Packing for the first time as a college freshman can be overwhelming, especially if you are the first in your family to go to college. It can be hard to distinguish necessary items from the unnecessary when looking at the lengthy packing lengths that make it seem as if you need the universe. Forgetting something that you actually need and will make your dorm just a little more comforting is one of the worst feelings, particularly to those students in a new state or far from home. Glimpse over the items below to ensure this doesn't happen to you
1. Shower items: shoes & caddy.
GiphyCommunal bathrooms are an element of college that may take newbies quite some time to get used to. The best way to make this transition slightly more natural is to ensure you are properly equipped! This means a good caddy that you can leisurely transport all those bathroom essentials to and from the shower in. And talking of showers, shoes are also a necessity. The thought of sharing your shower with multiple strangers i bad enough, foot infections can spread quickly so it is best practice to always wear some shoes to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
2. A fridge with a freezer compartment.
GiphyA fridge is most certainly necessary, and a freezer compartment is too! Nothing can beat ice cream during finals week or when you and your roommate have both just had a terrible day. Freezers come in handy when you want a good dessert, to chill your water, or when you want to keep pizza bites close by just in case you get hungry!
3. A microwave.
GiphyPrepare to make Kraft and restaurant leftovers part of your regular diet. College dining plans are great, but there are some days when you frankly just want to stay in your room and eat something while watching Netflix. This is where a microwave comes in. You can make delicacies in this machine ranging from pop tarts to ready meals and while that may not sound so good when you're used to home cooking, a microwave is a college investment you are sure not to regret!
4. Something scented (diffuser or reeds).
In my opinion, there is nothing worse than a smelly room. Unfortunately for most college students living in dorms, your room has sat empty over the summer months which can often result in a not too pleasant musky smell. The best way to make your dorm sweet dorm smelling fresh and pleasant in no time is to use some sort of scented diffuser. I have found that reed sticks or plug in diffusers work best as candles are normally not allowed within residences.
5. Bathrobe & slippers.
GiphySomething you don't think about when people tell you that college will be the vest four years of your life is the number of 3AM fire alarms that you will experience in this time. For this reason, a decent dressing gown and a somewhat durable pair of slippers are paramount. It makes the transition from peaceful slumber to the designated congregation spot just a little smoother when you're still half asleep and annoyed because there is no need to fumble around to find something warm and shoes to put on your feet.
6. Storage boxes/drawers.
Colleges generally furnish dorms with the basics for you. This tends to include items such as: a desk, a chair, a bed, a chest of drawers and a closet or wardrobe. This can be ample if you have mastered the art of organization and minimalism, however, most students, find that they need additional storage space only after they move in. Some great ideas are simple plastic drawers or tubs that are easy to place under your bed, giving you maximum storage without taking up valuable floor space.
7. A sealed laundry bag (and preferably with a handle too).
GiphyLaundry, and finding and open machine, will quickly become the bane of every college students life. Most people will only do laundry once or twice every week and so the hamper can get reasonably full, even more so if you happen to be a college athlete. For this reason, a sealed laundry bag is a must. It looks tidier and prevents and unwanted sweaty odors escaping from worn clothes. A handle is a big win too; laundry rooms tend to be located on a specific floor or in the basement of dorms so having an easy to carry hamper makes for a much easier laundry day!
8. A lamp or other form of minimal lighting.
Having a roommate is one of the best things about college living, however, sleep schedules won't necessarily match. To get around this, a small form of lighting is paramount. This way, any night owls out there can continue to burn the midnight oil without obstructing their roommate's sleeping pattern by having heavy lighting on in the room. Battery powered lights are also a great backup for any time that the electrics may cut out!
9. A comfortable blanket and/or an electric fan.
GiphySomething I didn't anticipate when thinking about move in day was that the air stat would not be under my control. Generally, there is one set temperature for the entire dorm building, which for some people means they are cold and for others too warm. A small electric fan can combat the higher temperatures but a good old blanket is necessary for the colder months in any state when your room is sure to have just a little chill.
Pro Tip: A good blanket can also be used in those cold early morning fire drills
10. Some of your favorite snacks.
This one is a particular must for my fellow international students. You don't realize how much you will miss the taste of home until there is virtually nowhere you can find your favorite chocolate bar or chips. Non-perishable snacks are great to have in your room to keep you energized while studying and for the imminent movie nights with your roommate.
Take these ten things to college and your year will off to a great start! College can be tough at times but making sure you are equipped with all that you need certainly sets you off on the right foot. One final tip from a rising junior to all of you is to have these items ready before move in day (especially additional storage) for a seamless and relaxing experience.
