Nothing's worse than forgetting things you need for college, especially when it's things you think about later and think: How the hell did I forget this? I've compiled a list of essentials that you should bring to college so that you don't forget any potential life necessities while packing your things for the school year.
1. Notebooks, pens, and pencils for taking notes in class, duh!
Unless you prefer to use your laptop -- in which case, Evernote is lovely for taking notes with a laptop, tablet, or even your phone.
2. Book bag for carrying your things.
Or, if you prefer, a giant purse -- although I always wonder, how does that not hurt your arm?
3. Writing journal.
I usually have a different type of journal for my writing. Usually, I'll pay a little more for a good notebook with individuality or bold colors like Moleskin journals, which are extremely durable and come in a bunch of colors and limited edition themes. I've found paying more for a journal I really like encourages me to write more, in a weird way.
4. Medicine.
Being stuck with a headache really sucks, especially after all nighters writing your essays, and what not. Also, ladies and vagina having persons, Pamprin is a lifesaver. It kicks all period symptoms right out the door, basically. Love that stuff.
5. Toothbrushes and toothpaste.
Good breath is important. You may think "I'm only getting breakfast and coming back" or "I'm around friends, they won't care" or "It's an 8 a.m. class, they won't be awake enough to smell." Trust me, we can tell. Don't be the one guy who never brushes his teeth. It's terrible. Morning breath is the literal worst smell in the world. Most people wont call you out on it, but I will. Always. Brush. Your. Teeth. There is no excuse.
6. Project supplies.
Sooner or later you're going to have to make one, and it's going to suck, but hey, at least you can be a little more prepared if you already have the supplies, right! Stock up on some cheap markers and glue before heading off to school.
7. Lamps.
Important for those nights when you're up late doing homework and you can't have the ceiling lights on because your roommate is sleeping. Do yourself a favor and buy a lamp. Doesn't have to be expensive. You can find one for cheap at Walmart, they're not pretty but, hey, a broke college kid's gotta do what a broke college kid's gotta do.
8. Posters and wall decor.
Staring at the white walls at 3 a.m. thinking about what to write for your research essays already sucks enough, so maybe buy some posters of the things you like so that it's a little less boring. Band posters are a nice statement so show what music you're into, and maybe your roommate will like the same music as you?
9. CDs.
Which are pointless if you don't have a CD player, or something of the sort, but sometimes CDs can have sentimental value. Bring one for your dorm to read the insert when you're having a down day, or bring it to play in your car if you have one while on the way to class.
10. Shoes.
Only bring what you need, seriously. You don't need every pair of skater shoes, or every pair of six-inch heels. Bring one pair of comfy shoes, one pair of dress shoes, one pair of running shoes for the longer days and rain boots. That's really all you need.
11. Comforter, blankets and pillows.
Because naps. Seriously, don't forget things for your bed, because they're not provided for you. This includes mattress toppers. You don't know what's been done on your bed or how long they've been there.
12. Video games.
For relaxing with some Animal Crossing, or killing zombies in Red Dead Redemption. Whatever floats your boat.
13. Clothes.
Pants are necessary, no matter how much they suck. Also, don't forget your underwear. Yes, it happens. Don't let it happen to you. (Shudders.)
14. Trunk, to hold some of your things.
Get one that locks, because you never know what your roommate's going to be like. She or he just might like your things enough to steal them.
15. Closet organizer.
Sometimes, the amount of space they give you really just isn't enough. Organizing it out gives you more space and a more even layout with what you can fit.
16. Speakers.
Because sometimes you just don't want to use earbuds, am I right? See if your school allows subwoofers before going all out on an audio system or something expensive.
17. Soap.
Don't be one of those people who think they only need water and a washcloth. Hygiene is important.
18. Lotion and other skin care products.
Especially if you're like me and have eczema and severe dry skin. Keeping your skin hydrated is super important to avoid rashes and itchy spots in vulnerable areas like behind the knees and the folds of your arms. If you know you use a lot of skin moisturizers and ointments, stock up before you leave.
19. Makeup and makeup brushes.
I'm sure I don't have to remind you guys about this one, but still, don't forget! Get your palettes and your brushes somewhere safe before hitting the road.
20. Silverware.
Because what if you go out to eat and there's leftovers? Imagine having to eat your leftover pasta with your hands. Take a fork, spoon, and knife from home. Thank me later. (Don't forget a plate, bowl, and cup too!).
21. Earplugs.
Sometimes, you get stuck with terrible roommates who leave the television on super loud at night, or sound like a damn lawnmower at night. Please save yourself nights without sleep and get yourself some earbuds. Not everybody is going to be a decent human being.
22. Earbuds, because music, obviously.
And porn. I mean, I'm not wrong, am I?
23. Books.
You'll be doing so much textbook reading that I wont think you'll have time for recreational reading unless you're just that dedicated, but still, bring along a few books to read on some down time if you'd like! It's really calming to curl up with a good book and a cup of tea on a Saturday morning.
24. Hair supplies, comb, and brushes.
Because hair care ties in with hygiene, which is important, as stated before.
25. Pads, or tampons because periods suck.
26. Toilet tissue.
Because unless you have a community bathroom, it's not provided for you, and please don't be gross. Yes, desperate times call for desperate measures, but not that. Never that.
27. Facial tissue.
Kleenex is a lifesaver when that wave of the flu comes around in December. Get a few boxes to save yourself trouble later.
28. Self defense items.
People can be terrible, sometimes. Never leave yourself open for an attacker. Learn basic types of self defense with YouTube tutorials, invest in mace and possibly a small knife. Don't go in dangerous places at night, and have a buddy system at parties. Be safe.
