For those of you who are about to embark upon the thrilling new adventure that is your freshman year of college, your excitement may be dampened by this one stressor: packing. What do I need? What if I take too much? What if I show up and am missing something? Never fear, I have made a list of five essentials that need to make their way into your suitcase! Stick with me, kid, and you'll be move-in-ready in no time.

1. Mugs

There is no need that a mug cannot fill. Well, maybe that is an exaggeration, but I have found mugs to be the most versatile and multipurpose kitchenware item for college students. They are good for holding snacks, reheating food, taking coffee to class, and drinking tea while writing your term papers. You'll save space by not bringing tons of bowls and glasses and you can show off your impeccable thrift-store finds. Additionally, many schools offer discounts in their coffee shops when you bring your own mug, which both the planet and your wallet will thank you for!

2. Hammock

This was perhaps my favorite item I brought to college. Some of my best memories happened while hanging from trees with my friends! A hammock is a great place to study or to relax, to spend quality time with one person or to just hang out (pun intended) with a big group; I've even seen people on hammock dates! It's a wonderful, low-cost way to have fun for college students with empty bank accounts, and a great item to take on hikes or camping trips. Hammocks are the most expensive item on this list, but definitely a must-have and worth the price!

3. Reusable Water Bottle

(not a fan of Trump, but I'm all about tossing plastic bottles)

Hydration is everything. Water used to be the bane of existence, but freshman year I learned to never let my water bottle out of my sight. All of your bodily functions require water, so not only will you feel healthy (and have glowing skin) but it will boost your brain power and help you to focus better in class!

Also the planet will appreciate all of the plastic bottles you'll be keeping out of oceans and landfills.

4. Blankets

I have a basket full of blankets that I break out regularly. Not only are they useful when your dorm's heating is broken, but college life simply demands blankets. From movie nights with friends to sitting in a hammock on a chilly day to watching the sunset on the lawn, your blankets will accompany you on countless adventures and bonding sessions.

5. Journal

I got into journalling at the beginning of my freshman year, and I cannot imagine my year without it. Moving out and starting the next chapter of life with total strangers is a huge transition. You will have so many new experiences, people, and ideas become part of your world that it'll be important to process how you are changing. College is a beautiful time of growth; you'll be amazed how much you evolve when you take good care of your mental and emotional health. The ups and downs of life won't disappear this year, but good self-care will make the good days even better and will bring hope and peace to the bad ones.

These items were special to me during freshman year, but don't worry about having the perfect packing list! The fun that is in store will revolve far more around who you meet than what you bring. I wish you an exciting, healthy and fun year - happy packing!