Easy Ideas for Planning a College Bound Trunk Party: Decor to Gifts

Is your son, brother or best friend heading off to college soon? You want to mark such a major milestone with a meaningful send-off—but guys are so difficult to throw a party for, right? We hear you. So here are totally doable and cool-enough-for-college ideas for hosting a college-bound trunk party for your freshman.

We’ve got you covered with simple decor elements to set the trunk theme, plus recipe suggestions that are sure to be a hit with your grad and his guests, and finally gift ideas that any college newbie would find useful and fun! (*this post contains affiliate links)

Easy Trunk Party Decor Elements

Decorating for this theme is a snap with just basic elements like these 5 featured finds. Including personalized items adds a meaningful touch.

Easy College Trunk Party Decor Elements for Son

Get the word out for this send-off party with a College Trunk Graduation Invitation (1), like this one from Basic Invite. It will also set the unique "trunk" theme of the occasion.

More themed decor ideas would be these SLPR Cardboard Small Suitcase Boxes (2), available in sets of 3 on Amazon. These would be great to use as table centerpieces, props on the food or drinks buffet, or to hold surprise gifts for the grad. And how about a Suitcase Cake (4) as the star of the dessert table—inspired by this pic from Just Desserts by Susan. You could home-bake it or order one.

And since going off to college is a big step, make sure there are lots of warm wishes and photo memories for the celebrant to take along with him. Order a customizable Simple Photo Tab Graduation Guest Book (3) from Purple Trail, personalizable with his photo and your specified text. Display a DIY Graduation Photo Banner (5), available on Amazon, as part of the party decor. A wonderful keepsake for the family—with maybe photo duplicates for the grad to bring with him.

Food and Drinks Ideas to Serve

From our own party posts, here are fun, easy-to-serve recipe ideas whether your send-off party will be cookout-style or an indoor gathering. Choose those that pack the celebrant’s favorite flavors!

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10 Gift Ideas to Give the Grad

Of course, you’ve got to have send-off gifts for your son, brother or friend! From practical and helpful, to cool and just plain fun—here are 10 great gift items to help him settle into college life!

10 Gift Ideas to Give the Grad for a College Trunk Party

1 – Bio-th Cloth Face Masks Washable – 5 pack, 100% cotton

2 – Hand Sanitizer Holder Carrier Bag – with clip-on belt/bag loop

3 – Scriveiner Midnight Blue Ballpoint Pen – other colors available

4 – My Four Years: One Line A Week College – a college memory book

5 – Dammit Doll – Win The Home Team – Blue & Silver – stress relief doll (lots more variations to suit every gift recipient)

6 – Amazon.com Gift Card in a Reveal – the always-welcome gift!

7 – Oh, Susannah Be Awesome Pillowcase – a fun motivation booster

8 – The 5-Ingredient College Cookbook – easy, healthy recipes for the next four years and beyond

9 – How to Survive Your Freshman Year – helpful tips for college newbies

10 – TOZO W1 Wireless Charger – coolest way to charge