Ultimate Dorm Room Checklist (+ Secret Hacks)

Going to college soon? Here is a complete dorm room checklist with everything that you will need!

I have lived on-campus for four years, so I have experience with what you need for your dorms and apartments.

Plus, there are some essentials that you may not have thought of, but are super important!

Check out which items you have already and which you may need to purchase.

By no means do you need to get everything on this list, but it will be a great guide to follow and inspire you!

I will only include the utmost essentials and things that I actually needed (brought almost two cars load of stuff that I ended up not using half of the items).

Beware, this may be long but it contains all the information that I can think of from my freshman year.

You can totally skip my rants and jump to the checklist items, but I included all the advice that I have and wished I knew in my first year of college in the dorms.

*This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information. Thank you!

Ultimate Dorm Room Checklist

I am an over-planner and when I went in for my first year in college, I was over-prepared with too much stuff.

Once move-out rolled around, it was such a hassle to clear out everything that I brought.

In my next few years, I was way smarter about what to bring, so here is some of my advice on what you need for your first year in college.

Hint hint: you do not need a bazillion notebooks or highlighters or mini drawers.

Let’s start with the main essentials before hopping into some stuff that you can consider bringing or not.

Bedding

Since your bed is where you will be staying/sleeping for the majority of your first year, let’s start with bedding!

1. Comforter Set

I love myself a nice and cozy bed with a cool environment.

You can coordinate with your roommates if you want matching comforters or have a color theme.

I used my comforter set all four years of college so make sure you pick one you like so you won’t be regretting it halfway into college.

Luckily, I still love my comforter set to this day and it has been through so much with me!

This set on Amazon includes a comforter and pillowcase along with a range of colors to choose from.

It’s also easy to wash, breathable, and warm.

You want to be comfortable while maintaining a nice temperature and air circulation when you sleep so this set is great if you are looking for these attributes.

Hack: pick twin xl for the size of your duvets, comforters, sheets, etc. since most colleges have twin xl beds.

Check with your college beforehand about the sizes and dimensions of everything so you don’t make a mistake in getting the wrong sizing.

2. Sheets

I’m not a stickler about sheets, so I just go with the most basic set I can find.

To be honest, I care more about my comforter than the sheets for my bed.

You can get the cheapest option if you are on a budget or splurge a bit if you are feeling it.

I have been fine with one set of sheets since I usually wash and dry them in the mornings.

This way, I have them ready for the night and don’t need to pack an extra set of sheets.

3. Pillows

As much as I don’t care about sheets, I’m the exact opposite for pillows.

The money that I save for sheets will 100% go into finding the perfect pillows for me.

I’m a side sleeper and love to have support for my neck so I’m not crushing my shoulders all the time.

Pick pillows that are breathable, easily washable, and comfortable to sleep in.

I decided on this set because I like soft pillows as opposed to super firm ones and they fit the bill!

4. Reading Pillow

I have probably recommended this a bajillion times, but I have to say it again.

These pillows are amazing for dorms!

I love watching shows, reading notes, and doing work while I lean on these in bed.

Sometimes I like to switch it up from the desk or I get too chilly so I sneak under my covers.

I don’t recommend having too many pillows on your bed-but this one is one of those must-haves.

If you enjoy being in your bed and working on different tasks-a reading pillow is such an essential.

5. Bedside Tray

I had a bunk during my first year and a bedside tray was my lifesaver.

If you hate climbing up and down the ladder for things, then you should definitely consider getting a bedside tray.

I throw my phone, earbuds, water, hair ties, lamp, and snacks there.

It was so convenient to charge my items without having to climb down from my bed.

This acts as a nightstand if you happen to have a bunk or just want to have extra space.

I still use it once I transitioned to apartments and had it as a side or end table.

6. Mattress Topper

This is a great investment if you have a worn-out dorm mattress.

If you want to have a more restful sleep, then a mattress topper is the way to go.

It also offers several cooling zones to keep your bed breathable and cool.

Also, it is ergonomically designed which means you aren’t placing too much pressure on any single part of your body.

A tip for my side sleepers out there is to place a small pillow in between your knees when you sleep to promote better posture.

Food Items

Of course, other than sleeping, the next crucial part of our lives is eating.

Here are my most recommended items to get for quick breakfast prep, easy meals, and fast late-night snacks.

1. Microwave

If you want popcorn for movies, heated leftovers, or eggs in a mug- then you want to get a microwave.

Usually, dorms have a shared microwave in the common room, but if you prefer to have one in your room with your roommates, you can get one.

You should definitely coordinate with your roommates so you are not all bringing one.

And, you can also split the price on large appliances that are shared.

Just make sure not to microwave foil don’t ask me why I know.

2. Kettle

Another awesome appliance to have is a kettle.

I love making tea, coffee, or ramen and a kettle is always there to back me up.

If you don’t want to get a kettle, you can always microwave water for noodles or drinks.

I just find having a kettle to be more convenient on busy mornings or late nights when I want a hot cup of tea or some noodles.

Interested in more dorm room checklist tips or ideas? Check out College Freshman Gifts That Are Actually Useful.

3. Storage Containers

If you want to prep food for lunch, then you will want a set of Tupperware.

This set of storage containers is both microwaveable and freezer safe.

I recommend carrying sandwiches, fruits, or pasta around in these airtight and leakproof containers.

They are also made of sturdier plastic than other containers so you have more durable and long-lasting boxes.

You can also use them for snack storage like cookies, crackers, fruits, nuts, or granola in your dorm room.

4. Toaster

I don’t know about you, but a toaster is a must in my dorm.

Instead of eating cereal every day, I love to toast bagels or make toast with jam and peanut butter.

Sometimes I have peanut butter and jelly cravings late at night and the toaster is my best friend.

Moreover, I find that this toaster is pretty adorable with its pop of color and slim design.

You can add a nice touch to your dorm if you need a toaster for breakfast or late-night cravings.

5. Mini Fridge

What’s a dorm without a mini fridge?

Mini fridges still bring me back to those days when my roommates and I would try to squeeze as much food as we can in that tiny thing.

Check your college dorm requirements or notices about the size of your mini fridge.

You might be safer going with anything less than 3.3 cubic feet and make sure that it is  energy-saving so you are not zapping the electricity from your college.

This fridge is not only energy-saving but also includes an ice chamber to make ice and a reversible door design.

This means you can have your door placed on your left or right to allow for easy moving or weird corners in your dorms.

6. Water Bottle

I have a hydro flask throughout college and I love that thing to pieces.

It would get me through the early mornings with hot coffee or tea and the afternoons with cool water.

You definitely want to get a water bottle for college to keep you hydrated and replenished for class.

I recommend getting a water bottle that can store both hot and cold liquids so you don’t need a bunch of mugs or bottles for different functions.

Hydro flasks are quite durable and sturdy considering the fact how much I have banged and dropped them.

Surprisingly, it doesn’t have many dents or damage despite the number of times I have neglected it.

Shower Essentials

Taking a shower in dorms requires more than you may think.

Through my years of college experience, here are the top items that you definitely need.

1. Hanging Caddy

This is on the top of my dorm room checklist for shower essentials.

I got a hanging shower caddy my first year and have been using it since.

It’s super convenient to have all your shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and items altogether.

Additionally, you can hang it in the bathroom and not worry about your caddy taking up your precious dorm space.

Once you take a shower, just hop in with your caddy instead of placing your shampoos on the ground.

2. Slippers

Lately, I have been in love with these cloud-like slippers.

I used to have these plastic open-toed slippers during my freshman year and they served the purpose, but it wasn’t that comfy.

These-on the other hand, makes me want to stay in them longer.

Also, they dry extremely fast which means they can double as slippers around the dorm.

Shower slippers are a must and that should not even be a question.

You never know what’s on those yucky shower floors, so better be safe than sorry!

3. Towel Set

Even though you don’t need every single towel in this set, it’s great to have things in bulk.

You can leave a set for home and take a set with you to the dorms.

I recommend bringing at least one washcloth, one hand towel, and one bath towel with you.

For towels, the colors don’t matter as much to me.

I have been using white towels and darker color towels and neither has stained or discolored on me.

Make sure to throw your towels in the washer every week or so to keep your towels fresh and healthy.

4. Nail Set

Ok, nail clippers are an essential.

Both your fingernails and toenails need to be trimmed, so pick up a set to groom and cut your nails.

Take care of your nails and trim them every few weeks.

This set of nail clippers is extremely durable and sharp so it will last you your entire college career and probably longer.

Don’t put off trimming your nails and include a set of nail clippers in your dorm room checklist.

If you like to do your nails, remember to pack any nail polishes, polish remover, and manicure items with you.

5. Bathrobe

I suggest getting a bathrobe if you don’t change in the bathroom.

There is usually a walk between your dorm room and the communal bathrooms, so put on a bathrobe to avoid flashing anyone.

This one is pretty fluffy and plush so you won’t feel chilly when you wash your hair.

Plus, your skincare and haircare routines will be much easier (like putting on lotion, skin care, and clothes).

There are tons of colors to choose from so get one where you think you can rock around in your dorm.

6. Hair Dryer

I prefer to blow dry my hair since I don’t like to lounge around with wet hair.

If you prefer to naturally dry your hair, you can skip this item.

However, I highly recommend having a blow dryer because sometimes when it’s too late and your hair is still wet, you don’t want to sleep with damp hair.

I got this blowdryer for study abroad in London and Paris and I have to say it is compact but powerful.

This is perfect for the dorms since it is tiny (but can dry your hair quickly) and also for travel since it is dual voltage.

If you are afraid of your hair becoming dry and brittle, I recommend including hair serum in your hair care routine.

7. Electric Toothbrush

After getting an electric toothbrush, it has changed my brushing game.

Since I have braces during college, an electric toothbrush was just so much more convenient and better than a regular toothbrush.

If you have the budget, this is a great investment for your teeth and gums.

My favorite part is that it includes a timer which helps keep track of when I’m at two minutes.

I highly recommend an electric toothbrush for college because it will clean your teeth more effectively.

Desk Items

Your desk will be your main activity hub where you eat, study, and work there.

For a comfortable and prepared space, here are some items you might want to have.

1. Desk Lamp

Dorm rooms are tiny, so using up every bit of that space is essential.

I love items that double up as other functions like this desk lamp which also acts as a charging station.

If you need to study later in the night or work on more assignments, then a lamp is the way to go.

You can also consider one of those clip-on lamps if you are on a bunk bed or need a side lamp.

I like this lamp since it has multiple light settings and temperature controls.

2. Power Strip Extension Cord

You definitely want to get a power strip for your dorm to plug in all your devices.

I usually have my desk lamp, phone charger, and laptop charger plugged in.

Then, I occasionally need spots for my blowdryer, electric toothbrush charger, and small appliances.

This power strip comes with 8 outlets and 4 USB ports to satisfy all your charging needs.

You can also pick between 5ft, 6ft, or 10ft for the distance that you need.

I usually go with the longer distance option since I had a bunk bed my first year.

3. Notebooks

If you are a digital note-taker, I still recommend bringing at least one notebook with you to college.

It will come in handy as scratch paper, quick note jotting, or reminders.

I do not recommend bringing an entire set of notebooks because you just don’t need a notebook for every class.

Yes, some classes are not note-heavy and instead focus more on discussions and projects.

I made the mistake and brought ten notebooks to my dorm during my freshman year and ended up not going through even half of them.

Most of my classes were coding and writing classes which meant I used my laptop most of the time.

4. Headphones

One of my favorite items in my dorm room checklist is headphones.

I love watching shows, listening to music, and going over lectures so a pair of headphones is great in dorms when you have roommates.

Instead of everyone listening to different things, you can focus on your screen with some quality headphones.

This also charges quickly so you don’t have to wait long before using them.

Try not to wear headphones when you are walking around campus because you might be less aware of your surroundings.

You can wear earbuds when you are outside and headphones for when you need to focus on studying or streaming a show.

5. Laptop Stand

Avoid hunching over your laptop and get a laptop stand.

It is pretty life-changing for me even though I only got it in my second year of college.

You should definitely include this in your dorm room checklist because it can alleviate neck and shoulder pain by adjusting your eye level.

And it will allow your laptop to have better airflow and prevent it from overheating.

It’s also simple to dissemble and pack away if you need to bring it with you to study at the library or a cute cafe.

6. Gel Pens

For each of my classes, I either opt for note-taking on paper or typing them on my laptop.

In my math and cognitive science classes, I love to take notes on paper with blue ink pens.

On the other hand, I prefer to type my notes for my English or coding class.

I retain information better when I write with blue ink, so try this method out if you have difficulty remembering your notes.

Moreover, I find that gel pens are smoother and more fun to write with compared to regular pens.

Interested in more content like college dorm room checklist posts? Check out Best Organization Hacks for the Cutest Dorm Room.

7. Laptop

I used an ASUS laptop for my freshman year of college and made the switch to Macbooks my senior year.

If you are a Windows user, I recommend ASUS and if you like Apple, I recommend Macbooks.

I really like my Macbook because the battery life is super long-lasting and powerful for many applications pulled up at the same time.

If you do a lot of coding, I definitely recommend either the ASUS UX Zenbook or the Apple Macbook.

They are both powerful and can handle what you throw at them (not literally).

8. Paper Organizer

This comes in either the 12-pocket or 24-pocket option.

You can get this vertical design or buy an accordion file folder for your loose papers and handouts.

I like to have one for my classes to organize any syllabi, handouts, or papers.

Then I like to have either a file cabinet or binder where I store all my papers that I’m done with but still need to keep.

Make sure you clean out your file folder every week so it’s not weighing your backpack down.

9. Backpack

Another item that you need in your dorm room checklist is a backpack.

You need one to carry your laptop, notes, pens, snacks, and class items to and from lectures.

This backpack includes multiple compartments to organize your things and a laptop compartment to protect your laptop.

However, I do recommend getting a laptop sleeve or bag for your laptop so you can carry it around in other totes and for added protection.

What snatched my eyes about this backpack is the charging slot on the side so you can charge your phone with a power bank and cable through that loop.

Laundry Essentials

You don’t want to be smelly or wear dirty clothes to class so here are some top laundry essentials that you need.

1. Laundry Bag

Pick up a basic laundry bag to carry all your dirty clothes to do the laundry.

I like how this one includes a pouch to place your detergents and fabric softeners so you don’t have to hold them in your hands.

Make sure you do your laundry frequently and not have it pile up in the corner of your room.

I have heard roommate horror stories where their roommates would not wash their clothes and have them pile in the corner until they smelled.

Don’t be that roommate and do your laundry often.

2. Detergent

You can’t do your laundry without detergent, so either bring some with you or get them at the markets.

I live close to my college campus so I always packed a lot for my dorms.

If you are going to a different state or very far for college, then you can get the detergent there.

I have used pods and liquid detergent for laundry.

Use pods if you want to skip the hassle of measuring the liquid and dumping it in or if you are new to doing your laundry.

However, liquid detergent tends to be cheaper so if you want to save money, go with this option.

3. Hangers

I recommend getting a 20 or 30-pack set of hangers to hang your clothes.

My favorite ones are the slim velvety hangers since they save space and prevent my clothes from falling off.

There are a variety of colors so you can choose them to match your dorm or theme if you have one.

I also like slim wire hangers for T-shirts since they also save a lot of space.

Decide on outfits and clothes that you will actually wear before packing them into your dorm.

4. Mesh Laundry Bags

Another great laundry item in my dorm room checklist is mesh laundry bags!

I always miss a sock in the washer before I met these guys.

Just chuck in all your dirty socks in one pouch, bras in another, and underwear in another.

Toss in the washer and viola you have clean garments without losing them!

And, they are also safe in the dryer too so bonus points.

Whenever you have delicate clothing, small clothing, or lingerie then you should toss them into these bags.

Not only are they easy to pick up and go, but it also prevents your garments from tangling into each other.

Extra Essentials

Now, here are the miscellaneous, but great items to have for your dorm.

1. Scissors

I never knew that scissors were so important until I went to college.

They are the things that you don’t notice but are extremely useful to have when you need them.

I always use it to cut tags off items, open packages, or loose threads on my clothes.

Get a pack of two so you can share it with your roommates or leave one for your home.

You don’t know how thankful I was to have scissors to open a package of chips when the bag was not corporating.

Interested in more posts like dorm room checklist ideas? Check out What NOT to Bring to College.

2. Command Strips

These strips were the best for decorating or hanging things on the wall.

I used it to hang my backpack, bags, and belts.

You can attach them by the side of your bed, inside your closet door, or by the door for extra hanging storage.

It’s better to have more ground space so your dorm looks bigger.

Not only are command hooks and strips easy to stick, but also safe to remove once you move out.

You don’t want to be charged by leaving a white sticky cast on your walls or furniture.

3. Wipes

Get a set of these wipes and it will make your move-in day cleaner and quicker.

I just whip out a pack of these and start wiping the desks, bed frame, closet, and parts of the wall.

You won’t believe how much dust it accumulates in such a short time.

And I don’t even want to recap how my roommate and I found an old pair of nasty boxers behind the closet.

Dorm rooms are nasty and not as clean as you might imagine or see.

Wipe the surface of your desks, the top of your closet, and your room weekly because dust will gather when you open the windows.

You don’t want to be living in dusty environments where it can affect your living conditions.

4. Wearable Fleece Blanket

This might not be an essential for you, but I wore it almost daily in my dorm.

I loved lounging in something warm and comfy so I got a wearable blanket.

It’s super fluffy and it’s also reversible so you can switch it up every so often.

Best of all, this is shrink resistant which means you have the same oversized blanket each time.

Super easy to wash and tumble dry on a low setting to keep it long-lasting.

5. Vanity Mirror

You need a mirror for getting ready in the mornings or for your classes.

It was way easier to have a mirror on my desk instead of trying to put on skincare or lip tint in the communal bathrooms.

And sometimes your other roommates or suitemates will be getting up at the same time as you.

This means limited space in front of the mirrors, so might as well get a small one for your room.

Another hack is to get a skinny full-size mirror to hang behind your door so you can check out your outfits each day.

6. Fan

If your college will be hot or you know it will get stuffy in the dorms, pick up a fan to eliminate those issues.

Also, plug in your fan at night for better air circulation and cooler air.

My fan was a mini hero for me in my freshman year because it would provide me with ample coolness in the top bunk.

Plus, it helped to ventilate the air when we had tons of friends over in our small dorm room.

This fan is small but mighty and also oscillates so you get air everywhere.

I also brought an air humidifier to the dorms but ended up using it less than five times.

7. Power Bank

A power bank is a necessity for charging your devices when there are no outlets around you.

Furthermore, avoid running out of battery on your phones or iPads by carrying this tiny power bank around.

This power bank is superb since it protects itself from overcharging, heating up, or short-circuiting.

There are two color options and one is sometimes cheaper than the other, so make sure to check before you purchase.

A power bank is also useful when you have day trips, long days, or traveling.

8. Umbrella

If your area rains occasionally or frequently, then you should get an umbrella to shield you from the rain.

When I studied abroad in London and Paris in the spring it constantly and sporadically rained.

It was so useful to have an umbrella to protect me and my belongings from the wind and rain.

I recommend getting an automatic umbrella like this one since it annoyed me a lot trying to open the manual ones.

You can choose a unique color so you will never mix up your umbrella with someone else’s.

9. Entertainment Activities

College is when you will meet new people and make new friends.

And sometimes to break the ice is just through a game of cards against humanity or uno.

I have been playing these games so much in social meetups, in the dorms, and in clubs or organizations.

Uno is a great game for everyone to play while cards against humanity might be offensive to some light-hearted folks.

However, I have only encountered laughter and joy when playing these card games.

They are not a definite must on the dorm room checklist, but they are great to have as an icebreaker.

Quick Advice

If you are worried about overpacking here are some of my tips:

• lay out the items you will bring and take out half of the things that you don’t need
  • clothes you don’t wear often
  • repetitive items
• replace multiple items with one item that can serve the same purpose
  • water bottle for hot and cold drinks can replace a travel mug and a water bottle
  • reversible jacket that can replace another jacket that you were packing

And here are some quick hacks on move-in day:

• print your passes (if any) for your appointed time to move in
• pick an early morning time when there are often fewer people
• place heavy and loose items in suitcases for easy transportation
• check out carts and rolling bins if your college provides them
• jot down your key code or pins once you get them

Complete Dorm Room Essentials Checklist

Here is the complete dorm room essentials checklist that you can tick off your list.

• Bedding Essentials (sizing is usually Twin XL but check with your college to make sure)
  • Comforter
  • Blankets
  • Sheets
  • Pillow
  • Pillowcases
  • Reading pillow
  • Mattress topper
• Food Essentials
  • Kettle
  • Microwave
  • Mini fridge
  • Mug
  • Plate
  • 1 Spoon
  • 1 Fork
  • Chopsticks (if you know how to use them)
  • Toaster
  • Food storage containers
  • Paper towels
  • Dish soap
  • Sponges
  • Water bottle
• Shower Essentials
  • Shower caddy
  • Towels
  • Bathrobe
  • Slippers
  • Nail clippers
  • Hair dryer
  • Electric toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Mouthwash
  • Hairbrush
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body wash
  • Lotion
  • Skincare
    • Face wash
    • Toner
    • Serum
    • Moisturizer
    • Sunscreen
  • Washcloth
  • Hair products
    • Hair spray
    • Dry shampoo
  • Razors
  • Deodorant
  • Hair supplies
    • Scrunchies
    • Hair clips
    • Headband
    • Hair ties
    • Claw clips
  • Accessories
    • Necklaces
    • Earrings
    • Bracelets
  • Pads or tampons
  • Hand soap
• Desk Items
  • Lamp
  • Notebooks
  • Laptop stand
  • Power strip
  • Headphones
  • Laptop
  • Chargers
  • Pens
  • File folder
  • Backpack
  • Laptop sleeve
• Laundry Essentials
  • Laundry bag
  • Detergent
  • Softener
  • Lingerie bag
  • Hangers
  • Lint roller
• Clothing Essentials
  • Bras
  • Underwear
  • Socks
  • Belts
  • Jeans
  • Shorts
  • Shirt
  • Blouse
  • Hoodie
  • Sweater/Jacket
  • Pajamas
  • Hats
  • Shoes
• Miscellaneous Essentials
  • Scissors
  • Command strip
  • Wipes
  • Face mask
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wearable fleece blanket
  • Mini first aid kit
  • Mirror
  • Fan
  • Power bank
  • Keyboard (if you get a laptop stand)
  • Umbrella
  • Tissues
  • Q-tips or cotton pads
  • Cards/Games

Now, that is a wrap for all the items you need for your dorm room checklist.

These were all the items that I found helpful and improved my dorm life immensely.

If you need any more ideas on what not to bring to college, what dorm room gifts to get, or how to study for college, feel free to check out any of my other posts.

And if you have any questions about college life or anything college related, leave a comment!

Hopefully, you found what you were looking for today and enjoy your college adventure!