By now, you've probably started to think about packing for college. While it's easy to get overwhelmed, remember that you're just going to college - not Mars.
With a detailed checklist and an ample amount of time, you’ll feel more at ease about completing the tasks at hand and preparing for your home away from home.
Follow this list to help ensure you've packed all the essentials without over-packing. You can also download the checklist here.
Always Ask First!
Before bringing any of the following items, contact your school's housing office and ask about the rules and regulations within the residence halls.
What Should You Pack for Your College Apartment?
Every school year, tons of students pack too many items in fear that they won't be prepared. Your move back shouldn't require moving trucks or a moving company! When box packing, remember if you do forget an essential, you can always ask someone to send it, bring it whenever they visit or pick it up the next time you head home.College Apartment Packing Checklist:
- Comforter/Bedspread
- Pillows
- Sheets (Check to see if they need to be a special size)
- Bed risers (If your bed isn't a loft)
- Book light
- Hangers
- Crates or stacking storage containers
- Fan
- Stereo/Speakers
- Shelving
- Facial Tissues
Bedroom Items
Many of your bedroom items can be used to showcase your personality. Have fun with your bedding and décor to make the room truly feel like it’s yours.- Shower caddy
- Shampoo/conditioner
- Soap/body wash
- Towels (Bath, face, washcloths)
- Shower shoes
- Bathrobe
- Deodorant
- Shaving Cream / Razors
- Make-up
- First-aid kit
- Feminine Products
- Cold and pain medicine
- Hair dryer (Straightener, Curling Iron)
- Hairbrush/comb
- Cotton swabs, cotton balls, etc.
- Sewing kit (with safety pins)
- Lint brush
- Wrinkle release
- Shower/bath mat
- Shower curtain
- Shower tension rod
- Shower curtain hooks
- Towel hooks
- Shelves
- Full-length mirror
- Air freshener
- Toilet brush
- Toilet cleaner
- Plunger
Bathroom Supplies
Personal care items for college extend beyond just your hygiene and skin care regimen necessities. You’ll need items for injuries, illness, and more.- Pots and skillets
- Cooking utensils
- Colander
- Oven mitts
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plates
- Bowls
- Silverware
- Dish towels
- Microwave
- Reusable water bottle and coffee mug
- Plastic containers with lids
Kitchen Supplies
Even if you’re on the school meal plan, you’ll still need a few items for your kitchen. However, if you plan to cook all of your meals at home, your kitchen supply list will be pretty extensive.- Futon/sofa
- Accent chair(s)
- Media stand
- End table(s)
- Pillows
- Throws
- Décor
Living Room Items
Unlike your dorm room, your college apartment will have plenty of space to sleep, eat, and relax. Make your living room a comfortable space to unwind after a long day of classes, extracurriculars, and study time.- Laundry basket/bag
- Laundry detergent
- Stain remover
- Rolls of quarters (If necessary for laundry)
- Dryer sheets
Laundry Supplies
If your college apartment comes with a washer and dryer, count yourself lucky. Most students, however, will need to do their laundry mat in a community room of the building or make visits to a laundromat.- Computer/laptop
- Computer/laptop case
- Wireless mouse
- Keyboard
- Lap desk
- Stereo/Speakers
- Tablet or E-reader
- Printer
- Printer and ink cartridges
- Printer paper
- Calculator
- Extra Phone Charger(s)
- Television
Electronics & Technology Items
Your college apartment will be a hub for your schoolwork. As such, you’ll need any electronics and technological items that will help you in and outside of the classroom.- Rags, sponges, scrub-brushes
- Swiffer/Swiffer pads
- Mini Vacuum
- Dish soap/brush
- Dish rack/drying mat
Cleaning Supplies
You’re not living in the dorms anymore, which means you’re in charge of keeping your space clean. You’ll need to have the necessary supplies on hand to keep your common spaces, bedroom, and bathroom clean.- Video Games and Gaming Console
- Posters/art
- Framed photos with family, friends, roommates
- Dry erase board (For messages from friends)
- Deck of cards, Board Games
- Safe with a lock (For valuables)
- Flashlight
- Toolbox/Basic tool set
- Batteries
- Weekend bag or small suitcase
- Extra Power strip(s)
- Poster putty or Command Strips for hanging decorations
- Stepladder