Essentials for Dorm Life

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What I’ve Learned

Moving kids into a dorm or campus housing can be very chaotic and overwhelming.  There’s so much to worry about.  Did I prepare my kid for being on their own? Did we pack everything? Here’s my list of essentials for dorm life.

PACKING/MOVING

Storage totes are a must.  But we learned to either label them with the contents, or get clear ones like these so your kids will be able to see where things are.  They might not fully unpack for weeks…or ever.   https://amzn.to/3OM3OVd

If you would rather try storage bags, these are great! https://amzn.to/3YoG7p8

Make fewer trips with this collapsible cart!  https://amzn.to/3qlJGz

BEDS

Most dorm beds are Twin XL.  (Check to make sure before buying anything!) The dorm mattresses generally are used and not the most supportive. I suggest a mattress topper like this.  https://amzn.to/43ZhOze

Another must have is a mattress protector.  Self explanatory.  https://amzn.to/45aeBOq

Bed in a bag or sheet sets.  DO NOT splurge on these.  I can’t be sure my kids ever washed their sheets. And they eat and drink in their beds. So go cheap.  https://amzn.to/3s1ovn9

Pillows  https://amzn.to/45dYnDQ

DESK

Does your teen need a new laptop? Most undergrad programs do not require anything fancy. (There are exceptions…check with their school.) We love this one.  https://amzn.to/3qo3O4q

Desk Lamp.  I like that this one has the light and some storage.  https://amzn.to/44YR6Iu

Extension cords.  The outlets are never where you need them. https://amzn.to/3YoxDhU

Wireless phone charger. These are so convenient. No cords that short out. https://amzn.to/3KyoPQC

CLOSET

Use these hangers to save space. The closets are generally small. My kids took WAY too many clothes. https://amzn.to/3qjiD8r

My kids used these closet organizers because they did not have dressers. Be sure to check the dimensions of your child’s closet or armoire. https://amzn.to/3DN9c41

Expand the closet by using under the bed storage. https://amzn.to/3KxUCkV

DECOR

My kids both wanted a small rug on their floor. Bonus if machine washable.  https://amzn.to/3Yqb6kI

Command strips. Some dorms do not allow. Please check with your child’s dorm. https://amzn.to/3OKwOwE

Wall Tapestry. Lots to choose from on Amazon.

Storage ottoman. Doubles as a seat for friends.https://amzn.to/3Qs5ggP

SNACKS/FOOD

This cute little cart is perfect for snacks. https://amzn.to/47lFNeY

The Keurig Mini was absolutely made for dorms or small apartments. https://amzn.to/3OMrlW9

Brita water pitcher.  Dorm water doesn’t always taste great. This one fits most dorm fridges. Please check measurements. https://amzn.to/3s8qaar

Refillable water bottle. Owala brand is my favorite. https://amzn.to/3OnLQad

LAUNDRY

Laundry basket on wheels! It’s a must!  https://amzn.to/3YpUQA5

My personal favorite detergent. Easy to pack. No spills. https://amzn.to/3OLIAGT

Wrinkle release spray.  Teenage version of ironing.  https://amzn.to/45ag47o

HEALTH/WELLNESS

An air purifier is a non negotiable. We found out after the kids had already moved in, that the furnace filters had not been changed. Unsure of how long it had been.  You might have to specifically ask and put in a maintenance request. Use an air purifier like this…especially if your child has allergies or is prone to illness. https://amzn.to/3Oyo5fQ

First aid kit.  As a nurse, I made up my own first aid kits for my kids.  If you want to buy one with all the essentials, here’s an example. https://amzn.to/3OMSpVa

Cold medicine.  They WILL get sick their first year.  Send them prepared. 

Thermometer.  If they have a fever, they should not go to class. https://amzn.to/3ONi6F4

Covid tests. Some colleges still require kids to have these.  https://amzn.to/3qfNcfg

Oil diffuser.  Depending on the oil you choose, this could help with sleep, focus, and anxiety. https://amzn.to/3DKSIJF

ON THE GO

A durable back pack is a must have. 

Portable phone charger.  No excuse to not have their phone charged. https://amzn.to/45dZqng

Umbrella. Classes do not get canceled for rain. https://amzn.to/450434A

Rain boots. See above. https://amzn.to/3KvLIo3

Snow boots. If your child’s college is in a “snow zone”, these are an essential.  They will thank you the first time it snows and they have a class on the other side of campus. https://amzn.to/45nAYjz

SAFETY

Helmet. If your child rides a bike or scooter, please buy them a helmet. It’s usually not the rider’s fault for accidents. Better safe than sorry. https://amzn.to/3OIt5Q5

Small safe. Secure their valuables, passports etc. https://amzn.to/3qkExbe

Pepper spray or Mace.  Self explanatory. https://amzn.to/3quKXEJ

Whistle. Hope they won’t have to use it. https://amzn.to/3YtLhQW

Small fire extinguisher.  There are fire extinguishers on every floor but why not have a small one super handy?https://amzn.to/47nBJL1

Surge protector.  Protect their electronics.https://amzn.to/3KzgDzQ

That concludes my list of essentials for dorm life. Is there something important that I forgot? Please leave a comment or send me a message. Thanks for reading!