Back to School: Dorm Packing 101

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

BACK TO SCHOOL by GoLocalProv Features Team

And you thought getting into college was the hard work...

Now it's time to pack for college, and suddenly, things are looking a little daunting. Sure, you know from all the ads to get yourself a comforter and a College Poster, and you're arguing with your parents about how much you need a microwave... and a dorm refrigerator... but what will you really need? Here are the 20 things you'll be glad - really glad - you packed. Check local warehouse and odd-lot stores for discounts, and practice packing it the week before it's time to go.

1. Pillow mattress pad. Dorm mattresses are mediocre at best, and this is the best (and reasonably inexpensive) way to sleep soundly.
2. Umbrella. Bring two if you're taking a car to college... one for the car, one for the dorm.
3. TWO big towels. Make one beach towel sized, and it can double as a sit-down for outside sun-study sessions.
4. Disposable disinfecting wipes. A must. Quick room clean-ups.

5. Tool kit. You may not think you'll need it, but trust us. You will.
6. First aid kit. Ditto. You can make one or pick up inexpensive ones at most pharmacy chains or stores like Target or Wal-Mart.
7. Desk lamp. Most dorm lighting is harsh and fluorescent, or too dark and fluorescent. Either way, some good light near your reading area is worth the investment (and packing).
8. Hamper. Make it big, make it sturdy. Invest a little extra to make sure.
9. Sticky tack. Most dorms don't allow you to tape posters to walls, so having this on hand when you arrive will make your moving in that much easier.
10. Post-its. Indispensible. Reminders on Post-its ("Study!") have replaced the bulletin board of previous generations.
11. Scissors. A must.
12. Highlighters. Get them cheap at home... don't go chasing to the University bookstore at the last minute.
13. Pens/pencils. Same.
14. Double the Toiletries. Like desk supplies, this is a good investment to make up front, because you'll run out at the worst time. Get two of everything.

15. Computer paper. One box. Most submissions are online, but you'll need it at the oddest times, and be thankful for having it.
16. Photos. A little slice of home is a good idea, and will make your room feel a bit more like... well... home.
17. DVDs. Shared laptop movie-watching is the pop-up study break of choice, and you'll want a good supply on hand.
18. Dishes. Even if you eat at your dining hall, you will have many nights of cooking up your own ramen, hot chocolate, and even Chef Boyardee. One lunch-sized dish, one bowl, one mug, and one promise that you'll keep them washed.
19. Rain boots. You're going to be walking everywhere, and unless you go to school in Arizona, it's gonna rain.

20. Air freshener. You may not need it, but you'll be glad you have it if you do.