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