Essential things to bring to a dorm room can be different for every person, but my list is general. Packing for college may seem intimidating, but start it with a check list of items that you need in a dorm. Now, break it down into “wants” and “must haves.” This will help narrow down the essentials. If you are confused and you don’t know what to bring to your new dorm room, check out this list!
1. First aid kit
First aid kit is a must-have thing to bring to your dorm room! You never know when you’ll need some painkillers, right? Studying is not a hanging out with friends so you should be prepared to have those terrible headaches. Keep in mind that the local store on campus might not open early in the morning or late in the evening, so be prepared.
2. Comforter set
Moving out can be difficult, so you might want to make your new room feel like home. The best way to do it is to purchase a cute comforter set and add some color to those plain white walls! Choose a bright color, but make sure it’s not too overwhelming, because it can make your dorm room feel much smaller.
3. Under bed storage
Since dorm rooms are typically small, you need to take some under bed storage for your clothes or other things that you may not use too often. Under bed storage will help save you space and prevent clutter.
4. Alarm clock
I know this sounds a little bit boring, but alarm clock is a must have. Remember you shouldn’t be late for your classes and since you will have to get up early in the morning, you might need this.
5. Mini fridge
It can be so annoying to put your name on everything in a shared fridge. So if you want to keep your food apart from your roommates, don’t forget to grab a mini fridge. Place it in a corner of your room and fill it with your favorite healthy food so nobody decides to eat what’s yours.
6. Power cord
You’re going to want to have somewhere to plug all your electronics (phone charger, laptop, TV, alarm clock, etc.) into, right? That’s why you need to buy power cord and make sure you bring it to your dorm room!
7. Robe
Sharing a bathroom with a whole floor of people is a really challenging task. That’s why you will definitely need some cute robe. Plus, you might need a robe on those movie nights when you want to lounge and wear some comfortable clothes.
8. Laundry basket
It’s also annoying to share a laundry room with a building of young adults, especially when those adults like to take out your clothes before they’re done. Place your laundry basket on top of the machine you’re using at the time with your name on it. This might prevent someone from taking your clothes.
9. Bookcase
Bookcase is another essential thing to bring to your dorm room. Choose something thin and tall, because you will not have a lot of space. If you have limited space, talk to your roommate and try to work something out. For instance, split the bookcase in the middle, so that you get the top and your roommate gets the bottom, or vice versa.
10. Picture frames
As I said above, moving out can be very difficult because you won’t be able to see your family and friends. So why not put their faces all over the walls? Buy some cute picture frames and put them around your bed, if you’re sharing a room and can’t hang on the walls.
11. Something that means a lot to you
Whether it is your favorite picture of your family, or your oldest stuffed animal, bring it with you. Through difficult times, you might want to feel connected again to your family and your friends. It’s better to keep it on your desk.
The list could be super long, but these things are really essential! Make sure you bring what you know you will need and want and what is very important to you. Do you have anything to add to this list? Share your thoughts, please.