Get a look at a dorm room or call the housing office beforehand and find out how big your room is and what it comes with. Not all halls have elevators, so it’s better to pack a lot of smaller boxes that one person can handle instead of a few big heavy ones.
- Comforter/bedspread
- Pillow
- Bed linens (ask what size bed you’ll have)
- Clothes hangers
- Coffee mug
- Drinking cups, dishes and silverware for snacks
- Poster putty for hanging up decorations (most schools will not allow you to nail artwork or photos into the wall)
- Plastic containers with tight lids for storing snacks, detergent, etc.
- Salt and pepper shakers
- Headphones/ear buds (so your music doesn’t bother your roommate or neighbors)
- iPod or smartphone
- Cell phone chargers
- Power strip approved by the housing office
- Desk lamp or bed lamp
- TV/DVD-Player/Streaming device (there’s usually a common area TV if you don’t bring one)
- Fan
- Hair dryer
- Electric blanket
- Small refrigerator/microwave (check with college for restrictions)
- Crates or stacking containers
- Paper towels, glass cleaner
- Sewing kit, scissors, safety pins
- Message board for your door so neighbors and friends can leave messages if you’re not in your room