Your kid has their dorm assignment. The countdown is on. And somewhere between debating if they really need a rug and arguing over how many hoodies count as too many—you’re wondering if you’re forgetting something major.
Don’t worry. We built this monster post to walk you through everything. Whether you’re a Type A checklist parent or a student who just realized move-in is in 30 days and hasn’t even opened the Target app—we’ve got you covered.
This is the post to bookmark. Share. Screenshot. Tattoo on your forearm if needed. Let’s do this.
🧳 The Big Packing Categories
We’ll break it down by what actually needs to go into that tiny room (and what can stay in your emotional support Amazon cart).
🛏️ BEDDING & SLEEP (Comfort is Non-Negotiable)
- Twin XL Sheet Set (2 sets)
Buy on Amazon - Mattress Topper
Trust us, dorm mattresses are medieval.
Shop here - Mattress Protector
Protects against… well, college. - Comforter/Duvet
Extra points for reversible. - Pillows (2-3)
One for sleeping, one for propping, one for drama.
🚿 BATH & LAUNDRY (Hygiene, Please)
- Shower Caddy
For carting shampoo like it’s gold.
Student favorite - Flip Flops or Shower Shoes
For communal showers. No exceptions.
Click here - Towels (2-3) and Washcloths
Rotating system = less stress. - Laundry Bag w/ Straps
Wheeled = parent of the year.
This one hauls it all - Detergent Pods + Dryer Sheets
- Drying Rack (optional)
🔌 TECH & POWER (Because Wi-Fi Is Their Lifeline)
- Power Strip with Surge Protection + USB Ports
Dorm outlets are never where you need them.
This one’s great - Extension Cord
- Desk Lamp
Mood lighting doesn’t work for studying. - Laptop + Charger
- Phone Charger (extra-long)
- Noise-Canceling Headphones
Because hallway karaoke is real.
🧠 SCHOOL SUPPLIES (No, They Won’t Just “Do It All Digitally”)
- Notebooks + Binders
- Pens, Highlighters, Sticky Notes
- Backpack
Pick one they won’t abandon week two. - Desk Organizer
- Whiteboard for Reminders (and passive-aggressive notes)
🧺 STORAGE & ORGANIZATION (aka: Where to Hide the Chaos)
- Under-Bed Storage Bins
Smart option here - Drawer Units / Rolling Carts
- Hangers (Velvet saves space)
- Hooks & Command Strips
Grab a pack - Over-the-Door Rack
🥤 FOOD & KITCHEN (Because Dining Halls Close at 7 PM)
- Mini Fridge
Top pick here - Microwave (if allowed)
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Coffee Maker (mini Keurig or pour-over)
- Microwave-Safe Bowls, Plates, Mugs
- Snacks. So many snacks.
- Paper Towels + Dish Soap + Sponge
🧰 TOOLS, SAFETY & EXTRAS
- Tool Kit
We swear this pink one fixes everything.
WorkPro Kit - First Aid Kit
- Mini Fan
Especially for those 95-degree August move-ins. - Umbrella + Flashlight
- Lanyard / ID Holder
- Bedside Shelf or Organizer
🧳 Packing Tips That’ll Save You (and Your Back):
- Skip cardboard boxes. Use moving bags or clear storage bins with lids.
- Pack “zones” together. Bedding in one bin, school supplies in another, etc.
- Bring a collapsible dolly or cart. You’ll look like a genius.
- Label. Everything. With tape, not your soul.
- Don’t overpack. Dorms are small. Think smart, not HGTV.
🧠 Parent Wisdom We’ve Heard (and Said Ourselves):
- “Buy it online. Pick it up near campus.” Target pickup > meltdown in aisle 9.
- “Let them lead the move-in.” Even if you know that desk should go on the other wall.
- “Expect to cry. In the car. Not in front of them.”
✨ Things That Seem Optional (But Totally Aren’t):
- Small Trash Can + Bags
No one thinks of this. Everyone needs it. - Bedside Lamp/Clip Light
- Tissues
Both for colds and sobbing. - A freaking toolkit again, just trust us.
Final Thought: This whole thing can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be perfect. They’ll forget something. You’ll forget something. Amazon exists. You’ll survive. And when you finally get that “Made it to the dorm!” text—you’ll breathe again.
Now go forth and prep like a legend. 🧃
— From your pals at Dorm-Dwellers.com