Packing for college is one of the hardest moments when preparing for college. You never know how much is too much, and what all you may need. This is a list of all the basic essentials so you are as prepared as can be!
Bedroom: Let’s start with the most basic. You’re going to need sheets, pillows, etc. You are going to want to contact your school or view their dormitory websites to see what size you need to buy. Standard dorms have twin extra-long, mattresses. A lot of dorms have hard mattresses. So if you’re one of those “princess and the pea” types, you’re going to want to buy a mattress pad. Also, a great storage place is under your bed. Plastic bins work fabulous and to create even more space you can buy “bed risers” to lift your bed even higher.
Bathroom: They easiest way to put this; think of everything you used this morning to get ready, and pack it. You’re going to need your shower essentials; towels, shampoo, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, Q-tips, bathrobe, make-up (if you wear it), shower caddy, tissues, lotion, and a razor. You will also need to pack nail clippers, tweezers, a hand-held mirror, hand towels, mouthwash and other basics. If you are sharing showers with the entire floor of your dorm; you’re going to want to buy waterproof flip-flops to wear when in the shower. If you style your hair you’re going to want to make sure you don’t forget hair products, blow-dryer, curling iron, a straightener, and not to forget the most important; a hair brush. And, don’t forget your deodorant!
Basics: Clothes are the most basic items. An important thing you need to take into consideration here are what type of climate you will be in. Pack accordingly. Don’t forget what different types of things you may be doing; will you need a business outfit, work-out clothes, swim suits, or snow appropriate clothes? There’s no need to over do it. If you have a shirt you’ve had in your closet for 2 years and it still has tags on it, be realistic, you’re probably not going to wear it when you get to college either.
First Aid: People often forget this. You’re constantly going to be in contact with new people. Germs spread like wildfire – be prepared. Bring hand sanitizer and vitamin C! Don’t forget cough drops, cold medicine, aspirin, band-aids, vitamins, and any other medical essentials you typically use. If you’re accident prone, make sure to prepare by having the number of the campus health center on your first aid kid, just in case.
School Stuff: Finally, the important section. Buy you’re textbooks as early as possible to save the most money. You can find a ton of online sites to find books cheaply priced. You’re going to need a computer if you’re able to afford it. Look into your school set-up to see what type of computer is best for you. Don’t forget the essentials that come with a computer; internet cords, charger, USB drives, and a surge protector. TV’s and DVD players are always hot items. Don’t forget the essential cords here either. Also, many people bring gaming systems to school to use in their free time. You’re going to need the typical school stuff too; notebooks, pencils, pens, calculator, stapler, tape, folders, binders, post-its, highlighters, desk lamp, either a calendar or a planner, scissors, and a trash can. Most people need a book bag too! Many of these “school” items can be purchased as the school bookstores for insane prices, if you do forget anything!
Fun Stuff: Here we have all the extras. Most dorms have a micro fridge, aka a microwave and a tiny refrigerator to store and cook food in the dorm. Many people bring hot plates, if your dorm permits it. You’ll also want some dishes, dish soap if you’re using real dishes and not plastic, a can opener, and most importantly bring food! You’ll also want fun stuff to decorate your dorm with to make it feel more like home. Bring posters and more but make sure to coordinate space and décor plans with your roommate. If you’re packing any expensive items or bringing money, you may want a lock box to keep these items in; especially if you’ll be living with someone you’ve never met. Its always better to be safe than sorry!
Many people may find they have other needs that are essential to their everyday living that they will need to bring to college. This is just a comprehensive checklist to get you started and make sure you can survive. It seems overwhelming and costly, but the majority of what you need to bring are all things you already have! Good luck and happy freshman year!
