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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. Updated for 2027.

📦 Freshman-tested🔄 Updated 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

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