Moving into a dorm this fall? Before you get started with the packing, take a look at our helpful list of what to bring when moving into a college dorm.
Bedding

  • Mattress pad
  • At least two sets of twin sheet sets (be sure to check whether the dorm bed requires extra long twin sheets)
  • Pillowcases
  • Pillows
  • Quilt or bedspread
  • Extra blankets
  • Backrest pillow for sitting up
  • Throw pillows
  • Reading light that can attach to bed

Laundry

  • Laundry hamper for dirty laundry
  • Coins for laundry (if needed)
  • Iron
  • Foldable ironing board
  • Laundry detergent
  • Dryer sheets
  • Lint brush
  • Stain removing spray or pen
  • Drying rack for clothes that can’t be put in the dryer

Closet

  • Shoe rack or over the door storage
  • Clothing hangers
  • Clothing for all seasons
  • Umbrella
  • Raincoat
  • Winter coat, sweaters and fleeces
  • Rainboots
  • Sneakers
  • Shoes for all occasions
  • Dressy, semi-formal outfits
  • T-shirts
  • Athletic clothing
  • Jeans
  • Leggings
  • Shorts
  • Pants
  • Tops
  • Socks
  • Bathing suits
  • Sunglasses
  • Professional clothing for internships and class presentations

Bathroom & Toiletries

  • Soap and/or body wash
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Towels and washcloths
  • Portable shower caddy
  • Waterproof flip flops for showering (if sharing a hallway bathroom with others)
  • Changing robe
  • Bathroom cleaning supplies
  • Hairbrush
  • Hair gel or mousse
  • Hairspray
  • Moisturizer
  • Razor
  • Shaving kit
  • Deodorant
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Floss
  • Mirror
  • Tweezers
  • Bobby pins
  • Hair ties
  • Comb
  • Contact solution and eyeglass cleaner
  • Toilet paper
  • Mouthwash
  • Sunscreen
  • Makeup
  • Chapstick
  • Qtips
  • Cotton balls
  • Makeup remover
  • Facewash
  • Hairdryer
  • Hair curling iron
  • Hair straightening iron
  • Bath mats

Kitchen

  • Ice bucket
  • Can opener
  • Coffee pot
  • Disinfecting wipes and spray
  • Clips for potato chip bags, etc.
  • Tea kettle for boiling water
  • Instant coffee
  • Creamer
  • Ramen
  • Bottled water or water filter
  • Snacks
  • Paper towels
  • Utensils
  • Plates and bowls
  • Cups
  • Mugs
  • Paper napkins
  • Plastic wrap
  • Tupperware
  • Dishwashing soap
  • Sponge
  • Trash bags
  • Mini-fridge (if allowed)

    • Tech necessities

  • All chargers
  • Power strip
  • TV
  • Laptop
  • Flashlight
  • Printer
  • Paper
  • Ink for printer
  • Extension cord
  • Router for internet
  • Headphones
  • Batteries

    • Decor

    • Floor lamp
    • Curtains
    • Curtain rods
    • TV stand
    • Comfortable chair, couch or futon for lounging
    • Desk chair
    • Decor pillows
    • Nightstand
    • Table lamp, lampshade and extra bulbs
    • Coffee table or ottoman
    • Small dining room table and chairs (if room)
    • Extra blankets
    • Wall art
    • Mirrors
    • Shelving
    • Bookcase
    • Books
    • Picture frames
    • Bulletin boards
    • Plants
    • Extra baskets for holding things

    Miscellaneous

    • Alarm clock or clock radio, if not using phone
    • White noise machine
    • Extra fan
    • Broom and dust pan
    • Waste basket
    • Coat hanger
    • Scissors
    • Sports equipment
    • Sewing kit
    • Storage boxes for under the bed
    • Space saving vacuum sealed storage bags
    • Space heater
    • Jewelry box
    • All important documents including health insurance cards, AAA cards and passport
    • First-aid kit with thermometer, advil, band-aids, neosporin, decongestant and antiseptic wipes
    • Vitamins and prescription medicine
    • Sleep mask
    • Ear plugs
    • Workout equipment and yoga mat
    • Luggage
    • Games and books
    • Bike or moped
    • Bike helmet
    • Hand-held vacuum for cleaning
    • Car