From My Nest to Theirs: The Essential First-Year College Dorm Packing Checklist

Getting ready for dorm life? To ensure you don't miss a thing, we've included a free, downloadable PDF checklist of all the must-have items at the end of this article!

In the blink of an eye, my second daughter has grown up to be 18, her turn to go off on her own to live in her university dorm. Before I could cry my bittersweet tears, me and my daughter were met with endless packing lists for on campus housing. Like every parent, you want to make sure your child is ready to take on an exciting new chapter in life, with all the necessary items to feel comfortable and at home. However, at the same time you don’t want to overpack their tiny dorm room!

After months of researching with my child, I’ve refined my ultimate dorm packing checklist. My hope is that this helps you and your soon-to-be college student feel a little more prepared and save the stress for other responsibilities.

Remember to always check with the specific college for their list of approved & prohibited items!

Let's dive in!

 

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Bedding & Linens: Creating a Cozy Oasis

Either your child is like my first daughter, who naps every chance she gets, or my second, who needs 8 hours of sleep every night, good sleep is crucial, recharging and enhancing memory/function of these busy college students! And since dorm beds(usually Twin XL sized) are notoriously known to not be the comfiest to sleep on, we want to get the best bedding.

Twin XL Sheet Sets (at least 2): One to use, one to wash. Look for soft, easy care fabrics. I usually prefer white, but I don't think I could ask my daughter to care for that.

 

Twin XL Comforter or Duvet & Cover: Something that reflects their style and is easy to wash.

Twin XL Mattress Topper: THIS IS A GAME CHANGER. Seriously, don't skip this.
Our Pick: Memory Foam Mattress Topper - 3 Inch Gel Infused Memory Foam

Pillows (2): For sleeping and propping up during study sessions.

 

Pillowcases (extra set): Good for hygiene. Breathable Cool Silky Soft Rayon Derived from Bamboo Fabric

You want to give the kids bedding material that is easy to wash and maintain as they leave the nest and prepare to be independent! (For my daughter, I picked out sheets in shades of grey and white)

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Desk & Study Supplies: The Command Center

They'll be spending a lot of time here(hopefully), and a well organized/visually appealing desk will help encourage your kids to study harder! My second child especially, claims to have better focus when her desk is clean, and will be distracted every 5 minutes if her desk is messy.

Desk Lamp: Essential for late-night study. Look for one with USB ports if possible!

Desk Organizer: To corral pens, sticky notes, etc.

Laptop & Charger: Obvious, but crucial to college life.
The MacBook Air with the M4 chip is on sale. I recommend it. My oldest has the 15-inch while my second recently got the 13-inch, and the 13-inch is apparently more convenient to carry around to class than the other.

 

Ear Plugs: For focused study in a noisy dorm or library. My second has sensitive ears, and she wanted comfy earplugs to use instead of AirPods to avoid damaging her hearing by listening to music all day.

Power Strip with Surge Protector (UL Certified): Dorms never have enough outlets, and we should avoid fighting with the roommate over hogging the outlets.

Basic School Supplies: Pens, pencils, highlighters, notebooks, folders, planner, scissors, tape, stapler.
Sticky Notes & Index Cards: Tried and true study aids.

 

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Room Organization & Storage: Making the Most of Small Spaces

Dorm rooms are small and packing lists are long! Smart storage is key.

Under-Bed Storage Bins: Perfect for out-of-season clothes, extra supplies.

Closet Organizer/Hanging Shelves: Maximizes vertical closet space.

 

Slim Hangers: Save so much space compared to bulky ones. I have tried dozens of hangers and nothing compares to Mawa. It is expensive but it can hang a lot of clothes. There is no other product like it.

Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer: Can also hold toiletries, snacks, or accessories.

Command Hooks & Strips (various sizes): For hanging towels, decor, keys without damaging walls. A MUST!

Small Trash Can & Liners:
Our Pick: 2 Pack 2.7 Gal Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, Automatic Trash Can

Fan: According to my daughter’s friends on campus, many of the freshmen dorms have no AC. Just in case, a fan is must for surviving the hot summer days.

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Bathroom & Toiletries: The Essentials

If they have a communal bathroom, a shower caddy and shower shoes are non-negotiable.

Shower Caddy: To carry toiletries to and from the bathroom. Hanging style is crucial for shower room.

Shower Shoes/Flip-Flops: Essential for communal showers to avoid foot fungus!

Towels (2-3 bath, 2 hand, 2-3 washcloths): Quick-dry towels are a good option.

Bathrobe: For trips to and from the shower.

All Personal Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, skincare, etc. (Travel-size to start, then buy full-size).
Hair Dryer/Styling Tools:

Small First-Aid Kit: Band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, etc.

Upset Stomach Relief: For our daughter, Upset Stomach Relief is more important than Pain Reliever.

Pain Reliever & Fever Reducer

 

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Laundry & Cleaning: Keeping it (Relatively) Tidy

Yes, they’ll have to do their own laundry!

 

Laundry Backpack: Collapsible ones are great for saving space.

Laundry Detergent (pods are easiest), Fabric Softener, Dryer Sheets:

Dryer Sheets, Long Lasting Fresh and Clean Scent, Laundry Fabric Softener

Stain Remover Pen: For quick fixes. Despite being 18, my kid cannot help but spill when she eats!

 

Disinfecting Wipes & Paper Towels: For quick cleanups in their room. I don't like clorox scent, so I found real essential oil scent from Disinfecting Wipes
Multi Purpose Wipes All Purpose Cleaning Garden Mint scent with 100% Essential Oils

Cordless Vacuum: For crumbs and dust.
Bissell Cleanview XR Pet 300W Cordless Vacuum with Removable Battery, 3797V

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Kitchenette & Snacks (Check Dorm Rules!)

Many dorms have restrictions on appliances, so make sure to check first!

Mini Fridge (if allowed): For drinks, snacks, leftovers. Often can be rented. I especially like having a freezer for my child who loves ice cream.
Our dorm policy : Small refrigerators are permitted in student rooms, but they must meet specific safety specifications. These include a maximum volume of 3.6 cubic feet, a 1.5 amp maximum operating current, and must be UL-approved and Energy Star rated

Microwave (if allowed): For popcorn, ramen, heating up meals.
Unfortunately, our children's dorm does not allow the use of microwaves. However, there are some in the lounge, so don't worry.

Water Filter Pitcher: Pitcher  that has a water purification function so they can always drink clean water. Consider the size that will fit in your mini fridge. I chose the small size.

Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated!
FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw

Mug, Plate, Bowl, Utensils (a set or two): For snacks or simple meals.
Snacks! Granola bars, ramen, popcorn, their favorites from home.

Can Opener (manual):

Disposable Scrub Sponge Contains Dried Detergent

 

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Clothing & Personal Items: Pack Smart!

Encourage them to pack for the current season and swap out clothes during breaks if possible.

Everyday Clothes: Jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, leggings, etc.
Underwear & Socks (plenty!)
Pajamas
Workout Clothes
One "Nice" Outfit: For presentations or special occasions.
Comfortable Walking Shoes (essential!)
Rain Jacket & Umbrella
Seasonal Outerwear (coat, gloves, hat if applicable for the first semester)
Backpack: A sturdy one for books and laptop.

 

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Important Documents & Miscellaneous: Don't Forget!

Student ID, Driver's License/State ID, Insurance Cards, Banking Information: Keep copies in a safe place.
Prescription Medications (with doctor's note if needed):
Small Toolkit: Screwdriver, pliers, Allen wrenches – surprisingly useful.
Flashlight:
Phone & Charger (of course!)
Laptop Lock (optional): For added security.
Final Thoughts from a Mom's Heart
Whew! That’s quite a list, isn't it? Remember, the goal is to help them create a comfortable and functional home away from home. Don't stress about forgetting something minor; most things can be bought near campus or ordered online if needed.

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The most important thing you can pack is your love and support. This is a huge step for them (and for us parents!). Let them know you're proud and excited for their new adventure.

 

To my daughter heading off this fall: I'm incredibly proud of you, and I can't wait to see all that you accomplish in your newly decorated dorm.

What are your must-have dorm items? Share your tips in the comments below – we moms have to stick together!

From A Mom Navigating the College Years (Again!)

Free Download the Full Dorm Packing Checklist PDF File