Transitioning from high school to college can be a difficult - especially without the proper dorm necessities.
As I am currently in high school, I cannot give my recommendations given I haven't gone to university, but my friend Amelia has just finished her freshman year of college and is ready to present to you all the must-haves for college - especially the ones she didn't realize she needed.
Here is the full list:
The BIG Stuff:
1. Bed Risers
Bed risers will provide you with ample space by lifting your bed up and giving you access to under-the-bed storage. Having storage in college is a necessity - especially if you are sharing a room with someone else. By having bed risers, you won't have to get too creative with your space in where to store your items.
2. Dorm Desk Bookshelf
Storage. Is. Key. Take advantage of your dorm's vertical space and BUILD UP. You will have the opportunity to do this with your desk. You can personalize your hatch by adding decor and use it for storing your school supplies such as your books and pencil cases!
3. Storage Cabinets
Storage cabinets are a must have - especially if you plan on bringing a lot of clothes. "Be selective" Amelia says. The armoire provided by your university will likely fit 1/3 of your closet at home, so be selective on what you bring. Storage cabinets will be useful in storing your shoes, undergarments, or little, but important items that you won't need to have out in your dorm room at all times.
4. Mattress Topper
"INVEST IN A GOOD MATTRESS TOPPER" states Amelia. If you are someone who not only needs good sleep, but great sleep, purchase a mattress topper of good quality that will serve all your nap and sleep-time needs. This is especially important if you will be getting little sleep in your first year of college.
The LITTLE Stuff:
Now onto the less bulky items that are still must-haves for college.
1. Power Strips
You may not have many outlets to charge your phone, your computer, or other electronic devices. Increase the amount of outlets you have by buying power strips which will allow you to charge and connect a variety of things all at once.
2. Hamper
Many make the mistake of purchasing a backpack laundry for their first year. Rather, find a hamper which has wheels for easy transport and backpack straps for when going down the stairs.
3. Shoes
Again, be selective on the items you bring from your closet. Unless you are a high-end fashionista, you will probably end up wearing three to five pairs year round.
4. Umbrella
Rain comes when you least expect it (unless you live in Florida). Make sure to bring a small umbrella to carry around in your backpack in case it starts pouring out of nowhere.
5. Sheets
Rather than bringing only one pair of sheets for your bed, bring two! It will be much more comfortable to have a fresh pair of sheets rather than having to wait until your dirty ones have been washed.
6. Comforter / Bed Stuff
Bring a comfy blanket that keeps you warm at night, but is still easy to wash in the laundry. From past experience, using comforters has only brought me a lot annoyance when letting them dry - and I have a twin bed! With a comfy small blanket, you will be able to have a good night's sleep without the hassle of having to wash a large comforter.
For decorative pillows, have about one to two. It's most likely that they will end up on the floor anyway by the time you go to sleep, so don't buy too many to save you the expense of getting them all dirty.
7. Jewelry Box
As its name says, a jewelry box is perfect to store all of your necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. A small and compact one is best when maximizing space.
8. Water bottle / Tumbler
Taking a water bottle with you is perfect for when getting from one class to another. A quick sip will keep you hydrated and prevent thirst.
9. Shower Shoes
Shower shoes are EXTREMELY important - especially if you don't want to be touching the communal shower floors. A simple set of sandals or rubber slippers works best.
10. Shower caddy
Your shower caddy should be large enough to carry all your shower necessities like your shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other items.
The TINY Stuff
Here is a list of items you may forget but will come in handy when necessary:
Hair Elastics
Hygiene Products
Tweezers
First Aid Kit / Medicine
Having a first aid kit with all your medical necessities is extremely important. For some reason, everyone often gets sick when they go to college. My brother was sick over three times just this past year. It is crucial that you go to the pharmacy and buy all the over-the-counter medicine you may need in case you have a headache or the flu.
Scissors
Lamp
Pencils & Pens
Notebooks
Dish-soap
Tape / Command Strips
Most, if not all, dorm rooms do not let you hang up frames or shelves with screws. Command strips are perfect for temporarily hanging up items to make your space feel more personalized.
I hope this list helps you for all your dorm room essential needs.
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