What You Really Need to Bring to College
what you really need to bring to college
Packing for college can be a pretty stressful and time-consuming ordeal. Plus, it can cost quite a bit of money. Don’t feel pressured to spend a ton of money on college supplies, and don’t be scared into thinking you need to buy every single thing someone recommends. Each school is completely different in the way their housing situations are set up. For some, you might not have to buy cleaning supplies, a desk, or a trash can, while others will have to buy all three. It all depends on the school you’re attending and what they choose to provide to students.
That being said, make sure you check with your school to find out what items are provided and which are not. Often times, they’ll even have a list of recommended items for you to move in with, so be sure to check that out if one is available to you! Otherwise, read through my comprehensive list of things that I believe are must-haves, highly recommended items, and optional to find out what you really need to bring to college. (:
must-haves
- mattress topper
- notebooks
- backpack
- textbooks
- bedding set + pillows
- towels
- hangers
- laundry basket
- laundry detergent + dryer sheets
- note-taking utensils
- calendar/planner
- power strip
- reusable water bottle(s)
- cleaning supplies
- trash bags + can
- showers shoes
- shower caddy
- toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush/paste, razor + shaving cream, contact solution, etc.)
- lotion
- perfume
- medications
- hair tools/supplies
- clothes for all possible seasons/ocassions
- chargers
- decor that you love
- command strips (or something to hang decor)
- storage containers
- any necessary documents (birth certificate, social security card, etc.)
- anything else you use on a regular basis!
highly recommend
- laptop/tablet/etc.
- headphones
- pencil pouch/holder
- tape
- stapler
- scissors
- desk lamp
- minifridge
- dinnerware set + silverware
- mugs
- food storage containers
- Ziploc bags
- paper towels
- calculator
- desk organizer
- desk (if not provided)
- first aid kit
extras
- sticky notes
- index cards
- white board/bulletin board
- dry erase markers
- journal
- books
- comfy chair/couch
- rug
- TV
- microwave
- coffee maker
- blender
- mirror
- card/board games
- bedside caddy
- steamer
- lint remover
- stain remover
- envelopes + stamps
- chip clips
- water filter
