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College Essentials I’d Actually Buy
25
items Starting college comes with a surprisingly long shopping list, but you definitely don’t need everything you see in a dorm haul. These are the practical things I’d actually consider buying for college life—from everyday campus essentials and tech to b...
Sections
4
Everyday Campus Essentials
Tech & Study Setup
Bathroom, Laundry & Getting Ready
The Random Things You’ll Be Glad You Packed
Everyday Campus Essentials
The daily gear you’ll carry back and forth across campus. Focus on durability, comfort, and things that make long days between classes easier.
I’d rather have one good everyday backpack than keep switching bags between classes. This one has that simple, timeless look that works with pretty much everything.
Herschel Backpack
The FreeSip straw situation is genuinely convenient when you’re walking across campus. I’d definitely want a bottle that stays ice-cold for hours.
Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle 24 oz
I love having a durable canvas tote for lighter class days, library trips, or carrying a laptop and notebook when you don't feel like wearing a full backpack.
Canvas
I’d keep a smaller crossbody like this around for days when I don’t want to carry a full backpack. Good for quick coffee runs, errands, or going out after class.
Medium Nylon Crescent Bag Black
I still like having an actual planner even with everything on my phone. It’s nice to see the whole week in front of you when assignments start piling up.
Roterunner Purpose Planner Notebook
Nothing fancy, but good pens make taking notes way less annoying. I’d buy a pack and keep a few everywhere—backpack, desk, and tote bag.
Sharpie S-Gel, Gel Pens, Medium Point (0.7mm), Black Gel Ink Pens, 12 ...
Tech & Study Setup
Smart tech upgrades that help you study anywhere—whether that’s a crowded library, a coffee shop, or your room.
These would probably live in my bag permanently. The Noise Cancellation is incredible for studying somewhere busy or just getting a little quiet time in a noisy dorm.
Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen Wireless Earbuds USB-C
A small, silent wireless mouse is one of those things I’d pack without thinking twice. Much nicer than using a laptop trackpad for hours of research.
Logitech M350s Pebble 2 Bluetooth Wireless Mouse
I love the idea of one compact charger handling my laptop, phone, and earbuds all at once instead of bringing a whole pile of charging bricks everywhere.
Anker 735 Charger (Nano II 65W)
I would absolutely keep a slim power bank in my backpack. You never want your phone or earbuds dying when you still have half a day left on campus.
Anker 313 Power Bank (PowerCore 10K)
Dorm rooms never seem to have outlets exactly where you need them. A safety-certified power strip with built-in USB ports makes charging so much easier.
Enhance Charging Efficiency with USB Power Strips - Anker US
This makes longer typing sessions and writing papers much more comfortable. Plus, it seamlessly switches between your laptop, tablet, or phone.
Pebble Keys 2 K380s Bluetooth Keyboard
Simple, inexpensive, and actually useful. I’d rather spend a little on protecting my laptop inside my backpack than regret not having a sleeve later.
Amazon Basics 14in Laptop Sleeve with Zipper
Bathroom, Laundry & Getting Ready
Practical solutions for communal bathrooms, shared laundry rooms, and keeping yourself put together on a busy schedule.
This is especially useful if you’re sharing a bathroom. I like having everything organized and ready to hang instead of carrying five random bottles in my hands.
BAGSMART / Toiletry Bags / Makeup Bags & Cases
Not glamorous, but an absolute non-negotiable for shared dorm bathrooms. They're super comfortable, non-slip, and dry off almost instantly.
Joomra Pillow Slippers for Women and Men
A sturdy, drainable caddy makes carrying your shampoo, body wash, and loofah down the hall so much less chaotic.
OXO Good Grips 3-Tier Aluminum Shower Caddy
College + white shirts + morning coffee = I’d rather be prepared. This is tiny enough to leave in my backpack for emergencies.
Tide To Go Pen Instant Stain Remover
I like these for dorm life because they’re lightweight and so much easier to carry down to the laundry room than a giant liquid detergent jug.
Laundry Detergent Sheets
A hamper that can be carried like a bag or folded away is way more practical for a small room. I’d definitely choose something that saves floor space.
Amazon Best Sellers: Best Laundry Storage Products
I’m not dragging a full ironing board into a dorm! 😂 A quick spray and smooth with your hands gets rid of wrinkles on clothes in seconds.
Downy Wrinkle Releaser Spray Travel Size 16.9oz
The Random Things You’ll Be Glad You Packed
The little everyday problem-solvers that you don't realize you need until you're living on your own.
These are boring until you suddenly need somewhere to hang your backpack, wet towel, keys, or headphones. I’d pack a small variety pack just in case.
Command Variety Pack - 10 Pairs Picture Hanging Strips
Laptop charger, phone cable, earbuds, random USB cables… they somehow multiply. A few reusable cable ties keep the cord mess under control.
VELCRO ONE-WRAP Cable Ties 100Pk 8x1/2" Black
I’d rather have a cute little kit sitting in a drawer and never need it than realize I need a bandage or pain reliever at midnight and have nothing.
Welly First Aid Kits in First Aid
Useful for dining hall leftovers, snacks, or keeping small desk supplies organized. A small, high-quality set goes a long way.
Rubbermaid Brilliance Storage Containers
This is one of those double-duty pieces I love for dorms. It serves as extra seating, a step stool to reach a lofted bed, and hidden storage for extra blankets.
SONGMICS / Ottomans / Living Room Furniture