As high school students prepare to head off to college, the excitement of designing and organizing dorms arises, but so does the confusion of what to pack. Dorm rooms are small, shared spaces with very limited storage space. Knowing what’s essential can save time, money, space, and stress when move-in day rolls around and students are stuck with too much stuff.
One of the first things students should think about is how to make their dorm as comfortable as possible, especially because the provided furniture is very basic. The bed, in particular, is usually not very comfortable, so bringing a comfortable mattress pad will make a huge difference. Bringing a nice comforter, sheets, and pillows will make the dorm feel much homier and provide a sense of comfort.
Space is very tight in dorms, so making sure you have enough storage is also very important. Many students find that under-bed bins, closet organizers, and hooks help to reduce clutter and keep the space as organized as possible. Without much drawer space, it’s helpful to bring small storage bins for things like school supplies, snacks, toiletries, and other miscellaneous items. Organization not only makes the room more livable, but it also helps cut down on the stress and chaos during the year.
One item that is surprisingly overlooked but useful in a dorm is an air purifier. With so many living in close quarters, dust and mold can build up and lead to many students getting sick. Dorms also commonly have old ventilation systems, and windows may not even open fully or at all, making fresh air hard to come by. A small air purifier can help keep the air cleaner and more breathable while also preventing any unwanted sickness. Although comfort and organization are very important, it’s also important to think about staying healthy in a shared living space.
A fan might not seem like a must-have until a humid August day comes around and students are stuck in their dorms with no air-conditioning and nothing to cool their dorm down. Many college dorms, especially older buildings, don’t have air conditioning, and even windows don’t offer much relief. A reliable fan can make a huge difference, not just for staying cool, but also for keeping air circulating in a stuffy room. Some students even end up bringing two fans, especially if they are going to a school that is hot year-round.
Finally, the most important thing about dorms is making it your own. Bringing photos of friends from home and other decorations can make your dorm feel more like home, making it easier to adjust to living in a new place with new place.