8 Essential Items For Your Dorm Room

Okay, so I have my bedding and my laptop… Now what?

Everyone knows the obvious items to bring to college, but what about those items that every freshman wishes they had been told about ahead of time? Moving in to your new dorm, meeting new people, and starting classes are stressful enough without having to worry about things that often slip the mind when compiling a dorm room checklist. For this reason, I’ve put together a list of essentials for you that will help make your transition to dorm-life go more smoothly.

Dorm Room Checklist

1. Electric Water Kettle- Having a means to a hot water supply is a must when looking for easy, cheap ways to snack in your dorm. Tea, apple cider, hot cocoa, instant oatmeal, Top Ramen… All these simple snacks are made possible by an electric water kettle.
2. Throw Blanket- Whether you’re staying up late chatting in a friend’s room, watching a movie in the lounge, or just studying in your room, a throw blanket is a portable and cozy must-have for any occasion.
3. Alternative Lighting- Fluorescent lights are the typical lighting option provided in most dorms, which can be obnoxious, especially while trying to get work done. Bringing your own floor lamp is a great alternative, and can also be a form of dorm-decor if you wish.
4. Command Strips & Hooks- Those glaring white walls of dorms are in desperate need of posters, pictures, or maybe some decorative mirrors. Command strips and hooks are absolutely perfect for hanging any and everything on dorm walls without needing damaging items such as tape or nails.
5. Mini Fridge- A late night study session most always calls for caffeine, and so a mini fridge is super convenient for storing all your beverage needs. It’s also great for keeping healthy snack alternatives such as yogurt and fruit.
6. Rug- Dorm carpet is known for being quite dull, which is why a rug spices up any room and can also be quite handy for covering up those mysterious stains from past residents.
7. Storage Boxes- Keeping organized is essential to making your dorm room feel bigger than it actually is. Contain your clutter with clear storage boxes and lids that make your life easier– and your roommate’s.
8. Something Familiar- Everyone, whether they’ll admit it or not, gets homesick while at college. Don’t forget to bring those comfort items that will remind you of home!

Looking for more advice?

If you’re feeling creative, go to this blog post on decorating your dorm. Some of the ideas are more practical than others, but either way it pushes you to look outside the box and be innovative when adding the oh-so-important final touches to your room. If you have questions on what items to bring or not to bring, go to this blog post for helpful suggestions.