When you start packing for college, regardless of what year you are, it can be stressful. Thinking about packing your entire life into boxes just to set up everything again is enough to make you cringe. Having one year of dorm living completed, this year I'll be packing a lot less, but also adding some necessary things that will make dorm life much easier on me. Here are some must pack items:

1. Power strips

Your dorm room will only have a limited amount of outlets, so make sure to pack a couple of these for lamps, curling irons, and chargers to plug into.

2. Closet organizers

Whether it's a hanging shoe organizer or hanging shelves, closet organizers will be your holy grail. They'll free up a bunch of space and make the tiny area look a little neater.

3. Healthy snacks/dinner options

Even if you have an unlimited meal plan, you're going to want some snacks in your room. Healthy snacks are key, or you'll end up turning to potato chips or candy from the vending machines. Stock up on whole wheat crackers or applesauce for some healthy and affordable munchies.

4. A planner/agenda

Of course you'll need school supplies, like notebooks and folders, but I believe a planner is the most important of all. You'll easily be able to keep track of due dates and deadlines for your classes.

5. A bedside organizer

It may be a DIY wooden box or a store-bought pocket that slides under your mattress, but I highly recommend one of these. It's always nice to have a charger, water bottle, or book handy from your bed.

6. A high-quality reusable water bottle

Instead of buying bottled water from the store each week, invest in a couple nice reusable bottles to help save the environment and your wallet.

7. A comfortable backpack

Your backpack will be tagging along almost everywhere you go on campus, so make sure you purchase a comfortable one.

8. Wax melts/scented wall plug-ins

While some might not consider this a necessity, I do. Living in a small area with little ventilation is bound to cause some weird smells. Pick up some wax melts or plug-ins if your dorm doesn't allow candles (most don't) to help reduce unwanted odors.

9. Super-sized shampoo and conditioner

Before you leave for college, run to Sam's Club or Costco and pick up those family size bottles of shampoo and conditioner. Mine were able to last me the entire school year, and trust me, I use a lot of conditioner.

10. A bath robe/towel wrap

You'll feel a lot more comfortable walking back from the community bathroom with a robe or wrap than just using your towel. During back to school sales, robes become super cheap, so pick out a stylish one while they're affordable.

11. A longer than usual phone charger

When you're in bed or at your desk, there isn't always bound to be an outlet within arms reach, so get one of those handy 3 (or even 10) foot chargers from Amazon for a reasonable price, too!

12. Appliances

If your school doesn't supply a mini fridge or microwave, consider if these appliances are worth spending money on. Both of these are super practical if you plan on keeping food in your room. Additional appliances like a coffee maker or blender aren't used that often, but might come in handy if you have the space!

13. A laptop case/sleeve

Rather than just shoving your laptop into your backpack, invest in a sleeve or case for your prized possession. A broken laptop is no fun.

14. Comfy chairs/a futon

Apart from the standard desk chairs, having a comfortable chair or futon is important to have to relax on or as seating for when guests visit your room.

15. Laundry products

Besides the Pods, get some stain remover, it will be needed at least three times throughout the year, trust me!

16. Under-bed storage bins

If you plan on lofting your bed, purchase some under-bed storage bins from Walmart or Target. They will allow for some extra organization, and won't be seen if they're under your bed.

17. Two sets of bath towels

From my experience, two sets of towels has worked out perfectly.

18. Sticky notes

Sticky notes just might be the most helpful thing ever. Whether you're making a to-do list or writing a note for your roommate, it's always helpful to have a pack of these handy.

19. A shower caddy

It's much easier to gather all your shower products with a caddy than to try and carry them all to the bathroom.

20. A sensible wardrobe

If you haven't worn something in over a year, you probably won't need to pack it. Keep in mind you can always change out your wardrobe seasonally if you'll be heading home at all throughout the semester.

With these helpful packing tips in mind, you'll be sure to save on time and money while packing for school this year!

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