Try to contact your roommate ahead of time to find out what he or she plans to bring.
Make sure you are not duplicating large items such as televisions, stereos or telephones.
Find out what size bed your dorm room has and pack linens accordingly.
Determine how likely it is that you will need dressy, formal or "date" clothes. For instance, if you are planning to join a sorority or fraternity, you will probably need more formal clothes than if you're not.
Bring mostly casual wear for studying. Try to select clothes that can all be washed in the same cycle if you want to make laundry easier.
Pack a bathrobe, shower slippers, towels, and personal care items such as your hair dryer.
Toss in some school supplies, but remember that you can buy those on campus.
Pack your computer equipment securely in the boxes it came in, and be sure to bring a good power strip.
Take posters and tapestries for wall coverings. Take personal photos and mementos to dress up shelves and desks, and to remind you of home.
Bring throw rugs or used carpet as floor coverings.
Pack emergency items such as battery-operated radios and flashlights, as well as practical items such as a hot pot, mini refrigerator or microwave, if such things are allowed.