Not every dorm essential is self explanatory. Sure you've got your bedding, your books, and your office supplies. You even have your shampoo, toothpaste, and enough bandaids to last you all four years. But did you remember to pack these eight things?!
Umbrella | It's unbelievable the number of people I know at school that either don't own a raincoat or an umbrella. Do yourself a favor and get yourself a small umbrella that you can keep in your backpack at all times, because rain always comes on the most inconvenient days in college.
Door Stop | Perfect for Move-In Day, as well as any other day that you want to keep your dorm door open. My dorm room specifically had doors that wouldn't stay open, which stunk when we wanted to keep our door open for friends to drop in. Get a simple doorstop and you can't go wrong! Plus, your parents will thank you during move-in when the door doesn't slam in their face every time they run out to the hall or car to grab the next box!
Tool Kit | My parents got both myself and my brother a tool set when we went to college, and it has surprisingly come in handy. Perfect for screwing in loose knobs, tightening the outlet cover that was loose in my bathroom, and more. I'm pretty sure I even used my toolkit at some point while I was sorority crafting. You won't know you need this until you really need it, so plan ahead.
Shower Flip Flops | So yes you packed 30 pairs of shoes (I know I did) and you have your beloved Rainbows to wear around casually, but did you remember that you need flip flops for those gross communal showers too? You don't even want to know what might go down in there, so be prepared and get yourself some super cheap rubber flip flops that can be thrown away at the end of the year. Mine had holes in the bottom to prevent water from collecting so that you don't slip on the wet tile, and I'm pretty sure you can find similar styles at Target. If not, the classic Old Navy flip flop we all knew and loved in middle school will be your best friend.
Extension Cord | I think I have about 50 of these in my room at all times. Sometimes the best way to arrange your furniture means covering up outlets, so save yourself some trouble by bringing lots of extension cords. You never realize how many things need to be plugged in until you are mid move-in.
Bath Robe | Never did I think this would be an issue until I heard my friend's horror story about the first week of class when her building had a fire drill while she was in the shower! She didn't have a robe, underwear, or anything with her, and they ended standing outside at night for about an hour! Talk about a problem. Get an easy bathrobe that you can throw on in case of emergency, or just to walk back down the hall to your room. My dorm's floors were co-ed, and the bathroom was down the hall from my room. Plus, there was no changing area in the bathroom! Pro Tip: Bring undergarments into the bathroom with you and put them on before you make the trek down the hallway. Then all you have to change into when you make it back to your room is your regular clothes for the day.
Mugs | Mugs have a million and one purposes for college living. Not only do they work great for your coffee, but they will become your new nail polish collection holder, keeper of the pencils, or even a spot for your utensils in your kitchenless space. Mugs are great, especially when they are cute or silly. Having a few around is great for storing lots of different products.
Fan | I know firsthand just how hot it can be during the first and last few weeks of the school year. Don't be caught without a fan in the midst of a heatwave, if your dorm doesn't have air conditioning. A small fan that can blow on your bed or desk is ideal for those hot days. If you have the space, a box fan in the window also works wonders.
What back to school product is your all-time necessity? Share in the comments!
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