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After helping thousands of girls prepare for dorm move-in, here’s the checklist we swear by!
Bedding & Sleep
• Twin XL sheet set (2)
• Comforter
• Duvet cover
• Mattress topper
• Mattress protector
• Pillows (sleeping + decorative)
• Throw blanket
• Bedside caddy
• Bed risers
Pro Tip: Your bed is your whole vibe — choose bedding first, then plan your decor around it.
Bathroom & Hygiene
• Shower caddy
• Shower shoes
• Bath towels
• Hand towels
• Washcloths
• Toiletries (shampoo, razor, etc.)
• Skincare routine items
• Hair products
• Toothbrush + toothpaste
• Makeup + organizer
• Hair styling tools
• Hairbrush + hair ties/claw clips
• Cotton rounds + Q-tips
• Feminine products
• Deodorant
• Perfume/body mist
• Medicine
• Mini first aid kit
Pro Tip: A well-stocked shower caddy makes your whole routine smoother — prep it like a mini spa and you'll love every shower.
Laundry & Cleaning
• Laundry hamper
• Laundry detergent/pods
• Stain remover (tide pen)
• Dryer sheets
• Mini vacuum
• Disinfecting wipes
• Paper towels
• Odor spray
• Trash bags
• Sponge
Pro Tip: Do laundry before you’re desperate — campus machines fill fast.
Desk & Study Essentials
• Laptop + charger
• Laptop stand
• Desk lamp
• Desk hutch
• Pens, pencils, highlighters
• Notebooks/folders
• Planner
• Sticky notes
• Desk Organizers
• Calculator (if needed)
• Backpack or tote
Pro Tip: A clean, aesthetic desk actually makes you want to get work done — it’s productivity by design.
Tech & Electronics
• Extension cord
• Power strip
• Extra-long phone chargers (2)
• Portable charger (iWalk)
• Speaker
• Headphones/AirPods
• TV or streaming stick
• iPad
Pro Tip: Dorm outlets are NEVER where you want them — pack at least one 10ft charger.
Storage & Organization
• Under-bed storage bins
• Rolling cart
• Cube shelving
• Hanging closet organizer
• Shoe rack
• Hangers
• Drawer dividers
• Bedside organizer
• Makeup/Jewelry organizers
• Over-door hooks
• Command strips
• Storage ottoman
Pro Tip: Think vertical — dorm rooms have way more height than floor space. Go up, not out.
Kitchen & Snacks
• Mini fridge
• Microwave
• Water bottle
• Coffee maker / kettle
• Mug + reusable cup
• Plates/bowls
• Utensils
• Containers
• Snack stash
• Brita pitcher
Pro Tip: Always keep a “late-night stash” — popcorn + mac & cheese cups will save you during study nights.
Beauty & Personal Items
• Makeup bag
• Vanity mirror
• Skincare fridge (optional)
• Hair tools
• Jewelry case
• Nail kit
• Lotion
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Toiletry travel bag
Pro Tip: Dorm lighting can be harsh — a good desk mirror with soft lighting is a game-changer for getting ready.
Clothing & Accessories
• Everyday outfits
• Loungewear
• Sweatshirts
• Going-out tops
• Jeans/leggings
• Sweatpants
• Pajamas
• Jackets
• Socks/underwear/bras
• Athletic ware
• Sneakers
• Slippers
• Boots
• Purses & bags
• Hats
• Tote bag
• Umbrella
• Jewelry
• Slippers
Pro Tip: Dorm closets are tiny, so rotate your wardrobe by season — store off-season clothes under your bed to save space.
Health & Safety
• First aid kit
• Medicine basics
• Thermometer
• Water filter
• Pepper Spray
• Flashlight
Pro Tip: Having medicine on hand at 2AM is a lifesaver — don’t wait until you’re sick to buy it.
Decor & Aesthetics
• Wall prints
• Photos & frames
• Fairy lights
• Rug
• Throw pillows
• Mirror
• Plants
• Desk décor
• Diffuser (if allowed)
• Calendar whiteboard
• Bulletin board
Pro Tip: One big decor piece (like a photo wall, canvas, or LED sign) transforms your room way faster than lots of tiny items.
Miscellaneous Lifesavers
• Reusable bags
• Extra command strips
• Lint roller
• Ziploc bags
• Batteries
• Ice packs
• Tool kit
Pro Tip: You’ll use command strips and ziploc bags way more than you expect — pack extras of both.
DO NOT FORGET List
• Scissors
• Tape
• Shower shoes
• Stain remover
• Command hooks
• Mattress topper
• Extra-long charger
• Fan
• Desk lamp
Pro Tip: These items sell out FAST during dorm season — buy them early so you’re not stuck
Want to make dorm shopping easer? Start with the most-clicked dorm resources by our readers:
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