As a current college student, I've curated a list of things I've found incredibly useful in my dorm, as well as things that I forgot to pack and had to purchase when I was moving in. I hope yall will find this helpful!
Perfect for holding basic shower necessities and very necessary, especially for communal bathrooms
Portable Plastic Shower Caddies for Bathroom and Home Storage
Another necessity for communal dorms. The holes prevent mold from forming and allow for efficient drying
Shower Shoes - Walmart
Provided mattresses just aren't that comfortable, so you'll probably need some extra padding.
Mattress Toppers in Mattress Toppers & Pads - Walmart.com
How else are you supposed to check your outfits ?!
Large Mirrors - Big Mirrors - IKEA
Rugs will make the room (and floor) warmer, and also add a bit of color if you wish to do so. Overall, it looks more homey.
Affordable Rugs for All Rooms - IKEA
Small mirror for doing makeup, hair, or whatever else you might find it useful for.
Shop Small Vanity Mirrors for Beauty with Lights and Magnification
Because why would you want the big light on if u can help it?
Table Lamps - Bedside Lamps - IKEA UK
Don't forget these or you won't be able to hang your clothes!
Clothes Hangers - Walmart.com
A lot of dorms have laundry rooms, but you'll need detergent to use them of course.
Laundry Detergents - Walmart.com
If you have your own bathroom, you'll need your own soap.
Dial Liquid Soap - Walmart
If you find yourself with a lot of stationary, you'll definitely need some desk organizers.
Desktop Organizers in Desk Organization - Walmart.com
The beds tend to hang low to the ground. Bed risers will lift them up and make them more comfortable, while also adding additional storage room under the bed.
Bed Risers in Storage & Organization - Walmart.com
A small nightstand might be useful for additional storage or to hold some decorations.
Nightstands and Bedside Tables - Modern & Affordable - IKEA
Mini fridges can be useful for those hours when the dining hall is closed and you want to store some snacks.
Mini Fridges with Freezers in Mini Fridges & Compact Refrigerators
This way you can store hot food in the fridge and heat up the leftovers instead of just throwing them away. Also, popcorn!
Microwaves - Walmart.com
Frames to hang up posters, personal pictures, and whatever else you'd like.
Picture Frames for Photos - Art & Poster Frames - IKEA
Trust me: there are a very limited number of outlets in each room, and you'll definitely need more than what's provided.
3 ft Extension Cords in Extension Cords by Length - Walmart.com
Of course, you'll have to check the size of the bed you'll be given, but you'll definitely need bedding
Twin XL Comforter sets - ViscoSoft
College dorms don't offer a lot in terms of storage (trust me I know). So it's always good to come prepare with some extra containers to hold snacks, cleaning supplies, and everything else you'll need to bring to live comfortably.
Storage Containers & Bins - The Container Store
You definitely don't want to move to a new place without a first aid kit. Whether it's from going out to parties or simply tripping and falling, there are so many ways to get injured, and it's always good to be prepared.
First Aid Kits in First Aid
You'll definitely need a container for dirty laundry, but bags are much easier to carry around than your typical basket (at least in my opinion) - especially if the laundry room isn't on your floor!
