This post is all about the dorm room essentials you’ll actually need and use in 2024.

When packing for your dorm room, it’s important to prioritize and only bring essentials. Dorm rooms ARE SMALL and storage space may be limited.

Don’t bring your entire wardrobe or every single decoration from your room at home. Stick to the basics and bring items that serve multiple purposes. This will not only save space but also make moving in and out easier.

First things first, make sure to talk with your future roomie(s) before move-in day. Discuss what stuff you’re each bringing and figure out who’s bringing the big shared items like a mini fridge or microwave. You definitely don’t want double fridges and no microwave!

Apart from your clothes, shoes, and school supplies, here are the dorm room essentials you can’t forget.

Dorm Room Essentials

Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to the dorm room essentials you’ll really need. No matter how much you try to prep in advance, you’ll probably forget something. And you know what? That’s totally fine!

As far as the basics go, there are a few items that are essential for any dorm room. These include bedding (sheets, pillows, comforter), towels, toiletries, and basic kitchen supplies (plates, utensils, cups). It’s also a good idea to invest in a small first aid kit and some cleaning supplies.

One thing to keep in mind is storage space. Dorm rooms are notoriously small and often have limited storage options. To make the most of the space you have, consider investing in under-bed storage containers or hanging organizers for your closet.

Honestly, I’d suggest waiting to buy most non-essential stuff until you’ve actually moved in. You never know what you’ll need or what will fit in your dorm room.

Here are some dorm room essentials you can start buying…

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1. Mattress Topper

This is seriously the best mattress topper I’ve ever had!

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2. Pillowcases

Don’t forget to bring some pillowcases. I’m sure you don’t want to share those.

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3. Blanket

Once you figure out your bed size, grab a couple of sheets. Oh, and don’t forget a nice, cozy blanket!

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4. Sheets

Try your best to figure out the size of your dorm bed before moving in. That way, you can sleep in fresh new sheets on your first night! Also don’t forget the comforter and duvet cover.

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5. Shower Slippers

Don’t forget your shower slippers, trust me!

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6. Shower Caddy

Best thing ever!

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7. Brita Water Bottle-Filter

You can live without the water filter but in my opinion is just very convenient to have.

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8. Nespresso

Best investment ever! If you’re on a budget, go for a Keurig instead.

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9. Regular Vacuum or Handheld Vacuum

If you’re into keeping your dorm room clean, then a vacuum is a must-have! Plus is so nice to never have to check one out.

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10. Cleaning Supplies

Just the basics!!!  windex, microfiber cloth, broom, mop/swifter + pads or floor cleaner liquid, hand soap, bleach, trash bags, disinfectant wipes, sponge for the sink and to clean, plunger and toilet cleaner brush, paper towels, laundry detergent.

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11. Extra long iPhone charger

Life-saving!

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12. Bathrobe

Literally the first thing I ordered on Amazon even though I was a broke college student.

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13. Extension Cord

Essential!!

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14. Power Strip

Basic stuff!

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15. Umbrella

Basic stuff!

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16. Fan

If your dorm room doesn’t have AC, grab yourself a fan like this one!

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17. Reading Lamp

If your roommates are sleeping and you don’t want to disturb them but still want or need to read, this reading lamp is just perfect.

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18. Laundry Basket

I really like this laundry basket because it’s slim, fits anywhere, and has wheels, which are super handy especially if you have to carry your laundry long distance.

This laundry backpack is also super nice.

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19. First Aid Kit

This first aid kit is small which is great, just throw in some cold and pain meds, and you’re good to go!

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20. Trash Can

Everyone suggests having your own trash can in your dorm room, so yeah, get one!

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21. Mini Heater

I can’t survive without my mini heater at night because I’m always freezing. If your dorm allows, bring yours along! Otherwise get yourself a fluffy blanket

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22. Hangers

Essential!!

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23. Closet Organizer

This is the only organizer I’d suggest grabbing before you move into your dorm room. You can always pick up more stuff later on!

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24. Command Hooks

I’m really trying to think of everything you might need.

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25. Tool Box

There are tons of reasons why you should have a mini toolbox kit with you. It’s gonna last you forever, and I swear, you’ll definitely use it.

This post was all about dorm room essentials. If you think I missed something important on this list, please leave a comment so I can add it for other readers!

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