17 Foods College Kids Need To Stock, For When Dining Halls Fail
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Student Life

17 Foods College Kids Need To Stock, For When Dining Halls Fail

For when the dining hall just doesn't cut it.

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17 Foods College Kids Need To Stock, For When Dining Halls Fail
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Though you have that meal plan, you're still going to keep some food stocked in your room. These little lifesavers will help keep you full and happy throughout your hectic schedule.

1. Cheese (specifically spreadable)

This is a kind of weird one, but hear me out. Laughing Cow makes these spreadable, pre-packaged cheese wedges that are so easy to just throw into a lunch box or have as a snack with some crackers or pretzels. You don't have to section anything out, and you don't have to worry about trying to slice cheese with the 0 counter space. Even if you buy a different variety, spreadable cheese and crackers is a quick and easy, but satisfying snack that you can adapt to have on-the-go.

2. Crackers and/or pretzels

These are easy to pair with other items but also can be enjoyable on your own. They're particularly helpful if you have a stomach ache and need something bland to settle it quickly (especially saltines). I love Snack Factory's Pretzel Crisps because not only do they have plain ones, but a variety of different flavors like garlic parmesan, and honey mustard and onion.

3. Hummus/guac/salsa

Like the cheese, pairing these with something to dip with is a great snack that will actually satisfy you. I suggest buying the individual cups because there's even less effort you have to put in...plus you won't accidentally eat half the jar in one sitting. The organic hummus cups from Costco are the bomb and even kind of good for you!

4. Tortilla chips

OK yes, it's the same thought as the pretzels and crackers. But throw some shredded cheese on these guys, pop them in the microwave, and you have some simple nachos. Add salsa and you're golden. They're also great with other dips, like guac. Get a fun flavor like Tostito's hint of lime and it makes them even more enjoyable.

5. Granola bars

You may say you'll be going to the dining hall for breakfast before your morning class, but chances are, you won't get there. If you're constantly oversleeping, it is important to have granola bars or something similar in your room to just grab and eat on the way to class. Even if you hate breakfast, eating these will help tide you over until you have the chance to get lunch. I find Clif Bars the most filling, and they come in a million flavors.

6. Cereal

If you have a little more time in the morning for breakfast, cereal is still a zero effort food to have before you run out the door. I only had a 2-meal-a-day plan, so I only got breakfast very rarely on campus, and cereal was just what I needed in the morning. You can even get them in mini variety packs!

7. Cookie dough

Ok, this one isn't the most practical, but it's fun. If you or a friend is feeling down, it's easy to pop some pre-made cookie dough into an oven and enjoy a sweet treat in minutes. They're really a huge mood booster, even if it may take you some effort to find an oven.

8. Milk

What else are you going to put your cereal and cookies with? It's also good to have some sort of milk on hand if you have a coffee machine in your room.

9. Cold brew coffee

Maybe you're running late to class and need a quick caffeine boost-- just pour some cold brew and off you go. You don't have to wait in line to get coffee or wait for your Keurig to finish. You can buy cold brew from brands like Starbucks, or even make your own.

10. Mac and cheese

Mac and cheese, ramen, and etc. are college staples. Not nutritious in the slightest, but boy are they comforting.

11. Frozen meals/snacks

I am a huge fan of Bagel Bites, and I always have been. Throwing some of those in (or Pizza Rolls, Hot Pockets, etc.) the microwave are a change from all the mac and cheese you're probably eating but are just as satisfying.

12. Fruit

Another great grab and go snack option. I like to have bananas on hand at all times. They're cheap, easy to obtain, and you can do a variety of things with them, like adding Nutella for dipping or putting them on a peanut butter sandwich. Fruit is also a good option for breakfast if you don't want to go the granola bar route.

13. Nutella/peanut butter

Food of the gods, honestly. I've been on a huge Nutella kick lately, often eating it on toast with some bananas. These spreads are great for sandwiches or as dips, and even eating straight from the jar (I won't judge).

14. Bread

A peanut butter and jelly can save your life. It's a simple, nostalgic taste that you lift your mood and fill you up a bit. You can also stash some sliced cheese and deli meats and make those kinds of sandwiches as well.

15. Water filter

This one isn't technically a food but...if you can fit one of these in your mini fridge, I highly recommend them. They're a lot more eco-friendly than constantly using regular water bottles, and unlike getting stuff from the water fountain it will always come out cold. There are also Brita bottles that you can fill up with tap water and it will filter it in your hand.

16. Ginger ale

Like with the crackers and pretzels, ginger ale is a lifesaver for uneasy stomachs. And believe me, you'll have some in college (for one reason or another).

17. A treat just for you

Try to keep at least one of your favorite snacks on hand whenever you can. It's so nice to come back to your room after a long day and be able to reward yourself with something. Personally, I have a candy jar on my desk, but it can be whatever you want.

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