While the standard dorm room essentials like comforters, bathrobes, and reading lights are a given, there’s more to setting up your college space for success. In this guide, we’re highlighting the often-overlooked yet crucial items that will make your college experience smoother and more enjoyable. From unexpected must-haves to game-changing additions, you’ll be relieved and grateful when you remember to bring these along.
So, go ahead and check off those extra items on your packing list – your future self will thank you! 😊
Unexpected Things to Bring to College + College Necessities You Don’t Want to Forget!
As you prepare for your collegiate adventure, you’re likely familiar with essential packing lists and trendy dorm decor. However, there’s more to a successful college experience than just the basics. This list of often-overlooked dorm room essentials is a collection of items I wish I had brought along during my own time on campus. From practical surprises to unexpected conveniences, these must-haves will help make your school year truly unforgettable.
Air Purifier
For a healthier and more allergy-friendly living space in your college dorm room, consider investing in a reliable air purifier. Not only do these devices effectively remove airborne pollutants, but they can also significantly improve indoor air quality. By doing so, you’ll reduce the risk of respiratory issues and alleviate symptoms associated with allergies.
Handheld Vacuum
In the blink of an eye, even the tiniest of spaces can transform into a messy haven. It’s no wonder that vacuums have become a trusted ally in keeping our surroundings spotless. Take, for instance, the BLACK+DECKER Vacuum – a reliable companion in the never-ending battle against dirt and dust.
White Board
Elevate the ambiance of your college dorm room by incorporating a thoughtful touch: a whiteboard set. Strategically placed outside your door, this creative solution allows your roommate to express their personality through fun notes and witty remarks. In turn, you can leave playful comments for your friends, such as ‘TGIF! Happy Friday!’ – a simple yet effective way to foster camaraderie and add a dash of humor to your daily routine.
Party Supplies and Costumes
Get ready for an unforgettable night! When it comes to throwing a party that’s reminiscent of the good old college days, you can’t go wrong with a frat and sorority-themed celebration. To ensure a stress-free experience, make sure you’ve got a stash of fun essentials like glitter, costumes, and more on hand. This way, you’ll be all set for a night to remember.
Pepper Spray
In today’s world, having a means of self-defense is crucial for women. One effective and portable option is pepper spray. It’s a small yet powerful tool that can provide a sense of security when carried with you. Consider keeping it in your purse or pocket as a precautionary measure, knowing that it’s always there to protect you from harm.
Hot Water Heater
When equipping your college dorm space, consider investing in essentials that can make daily life more convenient. If you have the space, a microwave and coffee maker are excellent additions. However, if your dorm’s amenities already include these appliances, a hot water heater with instant coffee capabilities is a great alternative for those late-night caffeine cravings or soothing cups of tea to promote relaxation before bed.
Command Hooks
When it comes to decorating or organizing spaces, command hooks have become a go-to solution for many. Whether you’re a college student looking to add some whimsy with fairy lights or simply need a convenient spot to hang your outerwear, these versatile fasteners can help. With their ease of use and adaptability, it’s no wonder they’ve gained popularity as a reliable way to get the job done.
Reading Light for Night
When it comes to setting up the perfect sleeping space, don’t forget about the importance of a good reading light. A compact, low-key lamp can make all the difference in creating a cozy atmosphere that both you and your roommate will appreciate, especially during those late-night study sessions or quiet moments with a book.
Fan
For those who tend to overheat during the night, a simple yet effective solution can be found in a compact fan. Paired with a cooling mattress pad, this duo can work wonders in maintaining a comfortable sleeping temperature.
Rainboots, Umbrella, and Rain Jacket
When venturing out on a rainy day, it’s not only important to be prepared, but also to do so in style. Consider pairing your rain boots with a stylish raincoat to stay dry and look great at the same time.
First Aid Kit and DIY Medicine
When it comes to being prepared for the unexpected, having essential supplies is crucial. This includes medical essentials like over-the-counter medications and first-aid kits. For instance, First Aid Kid’s kit is a great resource that can help you tackle minor emergencies with ease. Make sure to pack some pain relievers like Advil, as well as other vital items like band-aids – you never know when your friend might need a quick fix.
Noise Canceling AirPods
The Apple AirPods Pro have proven to be an excellent companion for various daily activities. Whether you’re looking to enhance your study sessions with immersive music playback, get pumped up for a swift jog or simply create a peaceful atmosphere by blocking out ambient noises during the night, these earbuds consistently deliver exceptional performance.
Mini Steamer
For students struggling with limited space in their dorm rooms, a conventional ironing board can be a major obstacle. Fortunately, there’s an alternative solution: a portable steamer like Hilife Steamer for Clothes. This compact device makes it easy to get wrinkles out of your clothes without taking up valuable real estate on your floor.
Cute PJs & Slippers
The Serendelicacy satin pajama set is a must-have for any occasion, whether it’s lounging around the house or making a surprise appearance in the hallway. The set’s softness and comfortable design make it perfect for cozy nights in. What I particularly enjoy about this piece is its versatility – not only does it provide a sense of relaxation, but it also adds a touch of elegance to even the most mundane moments.
Power Strip
If you’re struggling to keep all your devices charged and organized, a surge protector power strip with USB is an absolute game-changer. These versatile products allow you to plug in multiple devices at once, while also providing dedicated USB ports for charging your smartphones or laptops. With limited outlets available in many dorm rooms, a power strip like this can be a lifesaver – literally! You’ll never have to worry about finding the perfect outlet again.
Photo Display Grid
Create a visually appealing way to showcase cherished memories by hanging a photo display grid, perfect for displaying images of loved ones such as family members and college friends. With its user-friendly design, you can easily mount the display on your wall and enjoy sharing your favorite moments with others.
Jewelry Hanger
For the fashion-conscious individual, a jewelry hanger is not only an aesthetically pleasing addition to any room but also a practical solution for keeping one’s accessories organized. With its ability to showcase a variety of pieces at once, it simplifies the process of selecting what to wear each day, making mornings easier and more enjoyable.
Desk Bookshelf
Elevate Your Workspace with a Practical yet Stylish Bookshelf! For those seeking to transform their workspace into a haven of creativity, consider incorporating a thoughtfully designed bookshelf above your desk. This versatile piece of furniture not only provides ample storage for books, journals, and other essential items but also offers a unique canvas for showcasing personal treasures, such as framed photos and decorative trinkets.
Whether you’re an avid reader or simply looking to add some visual appeal to your work area, a well-chosen bookshelf is sure to become a treasured addition.
Alarm Clock with Reading Light
The Hatch Restore Alarm Clock, available on Amazon, offers an aesthetically pleasing design that serves a dual purpose – it functions both as a modern alarm clock and a versatile smart reading light. Its sleek appearance makes it a great addition to any bedroom or home decor.
Vanity Mirror
For many students, having a reliable and convenient way to apply makeup in their dorm rooms is a major concern. While the campus bathrooms may seem like an obvious solution, they can be crowded and lacking in natural light – making it difficult to get an accurate view of your reflection. That’s where a vanity mirror comes in. By having one of these mirrors in your dorm room, you’ll be able to easily apply makeup without having to leave the comfort of your own space.
This can be especially useful for those who like to take their time when getting ready or want to avoid the chaos of the bathroom during peak hours.
Shower Caddy
When it comes to daily routines, having the right tools can make all the difference. For many people, that means relying on a trusty shower caddy to transport essentials like shampoo, razors, and soap safely into the shower. With its practical functionality and adorable design, this must-have accessory is a game-changer for anyone looking to simplify their morning and evening routines.
Stain Remover Stick
Whether you’re a tidy person or someone who likes to get messy, having a reliable stain remover nearby can be a lifesaver. This versatile tool deserves a spot in every household, as it’s always ready to tackle those pesky spills and stains.
Velvet Hangers to Save Room in Your Closet
When it comes to maximizing space in small closets, every inch counts. While standard plastic hangers may be readily available at retailers like Target, a more space-efficient option is to opt for velvet hangers. By choosing the latter, you can free up valuable storage space and keep your belongings organized.
Rubber Sandals for the Shower
When it comes to addressing foot care needs, it’s essential to be prepared for a wide range of potential issues that people may face. One simple yet effective solution is to wear flip-flops or rubber sandals in shower environments, such as those found on college campuses. This approach not only promotes hygiene but also helps prevent common complications that can arise from wearing shoes in wet conditions.
Full-Length Mirror with Storage
Amazon’s Target offers a range of affordable options for $10 mirrors that can be easily hung over college dorm room doors. What sets these apart, however, is the added functionality of combining reflection with storage – a convenient feature that can help keep clutter at bay.
Bathrobe
While you may have already planned to bring essentials like bath towels and washcloths to college, consider packing a bathrobe as well. Not only will it provide an added layer of warmth on chilly winter mornings, but it can also be a cozy addition to your daily routine. As the temperature drops, a soft and plush robe can be a comforting treat that you’ll appreciate.
Water Bottle
To maintain mental clarity and focus, it’s essential to prioritize hydration. Invest in a high-quality, BPA-free reusable water bottle equipped with a secure lid that ensures spill-proof and leak-proof performance.
Bed Risers
Transforming your college dorm room into a comfortable oasis can be a daunting task, but incorporating bed risers is an often-overlooked game-changer. By elevating your bed frame, you’ll unlock a hidden compartment that’s perfect for stashing essential items out of the way, such as shoes, winter clothing, and even snacks. Imagine having a cozy retreat where you can relax and unwind after a long day of classes or studying – it’s all possible with the humble bed riser.
Eye Mask
Say goodbye to restless nights and hello to rejuvenating rest with the power of eye masks. Whether it’s a noisy roommate keeping you up late or the harsh morning sun ruining your morning slumber, an effective eye mask will grant you the peace and quiet you need to get the beauty sleep you deserve – even on those precious weekend mornings when you can finally catch up on some much-needed Z’s.
Laptop Case
As you’re constantly on-the-go, whether heading to class or the library, it’s essential to keep your laptop safe and secure. A stylish laptop case is not only practical but also a great way to add a personal touch to your daily routine.
Slippers
When preparing for life in a dorm room, it’s easy to overlook some of the smaller essentials that can make a big difference in your comfort level. In addition to shower slippers, don’t underestimate the value of having a pair of cozy slippers on hand. Not only will they be comfortable to wear while lounging around your room, but they’ll also come in handy for those late-night treks to and from the bathroom.
For a practical yet stylish option, consider these affordable and adorable slipper options available on Amazon.
Condoms
Airborne
When illness strikes, it can be a real downer. Rather than waiting until you’re feeling under the weather to grab some medication, consider taking proactive steps to keep yourself healthy in the first place. Airborne is an excellent product that can help you do just that. This isn’t something you necessarily think about packing for college, but trust us, it’s a vital item to include in your care package.
Can Opener
While it might seem like an unusual item to pack for college, a can opener is actually a surprisingly useful possession. Not only are many students prone to hunger pangs between meals, but keeping non-perishable items like canned soup or tuna on hand can be a lifesaver. And the best part? A can opener takes up very little space in your dorm room, making it an ideal addition to your college essentials.
Formal Dresses
Colleges can be a whirlwind of social events, from cocktail parties to sorority and fraternity gatherings. In hindsight, I wish I had invested in a few formal dresses before heading off to campus. If you’re unsure where to find the perfect dress for these occasions, I highly recommend exploring Lulus’ impressive collection. With their wide range of formal dresses, you’ll be well-prepared for everything from semi-formals to sorority rush.
What Do People Often Forget to Bring to College?
When packing for college, it’s easy to overlook some essential items. Beyond the standard power cord, velvet hangers, shower shoes, and costume accessories, students should also consider bringing along a few practical yet often-forgotten items.
These might include a comfortable bathrobe for relaxing after a long day, a small trash can to keep their dorm room tidy, food storage containers to help them stay organized and healthy, and earplugs to block out any unwanted noise from neighboring rooms or the hallways.
What Is Something Every College Student Needs?
When it comes to preparing for college life, having the right supplies can make all the difference. While there are many packing lists available online, it’s essential to prioritize the must-haves that will ensure a smooth transition into campus life. At the top of the list should be laundry essentials, including a sturdy hamper and reliable detergent, as well as hangers for keeping clothes organized. A trusty backpack or bag for carrying books and laptops is also crucial.
Don’t forget bedding staples like twin XL sheets, towels, washcloths, and shower shoes. To complete the setup, consider investing in a convenient shower caddy and a comfortable mattress pad to elevate your dorm experience.
What Are Fun Things to Bring to College?
When it comes to packing for college, there’s no need to sacrifice fun for functionality. Consider bringing along some creative items that can bring a smile to your face and make your dorm room feel more like home. A whiteboard is a great addition, allowing you to leave notes for your neighbors or roommate, while also serving as a canvas for artistic expressions.
For added whimsy, throw in some costume accessories, fairy lights to illuminate your space, and board games or card games like Cards Against Humanity to keep things lively with friends. Don’t forget about comfort – pack some soft and fluffy throw pillows to cozy up with during downtime, and a big, plush bathrobe for those late-night lounging sessions.
Conclusion
As you prepare for your collegiate journey, it’s essential to remember the often-overlooked essentials that can make a significant difference in your daily life. While many students focus on packing clothes and technology, there are several unexpected items that can help create a comfortable and safe living environment.
From a portable vacuum cleaner to air purifiers, pepper spray for personal protection, and themed party accessories, these overlooked necessities should not be forgotten when moving into your college dorm.
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