It feels like just yesterday your high school senior was getting ready for kindergarten, and just like that—they are off to college. With May and June being full of proms, senior trips, and graduation parties- it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the college to-do list- especially for those who will be living on campus. So we’ve made life a little easier with this handy check-list of the essentials you can add to that Amazon wish list to share with family and friends. Next step—figuring out who has a truck to borrow for move-in day.
Here’s what you should definitely include on your college registry:
Bedding basics (and then some)
- Twin XL sheets (get at least 2 sets)
- Comforter or duvet
- Mattress topper (makes that plastic dorm mattress bearable)
- Mattress protector
- Pillows (yes, plural—you’ll thank us later)
Laundry & cleaning supplies
- Laundry basket or hamper
- Detergent pods (easier to carry)
- Stain remover
- Disinfectant wipes and all-purpose cleaner
Extras:
- Small vacuum or handheld cleaner
- Drying rack (many dorms don’t have enough dryers)
Storage solutions
- Under-bed storage bins
- Hanging closet organizer
- Over-the-door hooks or shoe organizer
- Desk drawer organizers
Everyday essentials
- Towels (at least 2-3)
- Shower caddy (for communal bathrooms)
- Flip-flops for the shower
- Toiletries & toiletry bag
- First-aid kit (band-aids, Advil, etc.)
Study setup
- Desk lamp with USB ports
- Surge protector or power strip
- Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds
- Laptop lock (if you’ll be leaving it in shared spaces)
Kitchen must-haves (Check with your college on what’s allowed
- Mini fridge and/or microwave
- Reusable water bottle
- Basic utensils, plates, and mugs
- Dish soap and sponge
If allowed:
- Coffee maker or electric kettle
Comfort & decor
- Area rug (makes the room feel more homey)
- String lights or LED lamps
- Wall-safe posters or photos of friends and family
- Fan (some dorms have no AC!)
- Cozy blanket
Important extras
- ID lanyard or wallet
- Basic tools (screwdriver, scissors, tape)
- Reusable shopping bag or tote
- Portable charger or extra phone cord
- A lockbox or small safe for valuables
- Condoms and/or emergency contraception such as Plan B
Tips before you send out your registry:
- Coordinate with your roommate: You don’t want to show up with two microwaves.
- Think small and smart: Dorms are tight on space, so look for collapsible or multi-use items.
- Use your registry wisely: Friends and family often want to help you get started—make it easy by creating a dorm registry at stores like Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, or Amazon.
- For those of us in NYC, we’re often stuffing everything in a small car— be sure to pack in containers that can easily fit.
- Consider renting a storage space near campus for summers to store items rather than lugging them back home each year.
Be sure to read your college’s rules on what is allowed in the dorms. You will also learn as you go-—once your student is settled in and has experienced their first few months living on campus. Have any tips to share? Let us know.
