Many college students spend time studying the night before a major test. A clip-on book light allows for late-night studying without the need to keep a roommate awake because the light is on. Clip-on book lights attach to the cover or pages of a textbook and allow her to read in relatively low light. They cost about $5 each, and some come in pairs. They fit easily in a purse or pocket and can provide enough illumination to walk down dark halls safely.
Many students carry laptops to class and take notes on the computer or using an electronic tablet. Many campuses offer e-textbooks, and professors may issue assignments, syllabi and other resources in an electronic format. Some allow students to turn in assignments electronically and communicate through email. A lightweight laptop will cut down on the amount of stuff your daughter has to carry from one class to another and facilitate academic goals.
Buy her a subscription to the Fruit-of-the Month Club or other source of snack foods. If you want a more substantial food gift, subscribe to a service that will deliver a healthy meal once a month or more or pack your own food care package from home. Pack things small enough that they will fit in a dorm-size refrigerator, or other students may take advantage of the gift.
Check with regulations in the dorm. Most allow small refrigerators that will hold drinks and snack foods even if they don't allow cooking in the rooms. Fresh fruits and vegetables, water and leftovers from last night's pizza party fit in a small refrigerator. It holds those food care packages mentioned previously.
A bed in a bag provides matched sheets, comforter and pillowcase in sizes from twin bed to king. The linens pack into a small space. Some sets allow you to buy companion pieces, so you can purchase an extra set of sheets so she has one set to use now and one to have ready for use or in the wash.
Incidental needs pop up frequently, and a campus bookstore card can make handling those needs much easier. A preloaded card means that she can grab supplies like pens, paper, copies and possible personal supplies right on campus. The limited number of noneducation supplies available at the store will encourage her to use the card on education-related items.