What to Pack for College (and What to Leave at Home!)

A girl carries her luggage into the dorm, surrounded by other students carrying their luggage

It's finally time! You toured, applied, got accepted, and now the time has come to pack for college. You are on the edge of the best years of your young adult life. It's easy to concentrate on the good times you're going to have, but what exactly do you need to pack? What should stay at home? Let's explore everything you need to bring (and everything you don't) in this article.

What NOT to Pack for College

While it's exciting to plan out your space with your roommate, keep in mind that DBU has some rules for residence halls that prevent fires and other hazards from becoming an issue. Here's what NOT to bring to DBU:

Electronics

  • Wireless printer
  • Electric blanket
  • Space heater
  • Clothing iron

Cooking

  • Microwaves
  • Large refrigerators
  • Coffee pots (Keurig is ok)
  • Kettles
  • Hot plates
  • Air fryer or rice cooker
  • Waffle maker
  • Crockpot
  • Toaster

Decor

  • Halogen or upturned lamp
  • Candles, Wax warmers, Scentsy

Miscellaneous

  • Air conditioners
  • Large nails or screws
  • Pets of any kind

What to Pack for College

When packing for college, it's important to keep it light. Dorm rooms are small, and DBU's campus is conveniently located near plenty of stores, so if you forget something, it is easy to grab what you need. Here are some tips:

  • Closet space is limited, so it is best to bring seasonal pieces.
  • Texas weather is crazy, so be prepared for the rain and cold with a good jacket to walk to class, and an umbrella.
  • You need good sleep, invest in a good mattress topper.

On top of clothing and toiletries, here's a list of everything you may bring:

Electronics

  • Alarm clock
  • Computer
  • Wired printer
  • DVD player
  • TV
  • Headphones
  • Power strips
  • Gaming monitors
  • Lamps
  • Small Fan
  • Keurig Coffee Maker
  • Flashlight

Bathroom

  • Shower curtain (except Crowley)
  • Curtain rod & rings (except Crowley)
  • Shower caddy
  • Bathmat(s)
  • Shower shoes
  • Towels + washcloths

Laundry

  • Detergent
  • Dryer sheets
  • Laundry bag/basket
  • Blankets & pillows
  • Mattress pad/ Mattress topper
  • Comforter
  • Twin XL sheets

Miscellaneous

  • Medications
  • Rug
  • Camera
  • Trash can
  • Sports equipment
  • Umbrella
  • Decorations
  • Dishes and utensils
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Curtains
  • Bed risers
  • Step stool

School Supplies

  • Planner
  • Laptop
  • Notebooks
  • Pens/pencils
  • Highlighters
  • Backpack or book bag
  • Bible

Clothing

  • Outfits for hot weather
  • Outfits for cooler weather
  • Rain jacket + rain boots
  • Workout clothes
  • Dressy outfit

Toiletries

  • Shampoo + conditioner
  • Body wash
  • Deodorant + body spray
  • Toothbrush + toothpaste
  • Hair styling tools/products
  • Hand soap for bathroom
  • Toilet paper

At the end of the day, pack what you need and don't stress about the rest. Part of the college experience is collecting your own stuff as you go! Enjoy shopping for groceries with your new friends and roommates. There's a slim chance you will go home in the Spring with less than you bring in the Fall, so pack light and focus on making memories!

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