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Back to College Essentials

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I'm a current Master's student, so this is my 5th back-to-college September! Here's everything I would put on my essential back-to-college list :)
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Dorm Room Essentials

These are the basics that you NEED when moving into your college dorm… and some things that you might have forgotten about!

 
Lisa Ker profile picture
I found this book on the Urban Outfitters site and thought it was quite fitting… not necassary but definitly a fun gift for a soon-to-be college student!
The Dorm Room Guide: The Complete Handbook For Preparing, Packing, And Living Well In College By Lara Becker
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Bedsheets are essential. These one's are cheap & come in a variety of colours!
Light beige Fitted cotton sheet at H&M Home
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
You'll also need a duvet, of course! Luckily you buy these once and they'll last you your full time in college.
2 Piece Duvet Cover & Shams Set
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
If it fits within your budget, I would highly recommend a mattress topper. Dorm beds can be uncomfortable. For me, this has been a game changer! (plus, they protect the mattress from stains, so no extra fees when you leave!)
Waterproof Quilted Mattress Pad by Bare Home - Twin XL
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Storage carts can be a great way to expand your storage space on a budget. This has been a lifesaver for me!
3 Tier Metal Utility Cart White
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
People always seem to forget about laundry baskets but these are nessasary for keeping your room tidy & for bringing laundry to and from the laundrette.
Light beige Linen-blend laundry bag at H&M Home | H&M IE
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Extension cords have always been a must for me in rooms where there limited power outlets!
GE 15' 3 Outlet Extension Cord with Multiple Outlets
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Many people forget about hangers when moving into their dorm room… trust me, you'll need them!
18pk Plastic Hangers - Brightroom™

Stationary & Accessories

Having cute stationary will make you study better, so why not invest? ;)

 
Lisa Ker profile picture
This set of Campus notebooks from Amazon is perfect & affordable!
KOKUYO B5 Composition Notebooks 5 Pack
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
These Composition books from Target are some of the most affordable I could find!
Composition Book Wide Ruled Black - Dealworthy™
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Lisa Ker profile picture
A calender is essential for keeping on top of assignments, why not get one that doubles as room decor?
PIPSTICKS Monchhichi 2027 Sticker Wall Calendar
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Redbubble has some great unique notebooks if you are looking for something a little different!
A Cure For Stupid People Spiral Notebook
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
You can't go wrong with a cute pencil case from Urban!
Miffy Floral UO Exclusive Patterned Pencil Case
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
These stationary sets from Amazon come with practically everything you need at a very affordable price!
Four Candies School Supplies 39ct Cream

Dorm Room Decor

Decorating my dorm room was always my favouite part about starting a new college year… here are some of my favourites to get you started!

 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Hanging Wall Caddy's are great becasue they increase strorage room while looking adorable!
Sophie 9-Pocket Patterned Hanging Storage Caddy
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
I'm biased because I love candles, but if they are allowed in your dorm I would highly recommend getting some as they definitly add to the atmosphere.
Crisp Cotton Scented candle in glass holder at H&M Home
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Why not add some practical decor to your room with patterned storage baskets? I love these ones from Urban Outfitters!
Sophie Patterned Puffy Fabric Storage Basket
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Why not brighten up your room with some fairy lights? :)
LED Vine Curtain String Lights Warm White
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
I ADORE these candles from Urban Outfitters… they really have the best decor
Glass Flower Jar 7 oz Scented Candle
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
College dorms tend to lack mirrors so in fact this one might be a necessity!
Fleur Catch-All Tray & Tabletop Swing Mirror
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Of course, it's not a college dorm without posters. Check out these from Urban!
Thrasher Cover April 1993 Poster
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
These poster hanger's are great for displaying posters without ruining the walls!
Black Wavy edge poster hanger at H&M Home
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Rebbubble is hands down my favourite place to get wall art, they have so many unique designs at affordable prices.
LIFE : Vintage 1923 Flapper Butterfly Print Poster
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Fake plants can be a great way of adding clutter to your room - Target has a huge option range!
Unique Bargains Artificial Plants

Kitchen & Bathroom

Here are some more practical bits many people miss!

 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Shower caddy's are an absolute must when it comes to comunal showers. This will keep all your shower products organised!
J&V TEXTILES Medium-Clear Portable Shower Caddy
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
If you're lucky enough to have your own bathroom, why not decorate? :)
Marnie Striped Ceramic Bath Tumbler
 
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Bathroom mats can really bring the place together, as well as being practical!
Get Naked Tufted Bath Mat
 
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Owala's are my favourite kind of water bottle, and these are perfect for bringing to college as well as keeping by your bedside!
Owala FreeSip® Patterned 24 oz Water Bottle
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
You'll spend more money than you realise on shopping bags… I recommend getting a reusable one now to save yourself in the future :)
BAGGU Patterned Standard Reusable Tote Bag
 
Lisa Ker profile picture
Food storage containers are great for communal kitchens, to keep your food organised and seperate :)
Rubbermaid 10pc Brilliance Leak Proof Food Storage Containers with Airtight Microwave & Freezer Safe
 
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Getting a kitchen set is an easy and convenient way to get everything at once :)
Amazon Basics Non-Stick 15-Piece Cookware Set
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