Consider bringing a lamp for good lighting, a grounded surge protector for electronics, and plenty of charging space for laptops and iPads. Since it’s a multi-use room, arrange the dorm so there’s a designated area for study. Bed Bath & Beyond sells hundreds of organizational items especially for college residents. Hang a hanging rod, or an over-the-door mirror, hamper or organizer. “You really want to maximize that space.”Ĭreate storage space by utilizing the back of the dorm door, she says.

“The dorm room is typically smaller than your room at home and you’re also sharing that space,” Joyce emphasizes. Set up an area with snack foods so you can refuel in between classes. At WSU, for example, students have dining plans, so think minimal, like a coffee maker and a small refrigerator, Bessette says. With the kitchen, again, double and triple check what kitchen appliances you cannot bring. Whether the bathroom is in the dorm room or students share the community bathroom, a bathrobe for walking to and from the shower will come in handy. The obvious items like comforters and pillows are a must – but don’t forget twin-size extra long sheets if the dorm bed requires those, Bessette adds.įor the bathroom, purchase a shower caddy for toting your toiletries and soaps to and from the bathroom and keeping things organized, Joyce says. For this reason, Jessica Joyce, public relations manager at Bed Bath & Beyond, which sells tons of dorm room necessities, says, “You definitely want to make sure that you have great bedding products.”ĭitch the discomfort of a standard issue mattress by adding a mattress pad for extra comfort.

Students want their dorm to be a comfortable spot to unwind after classes and get quality rest for their school days ahead. Some people might even choose to wait until they can see the room and shop with their roommates. Talk about what to share,” Bessette suggests. “Write down everything (you) can think of bringing, then talk to roommates. Before buying or bringing multiples of an item, like TVs or chairs, see what the future roomies plans to bring. The next step: touch base with roommates. Equally as helpful is the list of items your university will not allow students to bring, such as hot plates, candles, space heaters and other items that pose a fire hazard, for example. WSU gets input from students when compiling their guide, she says. Jeanine Bessette, the former director of housing and residential life at Wayne State University in Detroit, recommends starting with the university’s move-in guide, if it has one, which will outline items students should bring for their dorms - and can leave behind. There are a few things students and their parents can do to save money before they ever create their dorm room checklist, and that’s by doing some research. These tips from the pros will get you well on your way!Īre you a commuter? Check out our back-to-school shopping list for students who commute to campus. So what will students need to create a functional space for study, sleep and social time? A good place to start is by creating an organized college dorm checklist. Instead, back-to-school also means shopping for dorm room essentials. It’s not just about stocking up on notebooks, pencils and pens this time around (though that’s still important!). College students moving to campus to live in the dorms have a lot to shop for before classes start up.

Dorm checklist