10 College Apartment Essentials and Dorm Room Must-Packs
#Moving Help
The summer is coming to a close, and it’s time to think about heading back to campus! Whether you’re a wide-eyed freshman or an experienced upperclassman, students across the country will soon begin the process of moving into their college dorm or apartment and settling in as classes start back up.
While you’ve likely toured your future home on a visit or at orientation, you may have some questions about how to pack for college and what dorm room essentials to bring with you. This blog from the experts at Acorn Mini Storage® will provide a college dorm checklist full of ideas for dorm décor and other must-haves to help you understand how to prepare for college.
Comfy and Cozy Bedding
One of the key parts of a successful college experience is getting quality rest, as a good night’s sleep can make all the difference in your academic performance. In fact, a study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University in 2023 shows students who get less than six hours of sleep per night see a significant decline in academic performance, losing 0.07 GPA points per hour of sleep lost.
To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, invest in comfy and cozy bedding to make your dorm room or apartment feel like home. This includes sheets, a comforter, pillows, and a mattress protector. Opt for durable materials that are easy to wash and maintain, and consider buying additional throw blankets and pillows as you see fit.
Mini Fridge, Microwave, and More Kitchen Gear
Having a mini fridge and microwave is a game-changer for college students. These essentials allow you to store and prepare quick meals and snacks whenever you want without relying solely on the dining hall. In addition to these appliances, stock up on basic kitchen supplies like plates, bowls, utensils, pots, pans, and a few basic spices. While it requires an up-front investment, you’ll end up saving money on delivery and takeout down the road.
Laundry and Cleaning Supplies
Keeping your living space clean is crucial for a comfortable and healthy college life. Make sure to have laundry supplies like detergent, fabric softener, and a laundry basket on hand at all times. Cleaning supplies like an all-purpose cleaner, sponges, dish soap, and trash bags are also essential. Regularly cleaning your space can help prevent illness and make your dorm or apartment a more pleasant place to live and visit.
Bathroom Essentials and Shower Caddy
Sharing a bathroom can be one of the less glamorous parts of college life, but being prepared can make it manageable. Pack bathroom dorm room essentials such as towels and toiletries, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, and pick up a pair of flip-flops or slides to wear as shower shoes. A shower caddie can help keep your items organized, making transporting them to and from the bathroom more convenient.
First Aid Kit
Accidents and minor illnesses are inevitable, so having a first aid kit on hand is an essential addition to your college dorm checklist. Your kit should include Band-Aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any cold or flu medications you might need. Having these items readily available can save you a trip to the store when you’re not feeling your best.
Chargers, Headphones, and Other Tech
In today’s digital age, staying connected is key when it comes to how to prepare for college. Make sure to pack all necessary tech gear, including chargers for your phone, laptop, and other devices. Headphones are essential for studying in noisy environments or listening to online lectures. You should also consider investing in a power strip to ensure you have enough outlets for all your gadgets, though some dorms prohibit certain cords.
TV and Streaming Equipment
While studying is certainly a priority, having some entertainment options is important for mental wellness. Bring a cheap TV and a streaming device of your choosing to watch your favorite shows and movies during downtime. If you own a video game console, consider bringing it and using it to make friends with your peers.
College Dorm Decor
Personalizing your space can make your dorm room or apartment feel more like home, especially if it’s your freshman year and your first time living on your own. Bring decorations such as posters, photos, string lights, and small plants to add a personal touch. Having these items can make your space more inviting and comfortable, which is important for your mental well-being.
School Supplies for College Life
Just like when you’d go to the store as a kid, buying the right school supplies is key to staying on top of your coursework. Essential things to pick up include a backpack, binders, notebooks, pens, highlighters, and sticky notes. A planner or digital calendar can help you keep track of assignments, exams, and other important dates. You also need to buy any textbooks or materials required for your classes, though you can save a bit by shopping on the secondhand market before the school bookstore.
Security Items
Keeping your belongings safe is a top priority. It can be wise to invest in security items such as a small safe for valuables, a padlock for your desk, and a personal alarm. These items can provide peace of mind and help protect your personal items from theft. If you’re taking night classes or plan on walking around campus a lot, purchasing a self-defense key chain tool or similar device can give you peace of mind.
Rent Seasonal Storage from Acorn Mini Storage®
As the seasons change, so do your needs. You may find yourself wishing you had some more space to keep things you don’t use, like out-of-season clothing or holiday decorations. Additionally, when the school year ends, you’ll need somewhere to keep your belongings over the summer or while you study abroad.
Acorn Mini Storage® is here to help! We offer seasonal storage units that are an excellent option for college student self storage. Whether you’re looking for a mini storage locker or a lot of space, we have multiple unit sizes available for you to choose from. Find a storage facility near you or browse our FAQ and storage tips page to get started today!
