28 Must Have Things for Your Freshman Dorm Room

Key Takeaway

Packing for college? We’ve made your college dorm checklist complete with everything you’ll need and want. Here are 28 must-have items for your freshman dorm room:

Sheets
Pillows
Mattress Topper
Blankets
Towels
Wall Art
Lights
Rugs
Picture Frames
Storage
Portable Drawers
Calendars & Planners
Whiteboard
Desk Organizers
Laundry Hamper
Lamp
Power Strip
Fan
Shower Caddy
Futon
Chairs
Bean Bag Chair
Microwave
Coffeemaker
Mini Fridge
TV
Speakers
Smart Home Device

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Moving into your freshman dorm room marks the start of a brand-new chapter in your life. You now have a (slightly limited) blank canvas to express your style and create something uniquely yours—and your roommate’s, of course! This room isn’t just a bedroom. It’s also your kitchen, study nook, and hangout spot, all rolled into one.

Decorating is a huge part of making your dorm feel like you. So, there are a few must-haves you’ll want to have on hand to make your space both functional and fun. From bedding and storage to kitchen supplies, we’ve compiled a college dorm checklist to set up your new home away from home.

Bedding & Towels

Sleep is a precious (if rare) commodity during college, so you’ll want to stock up on comfy and cozy bedding necessities. Having an extra set of sheets is a lifesaver, too, just in case you spill coffee during your late-night study sessions.

Sheets

Pillows

Mattress Topper

Blankets

Towels

Decorations

Whether you want to make a personal statement or bring a little bit of home with you, decorating your dorm is one of the more fun aspects of moving to college. String up lights, put up posters, hang cool banners, or slap some decals on the wall. There are plenty of options to make your dorm room unique.

Wall Art

Lights

Rugs

Picture Frames

Organization

So many things needed in an itty-bitty living space. Save yourself (and your roommate) the headache of a messy dorm by keeping your things organized, orderly, and stored with these handy organizational tools.

10. Storage

Portable Drawers

Calendars & Planners

Whiteboard

Desk Organizers

Utilities

Between balancing your social life and classes, you’ll be happy to have items that make dorm life easier and more comfortable. These college dorm checklist essentials can simplify your daily routine and create a cozy living space.

Laundry Hamper

Lamp

Power Strip

Shower Caddies

Furniture

There may not be much space in your room, but you can maximize the potential with comfy lounge seating for movie or Netflix marathons after a hard day of classes or studying. Futons are a college dorm classic, but it’s worth exploring other fun options, too.

Futon

Chairs

Bean Bag Chair

Appliances

Who wants to trudge down to the cafeteria or food store for every single meal or small study snack? That’s where these mini-sized appliances come in handy. Conveniently located and sized, they are ideal dorm must-haves.

Microwave

Coffeemaker

Mini Fridge

Electronics

We live in a digital and electronic age with devices that can keep you entertained and informed to stay on top of your game. Some people like to listen to music while studying, others like to binge watch the latest and greatest TV shows to unwind after an exam. Whatever the reason, these devices have you covered.

Speakers

Smart Home Device

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Budgeting for Your Dorm: Smart Spending Tips

There’s a lot you need to get, but don’t stress! There are ways to create a space you love without breaking the bank.

Create a Budget: Before you start shopping for your dorm, decide on a budget. This helps you focus on what you need and prevents overspending. If possible, try to buy things gradually over a few months instead of rushing in the weeks before moving in.
Shop Sales: Keep an eye out for sales, especially during back-to-school and holiday seasons. You can usually find great deals on bedding, decor, and electronics.
Shop Second Hand: Try second-hand shopping at thrift stores or online marketplaces for items at lower prices. It’s a fun way to save money!
Coordinate With Your Roommate: Consider sharing costs with your roommate to save money. You could split expenses like cleaning supplies or a futon for the room!

Moving into your freshman dorm room and creating your own unique space is one of the most exciting parts of starting college! But to make the most of it, make sure you have everything you need to be comfortable and organized. Remember to prioritize your needs and plan ahead so you can enjoy your college experience to the fullest. Have fun!

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