Packing for College: The Forgotten Necessities

Don't Ever Dorm Without These Things

Packing for college can be stressful, exhausting, and anything but fun. I’m sure you’ve probably made a list of what you need. I’ll bet you’ve thought of clothing, bathroom supplies, and bedding. But there are a few crucial items that you might just forget, especially if you’re the first in your family to head away to school. So don’t ever dorm without…

1. Pictures and Mementos from Home – This is an obvious one, but it should be top on your list. When you’re away from home with all new people, you’ll want some comforts from home. Make a collage of your favorite pictures on poster board or bring your beloved stuffed animal.

2. Egg Crate Mattress – College mattresses are a unique form of torture. If you don’t bring an egg crate with you, you’ll find yourself at the nearest Target the first morning. So save yourself the trouble and get one now.

3. Shower Shoes – Public showers are the second form of torture. I’m sure I don’t need to get into why you wouldn’t want to shower barefoot. Just use your imagination and buy some cheap flip-flops.

4. Clothes Hangers – At home, I’m sure you had a nicely stocked closet. At school, you’re an adult and need to bring your own stuff. If you want to hang your clothes, you need to remember to pack hangers.

5. Small Duffel Bag – While you’ll use cardboard boxes to move, make sure to bring a duffel bag (and possibly sleeping bag) with you. This way you’ll be ready for a surprise overnight trip with friends or the last-minute decision to visit home.