Make sure you have these items before heading back to campus!
It’s officially that time of year again! So many students are focused on passing classes, balancing schedules, and possibly getting lit, that it’s easy to forget some essential items.
My junior year, I was so excited to finally move onto campus with my best friend that I forgot my phone charger.
I ended up having to buy an expensive one from the bookstore. And as a broke college student, you understand that every penny counts.
#IYKYK
If you forget to pack some of these items, it can be so annoying. You end up having to borrow from someone else or spending dough to replace it. And, depending on how far you moved from home, it can be a long time before you get your hands on it again.
Since I’m an obsessive list maker, I routinely compile a list of items I’ll need before I walk out the door. Here are some small but mighty items that you should grab before you hit the college road.
Nail Clipper
Unless you enjoy having eagle talons for nails, this little guy is a very handy tool to pack.
If you have it as part of a kit, grab the whole thing to keep your nails in check.
There’s nothing worse than piercing a whole through your favorite pair of cozy cable knit socks your mom gave you for Christmas, all because your toenails went rogue (can you tell this is a little personal?).
Just save yourself the hassle and throw it in your bag. If you’re bringing nail polish with you, throw a nail clipper in the same pouch and keep it moving sis.
Umbrella
Unless it’s raining the day of your move, then you’ll most likely overlook packing an umbrella. It’s easy to miss this item for college, so make sure you don’t forget it.
Toothbrush/Deodorant
These are usually the easiest to forget because we don’t usually pack them the night before. And by the time you realize you forgot them, it’s already too late.
By then, you gotta take your musty behind to the nearest drugstore to buy an overpriced toothbrush and deodorant. Make these a priority before leaving the house.
Toolbox
This may seem a little odd, but a small toolbox goes a long way whether you’re in a dorm or apartment. All you really need is electric tape, small leveler, tape measure, screwdriver, and command hooks.
Hanging a picture or fixing a frayed wire just became that much easier now that you have everything in one place.
Plus if you end up with extra screws and bolts from the moving process, you can simply keep them in here. Dollar Tree has some small simple toolboxes that work great. I still use mine!
Alright people, we all do it. POOPING. Ah yes, the natural way of life (and sometimes with the not-so-natural help of Pepto).
In the words of Billy Eilish, I love pooping…it’s great! But common courtesy when dorming is to not have everyone else smell your insides.
Don’t be selfish and pack that bottle of Poo-pourri or Febreze air freshener.
Razors
Whether you use razors, depilatory creams, wax strips, trimmers, or tweezers, these things often go overlooked. And that’s something you definitely don’t want to borrow from someone else.
The disposable or cartridge razor blades are also TSA approved.
Chargers
I have fallen victim to forgetting a charger before. And it sucks. Obviously, your laptop charger is important while in school and some can be quite expensive to replace.
Any chargers for essentials like phones, laptops, earbuds, and tablets are must-haves. Trust me.
Flushable Wipes
Aye sis, don’t be a booty scratcher during your 3 pm lecture. Period. Flushable wipes help keep your derriere fresh and clean throughout the day.
Most of them are TSA approved and they’re great for personal hygiene. Who said sanitary wipes were just for babies? Just tuck some into your backpack to use throughout the day. Your behind will thank you.
Bonnet/Headscarf/Shower Caps
If you’re like me, you like to protect your fresh hairdo from the elements. Whether it’s a pillowcase, rain, or you’re just having a bad hair day, these are definitely helpful to keep near you.
A reusable water bottle is your best friend in college, especially if you’re on a big campus. Regardless if you’re living on campus or commuting, hydration is sooo important.
I lived on a huge campus my junior year and some classes were a 20 minute walk from my dorm. It’s easy to skip drinking water when you’re busy AF during the day. That’s why keeping a water bottle by your side is a constant reminder to stay hydrated.
I personally suggest a water bottle with markers that encourage you to keep going. Think of it as having a backpack sized personal trainer.
Trash Can
There’s no need to invest in a fancy trash can for a dorm room, but having one is very convenient. This is such an easy one to forget since no one thinks about packing trash-related items when moving.
Tampons/Pads
Unless you’re on your period, then tampons are usually out of sight, out of mind. Make sure to pack them before your next cycle arrives.
Surge Protector
A surge protector is that friend you didn’t want to bring, but are so thankful it came along. It helps in space saving and consolidating pesky wires.
You can also keep your wires out of the way with a cable storage box. I got mine from Shein for cheap!
Hangers
Honestly, you’ll remember to fold your clothes into your suitcase, but you’ll probably forget the hangers.
Clock
This is especially useful if your bed is elevated. Instead of having to reach down and check your phone at night, a clock is a convenient tool to have hanging on your wall.
I suggest a digital ceiling display clock like this one.
It can project the time onto any wall or ceiling, so you don’t have to worry about getting up to check the time. It also doubles as a mirror!
