Items to add to your college packing list
- col-kate-shumaker
- August 2, 2024
- 397
Living away from home for the first time is a big move. I remember the most important things I was concerned with were picking out my bedding and matching decorations and talking with my new roommate about which of us was bringing the television and stereo (it was 1993). A lot has changed since then.
What has not changed is the simple fact that all these students are used to having everything at their fingertips at home, and that will likely not be the case in a dorm room.
Here are 20 things students and parents might not be thinking of that can make life simpler down the road:
—Can opener: Not every can has a pull-tab lid.
—Food storage containers: Zipper seal bags, good for so much more than just food, and reusable food storage containers.
—Water filter: Makes any tap water drinkable. Staying hydrated is important.
—Multiple water bottles: You are going to lose them. Having a few will allow you to assign bottles to certain spaces/beverages.
—First-aid kit: You can choose to grab a prepackaged first-aid kit or put together your own. You may just want the basics of bandages, alcohol wipes, itch cream, triple antibiotic ointment, et cetera.
—Medicine kit: Thermometer, pain killers, cold/flu medicine, stomach/intestinal upset medicine, et cetera.
Small tool kit: Whether you are moving into a dorm or apartment, everyone should have a few basic tools. Here is what I would suggest: screwdrivers (flat/Phillips head or one with interchangeable tips), measuring tape, heavy-duty scissors, pliers, hammer and Allen wrenches.
—Cleaning products: Keeping things clean will help keep down your stress and lower your risk of getting sick. Cleaning/sanitizing wipes, microfiber cloth, dish soap, trash can liners, et cetera.
—Stain remover pen/wipes: Stains happen, and the sooner they get treated, the better they come out in the wash. Having a stain remover available will make laundry day a little less unpleasant.
—Space-saving hangers: You will have a closet. It will be the size of a shoebox. Don’t let hangers be your hang-up. Look for some extra thin hangers to maximize your horizontal space.
—Mini garment steamer: Gone are the days of being able to toss something in the dryer for a few minutes to get the wrinkles out. To avoid looking like you just rolled out of bed, a small handheld steamer can make quick work of your wrinkles without taking up much space.
—Slippers: Something easy to slip on to run down the hall, take out the garbage, wear more than just socks.
—Rain gear: Rain jacket and waterproof shoes for rainy days when you have to trek across campus.
—Whiteboard: A simple whiteboard is something you can see every day and never needs recharged. Use it for to-do lists, calendars, reminders and more. Crossing things off is so satisfying!
—Extra chargers: One for your dorm room, one for your backpack and a spare one. You will lose at least one.
—Small vacuum: You will need a way to get the dirt off the floor and crumbs off your desk. A small/mini handheld vac can do this without taking up much space.
—Bedside storage: It’s no secret dorm rooms are tiny and may not have the best layouts. Making the most of every inch is important. A simple tray that can attach to the side of your bed can easily hold a beverage, phone, earbuds and keep other small items within reach.
—Small step stool: An inexpensive, collapsible step stool will come in handy way more often than you think. It will allow you to store things up higher and hang things without standing on random furniture.
—Bed risers and skirt: Lifting the bed allows for extra storage, but that extra storage can be an eyesore. Adding a bedskirt or even an extra flat sheet hanging over the side to hide the mess will keep your space looking tidy.
—Skills: College is the place where discovery and growth happen. Bring your confidence and a good attitude along with some time-management skills and good study habits. You’ve got this!
Are there other things you think should be on this list? Feel free to share it with me at Shumaker.68@osu.edu.
Kate Shumaker is an OSU Extension family and consumer sciences educator and may be called at 330-674-3015. Like and follow on Facebook @OSUEXTHolmes or visit https://holmes.osu.edu.