Moving into a college dorm for the first time? Between figuring out what you’ll need, coordinating with new roommates, and packing up your stuff, it can definitely feel overwhelming. Remitly understands that with big life changes come big feelings. Don’t worry: this list of dorm room essentials for freshmen has your back.
Read on for a practical packing list with tips to help you feel at home, stay organized, and thrive, without breaking the bank. We’ll walk you through must-haves for every category, from comfort to culture. You’ll also get space-saving ideas, money-saving strategies, and insights on what’s usually provided versus what you need to bring. Let’s get started!
Bedding and comfort
A comfy bed is the foundation of a happy dorm experience. Your bed is your best friend for late-night studying, Netflix breaks, or just relaxing. Most dorm rooms are Twin XL size (39 by 80 inches), which means your sheets from home probably won’t fit.
Dorm shopping list: bedding
- Twin XL sheet set: Bring two sets so you can swap while one is in the wash.
- Comforter or duvet: Choose something durable and machine-washable.
- Mattress topper: Dorm mattresses are notoriously thin, so a topper can make a big difference in your comfort.
- Pillows: Bring one for sleeping, plus a couple of extras if you’d like decorative pillows or a propped-up backrest.
- Throw blanket: Perfect for late-night study sessions or movie marathons—choose a color that brightens up your space.
Tip: To save space in the car or your suitcase, roll up your bedding tightly and pack it in compression bags.
Clothing and wardrobe basics
You’ll want a range of comfortable and versatile clothes at college—keep in mind that space is limited, so you won’t have room for a huge wardrobe. Practical clothes that you can wear for any type of activity are more useful. Research the climate in your area and adjust the list below accordingly.
Essential clothes: what to bring to college
- Everyday outfits: Pack comfortable basics like T-shirts, jeans, leggings, sweatpants, or casual dresses that you can mix and match.
- Layering pieces: Hoodies, sweaters, and jackets are useful for fluctuating indoor and outdoor temperatures.
- Cold-weather gear: If you’ll be somewhere chilly, bring a warm coat, gloves, scarf, and hat. Waterproof boots are great for snow or rain.
- Warm-weather wear: In hotter areas, breathable fabrics, shorts, and sunglasses are key. Don’t forget a swimsuit for campus pools or beach trips.
- Professional outfit: One business-casual look (button-down, blazer, slacks, or a modest dress) is great for presentations, interviews, or career fairs.
- Workout clothes: Bring a few outfits for the gym or outdoor activities.
- Shoes: Everyday sneakers, sandals or slip-ons, weather-appropriate boots, and a nicer pair for formal events.
- Sleepwear and loungewear: Comfy clothes for studying in your dorm or hanging out with roommates.
- Undergarments and socks: Pack enough to go at least a week between laundry days.
Tip: Need something you forgot? College towns often have great second-hand stores—perfect for finding warm layers, fun accessories, or budget-friendly basics.
Laundry and cleaning
You may not have done much laundry before college, but now it’s all on you. Having the right supplies makes it easier and keeps your space cleaner. Stock up on these freshmen dorm must-haves.
College dorm checklist for household chores
- Laundry hamper: Choose one that’s foldable, lightweight, and has handles for easy transport, as dorm laundry rooms are usually located in the basement or on the first floor.
- Detergent pods or travel-size detergent (pods are easiest in shared laundry rooms)
- Dryer sheets or wool dryer balls
- Disinfecting wipes: In a shared space like a dorm, germs are everywhere!
- All-purpose spray cleaner
- Small broom and dustpan or handheld vacuum
Tip: Dorms get dusty fast. Doing a five-minute tidy-up once a week can make a huge difference in comfort and air quality.
Organization and storage
Dorm rooms are small—really small. Smart organization helps you make the most of every inch and prevents clutter from taking over.
Organization must-haves
- Under-bed storage bins: Use rolling bins or large totes to store shoes, blankets, or out-of-season clothes.
- Closet organizers: Vertical storage is your friend! Look for stackable bins and hanging shelves to make the most of your space.
- Over-the-door hooks: These racks can hold towels and coats without taking up valuable closet space.
- Command hooks and strips: Dorms typically don’t allow nails, so these are perfect for hanging keys or photos.
- Desk drawer organizers: Small caddies can organize pens, flash drives, and paperclips.
Tip: If your dorm has an exposed closet, consider bringing a shower curtain and tension rod to cover the space.
Study and tech supplies
College comes with a lot of screen time and digital work. Keep your tech organized and ready to go.
Study and tech essentials
- Laptop and charger: Keep your most prized possession safe with a padded sleeve and carry case.
- Power strip and surge protector: A must-have for keeping all your tech charged and safe. For international students, make sure to bring plug adapters.
- Noise-cancelling headphones: These are essential for studying in shared spaces or watching a movie in bed while your roommate sleeps.
- Desk lamp: Many dorms only provide overhead lighting, so a desk lamp is useful for targeted lighting.
- Ethernet cable: This is a helpful backup in case of any Wi-Fi issues.
- Notebooks, pens, and highlighters: Bring a variety of colors and styles.
- Sticky notes or a whiteboard calendar: Keep your study schedule on track with visible reminders.
Tip: Label your chargers and cables with tape or a marker so they don’t get mixed up with your roommates’ things.
Bathroom necessities
Most dorms have shared bathrooms, so portability and hygiene are key.
Bathroom packing list
- Shower caddy: Consider a mesh one because it will dry faster than plastic.
- Shower flip-flops: Protect your feet from bacteria by wearing sandals in the shower.
- Microfiber towels: Bring two big bath towels, plus a few washcloths. Microfiber dries fast and takes up less room.
- Toiletries: You’ll need shampoo, conditioner, soap/body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, deodorant, and any other essentials.
- Toiletry bag: This is great for non-shower items, like hair supplies or makeup.
- Personal hygiene: Don’t forget items like pads/tampons, nail clippers, and tweezers.
Tip: Pick towels in a unique color or pattern so they don’t get mixed up in shared spaces.
Kitchen and snacks
You probably won’t have a full kitchen, but you’ll want some basic supplies for snacks, hot drinks, and lazy dinners.
Kitchen essentials
- Mini fridge: Check if your school allows these or rents them.
- Electric kettle: Great for tea, coffee, and instant noodles.
- Microwave-safe bowl and mug
- Reusable mug, water bottle, and utensils
- Dish soap and sponge
- Non-perishable snacks: Bring your favorites like oatmeal packets, granola bars, trail mix, or popcorn.
Tip: Label your food if you share a mini fridge or communal kitchen, and bring a few resealable containers or bags for leftovers.
Important extras
Some of the most important items for college don’t go in your laundry basket or storage bin; they go in your wallet, backpack, or medicine drawer. These essentials help you stay organized, prepared, and healthy on campus.
Travel documents and copies
Start with your ID cards, including your driver’s license (or other government-issued ID), student ID, and any transit passes if your campus uses them. You’ll also want to have your banking info handy, plus your debit or credit card for everyday purchases and emergencies.
Health documents
Don’t forget your health insurance card, vaccination records, and prescriptions. Some colleges require proof of vaccines (like MMR or meningitis) before move-in, so check your school’s health requirements early. If you take any regular medications, bring a supply that will last a few weeks and keep them in their original containers with prescription labels intact.
Basic first-aid kits
A basic first-aid kit is always a good idea. It should include things like bandages, cold and flu medicine, pain relievers, allergy meds, and a thermometer. You don’t want to be scrambling to find a pharmacy at midnight when you’re not feeling well.
Considerations for international students
If you’re an international student, there are a few extras worth packing. Bring copies of your passport, visa, and any other required immigration documents. Opening a US bank account soon after arrival can help you avoid international transaction fees.
Tip: Scan or take photos of all important documents and store them in a password-protected folder in your cloud storage just in case.
Personal touches and cultural comforts
College dorms can feel unfamiliar at first—plain walls, shared spaces, and none of the everyday sights or sounds you’re used to. It’s completely normal to feel homesick, especially in the first few weeks away from home. Adding personal and cultural touches can help ease that transition and make your space feel more like yours.
Consider bringing small but meaningful items that offer emotional comfort and remind you of where you come from, such as:
- Photos of family, friends, and pets
- A favorite pillowcase, book, or blanket from home
- Cultural or spiritual items like a prayer mat, incense, or traditional snacks
- Posters, plants, or wall art
- A playlist of music in your native language or from your childhood
Tip: Your dorm doesn’t have to be Instagram-perfect, just comfortable. Focus on creating a space that feels like home to you.
Space-saving, money-saving, and culture-savvy tips
Tip 1: Shop smart
Wait until you arrive to buy some dorm items. Local stores often run student deals, and you can shop with your roommate once you see the space. Stores like Target or Bed, Bath & Beyond offer college pickup, allowing you to shop online and pick it up near campus. College bookstores carry cute but often pricier items.
Tip 2: Borrow, thrift, or swap
Ask older siblings, friends, or family if they have gently used items you can borrow for the year. Thrift stores are also a great place for basics like lamps, hangers, and decor. Some campuses even have free closets or most-out donations available during orientation.
Tip 3: Coordinate with roommates
There’s no need for two mini fridges, two kettles, or duplicate cleaning supplies. Make a shared checklist ahead of time through Google Docs, WhatsApp groups, or iPhone Notes with sharing enabled. This keeps you from overpacking and saves money.
Tip 4: Plan for seasonal switches
You won’t need your heavy coat in August. If home isn’t too far away, plan a wardrobe swap during fall break. This keeps your closet manageable and your suitcase lighter.
If traveling home isn’t easy, vacuum bags are great for storing off-season clothes under your bed.
Tip 5: Start simple and adjust as you go
A few essentials go a long way in making your dorm feel like home. Start with comfort, organization, and meaningful items. Don’t stress about being 100% ready day one–college life is a game of gradual assembly. Pack smart, stay adaptable, and focus on what brings you comfort.
Welcome to independence!
FAQs
Do I need to bring a printer?
No, not really. Most campuses have printing stations in libraries that are pay per page. Unless you’re doing art prints or need very fast access, skip it.
What’s usually included in the dorm already?
You should reference your school’s “What’s Provided” list, but common items include:
- Bed frame and mattress (often standard Twin XL)
- Desk and chair
- Basic window blinds
- Closet or wardrobe
- Overhead lights (but not desk lamps)
What should I leave at home?
Avoid bringing large furniture, candles, space heaters, or anything on your school’s restricted items list. These are often fire hazards or simply won’t fit in small dorm spaces.
Do I need renters’ or dorm insurance?
Some schools require or strongly recommend dorm insurance to protect your belongings from theft, fire, or water damage. It’s often inexpensive and gives peace of mind, especially for laptops and electronics.