I know it's tempting to go into Bed Bath and Beyond and buy the whole store, but don't believe the hype. Once you get to your dorm and start living there, you'll realize what you need. Let me help you out by giving you 11 items that I didn't think I needed until after I moved in. Hopefully, my experiences will save you some trips to the store.
1. Bed Stands- Bed, Bath and Beyond
Dorms have limited space. We know this. But, you might not realize it until you move in. Purchasing bed stands will allow you to optimize the space under your bed. This means more room for shoes, seasonal clothing, and extra school supplies.
2. Blinds- Dormco
The sun is bright, particularly in the morning before it rises. Some rooms will leave you to fend for yourself with a bare window. Also, if your window is bare, you'll want some privacy while you get ready for the day.
3. Extension Cord- ModCloth
You can never have too many "plugs" right? Well, sometimes dorm rooms don't have enough. If you are going to have a roommate, you may be looking at only two power sockets each. You might need an extension cord to be able to plug in your computer, phone, and other electronics you may use on a regular basis. Try not to use too many extension cords, though; you'll be tripping over them before you know it.
4. Extra Snacks- Sam's Club
Believe me when I say "the food struggle is real." Your expensive meal plan doesn't all of your food needs will be met. There will be off hours when you will need a snack, or you may find that the snacks around campus are too expensive (even if you have points on your meal plan or a pre-paid allowance that allows you to snack). It's better to buy some non-perishable snacks in bulk and keep them in your room at all times.
5.Basic Kitchen Utensils- Walmart
Whether your kitchen is inside your room or down the hall, you'll need the basics: a pan for baking, pot, a skillet, and cooking utensils. Even if you have a meal plan, there will be times when you want to do your cooking. If you have your kitchen in your room, you will want a couple more utensils, as you will probably be cooking a lot more often.
6. GPS- Best Buy
If you're bringing your car to campus, make sure you have a GPS. Some college organizations travel off campus regularly, so this device to make your life easier. You might also need to know where you are going, just in case you need to find an off-campus pharmacy, food store or hospital.
7. Personal Lamp- Target.com
You'll need a desk lamp to give yourself some light while your roommate is sleeping. Standing lamps or lights bulbs can be too harsh for last minute studying. If you're a night owl like me, you'll want to stay up late working without worrying if you're disturbing anyone. The best scenario is to have a standing lamp for general light and a personal lamp for your desk.
8. Rain Boots- Kohl's
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure that you are prepared for the weather. When it rains, sometimes it pours, so make sure you have the proper rain boots. You might even need a raincoat or a poncho.
9. Business Professional Attire- Macy's
Some professors will ask you to wear formal business attire. You might need business attire for an interview. You might be required to dress up for a presentation. Or, you might even visit a job fair. It's always good to have these clothes handy if a professional opportunity comes up.
10. Wall Calendar- JCPenney
A wall calendar may sound a tad old-fashioned by today's standards, but remember your dorm is essentially your new home, a place where you can relax and keep yourself organized. You'll want somewhere to visualize what you have going on for the month: events, parties, due dates or assignments. You probably already know that wall calendars come in all colors, shapes, and sizes. Choose one that fits the theme of your room.
11. Bike- Kmart
Getting around can be an issue, especially if the buses are too crowded and walking takes too long. Riding a bike will allow you to leave on time without having to follow a bus schedule. Just make sure that if you buy a bike, you also purchase a bike lock to keep it safe.
It doesn't hurt to wait until you get there to see what you need and what you won't. However, I hope this list gets your mind thinking about items you might not regularly use when you're at home.
Good luck moving in!
