College Dorm Checklist

Heading to college means setting up a new home in your dorm. This College Dorm Checklist ensures you’re prepared with essentials like comfortable bedding, laundry supplies, and a first aid kit. It includes kitchen necessities for quick meals, a range of clothing for different weathers and occasions, and extra items for comfort and entertainment. Toiletries, desk supplies, and important documents are also covered, making sure you’re ready for both study and daily living. This list aims to make your transition to dorm life smooth, practical, and enjoyable.

College Dorm Essentials Checklist

Room Basics

• Sheets (two sets, Twin XL size)
• Pillows
• Comforter
• Bath Towels (two or three)
• Hand Towels
• Washcloths
• Detergent (pods or liquid)
• Laundry Basket/Bag (collapsible or hangable)
• Drying Rack (optional)
• Hangers (slim non-slip)
• Storage Bins
• Desk Lamp
• Trash Can (small)

Health & Safety

• First Aid Kit (bandages, antiseptic)
• Prescription Medications (as needed)
• Pain Relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Allergy Medication (antihistamines)
• Thermometer
• Hand Sanitizer
• Disinfectant Wipes
• Air Freshener

Kitchen Gear

• Reusable Water Bottle
• Snacks
• Mini Fridge
• Microwave (if allowed)
• Coffee Maker/Tea Kettle
• Toaster/Toaster Oven
• Plates, Bowls, Utensils
• Cups, Mugs
• Can Opener
• Food Storage Containers
• Dish Soap, Sponge

Clothing & Linens

• Underwear, Bras, Sports Bras
• Socks
• Pants (jeans, workout, casual)
• Shorts
• Shirts, Sweaters, Sweatshirts
• Sweats or Cozy Pants
• Pajamas
• Jackets for Fall and Winter
• Cold-Weather Gear (hats, mittens, scarves, boots)
• Sneakers, Shoes, Sandals, Shower Shoes/Flip-Flops
• Hat, Umbrella
• Belts
• Business/Formal Clothes (if needed)
• Wristlet or Purse, Wallet
• Swimsuit, Sport-Specific Clothes
• Jewelry, Bathrobe, Dress Shoes, Slippers
• Casual Dress

Extras

• Earplugs
• Eye Mask
• Small Fan
• Extension Cords
• Power Strips
• Bedside Caddy
• Reading Light
• Command Hooks/Strips

Entertainment

• Playing Cards or Card Games
• Board Games
• Streaming Device (Roku, Chromecast)
• Portable Speakers
• Video Game Console
• Laptop or Tablet
• Books or E-Reader
• Puzzle Books (Crosswords, Sudoku)
• Sports Equipment
• Art Supplies
• Yoga Mat
• Bluetooth Headphones or Earbuds

Toiletries

• Shower Caddy
• Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash
• Loofah/Wash Cloths
• Hand Soap, Sanitizer
• Face Wash, Moisturizer, Skincare Products
• Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss
• Comb/Brush
• Hair Styling Tools
• Razors, Shaving Cream
• Cotton Swabs
• Sunscreen, Bug Spray
• Make-Up
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Tweezers, Nail Clippers, File, Polish
• Extra Contacts, Solution
• Eyeglasses, Sunglasses
• Toilet Paper
• Deodorant
• Hair Accessories
• Retainer/Mouth Guard
• Safety Pins

Desk Supplies

• Backpack
• Pens, Pencils, Highlighters
• Sharpener
• Spiral Notebooks, Binders
• Folders, Index Cards, Sticky Notes
• Stapler, Rubber Bands, Tacks, Paper Clips, Tape

Important Documents

• Credit/Debit Cards
• License/Passport
• School ID or Paperwork
• Car Registration/Insurance (if bringing a car)
• Health Insurance Card
• Birth Certificate, Social Security Card Copies
• Emergency Contact List
• Financial Aid Info
• Class Schedule
• Meal Plan Card

This checklist is designed to help you pack everything you need for a comfortable and successful start to your college life in a dorm.