Summer is almost over which means it's time to start packing for school. My first year at college, I definitely overpacked and filled my dorm room with a bunch of things I never touched. At the same time, there are some things I didn't bring that I really wish I had. If you're going into your freshman year of college and you have no idea what to bring for your dorm room, here are some do's and don'ts.
DO bring a rain jacket and rain boots.
Initially, I didn't not only bring either of these things, and I didn't own either. In high school I never would have been caught dead in rubbery rainboots, but in college when you're walking around campus they are essential and will save all of your cuter shoes from being damaged.
DON'T bring a ton of books.
You might think you're going them all, but I assure you, you won't.
DO bring medication.
Create a little first aid kit for yourself with your vitamins, Advil, bandaids, etc.
DON'T overdecorate.
Decorating your dorm room is fun and decorations might look pretty, but the truth is you're being put into a very small space with limited room. Too many decorations will just make your room look cluttered.
DO bring a full length mirror.
You're going to want to check out your full outfit, and a little vanity mirror just won't do.
DON'T bring a ton of jewelry.
Odds are you either won't wear it or you'll end up lending it to someone and not getting it back. Bring a few key pieces you know you'll wear, and that's it.
DO bring reusable water bottles.
Instead of wasting money on plastic water bottles, bring a reusable one that you can fill up with water fountains.
DON'T bring multiple pairs of heels.
You're not going to want to wear heels walking from class to class and no one really wears heels to frat parties. Bring one neutral pair in case of a special occasion.
DO bring one or two nice outfits.
Bring one nice dress or a pencil skirt and blazer because you never know when you might have an interview or a formal occasion.
DON'T bring a ton of school supplies.
Most of your college work will be done online, so there really isn't much use for a ton of binders. Instead, bring a few folders for loose papers and a notebook or two.
DO bring two sets of bedsheets.
When you wash one set of sheets, you'll be able to replace them with a new, clean set.
DON'T bring an iPad.
An iPad isn't necessary in college as long as you have a cell phone and laptop.
DO bring a steamer.
I used my steamer a ton in college. It's a useful thing to have in case all of your folded tops get wrinkled.
Packing for college is exciting, but stressful all at the same time. It's exciting to know college is so close, but if it's your first time leaving home you might not know exactly what to bring. Hopefully you find these do's and don'ts helpful. Good luck!
