Every university has a suggested packing list to help you and your parents alleviate the burden of remembering all the key things you need to bring. However, as organized as these lists are, there's always something that may be left behind or that you now have to purchase while away at school, and quite possibly at a higher price. Learn from the freshmen before you by running down this list of things you need in college - but probably forgot. From beating that last heat wave in September to keeping your computer and tablet charged up, this list covers the top things you'll need to bring to college that other students wish they remembered!
Expand Your Outlets
Some college dorms have only one electrical outlet to power all your devices, or worse, sharing that outlet with your roommate and each of his or her devices. Computers, lamps, alarm clocks, cell phone chargers and coffee makers each need a dedicated power source to prevent the need to constantly trade off between devices. Pack at least one power strip with a surge protector to protect expensive items such as your laptop. Additionally, older dormitories may have outlets installed in inconvenient locations, so add a few extension cords in case you need to reach across the room. Be sure to include at least one grounded extension cord compatible with three-pronged devices.
Escape the Heat
Your dormitory may feel uncomfortable during the warm weather given the large number of students living in such close quarters. Not all dorm rooms have central cooling systems, especially the older buildings, and colleges almost never permit students to install air conditioners. You'll be better prepared for the inevitable heat wave with a dorm fan to to help keep you cool. For best results, choose a model that fits in the window frame to pull in cool air from the outside. Run the fan at night when temperatures drop for fast relief, and try opening the door, which creates a cross current by letting hot air exit the room as the cool outside air rushes in.
Bring a Handheld Vacuum
When you're not in class, you probably expect to be studying or hanging out with your friends, not spending a ton of time cleaning. Bring a handheld vacuum so you can keep on top of crumbs, dust and other debris to prevent a huge amount from piling up. By vacuuming for just a few minutes each day or even every other day, you'll reduce your stress and the time it takes to clean up when you leave for breaks. Compact and easy to store, these versatile vacuums clean almost every surface from your office chair to your dorm floor. Select a model with a brush roller to clean carpets as well as hose attachments to vacuum up small items. If you need to choose between a cordless model and a higher voltage engine, it's recommended you select the one with increased power so it takes less time to clean in the long run.
Take Comfort in a Mattress Pad
How comfortable will your dorm room mattress be? You really won't know until moving day. And more than likely it's certainly not going to be nearly as comfortable as the one you sleep on at home. To make life easier, bring a mattress pad with you for an instant upgrade. Remember that your bed is no longer just for sleeping. It's now also a study area, a sofa for hanging out with friends and a crash pad for after class, so comfort is key. Memory foam, fleece and feather beds provide the most cushion, but even a quilted pad makes a big difference. Check with your college for details on the mattress size so you purchase the right pad.
Over-the-Door Storage
Sharing a small room doesn't leave much space for storage, and you can't always count on a roomy closet in your dorm room. Over-the-door systems expand your usable space and help keep clutter to an absolute minimum. Look for organizers that can hold different types of items. Racks keep items visible and hold medium-sized dorm room essentials, including food, soda cans and toiletries, while pouch designs can catch small items such as pens, snacks and sunglasses.
Before you zip up your suitcase and head off to your dorm, pack smarter by considering your regular routine. Items that others can live without may be essential for you to transition into college life. If you always blast music while you study, pack headphones so you respect your roommates and suite mates. If you snack during busy weeks instead of sitting down to meals, consider an electric kettle for making instant soup late at night. Since you have enough to think about as you transition to campus life, if you make arrangements for the essentials beforehand, it will become an easier and more enjoyable experience for you.