Heading off to college is an exciting time filled with new opportunities. Before you embark on this new adventure, it’s important to ensure you have all the essentials.
We’re here to help! This easy-to-understand checklist will help you turn your dorm room into your new home.
What Should I Bring?
Did you know most colleges provide students with a list of recommended items to bring with them on their housing webpage? While each college has different requirements, there are many common items all colleges suggest.
Here is a handy list of the items most universities encourage you to bring.
Bedroom
Your bedroom will be your cozy sanctuary for studying and relaxing.
- Bedding for an extra-long twin bed
- Pillows
- Pillowcases
- Alarm clock
- Tissues
- Paper towels
- Bins for storage
- Bath towels
- Hand towels
Decor
Your dorm room is your space to make your own by adding personal touches, make sure to check your university’s policy about using nails to hang your decor.
- Curtains
- Rugs
- Posters
- Pictures
- Favorite childhood items
School Supplies
To pass your classes and stay on schedule, it’s important to pack some school supplies. While all classes don’t require the same supplies, it’s recommended you bring these common school supplies to college:
- Backpack
- Laptop
- Calendar
- Writing utensils
- Notebooks
- Binders
- Calculator
Clothes
When it comes to clothes, you’ll be limited on closet and storage space, so make sure to pack for one semester at a time. Don’t forget things like your:
- Jacket
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Shirts
- Shorts
- Pants
- Shoes
Personal Care
These personal care items are sure to keep you and your dorm room clean and tidy.
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Laundry basket
- Laundry detergent
- Dryer sheets
What Can’t I Bring
Each university differs in what they do not allow. It’s important to check their website to see what they restrict.
These are a few common items not allowed due to health and safety problems that can arise:
- Candles
- Space Heaters
- Hot plates
- Irons
- Toasters
- Electric frying pans
- Electric stoves
- Pets
What Do I Do If I Forget Something?
Even with a helpful list and a perfect plan, you may overlook some items during packing.
If you find that you forgot to bring something, don’t worry. Many universities are located near a Walmart or Target, so if you realize you’ve forgotten something, go ahead and pick it up.
If you didn’t bring a car you may worry you’re out of luck. Not so! Many colleges usually have a bus to take students to stores to pick up food and dorm items over the weekend. At Angelo State, we offer students free public transportation through the Ram Tram.
If you prefer not to wait for the bus, no problem! Most universities provide mail services, so you can always have your missing items shipped to you from Amazon or have someone send them to your campus post office.
Housing at Angelo State University
Here at Anglo State, we have six different residence halls. While each room has various dimensions and layouts, they all come with the same items:
- Micro-fridge
- Extra-long twin bed
- Dresser
- Desk
- Desk chair
- Closet
While we want you to bring the same items most universities suggest, here are some specific items we recommend, as well as items we don’t allow.
Bedroom
- Laptop or Tablet
- Desk Supplies
- Dry Erase Board
- Lamp
- UL Rated Surge Protector
- TV
- Gaming Console
Bathroom
- Shower Curtain and Rings
- Towels and Washcloths
- Bath Mat
- Toilet Brush
- Plunger
- Cleaning supplies
- Broom and mop
- Toiletries
Living Area
- Paper towels
- Coffee pot
- Snacks
- Water
- Trash can
- Throw rugs
Cannot Bring
- Candles and wax/oil warmers
- Any kitchen appliances
- Mini-fridge and microwave (every room comes with them)
- Hammer and nails
- Halogen or lava lamp
- Pets
Ready to make your residence hall yours? Visit our move-in page for detailed information!
Final Note
Packing for college can be exciting but stressful. To ease your stress, remember:
- Follow this essential dorm room checklist.
- Look at your college’s website for specific information on what you can and cannot bring.
- If you forgot to pack something, there is always a store or the mail to get your missing items.
By remembering these helpful tips, you will have everything you’ll need before heading off to college.
