When moving into your brand new college dorm, there is always a lot of talk about the absolute essentials and what you absolutely need. But who talks about the stuff that is just plain nice to have? Here are the top ten items you might want to consider having in your dorm to give the the extra comfort factor in your new home away from home.
1. Mini Fridge
Although you probably have a meal plan, getting a mini fridge is a really good idea. It allows you to be able to have food that is easily accessible in your room for the days that you just don't have time to grab a meal at the chow hall or the days when you are hungry but the cafeteria isn't open yet. It stops you from having to rely on the college for your food all the time. It also allows you to buy your own food and generally just save money that you would have spent on expensive college meals! And lastly, the obvious: Your food stays cold and is edible for longer!
2. A Coffeemaker
Now, hold on. Before you say anything about the price tag on these beauties. Let's think about how many coffees you buy and consume during the school year. A lot, right? That habit will cost you a lot more than a coffee maker. Although a Keurig or more expensive brand is still technically way cheaper than buying coffee every day, you can find cheaper models by different brands. Having a coffeemaker in your dorm room is going to be a really convenient option and will save you a ton of money!
3. Radio or Portable Speaker
Sometimes you just want to destress and listen to some tunes in your dorm, and having a speaker of some sort will definitely make it easier on you to do so! Even if you have headphones, sometimes you just want to not have something in your ear and hear the good quality sound from a speaker. Also, having one is always a great way to make some friends, as it is great for a jam session with friends or a party!
4. Fairy Lights
Even if you didn't have them in your room before, fairy lights are great in dorm rooms. The rooms are usually really bland and the lights just add a nice little bit of sparkle and light that make it look a little cozier. You can get plain white ones or go further with colored lights, but whatever you choose will definitely liven up your room a little and make you feel more comfortable.
5. Mattress Pad
A big difference between your dorm and your room at home is the bed. Dorm beds can often be very hard an uncomfortable, and buying a mattress pad to place over your mattress is an excellent idea to ensure that you get all of your hard earned beauty sleep. It makes all the difference!
6. Ethernet Cable
When you are registering for classes at the same time as the rest of your school, you want your internet to be lighting fast to beat the online traffic jams and get the classes and teachers you want. The ethernet cable will be your best friend in situations like this, or even if your internet connection is just a little slow in your dorm's location. Make sure ahead of time that you know if your dorm room has an ethernet port, not all dorms do. But if you do have the port, this cable is super handy!
7. Netflix
Need I say more? You'll be glad you have it if you get it, trust me!
