The Ultimate College Packing List!

Moving out for college can be overwhelming. It's your first time living away from your parents, and you want to be prepared! Here's a solid college packing list to get you started with all the essentials and a few bonus "can't live without" items recommended by savvy college students from Coast 2 Coast. Pro Tip: For an elevated aesthetic and comfort, opt for a queen-sized comforter on a twin-sized dorm bed.

Pro Tip: Save space in your luggage or car and buy toiletries, personal supplies, and cleaning supplies after moving in. Every college town has a store for these essentials!

Bedding & Decor

• Comforter or duvet & duvet cover

• Pillows

• Bed sheets (fitted and flat)

• Pillowcases

• Mattress topper

• Mattress protector encasement (fits mattress and topper)

• Posters or wall art

• Bedside lamp with built-in charger

• Throw pillows

• Rug

• Desk/vanity chair

• Vanity mirror

  
  

VISIT THE DORM DECOR INSPO GALLERY

Storage Solutions

• Under-bed storage bins

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• Drawer organizers

• Shoe organizer

• Desk hutch, shelves, or bookcase

• Closet organizers

• Vacuum bags for storing extra seasonal clothing

Bathroom Supplies

• Bath Towels

• Hand towels

• Bath rug

• Shower curtain

• Shower curtain liner

• Shower caddy

• Back-of-door storage

• Toothbrush holder/accessory set

• Drawer organizers

Kitchen Essentials

• Microwave

• Mini fridge

• Dishes (plates, bowls)

• Cutlery Set (fork, spoon, knives)

• Cups and mugs

• Food storage containers

• Mini cutting board

School Supplies

• Notebooks

• Pens and pencils

• Highlighters

• Binders or folders

• Planner or calendar

Electronics

• Laptop

• iPad or tablet

• Phone charging cords (2-3 in different lengths)

• Backup phone battery charger

• Headphones

• Power strip or surge protector

  
  

Personal Care Items

• Toiletries

  • soap

  • shampoo & conditioner

  • toothpaste

  • hair products

  • skincare

  • feminine products (cute holder for cabinet organization!)

• Hairbrushes

• Hair Ties

• Hairdryer

• Curling Iron

• Flat Iron

• First aid kit + Narcan

• Medicine variety pack kit

Cleaning Supplies

• Trash bags

• Non-toxic all-purpose cleaner

• Cleaning cloths

• Broom and dustpan

• Cordless Stick vacuum 

Miscellaneous

• WooZoo Fan (these sell out so a good item to buy early!)

• Collapsible laundry basket

• Clothes hangers

• Umbrella

• Multi-tool kit

• Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

• First aid kit

• Medicine variety pack kit

• Last but not Least, photos of friends and family from home!

VISIT THE DORM DECOR INSPO GALLERY