Sending a kid off to college for the first time is exciting and completely overwhelming. The list of things they need feels endless, and nobody wants to make three trips to the store because they forgot something obvious.
I put together this free printable dorm room checklist so you can shop once and be done! It covers the basics—bedding, shower caddies, and storage—plus the survival items most people overlook.
The Ones Nobody Thinks Of — But Everyone Needs
Earplugs
College dorms are loud at all hours. People laughed when I put these on the list—until their first week on campus. Get the good ones; they will save your sanity.
Electrical Tape
Something will break, and Mom and Dad won’t be there to fix it. A roll of electrical tape handles a surprising number of small repairs and costs next to nothing.
Flashlight
Dorm buildings lose power more than you’d expect. In a hallway with no windows, it gets pitch black fast. A small flashlight or battery-powered lantern is a must-have.
Collapsible Laundry Basket
Space is tight. A pop-up hamper with handles is easy to carry to the laundry room and folds completely flat when it’s not in use.
More Dorm Room Resources
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