If you or your student just got their room assignment—welcome to the Hunger Games of dorm prep. You’re not alone. This past week, dorms have been assigned across campuses nationwide, and now it’s go-time. Cue the questions, the Amazon orders, and the Pinterest spirals.
Here’s what every student (and their slightly panicked parent) should be thinking about right now—and yes, we’ve dropped some affiliate links in here to make shopping easier. No shame in our dorm game.
🔍 Common Questions Right After Getting a Dorm Assignment:
- Who’s my roommate and should I reach out? Yes. Send the text. Compare what you’re bringing. No one needs two mini fridges and five shower caddies.
- What can I bring? Your school’s housing site usually has a do/don’t list. Check that before buying anything that plugs in or smells like incense.
- How big is the room? Usually: small. But many housing sites share room dimensions or even offer virtual tours. Use that info for layout planning.
- What’s already in the room? Most dorms include a bed, desk, chair, dresser, and closet or wardrobe. That’s it. The rest is on you.
📝 What to Start Planning (Now):
- Coordinate with your roommate. Who’s bringing what? Split big items like a rug, microwave, or mini fridge.
- Map out a shopping list. Don’t wing it—this leads to three Target runs and a nervous breakdown.
- Check your school’s move-in day schedule. Know your arrival window, parking rules, and move-in crew info.
- Create a packing timeline. You don’t want to be printing passport photos and hunting down extra-long sheets the night before move-in.
🛒 What to Start Buying:
We’re not saying panic buy… but yeah, stuff will start selling out.
🎒 Must-Have Dorm Essentials
- Twin XL Sheets (2 Sets)
Soft, durable, and most importantly… they fit.
Buy on Amazon - Mattress Topper
Dorm beds are basically prison pads. Fix that.
Shop here - Mini Fridge
No fridge, no snacks. Enough said.
Top Mini Fridge Picks - Power Strip with USB Ports
Outlets are rare. Protect your gear.
This one is perfect - Command Hooks & Strips
Essential for hanging towels, keys, lights, and all your hopes and dreams.
Grab a pack
🧼 Bath & Laundry
- Shower Caddy
Communal showers = carry it all.
Student favorite - Shower Shoes
For the love of hygiene, wear them.
Check them out - Laundry Bag or Hamper
You’ll need one. And it better have straps.
This one’s sturdy
💡 Move-In Tools
- Fan
Most dorms are hot in August.
Reliable option - Tool Kit
For putting together that one piece of IKEA furniture and feeling powerful.
Starter set
🧠 Pro Tips From the Dorm-Dwellers Team:
- Label EVERYTHING – from surge protectors to sock bins. It all looks the same on move-in day.
- Pack with giant IKEA bags or storage bins, not cardboard. Easier to carry. Reusable. Life-changing.
- Bring snacks. You’ll forget to eat. Your kid will be hangry. It’s not worth the risk.
Final Thought:
Getting the dorm assignment feels like the starting gun. The race to move-in has officially begun. But you don’t have to sprint—you just need a plan, a solid checklist, and a cart full of smart buys.
You’ve got this. Let’s get the dorm party started. 🧃
🧡 From your friends at Dorm-Dwellers.com