'Tis the season for dorm room packing. While I can't predict everything you will need, here are 10 helpful packing suggestions that many freshmen do not consider. So before you close your stuffed car trunk, check out these often forgotten college necessities!
1. Dryer sheets
Hate to break it to you, but the laundry machine in your dorm room will most likely not be in pristine condition. Most of the time, my clothes did not seem “clean” when I pulled them out of the dryer. So, I invested in some dryer sheets so that my clothes could “fake it till they made it”. I personally love the lavender scent.
2. Ear plugs
Having ear plugs around was a glorious idea. You will come to learn that dorm rooms operate 24/7. Be prepared if you want to ensure that you still obtain a solid amount of zzzzz's! I also enjoyed using ear plugs when I studied. It blocked out all of the surrounding noise and allowed me to focus on what I needed to get done.
3. Random costumes
Bring anything and everything you can fit into the remaining space of your suitcase. You never know what parties or social events will come up. College kids are pretty creative with the themes, get ready!
4. Power strips
Dorm rooms never seem to have enough electrical outlets. My roommate and I each brought our own power strip. We put one by our beds so we could charge our phones and the other by our desks to charge our laptops. We also used them to plug in our lamps, printers, friends’ chargers, etc. The possibilities are endless.
5. Ziploc bags and containers
There were some days during the year when I just did not have time to go back to the dining hall to pick up lunch. That being said, don’t ever skip lunch! My friends tease me for being such a strong advocate for three meals a day, but it is honestly so important. I found myself way more productive if my belly wasn’t growling in the middle of the afternoon. Ziploc bags/containers are great because in the morning I would grab a banana and peanut butter from the buffet line or put some eggs in a container for later. You and your stomach will thank yourself.
6. Business professional and casual attire
A lot of students tend to forget to bring business professional and casual attire. I am in the business school, so these outfits are pretty much essential, but even in other schools, they are necessary. I would recommend bringing one complete suit and one casual, but nice outfit. There are various recruiting events, networking dinners and conferences throughout the year that you will find yourself wanting to wear these outfits to.
7. A few reusable water bottles
When I count the number of times I have lost my water bottle this year, it seems a little ridiculous… but it is true! I would suggest to pack at least three water bottles. You walk a lot on campus and if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably forget your water bottle at one of your stops along the way. Stay stocked and you will also stay hydrated.
8. First Aid Kit
Make sure to bring basic medications before you come to college. Advil, allergy meds, nasal decongestants, etc. You never know when you may need them and pharmacies tend to be more expensive around college campuses. I would also recommend to fill a little box with band aids, antibiotic creams, cough drops, etc. along with these medications. It will be your one stop shop!
9. Social security card/Passport
I am so happy that I brought these two items, however, many students tend to forget them. If you’re an out-of-state student like me, most likely you will need your passport if you ever want to register to vote. Additionally, many jobs need your social security card and/or passport in order to fill out the necessary documentation to pay you!
10. Rain boots
Even in Austin, TX you need rain boots! Coming from Miami, Florida, my mom insisted that leaving the tropical climate for the “desert” would mean that I would never need to wear rain boots again. Needless to say, Texas proved her wrong. This year I have witnessed everything from three day drizzles to flash floods. Invest in a sturdy pair of rain boots because you still need to get to class, despite the weather. Mine did the job!
Best of luck in your packing endeavors!
