College Packing List
Fact Checked by: Packing for college can feel overwhelming, especially with so many lists floating around. Most students end up overpacking, overspending, or feeling stressed about what they might forget.
The good news: You can keep it simple by focusing on what you’ll actually use. Skip the extras, and you’ll arrive on campus prepared and confident.
Get your free downloadable checklist, plus tips to save money, time, and stress on move-in day.
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College packing list: Categorized essentials for dorm life
We’ve organized the must-have items by category. Most dorm rooms are small, so pack light and check with your school about what’s already provided.
Bed and bath essentials
Start with the basics for sleeping and showering. Soft bedding and bathroom supplies can make your dorm feel more like home.
- Twin XL sheets (2 sets): Most dorm beds are Twin XL size, so bring two sets for easy swaps.
- Mattress protector: Shields your mattress from spills and dust mites.
- Pillows (2+), pillowcases: Having extras is handy for comfort or guests.
- Comforter or duvet: Choose one that fits Twin XL beds.
- Throw blanket: Adds warmth or a decorative touch.
- Bath towels (2–3): Enough for rotation between laundry days.
- Hand towels and washcloths: For washing your face and quick cleanups.
- Shower caddy: Organizes toiletries for shared bathrooms.
- Shower shoes or flip flops: Protects your feet in communal showers.
- Bathrobe: Great for walking to and from the shower.
- Toiletry bag: Keeps your personal items organized.
Laundry supplies
Staying on top of laundry in college is easier with the right gear. Be sure to pack these items to do your laundry at the dorm.
- Collapsible laundry basket or bag: Saves space when you aren’t using it.
- Laundry detergent (pods or liquid): Choose bottles/packages that are easy to carry.
- Dryer sheets or dryer balls: Reduces static and softens clothes.
- Stain remover pen or spray: Tackles unexpected spills.
- Quarters or laundry card: Check your campus laundry system in advance.
- Lint roller: Especially useful for pet hair or lint-prone clothes.
- Mesh delicates bag: Protects lingerie, socks, or small items.
- Laundry instructions: Keep a simple guide handy if you’re new to doing laundry.
Clothing and accessories
Deciding how much of your wardrobe to bring to school can be a tough call. You might want to make a seasonal swap to save room, starting with clothes that match the weather.
- Everyday wear: T-shirts, jeans, shorts, and comfortable outfits you’ll actually wear.
- Workout gear: For the gym or outdoor activities.
- Pajamas and loungewear: For relaxing or late-night study sessions.
- Undergarments and socks: Pack extra for laundry delays.
- Business attire: Needed for interviews, presentations, or career fairs.
- Weather-appropriate clothes: Rain jacket, winter coat, boots, gloves, scarf, and hat as needed.
- Comfortable shoes: Everyday sneakers, sandals, dress shoes, and boots if needed.
- Accessories: Belt, jewelry, watch, and other personal items.
- Swimsuit: For the pool, gym, or recreation trips.
- Reusable shopping bags: Essential for laundry, groceries, or storage.
Personal care and toiletries
You can keep your daily routine smooth and save yourself some early trips to the grocery store with these personal care essentials.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss: Go ahead and pick up your dental health basics.
- Shampoo and conditioner: Pack travel sizes if you’re short on space.
- Body wash or soap: Pick your preferred choice for showering.
- Face wash and skincare: Maintain your daily regimen.
- Deodorant: Pack a backup, too.
- Razor and shaving cream: Don’t forget these grooming staples.
- Hairbrush or comb, hair ties: Stay organized on busy mornings.
- Hair dryer or straightener: Don’t forget your styling tools if you use them regularly.
- Grooming kit: Pack nail clippers, tweezers, and scissors.
- Feminine hygiene products: Bring enough to last a few weeks.
- Cotton swabs and rounds: These are a go-to for makeup and skincare.
- Lotion or moisturizer: These are especially key in dry climates.
- Sunscreen and lip balm: Protect your skin year-round.
- Contact lens solution/case or glasses: Don’t forget spares if you need them.
Health and first aid
You never know when a minor illness or injury might sneak up on you. Be prepared with a simple kit including the following.
- First aid kit: Include band-aids, gauze, and antibiotic ointment.
- Pain relievers: Bring ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or your preferred option.
- Cold or allergy medicine: These are especially important if you have seasonal allergies.
- Thermometer: A thermometer is a solid purchase to have on hand.
- Personal medications: Bring prescriptions and keep them secure.
- Hand sanitizer: Buy a large bottle for your dorm and a smaller one you can keep handy.
- Vitamins or supplements: Don’t forget vitamins if they’re part of your routine.
Cleaning supplies
Even in small spaces, a few cleaning supplies can go a long way toward keeping your dorm fresh. Don’t forget the items below:
- Broom and dustpan: For quick sweeps of your floor.
- Small vacuum: Handheld or stick vacuums are ideal for dorms.
- Disinfectant wipes: A must for shared surfaces.
- All-purpose cleaner: Cleans your desks, counters, and more.
- Sponges and scrub brush: For dishes or tough messes.
- Paper towels: Useful for spills and cleaning.
- Trash bags (small and large): Bring extras for move-in and move-out days.
- Air freshener or odor absorber: Keeps your room smelling fresh.
- Gloves: Useful for cleaning bathrooms or common spaces.
Kitchen and food items
Most dorms have limited kitchen access, so stick to the basics and only pack the kitchen items that are allowed by your school.
- Mini-fridge: Ask if your dorm includes one before buying.
- Microwave: Only if it’s permitted by campus housing rules.
- Coffee maker or electric kettle: Check your school’s policies before bringing appliances.
- Plates, bowls, cups: Just make sure they’re microwave-safe and easy to store.
- Utensils: Bring at least one fork, spoon, knife, can opener, and bottle opener.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated in class and on campus.
- Food storage containers: These are super handy for snacks and leftovers.
- Non-perishable snacks: Grab some granola bars, popcorn, or trail mix for late night snacking.
- Paper towels: Always keep paper towels handy in a shared space.
Pro tip: Many schools restrict hot plates and certain appliances. Always double-check your housing policy before packing kitchen gear.
Academic and office supplies
Set yourself up for study success with these school supplies.
- Backpack: Comfortable and sturdy for carrying books and a laptop.
- Laptop and charger: Essential for college coursework.
- Notebooks and folders: Keep your classes organized.
- Binders and loose-leaf paper: For note-taking or assignments.
- Pens, pencils, highlighters: Stock up on extras.
- Index cards and sticky notes: Helpful for studying and reminders.
- Planner or calendar: Stay on top of deadlines and events.
- Calculator: Check your major’s requirements for specific models.
- Stapler, scissors, tape: Small but useful for projects and presentations.
- USB flash drive: Back up important files.
Technology and electronics
Don’t forget your tech gear. Bring some of these items to stay on top of your classwork and make downtime more fun.
- Laptop and charger: Central to most college work.
- Tablet or e-reader: Optional for reading or note-taking.
- Headphones or earbuds: Block out noise in shared spaces.
- Cellphone and charger: Bring a spare charger if you can.
- Power strips and surge protectors: Dorms usually have limited outlets.
- Extension cords: Make sure they’re surge-protected if required by your school.
- Portable charger or power bank: Keeps devices charged on the go.
- Printer and ink: Optional since most campuses have printing labs.
Dorm room storage and organization
Smart storage keeps your dorm tidy and maximizes small spaces.
- Under-bed storage bins or boxes: Great for shoes, out-of-season clothes, or snacks.
- Closet organizers: Hanging shelves and shoe racks improve closet space.
- Command hooks and strips: Hang items damage-free.
- Over-the-door organizers: Store shoes, toiletries, or school supplies.
- Desk organizer or caddy: Keeps your study area clutter-free.
- Drawer dividers: Helpful for small clothing items or supplies.
- Laundry hamper (collapsible): Easy to tuck away when not in use.
Decor and comfort items
Make your dorm feel inviting and comfortable with just a few extras.
- Rug: Adds comfort and style to cold floors.
- Lamps: Desk and floor lamps brighten up dark rooms.
- Desk or clip-on fan: Essential for warm climates or stuffy dorms.
- Blackout curtains: These curtains can be a huge help with sleep.
- Throw pillows and blankets: Extra coziness for your bed or chair.
- Photos, posters, wall art: Personal touches from home.
- Picture hangers and washi tape: Hang items without damaging walls.
- Comfy chair or extra seating: If your pace allows, this adds another spot to relax or study.
Important documents
Keep your critical documents secure and accessible during your move.
- Student ID: If it’s issued before arrival, be sure to bring it with you.
- Driver’s license or government ID: Keep your ID handy for identification and travel.
- Insurance cards: Bring your health, dental, and auto insurance cards if you have them.
- Medical information: List allergies, prescriptions, and immunizations.
- Financial aid documents: Keep a backup copy in case you need to reference them.
- Bank information or checkbook: For setting up direct deposit or emergencies.
- Emergency contacts: Save a printed and digital copy.
Miscellaneous essentials
These items sometimes get overlooked, but they can make everyday life on campus a lot easier.
- Umbrella: Always handy for campus walks.
- Reusable shopping bags: Use for groceries or laundry.
- Sewing kit: Great for quick fixes.
- Tool kit: Mini screwdriver, hammer, tape measure.
- Bicycle, helmet, bike lock: If allowed and you plan to bike on campus.
- Earplugs and eye mask: Block out noise and light for better sleep.
- Flashlight: Useful during power outages or late-night walks.
Personal safety and security
Dorms are busy places, so it’s wise to take a few steps to keep your valuables, and yourself, safe.
- Lockbox or small safe: Store any valuables and important documents.
- Door lock: Only bring this if it’s allowed by your housing policy.
- Personal alarm or whistle: Provides peace of mind.
- Pepper spray: Only where it’s legal and permitted on campus.
- RFID-blocking wallet: Protects credit cards from scanning theft.
Tip: Always secure valuables and keep key documents in a safe spot. It’s easy for things to get misplaced on busy move-in days.
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Packing tips and advice
What not to bring: Prohibited and restricted items
Every school has its own list of banned items. When in doubt, check your housing website before packing anything questionable. Here are a few common no-gos you may not be able to bring on campus.
- Candles, incense, open flames: Almost always prohibited for fire safety.
- Space heaters: Most dorms don’t allow them.
- Hot plates, toaster ovens: Only bring if specifically permitted.
- Extension cords without surge protection: Schools often require surge-protected cords.
- Halogen lamps: Usually banned due to fire risk.
- Pets: Only fish or approved service animals are allowed in most dorms.
- Weapons: Including pepper spray in some states or schools.
- Large furniture: Larger couches probably won’t fit in standard dorms.
Check your school’s official list to avoid packing something you’ll have to send home.
Packing and moving day tips
Moving in is smoother if you plan ahead and organize your packing.
- Start early: Gather and pack items gradually over several weeks.
- Pack by category: Organize boxes by room or function for easier unpacking.
- Calculate your move: Use our packing and moving box calculator to estimate your packing supply needs.
- Label every box: Include your name, room number, and contents.
- Use storage bins or suitcases: Easier to carry and reuse than cardboard boxes.
- Bring a dolly or rolling cart: Especially if you have heavy items or a long walk.
- Check your school’s move-in schedule: Know your arrival time and parking info.
- Coordinate with family: Assign roles for driving, unloading, and parking.
- Consider a moving company: Hiring movers can simplify the process, and there are several movers that specialize in small moves.
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Coordinating with roommates
Connecting with your roommate ahead of time can make move-in easier and prevent duplicate purchases.
- Connect early: Decide who brings shared items like a mini-fridge or microwave.
- Discuss allergies and cleaning: Set expectations for shared spaces.
- Plan your move-in: Coordinate arrival times and split up big items.
Avoiding overpacking
Less is often more in a dorm room. Declutter before the move, and focus on the essentials and leave “just-in-case” extras at home.
- Pack only what you use regularly: If you haven’t used it recently, you likely won’t need it.
- Buy or ship later: You can always pick up forgotten items after move-in.
- Leave extras at home: Dorm rooms fill up fast. You’ll appreciate the extra space if you pack lightly.
Download your printable college packing checklist
Stay organized with a checklist you can print or use on your phone. Download our free printable college packing checklist (PDF) and prep for move-in day with confidence.
For parents: Packing tips and move-in checklist
How parents can help their student pack (without stress)
- Review the packing list together: Focus on packing essentials and skip the rest.
- Encourage roommate coordination: Avoid duplicates for shared items.
- Sort and label boxes: Unpacking will be smoother if you keep your boxes organized.
- Double-check key items: Ensure your kid’s important documents and meds are packed.
- Bring simple tools: Screwdrivers and measuring tape can save the day.
- Pack a “first night” bag: Include sheets, toiletries, and a change of clothes.
- Stay positive and flexible: Your attitude sets the tone. Encourage your student on moving day.
- Let your student take the lead: Taking a backseat to your student builds confidence.
- Plan a check-in call: Give your child space, as hard as it may seem, then reconnect soon.
Get ready to move: Plan your college move like a pro
Building a smart college packing list is the first step to a smoother, less stressful move. With a little planning and the right essentials, you’ll be ready for a successful semester, and your family can breathe easier, too.
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