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Post-Acceptance Prep

The College Dorm Packing List That Doesn't Suck

What to bring, what to skip, and what your roommate is probably already bringing. Last revised 2027.

📦 Built from what dorms actually allow🔄 Revised 2027✓ Coordinate with your roommate

Bedding & Sleep

✓ Bring This

  • ✓Twin XL sheets (2 sets)
  • ✓Comforter/duvet
  • ✓Pillow (2)
  • ✓Mattress topper
  • ✓Earplugs
  • ✓Sleep mask
  • ✓Fan
  • ✓Laundry bag

- Skip This

  • -Full/Queen sheets (dorm beds are Twin XL)
  • -Electric blanket (fire hazard at many schools)
  • -Body pillow (no room)
  • -Decorative throw pillows

Electronics & Tech

✓ Bring This

  • ✓Laptop + charger
  • ✓Power strip (surge protector, no extension cords)
  • ✓USB-C hub
  • ✓Desk lamp
  • ✓Noise-canceling headphones
  • ✓Phone charger + cable
  • ✓Calculator (TI-84 for STEM)

- Skip This

  • -Printer (use the library's)
  • -Desktop PC (no room)
  • -Smart TV (use laptop)
  • -Gaming chair (won't fit)
  • -Multiple extension cords (fire code violation)

Bathroom & Toiletries

✓ Bring This

  • ✓Shower caddy
  • ✓Shower shoes/flip-flops
  • ✓Microfiber towels (2-3)
  • ✓Shampoo/conditioner
  • ✓Body wash
  • ✓Face wash
  • ✓Toothbrush + toothpaste
  • ✓Deodorant
  • ✓Robe
  • ✓First aid kit

- Skip This

  • -Full-size bottles (buy travel size to start)
  • -Hair dryer (most dorms have one)
  • -Expensive perfume/cologne
  • -Loofahs (harbor bacteria)
  • -10-step skincare routine (you'll simplify)

Clothing

✓ Bring This

  • ✓2 weeks of basics
  • ✓1-2 "going out" outfits
  • ✓Comfortable shoes + sneakers
  • ✓Rain jacket
  • ✓Formal outfit (career fair/interviews)
  • ✓Workout clothes
  • ✓Winter coat (if applicable)

- Skip This

  • -Your entire closet (you will not wear it)
  • -Sentimental items (they get lost/damaged)
  • -Dry-clean-only clothes (no one does that in college)
  • -Too many shoes (closets are tiny)

Kitchen & Food

✓ Bring This

  • ✓Reusable water bottle
  • ✓Coffee maker or electric kettle
  • ✓Microwave-safe bowl + mug
  • ✓Instant oatmeal + ramen (for late nights)
  • ✓Reusable utensils + plate
  • ✓Snack drawer stash

- Skip This

  • -Full cookware set (most dorms ban hotplates)
  • -Coffee grinder (unnecessary)
  • -Toaster (fire hazard in many dorms)
  • -Blender (noise + space)
  • -Pantry-level grocery haul week 1

School Supplies

✓ Bring This

  • ✓Backpack
  • ✓Laptop sleeve/case
  • ✓Notebooks (3-5)
  • ✓Pens + highlighters
  • ✓Binders/folders
  • ✓Planner or calendar
  • ✓Sticky notes
  • ✓Scissors + tape
  • ✓Stapler

- Skip This

  • -Printer (seriously, use the library)
  • -Fax machine (lol)
  • -12 of everything (buy as needed)
  • -Physical textbooks before checking if e-versions are cheaper

Find your roommate before you pack

Coordinate on who's bringing the mini fridge, the microwave, and the TV. GradFax matches you with verified students from your school.

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