Welcome Gifts for Exchange Students

70+ Welcome Gifts for Exchange Students

ByMichelle

It doesn’t matter whether your guest is an international exchange student or a more local exchange student within the same country, state, or adjoining state. An initial warm welcome is important.

Remember that for a lot of students regardless of their age it could be their first time away from home and family. From experience almost all exchange students bring the family they are to stay with a gift from themselves and their families. It will usually be something from their local culture. The exchange of small gifts is bound to break the ice as you immediately have a common topic to talk about.

There are so many gift ideas for exchange students. Just a few are gift baskets filled with practical items they can use on their homestay with you. Gift shop gifts when you take them to visit local attractions. Sports memorabilia, edible treats, t-shirts, jewelry, books, collectibles, and even funny gifts.

welcome gifts for exchange students 2

Before we get into the gift list, I have compiled the next two points that are really important upon your student’s first arrival:-

  1. They will be tired and overwhelmed with everything that is foreign to them. So to begin with just start with the essential need-to-know stuff and after they have eaten and slept you can bombard them with the rest.
  2. Your initial welcome would consist of introducing family members, the room they will stay in, the layout of the house, and the approximate times house members start in the morning. Also, Breakfast, lunch, and dinner times. Assist them to set up their devices on WIFI then let them call home if they are able.

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Welcome Gifts for Foreign Exchange Students

The following gift ideas are based on the exchange student coming to the United States of America from a foreign country.

Wherever you are in the world, you can easily apply the suggestions below to your own country.

Thoughtful Gift of Essentials

In the room they are staying in, you can provide all the relevant information they will need to start integrating into their new lifestyle.

  • A list of important contacts family members’ and neighbors’ names and telephone numbers
  • A list of addresses and telephone numbers for school, library, your work, local stores
  • A list of how to contact how to make an international call, how to catch public transport, how to join the library, how to call the police, fire, and medical assistance
  • List of local restaurants, cinemas, and places to visit
  • A guide book of the local area

More Fun and Meaningful Gift Ideas

Once your exchange student has settled in with the essentials, it’s time to surprise them with a few fun and thoughtful extras. These next categories go beyond the basics offering gifts that reflect your local culture, personal touches, and even a bit of playful charm. From tasty American treats to quirky souvenirs and keepsake collectibles, there’s something here to make every student feel truly welcomed and remembered.

1. A Phone Card

Give them a prepaid international phone card so they can call home as soon as they arrive. It’s a comforting way to help bridge the distance and ease any homesickness.

2. Prepaid Cell Phone

A basic prepaid phone loaded with a local SIM card makes communication simple and immediate, especially if their own phone isn’t compatible with your local network.

3. Portable Telephone Charger

So they always have a fully charged telephone. These power banks are lightweight, and when leaving home with a fully charged bank, you never have to worry about mobile devices running out of battery power. Solar charger options are also available with built-in flashlights for extra safety.

4. Local Map

A physical map of your area is both practical and a fun souvenir. It can help them get their bearings while exploring new neighborhoods.

5. Public Transportation Map

Having a printed bus or train map on hand helps them feel more independent and confident navigating their new city or town.

6. School Supplies

A ready-to-go school supply kit with notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, and folders gives them one less thing to worry about during their adjustment period.

Welcome Gift Baskets

I believe we are all the same when it comes to trying new eats and treats when we are visiting somewhere new.

The same can be said for children especially teenagers away from home. This list is just a few ideas I am certain you will come up with a lot more!

Many countries have a small selection of popular treats from other countries – but I guarantee that the ones they try at their homestay will taste very different from the imports they may have tasted at home.

I love this ready-made “healthy snack gift basket” that you can see by clicking on the image above.

7. Fruit Baskets

Filled with fresh, seasonal fruits, this is a healthy and colorful way to make your student feel at home from day one.

8. A Basket of American Treats

Include iconic American snacks like Reese’s, Hershey’s, Cheez-Its, or Goldfish fun conversation starters and a great way to introduce them to your favorite flavors.

9. A Local Gift Basket

Create a basket with locally made items like bath products, hand creams, or candles. Add some snacks, maps and a charger or two to give the basket both charm and practicality.

Edible Treats

There’s no better way to bond than over food especially when it’s new and delicious! Edible treats are a fun and low-pressure gift that introduces your exchange student to the flavors of your region. Whether sweet or salty, store-bought or local-made, these goodies are guaranteed to spark smiles and conversations.

10. Maple Sugar Candy

This regional specialty is made from pure maple syrup and melts in your mouth. It’s a sweet way to share a taste of traditional Americana.

11. Peanut Butter

Whether smooth or chunky, peanut butter is a staple in many American homes. It’s great for them to try if they haven’t before and easy to pair with crackers, toast, or fruit.

12. USA Candy

Chewy, butter mints, colorful, and just plain fun, gummy candy bears or worms are a playful treat to bring a little sweetness to their stay.

13. Jelly Bellies

These tiny jelly beans come in an amazing range of flavors and are a conversation starter in themselves especially the surprising ones!

14. Saltwater Taffy

A treat from American beach towns, saltwater taffy is both charmingly old-fashioned and delicious, with its chewy texture and bold colors.

15. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

A true American classic, these chocolate and peanut butter treats are a must-try. They’re great for sharing or hoarding!

16. Made in the USA Beer nuts

These sweet-and-salty glazed peanuts are a nostalgic American snack and make a fun, crunchy introduction to casual U.S. flavors.

17. Box of Local Handmade Chocolates

Choose a box from a local chocolatier to showcase regional flavors. It’s a luxurious treat that makes a lovely keepsake gift as well. Hershey’s, Sponge Candy from New York, Hawaiian Aloha Mac’s, Ghirardelli, Philadelphia Homemade Candies, and Purple Plum from New York City, and Hammond’s Kosher Candy Bars handcrafted in the USA.

18. Local Handmade Cookies

From chocolate chip to snickerdoodle, home-baked or bakery cookies introduce your student to the comforting flavors of your hometown.

19. Chips

Grab a few varieties of potato chips or corn chips unique to your area whether it’s a local barbecue flavor or a regional twist.

20. Real Maple Syrup

Gift them a bottle of genuine maple syrup especially if they’ve only ever had imitation versions. It’s a sweet gift they’ll want to take home.

21. Beef Jerky

A great savory snack for on-the-go moments, jerky is distinctly American and often comes in fun flavors like teriyaki or peppered.

22. Sharing Box

Fill a small box with individually wrapped snacks, candy, and small souvenirs that they can take home and share with family and friends. It’s a meaningful way for them to pass along their experience.

Pro Tip: Be sure to double-check their home country’s customs regulations so none of your thoughtful gifts get confiscated at the border!

Clothing

Clothing makes a great gift because it’s both personal and practical. A comfy hoodie, a quirky T-shirt, or a themed accessory gives your student a wearable piece of their host experience. It’s a fun way for them to blend in with their new surroundings while holding onto memories with every wear.

23. T-shirts

Simple, wearable, and fun pick one with a local saying, school name, or scenic print. It’s an easy souvenir that also helps them blend in with local teens.

24. Pullovers

A cozy sweatshirt with your town’s name or sports team logo will come in handy on chilly days and serve as a comfy reminder of their time abroad.

25. Beanies

Cute and functional, a knit beanie is perfect for cooler weather and adds a bit of local flair to their wardrobe.

26. Scarves

Soft scarves in local colors or patterns make a thoughtful gift both stylish and practical, especially if they’re arriving during colder months.

27. Old Navy American Flag T-Shirts

These patriotic shirts are affordable, easy to find, and make a great keepsake for students who want something distinctively American.

28. Woven items at the Grand Canyon, for example

If you’re traveling during their stay, local artisan pieces like woven bags or shawls are a beautiful way to gift culture and craftsmanship in one.

29. Jewelry

A charm bracelet, necklace, or earrings. These are especially nice if you can pick up something local and handmade. Such are quartz items made in and around the Grand Canyon.

Practical Gifts

Practical gifts come in all shapes with various uses. They can also be fun and branded in a company brand or a state/country emblem. Check out the many brands with USA memorabilia available and conveniently located in-store. They could include:

30. Mug

Local mugs are a charming and useful gift—Starbucks “You Are Here” collections or mugs with state landmarks are perfect for morning tea or cocoa.

31. Bowl, Plates, Glasses

A small set of dishes with regional designs or patterns can be both decorative and useful, especially if they’re staying long-term.

32. Reusable Bags

Branded bags from popular local stores like Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods are practical, packable, and surprisingly collectible! (I still have my tiny “Harrods of London” bag from 1998 – I bought a chocolate bar to obtain that little paper bag!)

33. Sports Memorabilia

Pick up a mini banner, scarf, or poster of a local team it’s a cool cultural item even if they’re not a sports fan.

34. A football or baseball set

A mini football or baseball with bat and mitt is a great interactive gift especially if you take them out to play and make it an experience.

35. Baseball Caps

Iconic and super wearable, baseball caps with a local team or city logo help them blend in and stay sun-safe.

36. A baseball ball, bat, or gloves

This trio makes a fun hands-on gift, and you can teach them the rules of America’s favorite pastime while bonding.

37. American football

Whether full-sized or mini, a branded football makes for a fun souvenir that’s very “USA.”

38. Cap

A different style than the sporty baseball cap, this could be a vintage-style cap, hockey, baseball, football or even something novelty-themed from your area’s gift shop.

Attractions

Every town has its own hidden gems and must-see sights. As you take your student on local adventures, be sure to grab a few mementos from gift shops or tourist stops. These items will help them remember the fun you shared and they’ll have great stories to tell when they return home.

39. Local Attractions

Stores and local attractions will have themed gifts that are unique to your area.

Books and directories of your area will be appreciated when taken home to family and friends who will want as much information about their stay as possible.

Postcards are always a hit to take home and place in a memorandum book.

Make sure you keep all entry tickets, brochures, etc. from any place you visit. They can then be placed in a memorandum book as a keepsake for your student to take home.

40. Site Seeing Gifts

When you show your students around, you can buy them something from the gift shop.

I know that it is usually a little more expensive, but the upside is that they will remember the tour or attraction and be able to match the gift with that experience.

You will find baseball caps, pullovers, t-shirts, mugs, jewelry, tea towels, spoons, puzzles, books, postcards, and even local edible treats.

United States Gift Ideas

Each US state is renowned for at least something!

Washington for “The White House”. California for bears and celebrities, of course.

Here is a list of just some of the many gifts you can find with the United States in mind.

41. Jigsaw Puzzle of an American Landmark

A puzzle of a famous site like the Statue of Liberty or the Golden Gate Bridge makes for a relaxing activity and a beautiful keepsake once completed.

42. A Jigsaw Puzzle of the US

A colorful puzzle of all 50 states is both educational and entertaining—a great conversation starter back home.

43. 3D puzzles

Take it up a notch with a 3D model puzzle of landmarks like the White House or Mount Rushmore it’s a hands-on way to connect with American history.

44. Flag

A small or foldable U.S. flag is a classic keepsake. It can be framed, displayed, or tucked into a memory box for years to come.

45. 4th July Gift

Something fun like a BBQ apron, sunglasses, or a themed headband makes a lighthearted and festive gift that highlights American holiday culture.

46. Cookbook

Choose a cookbook featuring traditional American recipes or regional dishes. It’s a delicious way for your student to bring a bit of the U.S. home and share it with their family.

47. Board Game

Games like “50 States” trivia or travel-themed board games are a fun way for your student to learn about the country while bonding with their host family or new friends.

48. Book

A piece of American literature or a poetry book adds depth and culture to their stay. Choose a classic author or a collection from your region.

49. Clothing

Think cowboy boots, a state fair hoodie, or a novelty item that’s iconic to your area fun, bold pieces that say “I visited the U.S.!”

50. Scented Candle

A homesick-scented candle is just one of many brands. Check out local candles in your area for that special home-state scent.

51. A Coffee Table Book

A visually rich book featuring photos of your state or region gives them something beautiful to show their family when they return home.

52. Mug

A classic ceramic mug printed with your city’s skyline, famous landmarks, or even your family photo is both personal and practical.

Quirky Gifts

Quirky gifts are where the real fun begins. From USA-shaped pasta to novelty socks and souvenir dog tags, these items are playful, unexpected, and totally unforgettable. They’re great icebreakers and make your student feel like they’re part of the inside joke that is American culture.

53. Waffle Iron

Mini waffle irons shaped like the USA or individual states like Texas are a playful, functional gift and a fun way to introduce your student to an iconic American breakfast.

54. USA-Shaped Food

Whether it’s pasta, cookies, or snacks shaped like the U.S., these are guaranteed to bring a smile and are great for showing off at home.

55. Not So Boring American Flag

Skip the basic flag and opt for something with personality think patterned throws, artistic prints, or flag-inspired accessories.

56. Socks

Cozy or silly, socks printed with stars, stripes, or state landmarks are easy to pack and fun to wear.

57. Beanies

A quirky beanie with American-themed patches or colors keeps them warm and makes a great conversation piece.

58. Throw Blankets

Choose a blanket with a U.S. map, state animal, or scenic print it’s cuddly, comforting, and a great reminder of their stay.

59. Key Rings

These small gifts can feature local icons, landmarks, or even your city’s name. Lightweight and practical, they’re easy to collect and share.

60. Refrigerator Magnets

A staple for travelers! Pick magnets featuring places you’ve visited together perfect for adding to their collection back home.

61. US Dog Tags

Custom dog tags with their name, your state, or a fun message are edgy, personal, and uniquely American.

62. Ice Cube Makers

Ice trays shaped like the U.S. or individual states are just quirky enough to be memorable and useful too!

63. Craft Bags

Reusable or decorative bags featuring fun U.S. prints are great for travel, shopping, or carrying books and supplies.

64. Holiday Ornaments

A Christmas ornament shaped like your state, landmark, or featuring 2025 can hang on their family’s tree for years as a warm memory.

Collectibles

Collectibles are thoughtful little treasures that often hold big meaning. Whether it’s a spoon, coin, magnet, or stamp, these items give your student something tangible to remember their time by. They’re easy to pack, fun to show off, and perfect for building a travel keepsake collection.

65. Coin collections

U.S. quarters from different states or commemorative coins make thoughtful keepsakes and students often love learning the stories behind them.

66. Stamp Sets

American stamps featuring national parks, historical figures, or famous icons are compact collectibles with cultural charm.

67. Collectable Spoons

Yes, people still collect them! Gift a souvenir spoon from your city or state also tourist attractions like the Grand Canyon or Hoover Dam. It’s old-school but surprisingly well-loved by travelers.

68. Cards

Baseball, basketball, or even trading cards from local teams are fun for sports fans and great to show off at home.

69. Baseball Collectibles

Mini bats, signed balls, or stadium souvenirs are perfect if your student enjoys American sports or attends a local game with you.

70. Superbowl Collectibles

Items tied to America’s biggest sporting event like themed cups, caps, or towels make high-energy gifts, even if they didn’t watch the game.

71. Vintage Collectibles

Hit up a local antique or thrift store and find something truly one-of-a-kind like a vintage travel pin, postcard, or Americana trinket.

72. Maps

Fold-out, illustrated, or vintage-style maps of your state or region make wonderful wall decor and souvenirs.

Visit the collectibles range at Amazon, and you are sure to find something that will suit your exchange student. You can see the maps they could easily take home as a souvenir.

73. Departing Gifts

Create a photo book filled with memories snapshots of trips, host family moments, and daily life. You could also give a T-shirt printed with a fun group photo. These heartfelt gifts are perfect parting tokens they’ll treasure forever.

I love the idea of photo books. They are easy to make, and you will have them in the mail within a couple of days. Your student will love taking it home to show family and friends all the wonderful experiences they had with their exchange family.

A T-shirt with one of your favorite photos of the time you all spent together.

More gift ideas “hot chocolate gift ideas“

Final Thoughts: Welcome Gifts for Exchange Students

Selecting gifts for your exchange student shouldn’t be stressful. You can find out what their interests are and go from there.

With a little bit of pre-planning and thought, you will find the perfect gift within your budget, possibly without leaving your home.

I am certain that whatever you give them as a welcoming gift, they will treasure it.

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