First Year of College — What to Bring

The definitive dorm packing list for a first-year student — bedding, bath, school, kitchen, and first-aid — plus the items most students waste money buying twice.

Bedding

• 2 sets of extra-long twin (XL twin) sheets and pillowcases
• 1 comforter or duvet and a duvet cover — easier to wash than a bulky comforter
• 2 pillows — one firm, one soft; personal preference matters for sleep quality
• A 2-inch memory foam mattress topper — dorm mattresses are thin and well-worn

Bath

• Shower caddy with drainage holes, shower flip-flops, and a robe
• 3 bath towels, 3 washcloths — laundry doesn't happen as often as it should
• Over-the-door hook rack for your towel and robe
• Small first-aid kit: ibuprofen, acetaminophen, antacids, cold medicine, bandages, and thermometer

School Supplies

• Laptop (check your school's recommended specs for your major) and a laptop sleeve or case
• A 6-outlet surge-protected power strip — dorm rooms have 2–4 outlets shared between two students
• Noise-canceling headphones — essential for studying in shared spaces
• Backpack sized to carry a laptop, one textbook, and a water bottle without straining
• Desk lamp — overhead dorm lighting is usually dim and unflattering

Kitchen

• Refillable water bottle — a 32oz Nalgene or HydroFlask saves money over buying bottled water
• Travel mug for coffee or tea if your dining hall charges for cups
• A few snack bars, instant oatmeal packets, and ramen — for late nights when the dining hall is closed

Organization

• Command strips and Command hooks — the only way to hang things without losing your housing deposit
• Over-the-door shoe organizer — doubles as general storage for small items
• A single plastic storage drawer set under the desk for clothes or supplies

What NOT to Bring

• Do not bring your car unless the school allows first-year parking — parking is scarce and most campuses are walkable or transit-served
• Do not buy textbooks before the first day — check the syllabus and then buy used on AbeBooks or rent on Chegg
• Do not bring your full childhood bedroom — storage space is extremely limited; bring what you need for one semester