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- TIPS & IDEAS -

Your Go-To College
Packing List for 2022

Well-lit college dorm room. There is a gray, well-kempt bed in the middle, a desk behind, and a large calendar on the wall.

College is one of the most exciting times in your life. You’ll be encountering new friends, new people, new classes, and maybe even an entirely new city. A lot of exciting changes are in store for you.

 

For many, it will be your first time living away from home, and you might be wondering what to bring to college, or even how to start making a college packing list.

 

Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Here are some ideas to hit the ground running with a stylish and comfortable room for your first year of college.

 

 

How To Pack for College

Whiteboard hanging on a white wall with calendar and to-do list.

Planning is one of the best things you can do to make your transition to dorm life easier. Before you start packing, there are a few basics to keep in mind and ensure you get all of your room essentials.

 

First, it’s important to talk with your roommate about anything sharable. Coordinate with them about any dorm room decor ideas or any items they might already have. From choosing the right-sized rug for your space to agreeing on posters or tapestries, getting in touch with your future roomie is a good first step. Be on the lookout for ways to make your space look bigger and maximize your storage space.

 

As you approach your packing, consider the things you use on a daily basis. Make a list of those items and plan to bring most of them unless the school provides them for you. 

 

Also think about the things that might be useful to have at school, and what you appreciate. Do you like having a cold room? Be sure to pack a fan. Are you a late-night snacker? Bring some food storage containers to take back food from the dining halls.

 

 

What Should I Use to Pack My Stuff for College?

Three Charcoal Vegan Leather-Trim Canvas Bins of varying sizes containing miscellaneous items including magazines, books, and a blanket.

Remember to think about how the storage itself will fit in your room once you get there! Dorm space is a valuable commodity, so it’s important to use your space well.

 

Here are a few packing methods to try:

  • Bring plenty of storage that can fit under your bed.
  • Consider using collapsable boxes, shelves, and other compact storage.
  • Use some bags and other non-rigid storage.
  • Rolling your clothes up will make them take less space than if you fold them
  • Last but not least, make sure it all fits in your car!

 

 

What To Bring to College: The Ultimate College Packing List

Once you decide on the basics of your room layout and decor preferences, it’s time to dive into the room planning. 

 

Use the comprehensive college packing list below to ensure you have everything you need for this new phase of your life.

College Bedding Essentials

Navy Favorite Tee Comforter & Sham and gray sheets on a twin size bed.

Check off the items below as you shop to make sure you have everything you need.

 

Dorm Bathroom Essentials

Ombre blush recycled classic shower caddy bath bundle set, including a set of pink towels and a plush bathrobe.

College bathrooms can be tricky to navigate: From a tiny dorm room setup to a communal bathroom down the hall, it’s best to be prepared for something different than what you’re used to. Don’t forget any of these essential dorm bathroom items!

  • Shower shoes
  • Shower caddy
  • Bathrobe and slippers
  • Bath linens (bath towels, washcloths and hand towels)
  • Hair dryer (styling products and other hot tools—check if your school allows these first!)

 

Personal Hygiene Products

Get Ready Beauty Station, with brush, hair straightener, and hair dryer.

Personal hygiene products are vital for keeping yourself clean and refreshed. Don’t forget these essentials on move-in day!

  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Body wash/soap
  • Face wash and lotion
  • Makeup
  • Razor and shaving cream
  • Cotton swabs/pads
  • Brush and/or comb
  • Tweezers, nail clippers and nail file
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss
  • First aid (bandages, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic, cough drops, pain relievers and allergy medication)
  • Feminine care products
  • Deodorant

 

Laundry Supplies for College

Recycled XL Essential Laundry Backpack on a wood floor.

Doing your own laundry and keeping your space clean is a rite of passage in college. You likely won’t have the convenience of having a laundry room right down the hall or a parent to clean up your mess, so an organized system is a must.

  • Laundry bag or hamper
  • Hangers
  • Folding drying rack
  • Laundry pods/detergent
  • Fabric softener and dryer sheets
  • Stain remover
  • Lint roller
  • Sewing kit
  • Disinfectant wipes and all-purpose cleaner
  • Trash bags
  • Vacuum
  • Air freshener and room spray

 

Storage and Organization

Three XXL Dorm Trunks beneath a bed with a navy comforter.

Get creative with dorm storage after moving in. Look for items that can serve dual purpose, such as a trunk used to move your clothes doubling as a table or nightstand. Remember these storage supplies when organizing your dorm.

College School Supplies

Well-organized desk with Glam Desk Riser & Shelves Set, and a Mac computer.

Don’t forget the main reason you’re heading to college. Having everything you need for a well-rounded education will set you up for success. Make sure you build a perfect workplace with these school and desk supplies.

  • Backpack, laptop, or book bag
  • Planner
  • Pens, pencils and highlighters
  • Wall organizer
  • Paper and notebooks
  • Lap desks
  • Binders
  • Paperclips
  • Sticky notes
  • Calculator
  • Scissors and tape
  • Hole punch
  • White out
  • Desk chair

Dorm Room Decor

Color Changing Waterfall String Lights hanging above a white couch.

Now that you have the basics (and then some) established, it’s on to the fun part. Personalize your room with these fun decoration ideas.

Technology and Electronics

Kennedy Task Lamp with USB on top of a well-organized desk with laptop and headphones. There is an octagonal mirror on the wall.

If you have space in your dorm, a sound system or entertainment center can make your room feel even more like home. Wall outlets can be hard to come by in some dorms, so look for items that have USB ports.

  • Laptop or tablet with charger
  • Headphones or earbuds
  • Mouse, mousepad and keyboard
  • Phone charger
  • Extension cords
  • Surge strips
  • Gaming setup
  • Speakers
  • Alarm clock
  • Fan
  • Lamp

 

Kitchen Items for College

Smeg Mini fridge full of food and drinks, with cans in the top shelf.

Your dining hall will have things like plates and silverware but it's always good to have these kitchen supplies on hand in case your dining hall food isn’t your favorite option or you’re in the mood for a late-night snack.

  • Dinnerware (plates, bowl, cups and mug)
  • Silverware (spoon, fork and knife)
  • Water bottle and food storage containers
  • Sponge/scrubber
  • Dish soap, dish towel and drying rack
  • Oven mitt
  • Can opener
  • Bottle opener
  • Non-perishable snacks and canned food
  • Foil
  • Plastic bags
  • Paper towels
     

Miscellaneous Items for College

Elle Lacquer Wall Jewelry Organizer with jewelry and sunglasses hanging off it.

There are a few things that are really important to have that don’t fit anywhere else in this list. Don’t forget these miscellaneous items!

  • Tool kit
  • Flashlight
  • Bike and bike lock
  • Driver’s license (even if you’re not bringing a car!)
  • Insurance cards (medical and car, if you’re bringing your car)
  • List of emergency contacts
  • Jewelry
  • Musical instrument
  • Craft materials and hobby supplies
     

Shared Items

Rainbow Sky Washable Rug against a wood floor, with a white chair, tablet, and headphones on it.

Some items are too big to keep two of in your dorm room. Coordinate with your roommate and figure out who’s bringing which of these essential items.

 

What to Not Bring to College

Even though it seems like we covered every possible item you’ll need when you go off to college, there are a few things you can leave at home. Check out this list of things not to plan for and confirm what your school will provide.

 

  • Mattress: Your dorm most likely provides this.
  • Car: If possible, opt for walking, biking, and using public transportation so you don’t have to pay parking fees on campus.
  • Valuables: Unless it’s something you know you can keep absolutely safe, keep your cherished items at home.
  • Desk: Your dorm will likely already provide this, but double-check with the school. They often provide desk chairs, but you may want to bring an ergonomic chair if you plan to study for long hours in your dorm.
  • Your entire wardrobe: You probably won’t need all of your shoes or a sweater you haven’t worn in years. Be sure to clean out only the essentials before packing up your closet.
  • Out-of-season clothes: If you’re moving to a climate with distinct seasons, leave your puffy winter coat at home until you go home for a visit. You won’t want to pack it and store it when it’s still hot outside.
  • Candles and hot plates: Most colleges won’t allow you to bring open flames or fire hazards into the dorms, so leave these at home.
  • Trash bin: Most colleges will provide one in the dorm but make sure you check this beforehand.

 

With these essentials, you can ease yourself into the excitement of college life. College can be overwhelming, but packing for it doesn’t have to be. Follow this packing list, and you’ll be on your way to comfortable dorm living. If you liked these ideas, check out our dorm decor ideas next!

 

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