15 answers
3
Questions
Updated
1292 views
What are some things that most people forget to pack when packing for college?
As an incoming college freshman I want to make sure I pack everything possible.
Login to comment
15 answers
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Grace. Some commonly forgotten essentials include a power strip or extension cord, phone and laptop chargers, reusable water bottle, umbrella, laundry basket, detergent, shower shoes, toiletries, first-aid supplies, medications, extra towels, and a small sewing kit.
For studying, don't forget notebooks, pens, sticky notes, folders, a planner or calendar, headphones, and a flash drive or external storage device. If you'll be sharing a dorm room, earplugs and an eye mask can also be very helpful.
It's also a good idea to bring a few cleaning supplies, such as disinfecting wipes, paper towels, trash bags, and a small vacuum or broom if your dorm doesn't provide one.
For studying, don't forget notebooks, pens, sticky notes, folders, a planner or calendar, headphones, and a flash drive or external storage device. If you'll be sharing a dorm room, earplugs and an eye mask can also be very helpful.
It's also a good idea to bring a few cleaning supplies, such as disinfecting wipes, paper towels, trash bags, and a small vacuum or broom if your dorm doesn't provide one.
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hi! One thing that surprised me when I got to college was that it wasn’t the big things people forgot, it was all the small everyday items. I’d definitely pack an extension cord or a long phone charger, a small first-aid kit with medicine for headaches, allergies, and colds, a basic toolkit, extra charging cables, a reusable water bottle, shower shoes, and a mattress topper if your residence hall doesn’t provide comfortable mattresses. I’d also bring command hooks, storage bins, a laundry basket that’s easy to carry, a small fan, and a portable umbrella. One thing I wish more people thought about is bringing a few things that make your room feel like home, such as family photos, a favorite blanket, or decorations that make the space feel comfortable. Finally, don’t stress about bringing absolutely everything. There will almost always be a store nearby or online delivery if you realize you forgot something. Focus on the essentials first, and you’ll figure out the rest as you settle in.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1105
Answers
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hi Grace:
When packing for college, it is easy to focus on the big items, that you will most likely be using every day, like computers, bedding, and campus clothes, while entirely overlooking the small, seemingly insignificant essentials. Here are a few of those smaller items, you might want to pack along with you.
#1. Health and First Aid
• Cold and flu medication: You will likely get the "campus illnesses" during your first semester, and walking to a store while sick is not a good experience.
• A basic first-aid kit: Pack Band-Aids, pain relievers, cough drops, and a thermometer.
• Toe clippers and Tweezers: Essential for splinters or minor fixes, and keeping away ingrown nails.
• Health insurance card: Bring a physical copy or a clear photo of it for unexpected or emergency health clinic visits.
#2. Power and Electronics
• An extra-long phone charger: Outlets in dorms are often positioned in unusual and hard-to-reach places far away from your bed.
• Surge protector power strips: Standard dorm rooms rarely have enough outlets for a small refrigerator, microwave, laptop, phone, and lamp.
• An external battery pack: Vital for long days across campus when your phone battery dies between classes and lectures.
#3. Other Items
• Shower shoes: Needed for protecting your feet in communal dorm showers, where athletes foot and other fungus can live.
• A solid-bottom trash can: Avoid mesh trash cans; you need something that can hold liquids if you or a roommate gets an illness or sick.
• Disinfecting wipes: Dorm rooms sit empty and collect thick dust for months before you move in.
• A plunger: It is much better to have one before an emergency strikes than to ask an RA for one later.
• A high-quality rain gear, like a jacket and umbrella: Walking across campus in a sudden downpour will ruin your clothes and your homework and textbooks.
• A small portable fan: Many older dorm buildings lack central air conditioning, making late summer move-ins incredibly hot.
• Clothes: You will need at least one business-casual outfit and formal shoes for unexpected interviews, career fairs, or class presentations
#4. Kitchen and Utility
• Basic tools: A multi-tool, a small screwdriver, or a roll of duct tape will save you when assembling certain furniture items.
• Real silverware and food clips: Even if you have a meal plan, you will eat takeout or late-night snacks in your room and will need a way to seal bags.
• A miniature stapler and scissors: Professors still occasionally require physical papers to be turned in, so having one with you will definitely save time.
I hope some of these suggestions have been helpful for you. Good luck on move-in day.
When packing for college, it is easy to focus on the big items, that you will most likely be using every day, like computers, bedding, and campus clothes, while entirely overlooking the small, seemingly insignificant essentials. Here are a few of those smaller items, you might want to pack along with you.
#1. Health and First Aid
• Cold and flu medication: You will likely get the "campus illnesses" during your first semester, and walking to a store while sick is not a good experience.
• A basic first-aid kit: Pack Band-Aids, pain relievers, cough drops, and a thermometer.
• Toe clippers and Tweezers: Essential for splinters or minor fixes, and keeping away ingrown nails.
• Health insurance card: Bring a physical copy or a clear photo of it for unexpected or emergency health clinic visits.
#2. Power and Electronics
• An extra-long phone charger: Outlets in dorms are often positioned in unusual and hard-to-reach places far away from your bed.
• Surge protector power strips: Standard dorm rooms rarely have enough outlets for a small refrigerator, microwave, laptop, phone, and lamp.
• An external battery pack: Vital for long days across campus when your phone battery dies between classes and lectures.
#3. Other Items
• Shower shoes: Needed for protecting your feet in communal dorm showers, where athletes foot and other fungus can live.
• A solid-bottom trash can: Avoid mesh trash cans; you need something that can hold liquids if you or a roommate gets an illness or sick.
• Disinfecting wipes: Dorm rooms sit empty and collect thick dust for months before you move in.
• A plunger: It is much better to have one before an emergency strikes than to ask an RA for one later.
• A high-quality rain gear, like a jacket and umbrella: Walking across campus in a sudden downpour will ruin your clothes and your homework and textbooks.
• A small portable fan: Many older dorm buildings lack central air conditioning, making late summer move-ins incredibly hot.
• Clothes: You will need at least one business-casual outfit and formal shoes for unexpected interviews, career fairs, or class presentations
#4. Kitchen and Utility
• Basic tools: A multi-tool, a small screwdriver, or a roll of duct tape will save you when assembling certain furniture items.
• Real silverware and food clips: Even if you have a meal plan, you will eat takeout or late-night snacks in your room and will need a way to seal bags.
• A miniature stapler and scissors: Professors still occasionally require physical papers to be turned in, so having one with you will definitely save time.
I hope some of these suggestions have been helpful for you. Good luck on move-in day.
Updated
Sijoy’s Answer
Hi Grace,
Thanks for reaching out. I totally understand what you are going through. When I first left home for school and work, I found that while we remember big things like clothes and laptops, it's the little everyday items we often forget.
Here are some handy things students usually forget to pack:
1. Extension cords and power strips – Dorms often lack enough outlets, so these are super useful.
2. Toiletries – Don't forget soap, shampoo, and flip-flops for the shower.
3. Laundry supplies – Bring detergent, fabric softener, and a laundry bag or basket.
4. First aid kit – Pack band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal meds.
5. Reusable water bottle and basic utensils – Great for saving money and late-night snacks.
6. Cleaning supplies – Disinfectant wipes, a broom, or a small vacuum keep your room tidy.
7. Stationery and desk supplies – Pens, sticky notes, and scissors come in handy.
8. Umbrella or raincoat – Be ready for unexpected rain.
9. Lock and key or portable safe – Keep your valuables secure in a shared room.
10. Bedding extras – A mattress topper, extra pillow, or blanket adds comfort.
Once you arrive, you can quickly buy or set up these items:
1. Dorm essentials: Desk lamp, storage bins, and hooks.
2. Food and kitchen: Instant snacks, reusable dishes, and an electric kettle.
3. Laundry and cleaning: Laundry basket and basic cleaning supplies.
4. Health and safety: First aid kit, reusable water bottle, mask, and sanitizer.
5. Study and tech: Basic stationery, extension cord, and USB stick.
6. Comfort and weather: Umbrella, extra blanket, and earplugs or headphones.
These small things can really make a difference in your daily life and help you settle in smoothly. Best of luck with your move. Take care.
Thanks for reaching out. I totally understand what you are going through. When I first left home for school and work, I found that while we remember big things like clothes and laptops, it's the little everyday items we often forget.
Here are some handy things students usually forget to pack:
1. Extension cords and power strips – Dorms often lack enough outlets, so these are super useful.
2. Toiletries – Don't forget soap, shampoo, and flip-flops for the shower.
3. Laundry supplies – Bring detergent, fabric softener, and a laundry bag or basket.
4. First aid kit – Pack band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal meds.
5. Reusable water bottle and basic utensils – Great for saving money and late-night snacks.
6. Cleaning supplies – Disinfectant wipes, a broom, or a small vacuum keep your room tidy.
7. Stationery and desk supplies – Pens, sticky notes, and scissors come in handy.
8. Umbrella or raincoat – Be ready for unexpected rain.
9. Lock and key or portable safe – Keep your valuables secure in a shared room.
10. Bedding extras – A mattress topper, extra pillow, or blanket adds comfort.
Once you arrive, you can quickly buy or set up these items:
1. Dorm essentials: Desk lamp, storage bins, and hooks.
2. Food and kitchen: Instant snacks, reusable dishes, and an electric kettle.
3. Laundry and cleaning: Laundry basket and basic cleaning supplies.
4. Health and safety: First aid kit, reusable water bottle, mask, and sanitizer.
5. Study and tech: Basic stationery, extension cord, and USB stick.
6. Comfort and weather: Umbrella, extra blanket, and earplugs or headphones.
These small things can really make a difference in your daily life and help you settle in smoothly. Best of luck with your move. Take care.
Updated
Jasmine’s Answer
Hi Grace!
Such an exciting time! In general you want to make sure you have special items that have a lot of meaning to you packed. I think those were the things I was most worried about leaving behind and would need to have my parents ship to me.
Somethings honestly, you can just buy once you get moved in, I suggest making an initial list before your move of what you like to have at home, and then once you move your things into your dorm, update your list based on your new living environment to go grab from the store.
Have the physical official or official copy of important documents too in case you need them and a protected place to store these things.
Don't stress too much about it! Most things can be shipped or mailed to you if you do forget them, but being prepared with list can help and recognizing what can be purchased post-move.
Wishing you the best!
Such an exciting time! In general you want to make sure you have special items that have a lot of meaning to you packed. I think those were the things I was most worried about leaving behind and would need to have my parents ship to me.
Somethings honestly, you can just buy once you get moved in, I suggest making an initial list before your move of what you like to have at home, and then once you move your things into your dorm, update your list based on your new living environment to go grab from the store.
Have the physical official or official copy of important documents too in case you need them and a protected place to store these things.
Don't stress too much about it! Most things can be shipped or mailed to you if you do forget them, but being prepared with list can help and recognizing what can be purchased post-move.
Wishing you the best!
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
Hello, Grace, and I hope you are doing well. Packing: clothes/shoes/wearables, toiletries, electronics you will personally and/or academically need, supplies you will personally and/or academically need, and wallet. If your college provides suggestions, look those over. Hope this helps. Good luck with your endeavors.
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach, Mentor
1233
Answers
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Grace,
How exciting! You got a lot of good advice already. What you need to pack and what you might forget to pack is highly personal.
Of course, you'll make sure to pack everything you use on a daily basis. That includes medication and toiletries.
Make sure to take your ID, drivers license, social security card and have your banking sorted out.
If you are moving out-of-state, check out residency rules, local cost of living and taxes.
If you dream of studying abroad, now is a good time to get your passport.
When thinking about clothing, consider the seasons at your college town. If you'll have 4 seasons, you won't need all types of clothes all year round. If you are moving from a cold climate to a hot climate or from a hot climate to a cold climate, you'll buy a lot of new clothes.
If you have a hobby you want to keep doing, like a sport you play, take your equipment.
If you are moving far away and/or don't have family or friends who can help you move in, you need to be strategic about what to take. It probably doesn't make sense to move bulky items. You'll be better off buying what you need once you are there.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
How exciting! You got a lot of good advice already. What you need to pack and what you might forget to pack is highly personal.
Of course, you'll make sure to pack everything you use on a daily basis. That includes medication and toiletries.
Make sure to take your ID, drivers license, social security card and have your banking sorted out.
If you are moving out-of-state, check out residency rules, local cost of living and taxes.
If you dream of studying abroad, now is a good time to get your passport.
When thinking about clothing, consider the seasons at your college town. If you'll have 4 seasons, you won't need all types of clothes all year round. If you are moving from a cold climate to a hot climate or from a hot climate to a cold climate, you'll buy a lot of new clothes.
If you have a hobby you want to keep doing, like a sport you play, take your equipment.
If you are moving far away and/or don't have family or friends who can help you move in, you need to be strategic about what to take. It probably doesn't make sense to move bulky items. You'll be better off buying what you need once you are there.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Updated
Shannon’s Answer
I’d approach this one by saying: don’t try to pack “everything possible,” because dorm rooms are small. Pack the things you use daily, then buy anything missing once you understand your space.
Here’s a response you could use:
Hi Grace! One thing I would recommend is not trying to pack everything possible, because dorm rooms are usually smaller than expected. Instead, focus on practical items you will actually use every week, and leave room to buy a few things once you move in and see what your dorm setup is like.
Some things people commonly forget are a shower caddy, shower shoes, extra towels, laundry detergent, a laundry hamper or bag, hangers, a small first-aid/medicine kit, an umbrella, a reusable water bottle, chargers with longer cords, headphones, cleaning wipes, paper towels, trash bags, and basic dishes like a bowl, plate, mug, and utensils. A mattress topper, extra blanket, small fan, and storage bins can also make dorm life much more comfortable.
I would also pack important documents, such as your ID, insurance card, student information, bank card, and any medical or prescription information you may need. These are easy to forget because they are not “dorm decor,” but they matter.
My biggest advice is to check your school’s housing rules before buying things like candles, extension cords, air fryers, hot plates, or certain appliances, because many dorms do not allow them. Also, talk to your roommate before move-in so you do not both bring the same larger items, like a mini fridge, microwave, rug, or vacuum.
Lastly, avoid overpacking clothes and decor. Bring what you know you wear often, plus weather basics like a rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes. You can always add more later, but starting organized will make move-in and dorm life much easier.
Here’s a response you could use:
Hi Grace! One thing I would recommend is not trying to pack everything possible, because dorm rooms are usually smaller than expected. Instead, focus on practical items you will actually use every week, and leave room to buy a few things once you move in and see what your dorm setup is like.
Some things people commonly forget are a shower caddy, shower shoes, extra towels, laundry detergent, a laundry hamper or bag, hangers, a small first-aid/medicine kit, an umbrella, a reusable water bottle, chargers with longer cords, headphones, cleaning wipes, paper towels, trash bags, and basic dishes like a bowl, plate, mug, and utensils. A mattress topper, extra blanket, small fan, and storage bins can also make dorm life much more comfortable.
I would also pack important documents, such as your ID, insurance card, student information, bank card, and any medical or prescription information you may need. These are easy to forget because they are not “dorm decor,” but they matter.
My biggest advice is to check your school’s housing rules before buying things like candles, extension cords, air fryers, hot plates, or certain appliances, because many dorms do not allow them. Also, talk to your roommate before move-in so you do not both bring the same larger items, like a mini fridge, microwave, rug, or vacuum.
Lastly, avoid overpacking clothes and decor. Bring what you know you wear often, plus weather basics like a rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes. You can always add more later, but starting organized will make move-in and dorm life much easier.
Gina Cabrera,
I am an executive concierge at PwC. I am also a mother of two boys.
20
Answers
Updated
Gina’s Answer
Hi Grace! Starting college is super exciting, but I get that it can feel a bit overwhelming too. My nieces are in college, and they shared some must-haves for you. You'll probably remember the big stuff like clothes, bedding, and your laptop, but it's easy to forget the little things until you need them!
Some items girls often overlook are a small first-aid kit, headache or cold medicine, an umbrella, shower shoes, a robe, a laundry basket or bag, stain remover, extra-long phone chargers, a power strip, Command hooks, a small sewing kit, a lint roller, a reusable water bottle, and a mini toolkit with scissors and a screwdriver.
It's a good idea to have a small "just in case" basket with feminine products, hair ties, Band-Aids, cold medicine, tissues, nail clippers, tweezers, sunscreen, and any other bathroom essentials you use without thinking.
Remember, you don’t have to bring everything from your room at home. You can always buy things when you get there. Leave some space to figure out what you need after you see your dorm and meet your roommate.
Most importantly, bring a few things that make your dorm feel like home, like photos of family and friends, your favorite blanket, or something special to you. Your dorm doesn’t have to be perfect on the first day. You’ll make it feel like yours as you settle in.
Some items girls often overlook are a small first-aid kit, headache or cold medicine, an umbrella, shower shoes, a robe, a laundry basket or bag, stain remover, extra-long phone chargers, a power strip, Command hooks, a small sewing kit, a lint roller, a reusable water bottle, and a mini toolkit with scissors and a screwdriver.
It's a good idea to have a small "just in case" basket with feminine products, hair ties, Band-Aids, cold medicine, tissues, nail clippers, tweezers, sunscreen, and any other bathroom essentials you use without thinking.
Remember, you don’t have to bring everything from your room at home. You can always buy things when you get there. Leave some space to figure out what you need after you see your dorm and meet your roommate.
Most importantly, bring a few things that make your dorm feel like home, like photos of family and friends, your favorite blanket, or something special to you. Your dorm doesn’t have to be perfect on the first day. You’ll make it feel like yours as you settle in.
Updated
Taylor’s Answer
Hi Grace,
In addition to all the great reminders already listed, I would recommend:
1) Feminine products
2) Hangers (if none are provided)
3) Hanging closet storage
4) Laundry bag instead of a basket if you want to save space
5) Pepper Spray (key chain size if possible)
6) If you are bringing your own dishes and/or utensils: also bring dish soap and a sponge
7) Nail clippers and a file
8) Loofah (will dry faster than a wash cloth and wont take up precious laundry space)
9) Fan (for warmer climates)
10) Coffee Maker (if needed)
11) Some decor items to make the space your own :)
Hope this helps.
Have a wonderful time!
In addition to all the great reminders already listed, I would recommend:
1) Feminine products
2) Hangers (if none are provided)
3) Hanging closet storage
4) Laundry bag instead of a basket if you want to save space
5) Pepper Spray (key chain size if possible)
6) If you are bringing your own dishes and/or utensils: also bring dish soap and a sponge
7) Nail clippers and a file
8) Loofah (will dry faster than a wash cloth and wont take up precious laundry space)
9) Fan (for warmer climates)
10) Coffee Maker (if needed)
11) Some decor items to make the space your own :)
Hope this helps.
Have a wonderful time!
Updated
sarvestha’s Answer
Good question! Many students pack clothes and books but often overlook everyday essentials. Remember to bring a first-aid kit, extension cords, power strips, laundry supplies, basic medicines, reusable water bottles, important documents, and a small toolkit. These items can really simplify college life!
Laptops, device
Medicines
Clothes
Smile and laughter
sarvestha recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Catherine’s Answer
When I was studying, sometimes I forgot to do my assignment about definition of terms but lucky for me it's not a graded assignment before in my time.
Updated
Valerie’s Answer
Congrats on heading to college! What an exciting new chapter for you. All the other answers are excellent advice. The only other thing I can add is ear plugs. If you end up on a rowdy floor or have roommates that snore, you'll be glad you have them.
Updated
Marcos’s Answer
When packing for college, don't worry about bringing your entire wardrobe or cramming your car full. Focus on small, everyday items that are easy to forget but really helpful once you move in. Pack things like a power strip, extension cord, shower caddy, shower shoes, laundry hamper, basic cleaning supplies, medications, extra phone chargers, and a mattress topper. These will make daily life much easier. Also, bring a few personal items from home, like a favorite blanket or photos, to make your dorm feel cozy. Check your school's housing guidelines to know what's already provided. Packing thoughtfully will save space, reduce stress, and make your transition smoother. Enjoy this unique journey—it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Good luck!
Updated
Martha D.’s Answer
First of all, what an exciting point in your life, Grace - we wish you a terrific college experience! The others have given you solid advice, but a few more thoughts:
- A robe to wear between your room and the shower, especially important if you are on a coed floor
- Risers to lift your bed off the ground so you can store suitcases, sweaters, etc. underneath
- Talk with your roommate(s) about shared appliances, such as a mini-fridge. These could be expensive, even to rent, so it is worth coordinating
I hope this helps and wish you good luck!
- A robe to wear between your room and the shower, especially important if you are on a coed floor
- Risers to lift your bed off the ground so you can store suitcases, sweaters, etc. underneath
- Talk with your roommate(s) about shared appliances, such as a mini-fridge. These could be expensive, even to rent, so it is worth coordinating
I hope this helps and wish you good luck!