What to Bring to College: Realistic Packing List Guide for Freshman Year

What to Bring to College: Realistic Packing List Guide for Freshman Year

Starting college is exciting—but packing for it? Not so much. Whether you’re the type to overpack or you have no idea where to begin, this realistic college packing list is here to help.

Forget the endless, overwhelming lists that include everything under the sun. This guide is practical, straightforward, and based on what students actually use during their freshman year.

Here’s everything you really need to bring to college—and what you can skip.

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College Packing Essentials: The Ultimate Freshman Checklist

1. Bedding & Sleep Essentials

Your dorm bed is probably a twin XL—so plan accordingly.

• Twin XL sheets (2 sets)

• Comforter or duvet

• Mattress topper (seriously, dorm beds are rough)

• Pillows (1–2)

• Pillowcases

• Cozy blanket or throw

Pro tip: Bring a mattress protector. It's more useful than you think.

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2. Toiletries & Shower Supplies

You’ll be sharing a bathroom, so stay organized and ready to roll.

• Shower caddy

• Flip-flops (a must for communal showers)

• Towels (2–3)

• Washcloths or loofah

• Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss

• Razor, deodorant, etc.

• Hairbrush or comb

• Nail clippers, tweezers

• First-aid basics (band-aids, Advil, etc.)

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3. Laundry Supplies

It’s time to learn how to do laundry solo—make it easy on yourself.

• Laundry basket or bag

• Detergent pods or liquid

• Dryer sheets or wool balls

• Stain remover

• Mini sewing kit (you’ll thank yourself later)

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4. Clothing

Think layers, comfort, and campus weather.

• Everyday outfits (enough for 1–2 weeks)

• Workout clothes

• Hoodie or jacket

• Pajamas

• Undergarments and socks

• A few nice outfits (for presentations, events)

• Shoes: everyday sneakers, sandals, rain boots, going-out shoes

Skip the whole closet. Dorm closets are tiny—pack seasonally and swap clothes during breaks.

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5. Desk & School Supplies

You won’t need every office supply from Staples—just the essentials.

• Laptop and charger

• Notebooks or binders

• Pens, pencils, highlighters

• Backpack or tote

• Sticky notes, index cards

• Calculator (if your major needs one)

• Power strip (with surge protection)

• USB flash drive or external hard drive

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6. Dorm Room Essentials

These are the items that make dorm life smoother and more comfortable.

• Storage bins or drawers

• Desk lamp (dorm lighting is rough)

• Command hooks and strips (no wall damage!)

• Fan (especially for non-air-conditioned dorms)

• Mini trash can and liners

• Reusable water bottle

• Coffee maker or kettle (if allowed)

• Extension cords

• Desk organizer or drawer dividers

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7. Kitchen Basics (If Your Dorm Allows)

You won’t be cooking full meals every day—but a few basics go a long way.

• Microwave-safe bowls and mugs

• Utensils (fork, spoon, knife)

• Reusable dishware

• Dish soap and sponge

• Paper towels

• Small food storage containers

• Non-perishable snacks

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8. Personal & Miscellaneous

A few extra items that make dorm life feel like home.

• ID holder or lanyard

• Important documents (ID, insurance, bank info)

• Headphones or earbuds

• Phone charger (extra-long is best)

• Photos or decorations

• Journal, books, or hobby items

• Umbrella

• Small toolkit (screwdriver, scissors, etc.)

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What NOT to Bring to College

Here’s what usually ends up back home or unused:

• Full dish sets (you won’t need 8 plates)

• Printer (campus ones are more convenient)

• Iron and ironing board (go for a steamer instead)

• Tons of decor (keep it cozy, not cluttered)

• All your books (wait until you know what you need)

• Too many shoes (stick to your go-to pairs)

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Final Tips for Packing Like a Pro

• Pack in bins or soft duffels: Easier to transport and store than suitcases.

• Label everything: Especially if you’re shipping or storing boxes.

• Talk to your roommate: Coordinate items like a mini fridge or microwave.

• Think about move-in logistics: Only bring what you can carry or roll in at once.

• Less is more: You can always buy what you forgot (or didn’t realize you needed).

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Conclusion:

College is a huge step—and packing for it shouldn’t add to your stress. Stick to this realistic freshman year college packing list, and you’ll arrive feeling confident, comfortable, and ready to take on campus life.

Ready to download a printable version of this list or check out our dorm room setup tips? Let me know—I’ve got you covered!