Packing clothes may seem obvious, but since you only have a small amount of space in a dorm, it is important to pack a well-rounded wardrobe. Don't forget to include flip-flops for around the dorm halls, jackets for all seasons, sneakers, dress shoes and a dressy outfit for special occasions or job interviews. Keep in mind that while you'll be heading to school in the summer, you will need outfits for the winter too, so include sweaters, gloves, boots, and scarves. A swimsuit and workout clothes are also a must, as are plenty of socks and underwear.
Most dorm rooms come equipped with beds, dressers and a desk (maybe two), but you'll find other items are a necessity. Bring several storage bins, both for the closet and under the dorm beds. You'll collect things during the semester and need more storage. A trash bin, alarm clock and lamps for the desk and bed are also good to have. Try getting a lamp that clips onto your dorm bed to save space. A bulletin board is excellent for keeping track of papers or putting up photos, and a white board is perfect for leaving notes with your dorm mate. You might consider posters, pictures and a rug for easy decorating.
Items such as paper towels, light bulbs, a can opener, dishware and a coffee maker are also useful. A coffee maker is perfect for early mornings. Bring along dish soap too, so that you can rinse out dishes in the dorm bathroom. Check if your dorm room has a microwave or mini-fridge (some do), and if not, ask if you are allowed to bring your own. All-purpose cleaner is good for a quick cleanup of the dorm room. For linens, you'll need sheets and blankets, pillows, towels, a laundry bag and laundry detergent. Electronics you will want include your computer, adapters, surge protectors and at least a couple extension cords.
Toiletries are also a dorm essential. Besides the easy basics of toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, soap and makeup, you may also want to bring first aid supplies such as pain relievers, cough medicine and cough drops, bandages, antibiotic cream, antacid tablets and vitamins. Remember to bring a container you can use to carry your toiletries back and forth between the dorm bathroom and your room.
Office supplies are the last item for a college dorm. You'll need highlighters, pens and pencils, paper clips, binder clips, rubber bands and a stapler. Several desk organizers can help keep things sorted for you. A dictionary and thesaurus are also helpful, as are notebooks, folders, sticky notes and index cards. A USB flash drive is perfect for transporting documents and blank CDs or DVDs for class projects.