Ultimate College Packing List 2025: Girls You Can’t Ignore

1. Mattress Protector

2. Mattress Topper

Since so many students have already slept on the mattress in your dorm, a mattress protector is a must. This one will not alter the feel of your bed while providing protection from dust and allergens.

Since so many students have already slept on the mattress in your dorm, a mattress protector is a must. This one will not alter the feel of your bed while providing protection from dust and allergens.

3. Two Twin XL Sheet Sets

4. Comforter or Duvet

To ensure that you always have clean sheets, even if you put off doing the laundry, get two sets of Twin XL sheets. These microfiber linens have received over 200,000 good ratings and are incredibly soft.

Shops like Dormify, PBTeen, and Urban Outfitters have a ton of adorable duvets and comforters. Our favorite eyelash comforter and sham combination from Dormify goes well with any type of decor.

5. Pillows

6. Pillowcases

The secret to making a dorm bed ten times more comfortable is having quality pillows. You may take these two cooling gel pillows with you to your first apartment, and they are popular here at CF.

Do yourself a favor and get satin pillowcases as soon as possible if you do not already have some. If you want to wake up every day with flawless hair, these are the greatest. This kit will transform your life and costs less than $10.

7. Throws or Extra Blankets

8. Decorative Pillows

For visitors or in case your room is cold, you should have at least one throw blanket. This is a knockoff of the well-known Barefoot Dreams blankets, but it costs a lot less.

You can never have too many decorative pillows, as any female knows. Invest in some adorable pillows that showcase your individuality, such as this heart-shaped pillow.

9. Air Mattress/Sleeping Bag

10. Bed Risers

A requirement if you intend to host visitors. This air mattress appeals to me since it has an integrated pump and is elevated off the ground, giving your guests the impression that they are sleeping on a genuine bed.

Bed risers are optional, but they are a great way to enhance your room’s storage capacity. Purchase these 7-inch risers for added convenience; they have a built-in plug for charging electronics as you sleep.

11. Dorm Bed Shelf

12. Headboard

Another “good to have” item that simplifies life! This product, the BedShelfie, is brilliant. It is completely configurable and provides room for your phone, laptop, keys, and water bottle near your bed.

We are in love with these removable headboards, which you can add to any dorm bed for a luxurious appearance if you want to make your bed even cuter. Adorable, but definitely not a must-have! It also features ports for charging your gadgets.

13. Blackout Curtains (+ Rod)

14. Wall Decor

Blinds or curtains may be provided by your school, however, for the best sleep, I suggest full blackout curtains. These ones seem like expensive linen curtains, which is why I adore them.
Remember to include a curtain rod as well! This one will not harm walls and does not require any tools.

You need wall decorations, and we adore this seashell print from the coast that will bring back memories of beach days.
However, wall décor can be used in a wide variety of ways. For a ton of creative possibilities, check out our comprehensive guide to college dorm room wall art ideas.

Any living area needs some greenery, whether it be artificial or natural. Although it is hard to kill this natural plant, Amazon also has a fantastic assortment of artificial plants.

See our guide to the finest dorm plants for further choices.

Since they create such a warm atmosphere in your space, string lights are practically a must! These string lights with picture clips are my favorite since they make instant wall décor.
Check out our selection of Christmas light decorating ideas for further inspiration.

17. Desk Lamp

18. Printed Photos from Home

In order to study at night without waking your roommate while in college, you must have your own desk lamp. In addition to having a dimmer and a phone charging outlet, this one is incredibly stylish and contemporary. It has all the features you might want in a desk lamp.

Every college student experiences homesickness at some point, and having tangible pictures of your loved ones around makes it much easier to view them every day. Use this phone-syncing photo printer to print your own.

19. Area Rug

20. Tapestry

Since most dorm floors are tiled (and cold!), a quality area rug is essential to maintaining a comfortable and cozy space.
This 8 x 10 one is my favorite since it has a vintage feel, and the design is black, which makes dirt less obvious. It appears ten times more costly than it is!

Tapestries are optional, but they are a popular way to add a big statement piece to your room (and cover up ugly dorm walls).
There are so many options for dorm tapestries (seriously, you can get one that’s Mojo Dojo Casa House-themed), but I love this one for its California minimalist vibes.

21. Hangers

22. Sweater Organizer

Trust me when I say that buying a new set of matching hangers is preferable to bringing your old, mismatched hangers to college for both aesthetic and practical reasons.
You can fit twice as much clothing in your wardrobe thanks to these thin velvet hangers that hold garments in place so they do not fall to the ground. How adorable is the rose gold finish, too?

Many college rooms have little to no drawer space, so you should buy a sweater organizer to keep folded garments in your wardrobe.
This one can be mounted on any closet rod and has six shelves to accommodate a large amount of clothing. Since I can quickly see what I have, I actually prefer these to drawers.

23. Command Hooks

24. A Full-Length Mirror

A classic in college. Purchase a few large packets of these since you will use them throughout your dorm room, and you will thank me for it later.
These may be used for anything from arranging your hats, jewelry, and purses to hanging your curling irons and blow dryers. In my closet, I also prefer to build a special hook for my bathrobe.

Try to find out in advance before you purchase one, since your dorm may provide one (mine did sophomore year but not my freshman year).
I like to hang over-the-door mirrors like this one since they are reliable, but if you like to take pictures of your outfits, you may also acquire a leaning mirror.

25. Clear Storage Bins

26. Shoe Rack or Organizer

Another must for any packing list for college. Because they are lightweight and let you see what is within, these translucent storage bins are highly popular.
I really enjoy these stacking drawers because they can be stacked under your (lofted) bed or in closets.

It was very convenient for me to get my shoes and get out every morning when I had a shoe rack at my door.
However, an over-the-door shoe organizer is another well-liked choice if you have a lot of shoes or a closet in your dorm room with a door (check first).

27. Jewelry Organizer

28. Makeup Organizer

A jewelry organizer is helpful if you have a lot of jewelry, but it is optional (see the makeup organizer with jewelry area on the right).
I love how adorable this jewelry stand is. It will look fantastic in your room and accommodate all of your rings, bracelets, and necklaces.

These clear makeup organizers are really useful if you wear makeup frequently or simply want to keep your skincare goods organized.
If you do not want to purchase a jewelry organizer, this one features additional drawers for storing jewelry in addition to room for all of the other essentials.

29. Makeup Bag

30. Makeup Mirror

Since you will frequently be getting ready in someone else’s room while attending college, this is a requirement if you apply makeup.
I am completely enamored with this big cream makeup bag. It is durable, keeps things organized, and is large enough to hold all of my cosmetics and skincare products.

When applying makeup, never rely on the dim lighting in your dorm room! Invest in a makeup mirror that illuminates so you can see your appearance before you step outdoors.
Additionally, this device has a 3x magnification, making it an excellent tool for applying detailed eye makeup and brows.

Dorm Cleaning Essentials

33. Disinfectant Wipes

34. Trash Bags

It should go without saying. The Scentiva wipes have a vacation scent, which is why I like them.

This one is clear once more. Purchase the Tall Kitchen size, which is compatible with the majority of dorm garbage cans.

35. Compost Bags

36. Dish Soap

If your school offers a composting program, this is fantastic. My school gave us compost bins, but not many schools do.

My all-time favorite dish soap is Mrs. Meyer’s, and their peony aroma is incredibly opulent!

37. Dish Sponges

38. All-Purpose Cleaner

Despite their humorous appearance, these are the best for removing even the most stubborn food residue from dishes. Give them a try; you’ll be won over!

Because it doesn’t streak, I use this on my desk, bookcases, mirrors, and windows. There is no better fragrance than Mrs. Meyers’ Peony!

39. Lightweight Vacuum

40. Dustpan Set

I regret not getting one of these in my freshman year. I upgraded my room in my sophomore year, and it was consistently much cleaner!

Cleaning up little spills about the dorm is made so much easier with a basic dustpan and brush set.

41. Paper Towels

42. Trash Can

College Toiletries/Bath Products

43. Towels

44. Bathrobe

For college, you most certainly need a set of towels. I have exactly the same towels at my home right now, and they are quite affordable!

When I was going from the showers to your room, I really enjoyed wearing a robe. I nearly live in this comfortable robe that I got from Amazon; it is the most comfortable robe I have ever had.

45. Shower Cap

46. Shampoo

A shower cap is essential if you need to take a shower but do not want to spend an hour drying and rearranging your hair.

You need shampoo, of course. My original favorite, because I have dry hair, is Redken All Soft. It smells even better and performs incredibly well.

47. Conditioner

48. Dry Shampoo

I frequently switch up my conditioners, but All Soft is my go-to option. Olaplex No. 5 and Redken Extreme are my other favorites.

Dry shampoo is a must for college girls; without it, where would we be? Batiste is very affordable and works well

49. Other Hair Products

50. Hair Brush

Add all of your weekly and daily hair products here. For me, a good heat protectant, hairspray, and hair masks are essentials.

Another apparent necessity is a nice hairbrush, which will last a lifetime. I appreciate that this one is eco-friendly and vegan.

51. Comb

52. Razor

In order to comb through my conditioner while taking a shower in the dorms, I always kept a detangling comb in my shower caddy.

Bring additional blades and your preferred razor. The Billie razor set is well-liked, and replacement blades are automatically shipped to ensure you never run out.

53. Loofahs

54. Body Lotion

Purchase a large bundle of loofahs and replace them every three months. Four of these are just $7.

Do not forget to bring your favorite. Everyone’s favorite Brazilian Bum Bum cream is a ripoff of Tree Hut Tropic Glow Body Butter.

55. Body Wash

56. Toothpaste

To ensure I never run out, I prefer to get the three-pack of Dove body washes. (For these, they also have Subscribe & Save.)

Once more, purchase many packs of toothpaste for college to avoid rushing to the store at the last minute.

57. Toothbrush

58. Floss

To ensure you never run out, you should also purchase toothbrushes in bulk.

The same is true with floss. It will last you the entire year if you get a large quantity.

59. Makeup

60. Moisturizer

Makeup is a broad category that varies from female to girl. Are you unsure of what you need? To get started, check out our list of essential beauty items for college girls.

Because of the intense heat and air conditioning, the dorms are extremely dry, so bring a decent moisturizer for your face. A tub of Vanicream lasts me six months, and it is my all-time favorite.

61. Face Wash

62. Acne Products

Another obvious choice. Every girl has to have a decent, mild face cleanser.

Bring your favorite products if you suffer from acne. These adorable pimple patches are adored by all!

63. Sunscreen

64. Other Skincare Products

A necessity for anyone! The La Roche Posay tinted SPF 50 is my favorite sunscreen because it adds a subtle shade of color to your skin without irritating your eyes.

This includes any other products you use. See our guide to establishing a basic skincare regimen if you are unsure of what more you need.

65. Deodorant

66. Makeup Remover

One more that should go without saying. Currently very popular, Native Deodorant has a coconut and vanilla scent.

If you wear cosmetics, it is essential. Both reusable Makeup Eraser cloths and cleansing balms are common on campus.

67. Nail Polish Remover

68. Makeup Brush Cleaner

If you wear nail polish, bring this! This one appeals to me as it does not contain acetone, and the packaging is adorable.

Remember to bring your brush cleaner! The one from Ecotools is fantastic. Additionally helpful is a brush cleaning mat.

69. Nail Polish

70. Hair Ties

Avoid bringing all of your nail polish to college like I did. Just pack a couple of your go-to hues that you will wear frequently.

It is impossible to have too many hair ties! They come in every shade to complement your hair, and these Gimme ones are especially popular.

71. Blow Dryer

72. Hot Tools

A blow dryer is a necessity for me. This high-quality Revlon dryer comes with all the attachments you need.

This comprises wavers, flat irons, and curling irons. Everyone on campus loves the Airwrap curling iron, and this is my favorite.

73. Contacts and/or Glasses

74. Menstrual Products

Remember them if you wear them! In order to avoid running out of contacts, bring at least a semester’s worth.

Remember to bring them whether you use pads, tampons, or cups.

76. Suitcase

77. Weekender Bag

For extended travels home over winter break and any upcoming spring break holidays, you will require a suitcase.
This Amazon product is attractive, well-reviewed, and reasonably priced.

For weekend visits home or to visit friends at their schools, a weekender bag is essential. Since it fits everything and even has a separate zip pocket for shoes, everyone has this Calpak one.

78. Winter Accessories

79. Sunglasses

This includes hats, gloves, scarves, and any other winter-specific clothing to stay warm at schools in colder climates.

Sunglasses are necessary, but they do not have to be expensive! These best-selling items on Amazon cost $15.95 for a two-pack.

80. Laundry Hampers

81. Delicates Bag

Purchasing two laundry hampers—one for lights and one for darks—is something I strongly advise. In this manner, when you go to the laundry room, your laundry will already be done.
These pop-up hampers are incredibly affordable and convenient to pack because they fold up.

It is crucial to prevent your bras from getting caught in the rest of your clothing and damaging your strappy tops while being washed.
I adore that it comes in so many sizes to accommodate all of your belongings; I have this exact delicates bag set. Additionally, the set is excellent for travel!

82. Drying Rack

83. Detergent

You do not typically see drying racks on college packing lists, but I adore mine for the following reasons.
This kid comes in handy if you have a lot of delicate goods, things that need to be hand-washed (which, as you and I both know, nobody does), the dryer breaks down, or, heaven forbid, there are no free dryers.

Purchase a medium-sized bottle of ordinary detergent that is portable. (Use Prime Student to have new bottles sent automatically.)
Pro tip: Avoid purchasing Tide Pods. Although these seem like a nice idea, they often become trapped in dorm washers and leave residue in the form of chunks on your clothes.

84. Stain Remover

85. Dryer Sheets

Out of all the products I have tested, this Oxi Clean Spray (2-pack) is the best in getting rid of stains of any kind.

Although they are not necessary, I prefer to use these to give clothes a new aroma and to get rid of static.

86. Lint Rollers

87. Sewing Kit

Get a 3-pack of sticky lint rollers on Amazon for $13 if, like me, you can not take having lint on your clothes. You will be good to go for the rest of the year.

Though optional, it is really good to have. One of them would have spared me a ton of headaches, but I did not have one in my freshman year.

88. Iron or Steamer

89. Ironing Board or Pad

Even though you may not use an iron frequently, you will need it for upcoming business casual events or interviews.
As an alternative to an iron, a steamer is slower and more costly, but it is easier to carry because you do not need an ironing board.

You will eventually need an ironing board, even if it is a pain to carry and store. To conserve room, purchase a tabletop board.
You can use an ironing mat on your bed as a substitute if you would like something smaller. (Or simply purchase a steamer and end the day!)

91. Coffee Maker

92. Electric Kettle

93. Can Opener

94. Water Filter Pitcher

I was blaming myself for not bringing a can opener in my freshman year.
It is likely that you or your roommate may purchase canned items at some point, so bring one.
Also, it can be used as a bottle opener!

An absolute necessity! Purchase a quality filter pitcher to keep fresh filtered water available in your room because dorm tap water does not taste great straight from the faucet.
Remember to bring extra filters; these should be changed every three months.

95. Microwave

96. Mini-Fridge

Make sure your school permits them and that your room does not already have one before purchasing this!
In college, a tiny microwave is ideal because you will not be cooking up a lot of food, so keep it small for essentials.

Once more, confirm that this is not already available before purchasing.
Every college packing list needs a tiny fridge. Do not pass this up! Additionally, look for one that has a freezer. (Hi there, ice cream.) Work with your roommate to divide the expenses to save money.

97. Mugs

98. Portable Coffee Mug

In order to sip your coffee in the mornings, you most certainly need mugs.
You will absolutely bring these glass cups to your big girl apartment after college because they are so stylish!

To keep my coffee hot for hours, I am completely dependent on my Contigo Mug.
I always reach for my Contigo when I want hot coffee because I know it will not spill when I toss it in my bag.

99. Reusable Water Bottle

100. Utensils

I know the Stanley Cup is the “it” water bottle, and those are excellent, but the Owala FreeSip is the one I can not get enough of.
Because it has a straw and fits in my purse without spilling, I use this bottle ten times more frequently than my Stanley.

It is imperative that you have a set of eating utensils in your room. This set of gold utensils is gorgeous and under $20 if you are looking for something sweet!
You are only in college once, so why not acquire something adorable and useful? I adore purchasing sets like this for my dorm.

You need dishes for your room, and the necessities do not have to cost a fortune.
Everything in this 16-piece set from Amazon costs less than $40, and cups are included if you do not want to purchase them individually.

I have these exact glass straws, and since they do not absorb smells, I like them better than silicone.
I really adore that they are transparent, which makes it simple to see that they are spotless after washing.

103. Napkins

104. Snack and Sandwich Bags

Self-explanatory. Purchase a large quantity because you will undoubtedly need these.

I have these reusable sandwich bags since I am attempting to reduce the amount of single-use plastics.

105. Food Storage Containers

104. Snack and Sandwich Bags

It should go without saying. Purchase a large quantity because you will undoubtedly need these.

I have these reusable sandwich bags since I’m attempting to reduce my use of single-use plastics.

107. Cereal/Granola

108. Oatmeal

One more that should go without saying. Purchase a few boxes to have on hand for snacks and breakfast.

Another masterpiece from college. To get more taste selections, purchase a large variety pack.

109. Coffee and/or Tea

110. Milk/Milk Alternative

As I have already stated, I adore K-Cups for college. Purchase a massive variety pack (this one contains 100 pods) so you may indulge in new flavors every week.

Purchase cartons of your preferred milk or milk substitute that are shelf-stable. (I prefer Nut Pods coffee creamer in cinnamon for my coffee and oat milk for my cereal.)

111. Sugar (or Alternative)

112. Hot Chocolate

I like packages for dorms since they do not create a mess.

This one is obviously not necessary, but it is a great addition to have for comfortable evenings!

113. Salt and Pepper

114. Any Other Spices You Use

It should go without saying. A set of salt and pepper shakers will last you the entire year if you purchase them.

Consider using the spice from an Everything Bagel or any other family favorite.

115. Instant Meals (Ramen, Mac & Cheese, etc.)

Without Easy Mac, it would not be a packing list for college!
But, even with a meal plan, keep an eye out for nights when you will be too exhausted to open a pack of Ramen, so store up on quick dinners.

116. Laptop

117. Extra Laptop Charger

For college, you obviously need a laptop. Every college campus has a MacBook Air, and I could not live without mine. It is the nicest computer I have ever used, and I adore how well it syncs with my tablet and phone.

My previous Mac computer lasted me almost ten years without any problems, which is another reason I adore them.

Purchase an additional laptop charger as a favor to yourself. My life altered when I purchased a second one after having just one for a long time.
My life has been so much easier now that I have one at my desk and one that always stays in my laptop bag.

Additionally, you have a backup charger in case you ever have an issue with one.

118. Tablet or E-Reader

119. Smartphone

College students love tablets, especially iPads, because they are so handy for taking notes and reading while on the road.

I am extremely envious of everyone who has one of these, now that I did not have one during my freshman year! I would have been ten times better organized as a result.

You need a phone, of course. While many people are obsessed with Android phones, I myself prefer iPhones and can not fathom my life without them.

Purchase a smartphone with a high-quality camera as a tip! This saves you money because you probably will not bring a separate camera to college (more on that in a moment).

120. 2 Phone Chargers

121. Portable Phone Charger

Bring at least two phone chargers to college; I used to forget mine all the time, so I now keep an extra in my bag.

Get your room an extra-long charging cord as well! This would greatly assist you because dorm outlets are always positioned strangely (sometimes there is only one per room!).

For less than $30, you can provide yourself with some simple peace of mind by keeping a portable phone charger in your backpack for unexpected situations.

I regret not bringing this to college because it would have come in handy on numerous occasions when I had to endure long class days.

122. Headphones

123. Batteries

AirPods or AirPods Max are a must-have for any college packing list because everyone on campus has them.

Both have excellent noise reduction, which is quite helpful for the dorms.

Purchase a minimum of one AA battery pack and one AAA battery pack.

These are useful to keep on hand for devices such as Bluetooth speakers, wireless mice, TV remote controls, etc.

124. Camera(s)

125. SD Cards

You might want to carry a film or digital camera to college if you enjoy taking pictures.

Remember to include additional SD cards if you are carrying a DSLR or other digital camera!

126. Film

127. Extension Cord

I am sure I do not have to remind you, but just in case: Make sure to pack extra film if you are using a film camera to avoid running out. It might be quite difficult to locate in my room during my sophomore year!

At least one power strip with a long cord is a MUST. Non-negotiable! Dorm outlets are either nonexistent or positioned strangely. There was only one functional outlet

128. Laptop Case

129. Bluetooth Speaker

A laptop case is really necessary to safeguard your investment.
The reason I adore this MacBook Air set is that it includes a rose-gray case, screen protector, and keyboard cover. (They also come in a wide variety of other colors.)

Nowadays, it seems like every dorm room has an Echo Pop, a Bluetooth speaker with Alexa built in so you can use voice commands to play music, check the weather, and more.

130. TV

131. TV Stand

If you want to watch movies with your friends, it is convenient to have a smart TV in your room.
While I enjoyed having a TV in my room my freshman year, this is not a need if you are content to watch Netflix on your computer.

Since it is impossible to wall-mount a TV in a dorm, if you are bringing one, you should absolutely purchase a tiny TV stand to go with it.
This adorable, tiny TV stand is really inexpensive and easy to assemble without the need for any tools!

132. HDMI Cord

133. Printer

If you want to stream video from your laptop to your TV, you might want to get an HDMI cable. These might be useful for presentations in class.

Note: You do not need an HDMI cord if you have a Mac; you may utilize screen mirroring instead.

This item on the college checklist is contentious. Because I am lazy and did not want to waste time looking for a working printer on campus, I appreciated having my own printer.

Nevertheless, you may get by at college without a printer because there are plenty of locations to print on every campus.

134. Printer Ink

135. Printer Paper

If you are bringing a printer to college, make sure to include additional ink. You do not want to run out of paper in the middle of printing.

Yes, this also applies to printer paper. To avoid running out at a critical time, stock up!

If you are bringing a printer to college, make sure to include additional ink. You do not want to run out of paper in the middle of printing.

Yes, this also applies to printer paper. To avoid running out at a critical time, stock up!

138. Command Strips

139. Wall Putty or Tape

Having extra Command strips on hand is beneficial for situations where you want to reposition a hook or just want to hang something fresh on your wall.

Find out in advance what your school permits because this varies. Since wall putty does not etch or damage walls, it is usually a safe choice for hanging pictures.

140. Pushpins or Tacks

141. First Aid Kit

142. Band-Aids

This dorm first aid kit ought to be your first purchase from this section. Everything you need is there, including hangover remedies, allergy medications, and first aid supplies.

Although there are band-aids in the first aid package I linked, it does not harm to add an extra box of clear band-aids on your college packing list if you are as awkward as I am.

143. Vaseline

144. Cough & Cold Medicine

Vaseline is an original necessity that should be on every girl’s college packing list since it can be used to treat anything from eczema to cracked, dry lips.

Cold medicine will come to your aid if you are ill on the day of a crucial exam, as I have experienced. You will be prepared for day and night if you purchase this pack.

145. Decongestant

146. Allergy Medicine

Get a tiny supply for those ill days because the first aid package mentioned above does not include a decongestant.
Refer to the allergy medication on hand.

Benadryl is included in the first aid pack above, but if your allergies are more severe, make sure you have Claritin or your pr

147. Cough Drops

148. Sunscreen

Once more, these are included in the first aid package mentioned above. If not, purchase a little bag to carry along.

In the skincare part, I mentioned sunscreen, but it is also a good idea to have a bottle of body sunscreen.

149. Aloe Vera

150. Pain Reliever

If you, like me, get sunburns at the first sign of a sunny day, aloe vera is a lifesaver.

You will undoubtedly use your favorite pain reliever, so make sure to purchase a sizable bottle to keep on hand.

151. Vitamins & Supplements

152. Throat Spray

Bring any supplements or vitamins you take, or at the very least, a solid multivitamin you take daily.

Although it is not necessary, having a throat spray on hand is incredibly convenient in case you become ill.

It is helpful if, like me, excessive computer use causes dry eyes. I have tried other eye drops, but these are the best.

Although the above first aid package comes with a thermometer, if you are building your own, this digital thermometer is a nice option.

155. Tweezers

156. Safety Pins

Unquestionably essential for controlling your eyebrows. A decent set of Tweezerman tweezers will last you through college and beyond if you invest in them.

These are essential if you are a fashionista. When it comes to fixing damaged straps and securing bra straps, safety pins are a stylish godsend.

157. Medicine for an Upset Stomach

158. Cotton Pads/Cotton Balls

Having additional Pepto on hand for the morning after late-night pizza runs is always beneficial, but it is included in the first aid package mentioned above.

These are essential for applying toners and removing makeup and nail paint.

159. Q-Tips

160. Nail Clippers

These are crucial for clearing up mascara smudges and makeup accidents in addition to the obvious eye applications.

These should go without saying; keep them in mind! The fact that this two-pack includes two sets of nail and toe clippers is nice.

161. Prescription Medicine

162. Retainer/Mouth Guard

In order to avoid having to deal with refills during a hectic semester, bring any prescription medications you are currently taking and, if at all possible, try to secure a three or six-month supply.

Remember to save your labels so you can use them again if necessary.
Make sure to include this on your packing list for college because your dentist will be upset with you if you forget it.

163. Pencils

164. Pens

To avoid having to bring a separate pencil sharpener, I always get mechanical pencils. This large bundle will last you the entire semester.

Purchase a set of your favorite pens because everyone has different tastes. Because of the extremely thin tip and smudge-proof ink, these Jetstream pens are my go-to writing instruments.

165. Eraser

166. Highlighters

I personally do not use a separate eraser, but I also do not write with a pencil very much, so this is merely a nice-to-have. Whether or whether you think you need this is up to you.

We adore pastel mildliners because they are far prettier and easier on the eyes than harsh neon highlighters, as you can see if you read our guide to school supplies.

167. Post-Its

168. Planner

In college, post-its are incredibly useful for everything from to-do lists to writing reminders on your mirror (does anyone else do this?).
I dislike slanting in my writing, so I prefer lined ones.

In my opinion, a planner is absolutely necessary; I could not function without it.
I have linked to my favorite planner, which I have discussed extensively in the past, here. In addition to having everything you need for college, it is quite reasonably priced for a high-quality planner!

169. Notebooks

170. Lined Paper

Nothing compares to a brand-new notepad, and the covers of these Mintra college-ruled notebooks are really attractive.

For optimal note-taking space, get college-ruled paper if you plan to use binders in your classes (some mandate them).

171. Binder(s)

172. Folders

I advise starting your freshman year with a four-pack of binders. If you want a binder for each lesson, you can always acquire additional.

How adorable are these tiny transparent folders? I adore that your documents are safe in your bag because they are made of plastic and snap shut.

173. Ruler

174. Scissors

At college, you will most likely need a ruler, whether you are doing math or arts and crafts.

Scissors are useful for opening packages when you order online and for craft projects.

175. Stapler

176. Tape Dispenser

If the printer room in your building does not already have one, it is highly suggested. On any desk, this acrylic one looks adorable.

This simple acrylic tape dispenser complements any kind of design and looks contemporary.

178. Eye Mask

179. Earplugs

I strongly suggest this, particularly if you share a residence. An effective eye mask might be really helpful when your roommate wants to study while you want to sleep.

I think it is even more crucial than an eye mask. If your roommate is on a different schedule or your neighbors are noisy, earplugs will come in quite handy. The Loop ones are the most comfy, in my experience.

180. Fan

181. White Noise Machine

I require a fan in order to have a good night’s sleep. If your dorm does not have air conditioning (which many do) or simply becomes really hot while the heat is on, a tiny fan is a huge aid, even if you do not sleep with it on.

I truly regret not bringing this in my freshman year! If, like me, you are sensitive to noises while you are studying or sleeping, a white noise machine is a great tool to have.

182. Beach Towel

183. Board Games or Cards

Bring a beach towel so you can stretch out on the quad! These fold up so small that they fit in any bag, which is why I adore them.

For girls’ nights, make sure you have some games available! For the Girls and Cards Against Humanity are always amusing.

184. Art Supplies

185. Umbrella

Optional, but useful if you are artistic or crafty. This could involve pastels, paints, sketch pads, pencils, etc. The dorms are small, so do not go overboard.
I grabbed gel pens so I could personalize my planner and notes.

Obviously necessary if you are attending school in Boston or Seattle, but less important if you are in Tucson.
Bubble umbrellas, in my opinion, are adorable and make it simple to see where you are heading.

186. Yoga Mat or Sports Equipment

187. Flashlight

For lessons and workouts at home, I adore owning a yoga mat. Other nice choices are tiny dumbbells and exercise bands.

Although you probably will not need it, having a flashlight on hand is crucial in case of an emergency. (Power failures do occur!)

188. Pepper Spray

189. Personal Alarm

Note: Since it is prohibited on many campuses, make sure you are aware of the regulations in your state and at your school before bringing this.
Although many women feel safer with pepper spray, I (fortunately) never felt the need for it and did not bring it to college.

A personal alarm, which flashes lights and makes a loud noise to let people know where you are, is a wonderful substitute (or addition) to pepper spray.
For about $20, you may purchase a six-pack, one for each bag.

190. Safe

191. Diffuser & Essential Oils

If you have roommates or have a lot of people coming and going from your room, or if you are bringing anything expensive to college, a small safe is useful. If you are attending school in a big city, it is advised.
It all boils down to what you feel comfortable with, but I did not bring this to college.

Since most dorms do not allow candles, essential oil diffusers are a popular method to perfume your space. (Check out these fantastic beginning oils.)
However, before you purchase, make sure these are permitted on your campus. They are prohibited in some schools.

192. Bike (& Bike Accessories)

193. Religious Materials

While many individuals bring bikes to college, I didn’t. Remember to include extras like your lock and helmet if you are bringing one.
for pupils who follow a formal religion.

For pupils who follow a formal religion.

194. Musical Instruments

A lot of college students bring musical instruments. If so, remember to bring along any required extras, such as extra strings, sheet music, reeds, tuners, etc.