17 Essential College Packing List Items Every Stylish Girl Needs – ostrali.com
My best friend Ava was so excited to start college, but she panicked when she realized she had no idea what to bring. After a frantic late-night phone call and some quick research, we put together the ultimate college packing list.
Now, she’s thriving on campus with everything she needs. To help other soon-to-be college girls avoid the last-minute stress, I’ve compiled this essential list of must-haves for your dorm room and beyond.
Your bed is your sanctuary in your dorm room, so make it extra comfy! Invest in a plush comforter, soft sheets, and a few throw pillows to create a cozy oasis. Don’t forget a mattress topper – dorm mattresses can be pretty uncomfortable.
Pro tip: Choose bedding in calming colors like soft blues or greens to create a relaxing atmosphere. This will help you unwind after long days of classes and studying.
2. Shower Caddy and Flip Flops
Communal bathrooms are a reality of dorm life, so be prepared! A sturdy shower caddy will keep all your toiletries organized and easy to transport. And trust me, you’ll want a pair of flip flops to protect your feet from icky shower floors.
Look for a caddy with separate compartments to keep your shampoo, conditioner, and body wash from spilling all over. Mesh caddies are great because they allow water to drain easily.
3. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Between chatty roommates and noisy hallways, dorms can get pretty loud. A good pair of noise-canceling headphones will be your best friend when you need to focus on studying or just want some peace and quiet.
These are also perfect for long bus rides home or flights during breaks. Plus, you can use them to listen to calming music or white noise if you have trouble sleeping in your new environment.
4. Versatile Storage Solutions
Dorm rooms are notoriously small, so maximizing space is key. Invest in under-bed storage containers, over-the-door organizers, and collapsible bins to keep your stuff tidy and out of the way.
Get creative with vertical space too! Command hooks and hanging organizers can turn empty wall space into storage for jewelry, scarves, or even shoes.
5. Multifunctional Desk Lamp
Good lighting is essential for late-night study sessions. Look for a desk lamp with multiple settings and a flexible neck so you can adjust it for different tasks. Bonus points if it has a built-in USB port for charging your devices!
Some lamps even come with organizer bases, giving you extra storage for pens, sticky notes, and other desk essentials. Talk about a space-saving win!
6. Durable Laundry Hamper
College life means doing your own laundry, so make it easier on yourself with a sturdy hamper. Look for one with handles or straps so you can easily carry it to the laundry room.
Consider a hamper with separate compartments for lights and darks to streamline your laundry process. Some even come with a detachable bag for easy transport.
7. Power Strip and Extension Cord
Dorm rooms never seem to have enough outlets. A good quality power strip will ensure you can charge all your devices and power your mini-fridge, microwave, and other electronics.
Make sure to get a surge protector to keep your valuable electronics safe from power surges. And don’t forget a long extension cord – you never know where the nearest outlet will be!
8. Comfortable Study Chair
You’ll be spending a lot of time at your desk, so invest in a chair that won’t leave you with a sore back. Look for one with good lumbar support and adjustable height.
If space allows, consider a small, foldable lounger for reading or relaxing when you need a break from your desk. It can double as extra seating when friends visit!
9. Microwave-Safe Dishes and Utensils
Late-night study snacks and quick meals are a college staple. Stock up on microwave-safe bowls, plates, and mugs. Don’t forget utensils and a can opener!
Opt for durable, BPA-free plastic or sturdy melamine dishes that won’t break easily. A set of stackable containers is great for storing leftovers or packing lunches for long days on campus.
10. First Aid Kit and Medicine Supply
Be prepared for minor illnesses and injuries with a basic first aid kit. Include band-aids, pain relievers, cold medicine, and any personal medications you take regularly.
It’s also smart to pack some immune-boosting supplements like Vitamin C or Echinacea. Dorms can be germ factories, especially during cold and flu season!
11. Portable Fan
Dorm rooms can get stuffy, especially in warmer months. A small, portable fan can make a big difference in your comfort level. Look for one with multiple speeds and oscillation for maximum cooling power.
Some fans even come with built-in air purifiers or aromatherapy diffusers, helping to keep your room fresh and pleasant-smelling.
12. Functional Backpack
You’ll need a sturdy backpack to carry your books, laptop, and other essentials around campus. Look for one with padded straps and multiple compartments to keep everything organized.
Water-resistant material is a plus for protecting your stuff from unexpected rain showers. Some backpacks even come with built-in USB ports for on-the-go charging!
13. Cozy Loungewear
College life is all about comfort, especially when you’re pulling all-nighters or lounging in the common room. Pack plenty of soft, comfy clothes like leggings, oversized sweatshirts, and fuzzy socks.
Don’t forget a plush robe and slippers for those trips to the communal bathroom! Choose items that are easy to mix and match for effortless lounging.
14. Dry Erase Board and Calendar
Stay organized and on top of your assignments with a dry erase board and calendar. Hang them in a prominent spot in your room to keep important dates and to-do lists visible.
Color-code your calendar for different classes or activities to make it easy to see your schedule at a glance. Some boards even come with built-in cork sections for pinning up important notes or mementos.
15. Mini Toolkit
You never know when you might need to tighten a loose screw or hang a picture. A basic toolkit with a hammer, screwdrivers, and pliers can be a lifesaver.
Include some Command strips and hooks for hanging decor without damaging walls. A small sewing kit can also come in handy for quick clothing repairs.
16. Reusable Water Bottle and Coffee Mug
Stay hydrated and save money by bringing your own water bottle and coffee mug to campus. Look for insulated options to keep your drinks at the right temperature all day.
Choose bottles with built-in filters if you’re picky about water taste. For coffee lovers, a mug with a spill-proof lid is essential for those rushed mornings when you’re running to class.
17. Cozy Throw Blanket
A soft throw blanket is perfect for curling up with a book or adding an extra layer of warmth to your bed. It’s also great for movie nights in the common room or outdoor events on chilly evenings.
Choose a machine-washable option in a fun pattern or your school colors. It’s an easy way to add a pop of personality to your dorm room decor!
