Thanks to social media, today’s teenagers heading off to college have a clear mental picture of what they want their dorm room to look like—and what they need to survive. I say this tongue-in-cheek, because the dorm room I had in college wouldn’t even come close to today’s standards of style or comfort. If you or someone you love is preparing to move into a dorm room soon, let me help! I’m sharing our complete dorm room essentials and college supplies checklist—plus where we sourced everything, from Amazon to thrift stores and even Facebook Marketplace. Bonus, I’m sharing some things we’ve learned about insurance too!
While most of the items are linked for easy shopping, I did thrift a few and would have thrifted more if I’d had permission. 🙂
To keep things organized and easy to follow, I’ve broken everything down by category. You’ll notice that storage and organization was one of our biggest priorities. When you’re packing a ton of necessities into a small, shared space, getting creative is key!
Dorm Room
Storage & Organization
Bedding Needs
- Twin XL sheets & comforter (Most dorm beds are XL—be sure to get the right size.)
- Mattress topper
- Bed skirt (Important for high captains(raised beds)—not lofted. Great for hiding storage bins.)
- Clip-on desk
- Study pillow
- Throw blanket
- Decorative pillows
- Storage ottoman (Doubles as a step stool for raised beds.)
Closet Organization
Laundry Supplies
- Delicate washing bags
- Collapsible laundry basket
- Rolling dirty clothes hamper
- Laundry detergent
- Dryer sheets
- Spot Remover
- Lint Roller
Shower Essentials
- Shower shoes
- Shower caddy
- Shower cap
- Towels
- Washcloths
- Robe
- Dish mat (For drying shower items.)
Food & Kitchen Items
- Plate & bowl
- Glasses
- Silverware
- Cutting board
- Shot glass (Yes, it was requested! 🤦♀️)
- Refrigerator
- Microwave
- Microwave cover
- Over-the-fridge storage shelf
- Baskets
- Brita water filter
- Storage containers
- Ziplock bags
- Bag clips
Desk & Study Supplies
- Desk lamp
- Stapler
- Scissors
- Tape
- Drawer organizer
- Makeup mirror (Dual-purpose: desk + vanity)
- Surge protector
- Cable clips
- Kleenex
- Seat cushion
- Phone charger
Cleaning Supplies
- Trash can
- Trash bags
- Windex
- All-purpose cleaner
- Disinfecting wipes
- Dish soap
- Paper towels
- Vacuum
- Rags
- Dish cloth & towel
- Hand Soap
Medical Supplies
- Cough medicine
- Cough drops
- Tylenol / Ibuprofen
- Pepto-Bismol
- All-day allergy relief
- Antacids
- Thermometer
- Band-aids
- Neosporin
Miscellaneous Must-Haves
- Tool set
- Jumper cables
- House slippers
- Bath mat (If your dorm has a sink.)
- Deck of cards
- Swimsuit
- Beach towel
- Sunscreen
- Bug Spray
Creating an Atmosphere
- Bulletin board
- Whiteboard & dry erase markers
- LED lighting
- Command strips & hooks
- Area rug
- Futon (If space allows.)
- Full-length mirror
- Fan
Insurance
Renters Insurance
Check with your current insurance company, as your student may already be covered under your existing policy. If your company does not provide coverage while your child is living in the dorms, look into renters insurance offered through the university. It is often cheaper than quotes from other providers.
Auto Insurance
If your student’s car will remain at home, you may be able to lower your automobile insurance by notifying your provider. Many companies offer a “student away” discount.
School Supplies
Classroom Supplies
- Notebooks
- Pens & pencils
- Accordion file folder
- Backpack
- Water bottle
Weather & Transportation Essentials
- Pepper spray
- Winter boots
- Winter coat
- Gloves
- Hat
- Rain boots
- Umbrella
Of course, don’t forget the everyday basics like toiletries—shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, makeup, and hair supplies. You’ll also want to bring your computer, notecards, and maybe a few sentimental items from home to make the space feel like yours.
Hopefully this dorm room essentials and college supplies checklist gives you a solid starting point. It includes plenty of items you might not have thought of—and a peek at what “everyone else” will be bringing too. Think: over-the-fridge storage cabinets, long bed skirts, and a cute storage ottoman to help you hop into bed in style. 😉
Whether you’re shopping new or thrifting your way through the list, this guide will help you stay organized, on budget, and move-in ready.
This post may contain affiliate links for the products I use and recommend. I am not paid to promote these products. If you purchase using my affiliate links, I could make a small commission at no charge to you.
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