Ace the Campus Life: Shopping For The College Dorm Room

Now that the graduation tassels have twirled and the last graduation party has wrapped, it’s time for the real summer event: prepping for dorm move-in. If this is your first rodeo, take a deep breath—you’ve got this. And if it’s not, welcome back to the annual packing Olympics.

Whether your student is flying the nest for the first time or you're just polishing your “dorm-moving MVP” badge, the key is simple: plan early, get creative with storage, and pray someone cleans the bathroom.

The Emotional Whirlwind + Practical Reality

The summer months leading up to all the hugs and goodbyes can be a little overwhelming as students are squeezing in every ounce of time with their old friends and their loved ones all while packing up their childhood bedroom, shopping for a dorm, and prepping to leave home for the first time.

Add in roommate chats about who’s bringing the mini fridge vs. the toilet brush (which no one wants to bring, but someone must), and it’s a full production.

Spoiler alert: as parents, we usually end up bringing the toilet brush. And the cleaner. And the prayer that someone uses them.

Been There. Packed That.

Having moved three daughters in and out of college more times than I can count (and a fourth on deck), I've crafted the ultimate dorm room checklist—with both practicality and personality in mind.

Do what you love dorm room decor

Let’s Talk Dorms: Then vs. Now

Back in my day (cue the eye rolls from my kids), dorm rooms were glorified closets with hallway bathrooms that required shower shoes and bravery.

Today? We’re talking mini "suites" with shared bathrooms, kitchenettes, and possibly more square footage than my first apartment. Progress!

But nostalgia aside, dorm life still requires some serious planning—and a few clever hacks to make the most of the space.

My old dorm room floor plan MANY years ago

So here it is: your no-nonsense, slightly sentimental, parent-approved guide to college dorm life. Packed with real advice, a touch of humor, and all the essentials that’ll make this transition just a little smoother.

Dorm Room Essentials Checklist

You’ll find the full list below, but a few pro tips:

• Always check what the school already provides.

• Maximize vertical space.

• Buy extra command strips.

• If it can serve two purposes—it's gold.

Dorm Room Components

Bedding

• Twin XL Sheet Sets (2 sets – laundry motivation)

• Comforter/Blanket/ Duvet

• Pillows and Silk Blissy pillowcases

• Mattress protector 

• Sleepyhead Mattress Topper (Don’t skimp-they’ll thank you)

• Gel mattress topper

• Charging headboard (Phone charging is always a thing)

• Set of bed risers option 1 or bed risers option 2 or loft (maximizes space) 

• Reserve a loft kit from your housing portal (optional)

• Pillow backrest for reading in bed (I mean, they will read in bed, right?)

• Bedside lighting 

• Cozy extra blanket

Storage

• Under-bed storage bins (these are a must)

• Closet organizers/totes

• Hanging closet organizers

• Over-the-door organizers 

• Printer or Fridge Rolling Storage

• Bathroom caddy (even if you have the luxury of an in-suite bathroom, they can still be small. A caddy also helps keep things separated from the roommate) 

• Hangers of all kinds

• Drawer organizers

• Charging storage units (amazing versality and usefulness)

• Wagon or Hulken bag for transporting items from cars to dorms (groceries, larger items, etc. and can be used after college) 

• Hamper (just provide it and pray laundry happens. If you build it, they will come... right?)

Kitchen Gear

• Mini-fridge

• Microwave (if allowed) 

• Coffee maker/kettle

• Reusable water bottles (especially if in warmer climates, good to have a stock pile)

• Bottle opener (you know, you know)

• Can opener (not sure if that is necessary, but when you need it, you need it)

• Chip clips (for all those open bags)

• Super Lightweight Stanley Bottle

• Portable blender for all those protein smoothies 

• Mini vacuum 

• Storage shelves for small spaces (add some totes for the shelves for organized storage)

• Basic utensils and dishware 

Bathroom Basics

• Towels (2 sets of bath and hand towels) white are easy to bleach!

• Shower caddy tote 

• Shower shoes (dorm slippers)

• Toiletries (soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, etc.)

• Under cabinet organizers 

• Bath mat and curtain (don’t forget the pole and rings)

• Shower organizer (if shower is in your dorm) 

• Toilet brush/bathroom cleaners (just provide and pray it is used)

• Toilet paper (always good to have a supply on hand) 

• Hand soap 

Study Supplies

• Laptop/Tablet (be sure it is up to date and you have a way to transport it all over campus safely)

• Laptop sleeve

• Desk lamp

• Laptop Portable Desk

• Notebooks and planners

• Pens, pencils, and highlighters

• USB drives

• Charging Cart 

• Sharpies for labeling 

• White board and dry erase markers

• Desk chair pillow 

General Supplies

• Fan (for white noise and airflow)

• Small air purifier 

• Packing tape 

• Box cutter 

• Lanyard (for your keys, ID, etc.) 

• Batteries

• Power strips 

• First aid kit (they may not think it is necessary, but will use it, trust me)

• Dorm emergency Kit

• Small tool kit

• Command strips and double sided tape: (no nails allowed)

• Zip ties  

• Scent/oil diffuser (can’t have candles in dorms) 

• Flashlight 

• Trash can for bathroom, kitchen and desk 

• Trash bags 

• Envelopes and stamps (you just never know)

• Portable Bluetooth speaker (no brainer)

• Surge protector and extension cords 

• Collapsible wagon cart on wheels—great for move-in day, for carting bags and shopping supplies throughout the year and camping (see my Hulken bag suggestion above)

Cleaning Musts

• Disinfectant wipes

• Laundry detergent

• Dish Soap 

• Vacuum or broom

• Laundry Bag 

• Stain remover

• Steamer or iron 

• Bathroom cleaners

• Toilet brush or this Toilet Brush (these are unique and might actually get used)

• Toilet paper supply

Album Cover and Favorite Bands Wall Collage

So, the interior decor items may not be considered "the essentials" but it sure makes a difference in the way your space can feel. Don't be afraid to add some personality and your own vibe to the space. Just remember to bring a box of command strips since most dorms do not allow holes in the walls. Here are some fun ways to create your own vibe.

Decor + Personality

• Wall art or posters (creating a collage wall in a theme is a vibe)

• Vinyl Wall Art Frames

• Fun Art Decor

• Neon sign 

• Pink Pony Club Neon Sign

• White board or cork board (roommates love to leave messages to each other)

• String lights (they add coziness and ambiance)

• Plug- in Sconce

• Plants (real or faux)

• Nightlight (with mood)

• Full size mirror (over the door or wall mirror)

• Order your favorite photos with Mixtiles (non-damaging and lightweight)

• Accent rug 

• Peel and stick wallpaper for added decor touches 

• Reading bedrest pillow 

• Baseball Glove Filler Dish: for the baseball lovers, this is a great accessory for placing keys or important items that need a landing place

• Door Stop (for keeping door open while moving or socializing)

• Added seating/hide-a-bed (order this early if your dorm allows extra seating)

• For the moon-lover and one that is looking for a little something different- use it on your wall, your desktop or as a leaner- a moon mirror is a fun way to add character.

• For the goal setter and vision seeker, consider adding this board for you to add your notes and ideas to keep your focus clear
  

Show Your Own Personality

Of course, there are always those items that you don't think about until you REALLY need them. That is how the miscellaneous list came about. It is also helpful to hand off a folder that houses all of their personal information and personal documents.

If they get a part-time job, they might need to provide specific information. Having that folder means a parent won't have to overnight a passport or any documents... because that happens too (just sayin')

Miscellaneous

• Personal Prescriptions and supplements (be sure to think ahead, also set up their regular prescriptions at the school pharmacy or a local pharmacy)

• OTC medications (cold, flu, headache meds) 

• Thermometer (when they need it, they NEED it) 

• Bug spray and sunscreens 

• List of doctors and insurance information 

• Noise canceling headphones 

• Scooter and charger/ bike/ or skateboard for college life commutes (don’t forget the lock and I would throw in a helmet and pray they use that, too)

• Update payment on Uber or Lyft app or prepay on the app
  

• Trash bags and Ziploc storage bags 

• Personal safe for valuables (it is always a good idea)

• Gym bag (also used as an overnight bag) 

• Welcome Door Mat (personalized or general)

• A good supply of bottled water and favorite snacks before you say your goodbyes & leave them behind

• Reserve parking permit if planning to have a car at school

Daughter of a Designer: Dorm Decor in Action

When my twins headed off to college, they tackled move-in like pros—organized, stylish, and (shockingly) well-prepared. One even turned her desk into a vanity. Double duty, baby! If you want to glam up a small space, look up Impressions vanity mirrors mirrors—worth it in college and beyond.

Don’t forget to stash seasonal clothes in those suitcases—they double as hidden storage under the bed. Genius!

Speaking of double duty, don't forget to use the suitcases to store seasonal items or items that are not needed on a daily basis—they can be hidden under the bed when not in use. There are so many creative ways to use a small space. If any item can serve a double purpose, it is always a huge help!

Pro Tip for Parents: Legal Prep You Might Not Have Considered

Check out Mama Bear Legal Forms—especially if your student is 18+. This tool gives you access to health and financial documents in case of emergencies. It includes:

• Health & Financial Power of Attorney

• HIPAA and FERPA waivers

• A secure app for storage

Because let’s be real—adulting starts now, and it’s better to be prepared.

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Dorm Room Shared Space

Final Thoughts from One Parent to Another

This is it. The next chapter. It’s exciting, emotional, and a little surreal. You’ve raised them, taught them, and now you’re packing them off into the wild (with a really nice duvet cover).

Remember: you’re not alone. I’ve been there. I am there. And I’m still tearing up every time one of them leaves (or returns).

This list isn’t just about what to pack—it’s about making the transition a little easier, a little more fun, and a whole lot more memorable.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. I’ll probably be crying behind a box of tissues, too.

Lemontine Design

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