What should be on a college dorm checklist?
A complete college dorm checklist includes bedding, toiletries, laundry supplies, clothing, school essentials, cleaning items, and room organization tools.
Students should bring Twin XL bedding, shower caddy, laundry basket, laptop, power strips, snacks, and storage bins as core dorm must-haves. Packing smart helps avoid forgotten essentials and makes the dorm move-in process stress-free.
What Is Included in a College Dorm Checklist?
Bedding & Comfort
- Twin XL sheets (2 sets)
- Comforter/duvet
- Pillows & pillowcases
- Mattress topper/foam pad
- Mattress protector
- Blanket/throw
Laundry & Cleaning
- Laundry basket/hamper
- Laundry detergent & fabric softener
- Stain remover
- Dryer sheets
- Mini vacuum or handheld vacuum
- Disinfecting wipes
- Paper towels
- Trash bags & small trash can
Kitchen & Food Essentials
- Mini fridge (if allowed)
- Microwave (if allowed)
- Reusable water bottle
- Coffee maker/kettle (if allowed)
- Plates, bowls, cups (microwave safe)
- Utensils (forks, knives, spoons)
- Dish soap & sponge
- Snacks
Bathroom & Toiletries
- Shower caddy
- Towels (bath, hand, washcloths)
- Shower shoes/flip-flops
- Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash, razor, deodorant, lotion, toothpaste, toothbrush)
- Toilet paper & tissues
- Hair dryer/straightener (if used)
- First aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, cold medicine)
School Supplies
- Backpack
- Notebooks & binders
- Pens, pencils, highlighters
- Sticky notes & index cards
- Planner/calendar
- Laptop & charger
- USB drive or external hard drive
- Headphones
Room Organization & Decor
- Storage bins & under-bed storage
- Desk lamp
- Extension cords & power strips
- Command hooks/strips
- Bulletin board/whiteboard
- Posters, photos, or wall art
- Rug (optional, for comfort)
- Fan (if no AC)
Clothing Essentials
- Everyday wear (shirts, jeans, shorts)
- Dress clothes (for presentations/interviews)
- Workout clothes
- Pajamas
- Jackets/coat (depending on climate)
- Shoes (sneakers, sandals, dress shoes)
- Hangers
- Seasonal clothing (scarves, gloves, etc.)
Note: Check your college’s dorm guidelines first—some items (like appliances or candles) might not be allowed.
Why Do You Need a College Dorm Checklist?
Moving into a dorm can feel overwhelming. A checklist ensures you don’t forget essentials and saves money by avoiding duplicate purchases. It also helps students plan ahead for comfort, study, and day-to-day living.
Table: College Dorm Checklist by Category
| Category | Must-Have Items | Optional Extras |
|---|---|---|
| Bedding | Twin XL sheets, pillow, comforter | Mattress topper, throw |
| Bathroom | Towels, toiletries, shower shoes | Hair dryer, vanity mirror |
| Laundry | Hamper, detergent, dryer sheets | Stain remover pen |
| School Supplies | Laptop, notebooks, pens | Printer, desk organizer |
| Organization | Storage bins, power strips, desk lamp | Decorative rug, posters |
Also see:
Graduation Party Planning Checklist