The Ultimate College Packing Checklist

Packing for college for the first time can bring a whirlwind of emotions: excitement, worry, hope and maybe even nerves. But don’t worry! With the right college packing checklist and a positive mindset, you’ll be perfectly prepared to embark on this new chapter of your life.

Daily Living Essentials: Sleep, Eat and Stay Healthy

Consider your dorm room your home away from home where you will sleep, eat and get ready for your days and nights. You won’t want to forget these essential things for all your living needs.

✓ Twin XL bedding (two fitted and flat sheets, comforter, pillowcases, mattress protector etc.)
✓ Mattress topper
✓ Pillows (for sleeping and decorative)
✓ Extra blankets
✓ Towels (body, face and hand)
✓ Sleep mask
✓ Ear plugs
✓ Mini Fridge (3.4 CU Ft. Suggested)
✓ Coffee maker (pod machine recommended)
✓ Bowls, plates and cups
✓ Coffee mug
✓ Water bottle/reusable cups and glasses
✓ Silverware
✓ Can/bottle opener
✓ Dish soap and sponge
✓ Disinfectant wipes
✓ Paper towels and dish towels
✓ Facial Tissue
✓ Bath robe
✓ Basic Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, etc.)
✓ Shower caddy
✓ Shower shoes
✓ Laundry detergent and dryer sheets
✓ Laundry hamper
✓ First Aid Kit

Decor Essentials: Make Your Dorm Feel Like Home

For some students, less is more and for the more extra personality, extreme is the only way to be. Just remember that your roommate may have their own style, so try to coordinate your decorating whenever possible. Here are some suggestions of items to bring to help make your dorm room have a homey vibe.

✓ Bulletin board and push pins
✓ Family photos
✓ Dry-erase wall calendar or board
✓ Plants
✓ Full-length mirrors
✓ Posters or other art
✓ Area rug
✓ Floor lamp
✓ Curtains and tension rod
✓ Desk lamp
✓ Fan
✓ Bean bag chair or another comfy non-desk chair
✓ Twinkly lights

Organize Like a Pro: Maximize Your Space

From your desk to your closet to your bed, the more organized you can keep your space, the roomier your dorm might feel. This space saving swag can turn you into an organizational CEO.

✓ Storage bins
✓ Food-storage containers
✓ Drying rack for laundry
✓ Desk organization trays
✓ Small trash bin
✓ Picture hangers or double-sided wall hooks
✓ Clothes hangers
✓ Tension rod for additional closet hanging
✓ Power strip
✓ Cable organizer
✓ Charging station (for phones, watches, ear buds, etc.)

Leave These at Home: What Not to Pack

Along with all the things you should bring, it is also important to know what items you can leave at home, either because the college already provides them, or because they are not allowed in the residence halls and dorms. If you are unsure of what to bring, you can reach out to your residential advisor.

× Candles or incense
× Space heater
× Cooking appliances (microwave, rice cooker, etc.)
× Pets (unless you have an approved emotional support animal)
× Weapons (including pellet or paintball guns, knives, etc.)
× Drugs or alcohol (the use of illegal and legal drugs or alcohol is not permitted on campus)
× Furniture (desk, chair, dresser, bed frame and mattresses are provided in dorm rooms)
× Personal printer (most schools have printers available to access across campus)

Keep A Running List: Add as Needed

While this college packing checklist may seem extensive, your personal list will continue to grow and expand as you near the start of your college experience. Your dorm room should be a sanctuary where you feel comfortable and safe. Continue to add items that are personal to you and fit your needs. Make sure all your items are properly labeled with your name and room number to make move-in day go smoothly. You can always check out campus housing to learn more about floor plans. Don’t forget to connect with your new roommate to collaborate on a space you’ll both love. Happy packing and welcome to college life!

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