The Ultimate College Packing List
From What to Bring to College
Bedding
Essentials
- Pillows (2)
- Pillowcases (2 sets)
- Twin XL sheet set (2 sets)
- Comforter or duvet
- Mattress pad/topper
- Blanket/throw
- Bed bug proof mattress cover
Optional
- Throw blanket
- Decorative pillows
- Bedside storage caddy
- Mattress protector
- Bed risers
- Sleeping bag for guests
- Reading pillow
- Clip-on fan
Bathroom & Toiletries
Essentials
- Towels (2-3 sets)
- Shower caddy
- Shower shoes (flip-flops)
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Body wash/soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Razor and shaving cream
- Facial cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Contact lens solution and case
Optional
- Robe
- Scale
- Air freshener
- Hair styling products
- Lotion
- Hairdryer/straightener/curling iron
- Nail clippers & file
- Tweezers
- Cotton swabs and pads
- Mouthwash
Laundry
Essentials
- Laundry basket or hamper
- Detergent pods or liquid
- Dryer sheets or wool balls
- Quarters for laundry machines
- Delicates bag
Optional
- Stain remover pen
- Lint roller
- Drying rack
- Small ironing board & iron
- Steamer
- Fabric softener
- Wrinkle release spray
School Supplies
Essentials
- Backpack
- Laptop
- Notebooks or binders
- Folders
- Pens and pencils
- Highlighters
- Calculator
- Scissors
Optional
- Planner/agenda
- Stapler and staples
- Sticky notes
- Index cards
- Printer and paper
- Three-hole punch
- Whiteboard and markers
- Tape
- USB flash drive
Electronics
Essentials
- Laptop and charger
- Phone and charger
- Power strip with surge protector
- Extension cords
- Headphones
Optional
- Portable charger/power bank
- Bluetooth speaker
- Gaming console
- E-reader
- Small TV
- HDMI cable
- Ethernet cable
- External hard drive
- Laptop lock
Kitchen & Food
Essentials
- Mini-fridge
- Microwave
- Reusable water bottle
- Mug, plate, bowl, and utensils set
- Dish soap and sponge
- Can opener
- Paper towels
Optional
- Coffee maker
- Electric kettle
- Blender for smoothies
- Food storage containers
- Snacks and drinks
- Brita filter/water pitcher
- Chip clips
- Toaster or toaster oven
Room Decor
Essentials
- Desk lamp
- Trash can
- Hangers
- Command strips and hooks
- Under-bed storage containers
- Small toolkit
Optional
- Posters and photos
- Rug
- Full-length mirror
- String lights
- Plants (real or fake)
- Small fan
- Bulletin board or cork board
- Additional seating
- Wall tapestry
Clothing
Essentials
- Everyday wear
- Underwear and socks (2 weeks worth)
- Pajamas
- Workout clothes
- One formal/business casual outfit
- Jacket/coat suitable for the climate
- Rain jacket and umbrella
- Shoes (multiple pairs)
- Sweaters and hoodies
- Hats
Optional
- Swimsuit
- Winter gear
- Costumes for theme parties
- Slippers
- Belt
- Watch/jewelry
- Bathrobe
- Sunglasses
Health & First-Aid
Essentials
- First-aid kit
- Pain relievers
- Cold and flu medicine
- Any personal prescription medications
- Thermometer
- Health insurance card
- Disinfecting wipes
Optional
- Allergy medicine
- Vitamins
- Heating pad
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues
- Cough drops
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Eyedrops
Important Documents
Essentials
- Driver's license or state ID
- Passport and/or visa
- Social Security card
- Birth certificate (original or copy)
- Car registration and insurance info
- Financial aid documents
Optional
- Debit and/or credit card
- Checks