Going off to college is exciting, and you’ll probably hear more chatter about what people are bringing to college as opposed to what courses they are taking. College really isn’t just about getting a great education. It’s also about making the slow transition to adulthood by learning how to do things on your own.
To make sure you’re prepared for day-to-day living as well as some unexpected emergencies, we’ve rounded up 20 of the most essential bag and dorm room items.
- A reliable alarm clock (or two)
- Day planner, PDA or smartphone
- Dry-erase board
- Shower caddy complete with all your usual toiletries
- Flip flops or shower sandals (antibacterial types are available)
- Bed in a bag (be sure to pack extra linens)
- MP3 player with noise cancelling ear buds
- Surge protector
- Laundry bag
- Emergency sewing kit
- First aid kit (including current medications)
- USB flash drive
- Pencils (mechanical with lead refills or traditional with a sharpener)
- Folders
- Laptop or desktop computer
- Printer
- Paper (a couple of reams to get you started)
- Calculator (be sure you know how to use it)
- Compact refrigerator
- TV/DVD player
Quick tip
Set two alarm clocks with different sounding alarms 10 minutes apart, rather than hitting the snooze button on one clock. Your mind will have a hard time ignoring the different sound, and you’ll be less likely to roll over and go back to sleep.
Before you run off to the nearest big-box retailer for these items, check out your college’s website for tips on other items that might be necessary to navigate dorm life. Also, before packing the kitchen sink, know which items are prohibited; these might include air conditioners and space heaters, for instance.
Before you buy too few or too many supplies, check with your professor and reference the class syllabus for items that might be essential to the specific class.
Minimize stress and prepare for the time of your life by scratching the essential college items from your list.
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