College Packing List
Sending your student off to college can be an emotional and overwhelming step. With thousands of “college packing lists” available—stuffed with either too many items or too little—it can be confusing to know what the right list is. Especially if you are striving towards an organized and clutter-free life, the idea of purchasing dorm items can seem frivolous. Hopefully, this list will provide insight, but the ultimate one is up to you. The best advice is to look at this list, then at the things you already have and see if they overlap. College years fly by, particularly the first one spent in a dorm. Make sure you shop intentionally and don’t forget to pack items that already spark joy!
The Necessities
- Mattress Protector — (for bedbugs)
- Extra Long Twin bedding — This is the standard size for dorm rooms but check your specific college’s instructions just in case.
- Pillows — Dorm beds are pushed directly against the wall. Bring more pillows than you think are necessary, as a barrier from the wall.
- Small Trash Can
- Silverware — A couple pieces will suffice.
- Cleaning Supplies
- Clothes Hangers
- Storage Bins with Drawers — Drawer and closet space are sparse. These can replace a new dresser and be slid neatly under the bed.
- Lighting — Dorm rooms are lit with fluorescent lights. This item could be a small lamp, floor lamp, string lights, etc.
- Power Strips — Most dorms do not allow extension cords and outlets are limited.
- Door Hooks — These hooks slide right on top of the door for easy hanging.
- Laundry Bag/Basket — This can be as simple as a large reusable grocery bag. Your student will most likely not want to lug a bulky laundry basket down five flights of stairs every week.
Optional (But Helpful!)
- Crates for Storage — Perfect for stashing Clorox in your closet or snacks under your bed.
- Bed Pocket – If the dorm room bed is lofted, going up and down a ladder can be a pain. This could even be a tote bag hung around a post on the bed if you do not want to purchase an actual pocket.
- Mattress Topper – The standard mattress in student housing is not super comfortable. This item may not have much use again, but it might be well worth the buy if you have someone to pass it onto in the family.
- Mini Fridge
- Command Strips — These are great for hanging lights, decorations, keys, jackets, etc.
- Small Rug – This can cozy up a cold dorm room floor.
- Electric Kettle/Coffee Machine
- Decorations — Bring items from home and don’t go overboard. Make sure to buy things that you can see being used again.
- Microwavable Mugs/Bowl — You won’t have much space, so these two-in-one mugs are perfect. You can put your coffee in them and also your soup.
- Soup/Snacks – Soup and snacks can sit unopened for a while, so when your student has a late night it will come in handy.
Don’t forget to keep in mind your student’s home life as it is now. This can help you cross off or add things to your personal list. The first semester can be stressful, and your student will be happy to see those familiar things from home that spark joy.
