It’s almost time to move into your college dorm! Whether this is your freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior year, we have some tips on what to bring with you to your dorm room so that you’re fully prepared for the upcoming year.
Clothes: Quality Over Quantity
Dorm rooms are rarely spacious environments. When moving into a dorm room, it is important only to pack the essentials, as space will be at a premium. Unless you are moving to a place with extremely cold temperatures, we recommend packing for the season. Fall can be chilly, so a few sweaters and light jackets aren’t a bad idea. Closet and drawer space will be limited and will most likely be shared with a roommate, so pack light and bring only the necessities.
Most students tend to travel home for the Thanksgiving holiday and during winter break. You can bring back some shorts and summer wear during this break and trade them in for the heavy jackets and snow pants.
What Room Supplies to Bring to Your Dorm Room
While room supplies, of course, vary by person, we have found a few items that almost every college student can’t live without. We recommend coordinating with future roommates so that duplicates aren’t brought. This article omits school supplies and electronics, as you’ve been in school for twelve grades now, and I’m sure you are well aware of the items that work for you and items that don’t.
An easily overlooked essential item you will need in your room is a trash can and recycling bin of some sort. Dorms can get messy, and you will need a container to place trash in to keep your dorm as clean as possible. Bring a desk lamp, as most dorms do not provide any, and some long studious nights may be ahead!
Don't forget to bring bed sheets, a pillow, pillowcase, comforter, and a small room fan. If you have a closet available in the room, some clothes hangers will allow you to save some space in your dresser.
Cleaning Supplies for Your Dorm Room:
The following cleaning supplies can ensure your dorm room is looking and smelling clean.
Paper towels
Trash bags
All-purpose cleaner
Dryer sheets
Tissues
Laundry detergent
Laundry Basket
Toiletries for Your Dorm Room:
This is a list of the starting toiletry necessities that you will want to bring with you when you move it, though remember that you will need to shop for more of these toiletry items as the year progresses.
Shower shoes or flip flops
Soap, shampoo, and conditioner
Toothpaste, toothbrush, and floss
Towels
Tweezers
Nail clippers
Deodorant
Hairstyling products
Cologne or perfume
Razor and shaving cream
Lotion
Basic first aid kit
Pain medication such as Tylenol and Advil
Appliances for Your Dorm Room
Before packing, check with your college dorm to confirm if these items are allowed in your dorm room.
Mini Fridge
Microwave
Television
Gaming System
Extension cord
What Not to Bring to College
There are some items you may be told to bring that, in our experience, won’t ever get used. Our smartphones serve many purposes for us, including being our alarm clocks. Though alarm clocks are often mentioned in dorm room essential tips, they no longer serve any purpose. Additionally, nearly all dorm rooms have dryers in the laundry room, meaning you can probably skip bringing your large drying rack.
Moving These Items In
If you are moving to or from Atlanta, Georgia, Pack It Up Moving and Storage can meet your moving and storage needs. As reliable and affordable residential movers in Atlanta, we can ensure your items are safely and properly delivered.
We specialize in both local and long-distance moves to and from Atlanta and provide secure storage options. Contact us today for a stress-free move to your university.