giveaway, it’s a premium gift they’ll use daily.
Conclusion
A great student onboarding kit isn’t about stuffing a box with random merch. It’s about giving students something that feels thoughtful, useful, and a little fun. Mix practical items with a few surprises, keep things on-brand, and don’t forget that small touches (like a handwritten card) can make a big difference.
If you are looking for the perfect items, reach out to Brand+Aid® today!
