In most dorm rooms, you will be given a bare bed, a desk and some area for clothing storage. This means you will need a fitted sheet, flat sheet, pillows, pillow shams, comforter and mattress pad for extra comfort. Check with your housing office for the exact size of the bed before buying these supplies. You will also need laundry detergent, fabric softener and plenty of quarters for washing your bedding.
You will be doing plenty of eating in your dorm space as well, so be prepared with plates, silverware, cups and bowls. You may also want to invest in a mini refrigerator for storing food, if your dorm does not have access to one.
You will need essential bathing items, such as body soap, shampoo and conditioner. You will also need a toothbrush, hairbrush, hair styling tools and products, a razor, floss, nail clippers and tweezers. Don't forget to also pack towels, makeup, a robe, washcloths or sponges and a pair of water-proof shoes that you can wear in the shower to protect yourself from bacteria. To keep things organized if you are sharing a bathroom with other students, you should also invest in a shower caddy to hold these materials.
Many dorms are equipped with wireless Internet access, but for some you may be required to bring an Ethernet cable. Bring your computer, printer, cellular phone and charger, an extension cord, a surge protector with multiple outlets, camera, television and a music player.
As a student, you will need a book bag, notebooks, pencils, pens, highlighters, index cards, printer paper, a stapler, scissors and a pencil sharpener. Reference books, such as dictionaries, a thesaurus and writing style guides, will also come in handy.
Depending on how much storage you have in your dorm, you may not be able to bring your entire wardrobe. Think about the basic items you need to have with you, for example, several pairs of jeans, cold- and warm-weather gear, lounge wear such as sweats and t-shirts, and at least one business outfit for job interviews or important meetings. Keep in mind that doing laundry is not only a chore but an expense in some dorms, so you may not do it as frequently as you did at home. Be prepared with about two weeks' worth of essentials like socks and underwear.
It is always a wise idea to have organizational supplies to keep you uncluttered and focused throughout the semester. For example, consider rolling plastic bins for storing school supplies, stackable trays and pencil cups for your desk and under-bed storage bins for shoes, accessories and other supplies.
Make the space your own with posters, artwork and dry erase boards for messages. It is also a good idea to have first aid and health items such as cough syrup, cold medicine, aspirin, vitamins, bandages and antiseptic. For the warmer months, a small oscillating fan will help keep you cool. During colder months, you may want a space heater, though you should check with your housing office for regulations regarding these items. An umbrella will keep you dry as you walk around campus.