School supplies are an essential part of any college packing list. Many campuses have bookstores that sell notebooks and pencils, but it will be cheaper if you buy them in bulk at an office supply store. You may also want to buy paper supplies, such as folders, notecards and Post-it® notes. Optional items could include scissors, tape, paperclips, glue and a stapler.
Although you may be able to purchase toiletries and sundries on campus, you'll pay a premium for them so pack extra, especially if you're living far from home. These items include grooming essentials, such as combs and brushes, hair shampoo, conditioner, razors, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss. If you have contacts, bring those as well as cleaning solution. For women, don't forget to pack feminine hygiene products. Of course, bring clothes appropriate for the weather as well as laundry detergent, bath towels, slippers and a robe. Finally, bring as many refills of prescriptions as you can and a basic first aid kit.
If you can, talk to your roommate about what kinds of electronics you'll each be bringing to your dorm or apartment before moving in. This will cut back on what you need to bring yourself. You may decide you want to bring a television, coffee maker and a microwave while your roommate can provide you both with a small fridge, DVD player and a box fan. Other electronics to include on your list may be video games, a battery charger for cell phones, a hand-held vacuum cleaner and batteries. If you haven't already done so, download your entire music collection onto an MP3 player and buy compatible speakers. It is also helpful, though not mandatory, to bring a computer and a printer with you since computer labs can be crowded, and campuses may not have enough computers for everyone due to expense cuts.
Like electronics, before you bring or buy any decor, try to talk with your roommate and see what she's bringing. You may want to bring a rug, a wastebasket and curtains while your roommate brings posters, clothes hangers and lamps. Of course, you'll need your own bedding, which includes pillows, blankets and sheets.
After deciding on essentials, set aside things that may not be necessary to have but helpful. Things like flashlights, umbrellas, extra light bulbs and a small sewing kit are nice to have around just in case. You may have to bring food with you, especially if you know the local grocery store is expensive or if you're on a strict diet and require special food, like organic or gluten-free. If you have a campus meal plan, you may not need to pack food, just bring some coffee to get you through the day.