Plan ahead, not an hour before you're scheduled to leave the house. Make a list of everything you'll need to bring with you, including toiletries. Go through the list when packing; check off everything on your list as you pack it to ensure you don't forget anything. Ask a friend or family member to look over the list to verify that you haven't forgotten anything obvious.
Review your college's website or brochures to get an idea of what your dorm room looks like, what furniture is available, such as dressers and nightstands and how much personal space there is to store your belongings.
Read the rules the college provides before you move in. Some dorms are more strict than others about what is and isn't allowed regarding cooking items such as microwaves and toaster ovens. The college's guide should explain amenities available such as a public cafeteria or laundry facilities and give you a basic outline of what to bring with you.
Don't pack too many things. You aren't going to have infinite amounts of space to put everything. Your dorm room closet may not be as large as your closet at home. Think twice before bringing everything from your winter wardrobe in New York to college in Florida. You probably won't need 10 pair of shoes at college.
Consult with your roommates before investing in a refrigerator or television for your dorm room. Each roommate should bring one large item to save on space and money. Most colleges provide roommate contact information in advance.
College dorm rooms are notoriously boring. Many have plain white walls, wooden bed frames, desks and dressers. Add personality to your new living space. You'll be spending a lot of time in your dorm room, don't forget to bring an area rug, curtains, bedding and a supply of sticky tack to use for hanging decorations and photographs on the dorm room walls.