Ah yes, the pre-college packing panic. I remember Googling “college dorm checklist” like it was a sacred text. I watched dorm hauls, read Reddit threads, and said things like, “I’m going to be so organized this year.” (Spoiler alert: I was not.) Now, a full year later, I’m here to give you the real rundown—what I actually used, what I wish I brought, and what’s been sitting untouched in the back of my closet since move-in day.
What I Actually Use (a.k.a. The MVPs):
Noise-Canceling Headphones: Saved me from hallway chaos, loud neighbors, and my own overthinking brain. 12/10. Would cry in Frost with them on again.
A Big Blanket: Not a cute throw blanket. Like… a real cozy blanket. This thing traveled with me from my bed to late-night library sessions to spontaneous nights in the common room. It’s the emotional support item now.
Slippers / Shower Slides: DO NOT WALK BAREFOOT. Just DON’T.
Command Hooks:They held up my keys, tote bags, jackets, and hope. Versatile. Reliable. Kind of the backbone of my decor.
Emergency Snack Bin: When dining hall food just isn’t hitting, these come in clutch. My snack bin has saved lives. And moods.
Fan: For that one month where the weather has no chill and you’re stuck sweating in your dorm like it’s a sauna.
Portable Power Strip / Extension Cord: Because the outlets are never where you need them to be. Ever.
Laundry BASKET: Trust me. walking to the laundry room with a floppy laundry BAG is not worth it.
AIR PURIFIER: NEED. That’s it. Just get it.
What I Brought but Never Touched:
Mugs: I’m not sure what kind of tea party I thought I’d be hosting, but spoiler: it never happened. I use one mug. One.
Decorative Pillows: Cute, yes. But after one week they were just floor ornaments. More clutter than comfort.
Too Many School Supplies: Index cards, a million pens, highlighters in every shade… and yet I typed all my notes. I just bought an Ipad and stopped having to worry about all of it because I do everything online either way
What I Wish I Had Sooner:
A Rug – Dorm floors are ugly. A rug = instant cozy.
Mini Rolling Cart – For snacks, skincare, or your secret stash of emotional support chocolate.
A Journal or Sketchbook – For brain dumps, art therapy, or writing love letters you’ll never send.
Better Air Freshener – Dorm funk is real. Don’t let it win.
Packing for college feels like prepping for a new planet. And yeah, you’ll probably overpack. But that’s part of the fun. Just know that the things that matter most aren’t what you bring—it’s who you meet, what you learn, and how you grow in that little space you start calling home.
With love,
Litzy