The Best College Dorm Packing List Ever 2023!
College dorms are on a continuum. On the extreme end of “fancy” are modern, light, and spacious rooms. On the other, the more traditional, almost reminiscent of Eastern Bloc apartment buildings—inside and out—are the dated, poorly-lit, and cramped rooms. While you have little control over the room, you have complete control over what you make of it!
Although college move-in dates aren’t until mid-August-September, believe it or not, stores are starting to run low on dorm supplies NOW—thanks to those who have already completed their dorm room shopping.
While some students go all out, others opt for the minimalist approach. Bottom line: you don’t have to spend a fortune to create a cozy and inviting dorm room.
Dorms may differ in many ways; however, many basic necessities/wants are seemingly universal.
See below for an essential list of supplies you should take to your dorm. While I have provided links to Walmart, other great places to hit include Target, Amazon, and Kohl's, depending on budget and style.
Room and Bath
Towels – 2 sets
Mattress Pad – for comfort and hygiene, be sure to confirm size (typically Twin or Twin XL)
Sheets – 2 sets, be sure to confirm size (typically Twin or Twin XL)
Pillows – 2
Comforter of your choosing
Laundry Detergent– Pods may be easiest to transport to and from the washing machine
Cell phone charger
Bedside lamp – check your dorm set-up to see what will work; you may need a clip-on
Bathroom cleaning supplies, if needed
Small trash can and bags, if not provided
Health
Prescriptions
Prescription weekly box/organizer
Ibuprofen and/or Acetaminophen
Antacid
Antidiarrheal medicine
Benadryl
Basic first aid supplies (Band-Aids, triple-antibiotic ointment, etc.)
Vitamins
Feminine supplies
Heating pad
Hygiene
Shower shoes
Tissues
Body wash
All-purpose cleaner
Paper towels
Disinfectant wipes
Hand soap
Hand sanitizer
Toiletries
Food and Drink
Breakfast bars
Snacks
Coffee/tea cup
Water bottle
Sport’s drinks
Nice, but not necessary
Coffeemaker/hot pot/microwave, if allowed
Small refrigerator (if not provided)
Area rug
Posters/art plus hanging hardware
Command hooks
School Supplies
Backpack
Laptop and protective case
Earbuds
USB flash drive
Stapler and staples
Printer paper (if you take a printer)
Pens and pencils
Colored pencils and/or markers
Pencil holder and sharpener
Notebooks
Folder with pockets
Labels of various sizes
3 × 5 index cards
Sticky notes
Paper clips and binder clips
Rubber bands
Tape
Scissors
Highlighters (multiple colors)
Ruler
Stackable desk trays (at least 4)
Miscellaneous
Earplugs – in case your roommate snores
Sleep mask
Umbrella
Rain jacket
Small flashlight in case of a power outage
For information on anything related to the college admissions process, please feel free to contact me at kathy@fineeducationalsolutions.com.
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